Since 2004, the Ohel Rivka Foundation, and subsequently the Gevuros Ari Community Kollel, has served the unique role of creating a makom Torah for all members of the Ramat Beit Shemesh community. It is a place in the community where professionals of all types learn side-by-side with those engaged in full-time Torah study. In doing so, the kollel has not only created a valuable resource for the Anglo community, it has also developed a reputation as one of the highest-caliber learning programs in the entire city, whose Rosh Chabura, Rav Gedalia Hochberg, has become a household name as well.

The kollel meets Sundays through Thursdays, from 8:45 – 10:45, and covers approximately 2 dapim per week in the mesechta being studied. In addition, Rav Gedalia Hochberg delivers two weekly chaburos to enhance the limud and provide more in-depth understanding of the sugyos. The schedule is arranged in a way to provide ample time for review as well, in order to ensure that every member of the kollel is fully acquiring the Torah being studied.

It is truly inspiring to see the members of the kollel take part in the limmud after a long day of work. Though during the day they may be computer programers, doctors, non-profit professionals or in sales, at night everyone is completely immersed in their Torah learning.