A Milestone in Simon Etehad’s Two-Decade Involvement with FIDF
We are thrilled to announce that Simon Etehad has been unanimously elected as the new President of the FIDF Western Region Board. Simon’s election marks a significant milestone in his two-decade-long involvement with the non-profit organization, reflecting his unwavering commitment to the wellbeing and support of the brave men and women of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
What Is FIDF and Why Is It Important
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) is a non-political, non-military organization that provides for the wellbeing of the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), veterans, and family members. The FIDF champions the courageous men and women of the IDF and cares for their needs through transformational opportunities and support. By alleviating the daily stresses and burdens faced by these soldiers, the FIDF enables these soldiers to carry out their duties with peace of mind.
The Los Angeles Chapter of the FIDF was established in 1981 by Simon’s mentor and close friend, Leo David. Over the years, this Chapter has grown to 26,000 strong, drawing support from diverse communities across the greater Los Angeles area, spanning from Rancho Palos Verdes to Palm Springs and Fresno.
Simon and his wife, Malissa, with Leo David, founder of the Los Angeles chapter of the FIDF
Simon Etehad’s Vision and Commitment
Simon’s election as the new FIDF Western Region Board President is a testament to his deep commitment to the FIDF’s mission. Having been involved with FIDF for the past 20 years, his dedication to the organization is both personal and profound. In fact, it was at an FIDF event 18 years ago that Simon met his wife!
Here is what Simon had to say about his recent election:
“I am honored to announce my unanimous election as the new President of the FIDF Western Region Board. I have been involved with FIDF for the past 20 years, and yesterday marked my 18th anniversary of meeting my wife at an FIDF event.
I would like to express my gratitude to my wife for her unwavering support, without which I could not have achieved this significant milestone. It is only fitting that I met her at an FIDF event!!!
I dedicated 20 years of my life in support of the FIDF because of the IDF’s importance to Jews and the State of Israel, as well as its adherence to the code of ethics, which emphasizes values such as human dignity, purity of arms, and the importance of the rule of law. Recent events, including October 7 and the ongoing war with Hamas and now Hezbollah have only further and renewed this commitment.
Whenever possible, the IDF has taken all necessary efforts to minimize civilian casualties. Within the IDF, Jews, Christians, Druze, and Muslims serve to protect the only Jewish nation in the world. It goes without saying that Jewish blood and Israeli blood, whether Jewish or not, was never cheap. This is one of the founding principles of the IDF since the birth of the modern State of Israel in 1948.
The Friends of the IDF was founded by my mentor and dear friend, Leo David, in 1981. FIDF has consistently received the highest ratings for accountability and transparency from two of the leading independent charity evaluators: Charity Navigator and Charity Watch, with the highest 4-star rating from Charity Navigator being received for the 11th year in a row now—a feat accomplished by only 2% of charities in America! Moreover, Charity Watch has bestowed FIDF with their “Top-Rated” seal.”
Beyond his work with FIDF, Simon is a respected leader within the local Persian-Jewish community and Beverly Hills Jewry. In addition to Simon’s involvement in various charitable initiatives, including the FIDF, it is only fitting that his legal practice, Etehad Law, is reputed for its commitment to justice and the wellbeing of its clients. Simon dedicates himself to justice and making a positive impact on society. So, just as the IDF soldiers serve a just cause in fighting to defend the State of Israel, it is important to fight and support for justice and righteous causes, including to support the soldiers through the FIDF.
Simon’s new role as President of the FIDF Western Region Board is a natural extension of his ongoing efforts to serve and uplift those in need. In the words of the FIDF: The IDF’s job is to look after Israel. Ours is to look after them.
Simon Etehad with Mosab Hassan Yousef, the “Green Prince”
About Etehad Law
Etehad Law is a full-service law firm located in the heart of Beverly Hills, California. With over 28 years of experience, our dynamic team of attorneys is dedicated to providing high-quality legal services that are tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our firm specializes in a wide range of practice areas, including personal injury, professional malpractice, and business litigation.
