Coby Rothman

Brith Sholom Kneseth Israel

It was a hot summer day in June of 2005 when the Rothman family drove three hours to adopt their new family member, Sasha. Sasha came from the Mississippi Valley German Shepherd Dog Rescue (MVGSDR), located in Iowa. From that point on, Coby, son of Andrea and Arnie Rothman of Town and Country, knew he wanted to help other German Shepherds in some way.

Coby requested family and friends to donate bowls, leashes, collars and dog toys and had these items made into the centerpieces for his bar mitzvah luncheon. The collection drew enough items for centerpieces at 20 tables.

After the bar mitzvah, the items were shipped to the MVGSDR. His dedication and hard work were deeply appreciated by the people at the rescue center. “They work tirelessly to find forever homes for these beautiful dogs and I was glad I could help,” said Coby. He and his family continue to support the rescue center by buying their calendars and donating money to help the many dogs in need.

A student at Parkway Central Middle School, Coby supported another organization as part of his mitzvah project. For the past several years, he has been donating money to the MDA Telethon. He decided to make a special donation of his bar mitzvah money to the cause in honor of his cousin, who has Muscular Dystrophy. “Coby takes pride in all that he does.  He is a caring individual, both at home and at school.  His friends and family can always count on him,” said his mother. 

For more information about the Mississippi Valley German Shepherd Dog Rescue center or care to make a donation, visit www.mvgsdr.org.