There’s nothing common about Virginia Commonwealth University. With aspirations to embody the uncommon, VCU prides itself in challenging the status quo, disrupting the existing narrative, and creating an unparalleled future.

Except, one thing is missing.

You see, despite VCU’s open-mindedness and inclusivity, one group of people on campus aren’t being accounted for. Among the university’s 40,000 students, there are around 1,500 Jewish students who don’t have a place to call home.

Rabbi Menachem Lessoff is from Kfar Chabad, Israel. His wife, Daniela, grew up in Dnipro, Ukraine. After their wedding in 2022, Menachem and Daniela decided to dedicate their future to a life of shlichus – sharing the light of Yiddishkeit to a world that contains so much darkness.

Like other universities across the U.S., Jewish students at VCU have faced increasing anti-Semitic and anti-Israel rhetoric. In today’s day and age, it isn’t easy being Jewish on a college campus. That’s why Menachem and Daniela jumped at the opportunity to build a home for Jewish students in Richmond, Virginia. Under the auspices of Rabbi Yossel and Nechomi Kranz – Chabad of VCU will serve as a division of Chabad of Virginia, combating antisemitism, spreading Torah and mitzvos, and assuring students that they aren’t alone.

The Lessoffs share one common trait with Virginia Commonwealth University: The uncommon. While the world promotes secularism and overlooks traditional values, Chabad of VCU will stand as a beacon of light and warmth for the students. Together with your support, Jewish pride will soon become a common sight at VCU.

Help the Lessoffs get on their feet! With each donation, they will be able to build a vibrant Jewish presence – a home away from home – for the students of Virginia Commonwealth University.