Thank You Hashem: How a Gratitude Project Became Global Movement

In exclusive interview to JFeed, the world full of emunah behind Thank You Hashem Nation opens its doors.

What began as a simple expression of gratitude has grown into a multifaceted Jewish media phenomenon. “Thank You Hashem,” now a worldwide movement, traces its origins to a small group of Americans in New York City, seeking a more personal connection to Judaism.

“I’m The Chief Mashpia officer,” explains Yakov Wohlgelernter to JFeed. He is one of the project’s core leaders. “I make connections across the Jewish world, coordinating logistics, media, music, making sure everything aligns with our message.”

Thank You Hashem it's not just a project, it's a Jewish shared emotion. Every Jew can access this concept, and it begins from the inside. All of us can create a relationship with Hashem, irrespective from ones religious level, and that's the message. The project’s name, he tells JFeed, came from a moment of personal joy.

“One of our founders was blessed with a baby boy after several years. The night before the baby's circumcision, a group of family and friends was sitting around simply thanking Hashem. We started singing, and ‘Thank You Hashem’ was born. It became an anthem, the heart of what we do.”

Just Do Mitzvot corner (Photo: Personal archive)

A Mission: Transforming Lives

That simple phrase reflects a deeper mission: creating an authentic, personal relationship with God.

“The group realized that in saying these words in English there was something special about the connection they were experiencing with Hashem. We were experiencing something more personal, less dependent on any specific place or institution” says Yakov Wohlgelernter to JFeed. “To get to the heart, it needs to feel like home.”

Founded in 2018, the project has grown far beyond its musical roots. But the reason is deep. According to Yakov, "the most effective way of getting a message out to the world is when we live the message authentically."

“We try to spread a message through all forms of media: videos, printed material, weekly Shabbat newsletters, music tracks, merchandise,” says Wohlgelernter. The expansion, he explains, was organic. “Music opens a universal door. Merchandise, like bracelets or flags, keeps the message in people’s daily lives. It’s infectious.”

A Big Change Needs a Step Into the Future

The October 7, 2023 attacks intensified the organization’s efforts.

“We realized the importance of uniting people, showing that especially in this time it is our personal connection to Hashem with joy that will allow us to triumph,” says Wohlgelernter to JFeed.

During those difficult times, Thank You Hashem team recognized the urgency to act across the United States. The emotional state of the Jewish community was fractured. People desperately wanted to help, but felt powerless.

Seeking guidance, the team turned to their Rav, Rabbi Yussie Zakutinsky of Khal Mevakshei Hashem in Lawrance, NY, and immediately followed his instructions. Under his direction, they sprang into action, mobilizing Jews across America to unite with their brothers and sisters and fight back through mitzvot.

"That is what we need people to do," said Rabbi Zakutinsky. "There is a power in every mitzva we perform. It is our active way of participating in the war."

Boxes of “Just Do Mitzvot” merchandise were sent across America, encouraging action, connection and joy while Israeli supporters helped distribute the message locally.

“We were fighting a war with mitzvot, and the response was incredible. Seeing Americans act from afar also gave Israelis strength.”

Israeli Soldiers also say Thank You Hashem (Photo: Personal archive)

Thank You Hashem project to encourage Israeli soldiers (Photo: Personal archive)

Thank You Hashem as a Eternal Message

Today, the organization operates with a professional structure, funded by private sponsors. “It’s a big business with a big budget,” notes Wohlgelernter.

“Merchandise often isn’t profitable because we give so much away. The funding covers production, outreach, and initiatives in Israel and beyond.”

Looking ahead, the team aims to grow exponentially.

“In five years, we should be 5,000 times bigger. Since the goal is Moshiach, we aren't satisfied until that happens. We want to make our message clearer, more accessible, and have a greater impact across the Jewish world. We are excited about AI and new media tools will allow us to create faster, more impactful content for all ages.”

Yeshiva Boys also say Thank You Hashem (Photo: Personal archive)

For “Thank You Hashem,” the guiding principle remains clear: live the message authentically, and the world listens.

“Everyone involved becomes a representative of the organization,” says Wohlgelernter to JFeed. “When the message changes your life, it reaches others in a way preaching never can.”