Chabad Lubavitch of the Lehigh Valley reaches out to all Jews in the Lehigh Valley, regardless of how they express themselves religiously. The local organization focuses on spiritual and social needs, hoping to inspire Jews to explore their heritage and strengthen their Jewish connection. The local organization, founded in 2001 by Rabbi Yaakov and Devorah Halperin, initially met in Halperin's home; its new center was dedicated in 2009. Chabad Lubavitch, also a worldwide movement, is inspired by the teachings of Lubavitcher Rebbe. "Chabad" is a Hebrew acronym for wisdom, comprehension and knowledge. "Lubavitch" is the name of the Russian town where the movement, a branch of Hasidism, was based for more than a century.