BRYAN LIPSKY, 29
How can you throw a great party and use it to do a mitzvah? Attorney (by day) Bryan Lipsky has figured out how, through the organization LEB MEDICULS.
The idea for LEB MEDICULS started off simply. In 2007, Lipsky and a friend wanted to throw a party, but they had no occasion to celebrate. So they decided to plan a benefit. The evening attracted about 100 people and raised $1,500 for ZAKA, an Israeli-based organization of first responders that specialize in assistance after terrorist attacks. The event was so successful that Lipsky and four others decided to turn the evening into a nonprofit. Lipsky, then a law student, handled the legal aspect, and LEB MEDICULS has flourished since.
The organization hosts two to three events per year — a concert, a costume party, or most popular of all, a date auction. Each benefit raises money and awareness for a different medical charity, occasionally in America, but usually one based in Israel. They have included Save a Child’s Heart, Keren Or, and most recently, the Shaare Zedek Medical Center.
“We always look for great charities,” says Lipsky, explaining that those that are less well known are often most in need of the help. “In these economic times, I understand that every nonprofit needs additional funding.” To date, the organization has raised over $30,000.
Even though the formal relationship between LEB MEDICULS and the charities ends after the parties, Lipsky and his team keep in contact with partnering organizations and encourage event attendees to do the same.
“We want to have fun while also doing good things,” says Lipsky. He enjoys the parties, but they are extra gratifying because they carry additional meaning. “You also feel good about yourself.”
Gym rat: Lipsky is a huge sports fan, and says that lately, he’s “a little bit addicted to going to the gym.” Market watch: Lipsky may be a lawyer, but he has an eye for business and keeps a close watch on the stock market as well.
