The Pride of Philanthropy

What does it take to instill Jewish pride, a connection to Israel, and a commitment to action in the next generation? Hands-on experiences, face-to-face encounters, and a bit of chutzpah make it all possible. 

The JNFuture Leadership Institute Mission (JLIM) serves as a catalyst for change, inspiring participants to become passionate advocates and empowered leaders. Participants commit to a full year of leadership training. For Ari Meridy, Alex Freedman, and their cohort, the May 2024 mission was a profound awakening to the tangible impact of their work in JNFuture, Jewish National Fund-USA’s young philanthropists community for ages 22-40.

Ari, a New York real estate broker, first connected with Jewish National Fund-USA in 2019 by chairing JNFuture’s “Shabbat in the Park,” a vibrant gathering of young Jewish philanthropists from the tri-state area united in their commitment to supporting Israel.

JLIM marked Ari’s first Jewish National Fund-USA trip to Israel. The tragic events of October 7, coupled with the global rise in antisemitism, reignited Ari’s sense of urgency.

“On this mission, I didn’t just talk about Jewish National Fund-USA’s work—I lived it,” Ari shared. Witnessing the impact firsthand provided a sense of hope and purpose that replaced the lingering pit in his stomach since the atrocities of October 7. 

Among the many meaningful moments during the mission, the Atlit Detention Camp stood out as particularly poignant. “Atlit symbolizes a painful limbo,” Ari reflected, contemplating the plight of Holocaust survivors who, after escaping unimaginable horrors, faced further uncertainty upon arriving in the Land of Israel. Ari explained, “Hearing about the sirens in Tel Aviv while standing at this historic site brought history into sharp focus, reinforcing for me the resilience and unyielding fight for freedom that defines the Jewish people.

Upon returning home, Ari stepped into the role of Leadership Chair on JNFuture’s New York Board, and has been leading with gusto.

Meanwhile, Alex’s deeply rooted connection to Jewish National Fund-USA was inspired by her father’s involvement on the Eastern Pennsylvania board, and solidified by her JLIM experience. She now serves on the local JNFuture board as the Israel Education and Advocacy Chair and is set to join the Israel Envelope Task Force, a group actively involved in rebuilding the region.

For Alex, returning to Israel with JLIM after the events of October 7 was a journey of reckoning and renewal. “I wanted to bear witness and see for myself what had happened,” she explained. “After completing this mission, I realized that I need to do more and give more of myself,” a statement that reflects the responsibility she feels as a leader to not only inspire others, but to lead by example.

True to her word, Alex has already increased her support, contributing to the rebuilding of the Israel Envelope through Jewish National Fund-USA. Her actions underscore a vital lesson in leadership: growth begins with personal commitment.

Both also thanked those who made this transformative experience possible, with Ari saying “I want to extend my warmest thanks to the Bar Yadin Family Foundation for sponsoring this year’s JLIM trip. It was absolutely an unforgettable trip and one that I will take with me for the rest of my life.”

Underscoring the importance of these kinds of experiences for building the next generation of Jewish leadership, Reuben Bar Yadin shared why he and his family thought it important to support JNFuture, saying, “By connecting young people to Israel we are creating a new generation of leaders through this program who will impact their communities. We see ourselves as investing in strengthening the land and people of Israel.”

Inspired by the mission, Ari offered this advice to future participants: “Say yes to everything. Opt in and be open to receiving. There is so much to be given—don’t be afraid.”

For Alex, JLIM reinforced the importance of human connection in advocacy. “Speak to the people,” she advises future participants. “By making human connections, you are armed with the truth, enabling you to combat anti-Zionism and antisemitism.”

By investing in JLIM, we are not only contributing to Israel’s future, but also cultivating the dedicated leaders who will ensure its prosperity for generations to come.

To get involved in JNFuture or learn about the JLIM nomination process, contact Shaked Angel at [email protected]