No organization has impacted the land and people of Israel more than Jewish National Fund-USA. As we embark on our 124th year and reflect on a legacy spanning over a century, we are buoyed by another record year of impact. Now, as we head into 2025, here are 25 examples of how our philanthropic investments are changing lives.
- Afforestation Efforts: Jewish National Fund has planted over 260 million trees since 1901, transforming arid regions into lush forests and combating desertification.
- Water Conservation Projects: We have constructed over 250 dams and reservoirs, enhancing Israel's water security and supporting agriculture.
- Land Development: Developed over 250,000 acres of land, facilitating agricultural growth and urban development.
- Establishment of Parks: Created over 1,000 parks, providing recreational spaces and promoting environmental sustainability.
- Support for New Communities: Assisted in establishing numerous communities in the Negev and Galilee, promoting population growth, regional development, and national security.
- Educational Initiatives: Our Alexander Muss High School in Israel offers a semester abroad experience like no other, offering teenagers a life changing experience on two beautiful campuses.
- Heritage Preservation: We are committed to preserving modern historical and cultural sites, ensuring the rich history of Israel is maintained for future generations.
- Agricultural Innovation: Jewish National Fund-USA supports critical research and development in agriculture, introducing advanced farming techniques to increase productivity.
- Environmental Research: We engage in research to combat desertification and promote sustainable land use practices. We are proud of our Kasser Joint Institute for Food, Energy, and Water Security that's bringing Israel's light to the world.
- Community Building: Jewish National Fund invests in infrastructure and services in underdeveloped areas, enhancing the quality of life for residents.
- Tourism Promotion: We manage and promote tourist attractions, boosting local economies and fostering cultural exchange in underserved regions.
- Emergency Response Centers: Jewish National Fund-USA provides resources and support during natural disasters and security challenges, aiding in recovery and resilience.
- Advocacy and Education: Raises awareness and educates about Israel's environmental and developmental challenges and achievements. As the largest provider of Zionist engagement, we invest in pro-Israel campus leaders throughout Faculty Fellowship in Israel and Caravan for Democracy initiatives.
- Frontier Development: Our Housing Development Fund expedites new housing projects in Israel's north and south.
- Water Recycling Initiatives: We make philanthropic investments in wastewater treatment and recycling, maximizing water resources in a water-scarce region. Thanks to our efforts, Israel leads the world in water recycling, with at least 90% of all water recycled.
- Support for People with Disabilities: We support making inclusive parks and facilities, ensuring accessibility for all citizens. Our flagship programs like LOTEM - Making Israel Accessible, Special in Uniform, Red Mountain Therapeutic Riding Center, and ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran.
- Renewable Energy Projects: Promotes the use of renewable energy sources, contributing to Israel's energy independence.
- Research Partnerships: We collaborate with international institutions like the University of Arizona on environmental and agricultural research, sharing knowledge globally.
- Youth Engagement: We run programs to engage young Jews worldwide, strengthening their connection to Israel. From our programming in schools, JNFuture Leadership Institute, Alternative Break, Positively Israel, and other initiatives, we are creating our community's future leaders.
- Urban Renewal Projects: Jewish National Fund is Revitalizing urban areas, like in the city of Be'er Sheva, where our River Walk Park, amphitheater, and planned World Zionist Village, are bringing life to underserved cities.
- Support for Military Families: Provides support for the parents of lone soldiers in the IDF to fly to Israel and give their children a hug.
- Cultural Events Sponsorship: We sponsor cultural events and festivals, enriching Israel's cultural landscape and celebrating the melting pot and diversity that our Jewish homeland represents.
- Biodiversity Conservation: We work to protect and enhance Israel's diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
- Reclaiming Zionism: Our planned World Zionist Village will enable our people to celebrate the beauty and positive contributions that our movement has made to the world. The 16-acre $350 million campus to be built in Be'er Sheva is the largest philanthropic capital project in Israel's history.
- Global Jewish Community Engagement: We are strengthening ties between Israel and the global Jewish community through our Global Conference for Israel. Register today for our 2025 conference at jnf.org/global!
Whatever your plans are for 2025, we are proud to have you as a valued partner (donor) as we renew, rebuild, and reimagine Israel's north and south. To continue your support, visit jnf.org/donate.