NEW YORK — May 20, 2025: In a powerful and deeply moving gathering at Ronald S. Lauder JNF House, Jewish National Fund-USA hosted former Israeli hostages Aviva and Keith Siegel, who shared their story from captivity to freedom and now advocacy. The couple, who were taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 terrorists attacks, and later released (Aviva held for 51 days and Keith held for 484 days), addressed members of New York’s philanthropic community, shining a spotlight on the urgent need to bring home the remaining hostages and rebuild the communities devastated by terror.
The forum, held on Tuesday, May 20, brought together local philanthropists for an intimate dialogue with the Siegels, who used the opportunity to speak on behalf of those still held in Gaza. As part of their visit, Aviva and fellow survivors shared artwork created through therapeutic workshops, offering a window into their healing journey and the emotional toll of their ordeal.
“This is one of the most powerful experiences I've had since October 7,” said Sheryl Buchholtz, Jewish National Fund-USA National Board Member. “Having gone with Jewish National Fund-USA four times, and going again soon, hearing their story made it even more real. We've stood at Kfar Azza and other devastated communities, but meeting these former hostages in person changes your entire perspective. To know that Jewish National Fund-USA was there the day of, and every day after, is overwhelming. I’m so proud of who we are and what we’re doing for these incredible people.”
The gathering, spearheaded by the Jewish National Fund-USA-supported Hostages and Missing Families Forum, served as an important reminder not only of the pain endured by the hostages but also of the enduring spirit of the people of Israel—and the global Jewish community’s responsibility to support them and the communities affected by the attacks.
Sierra Stone, Vice President of New York’s JNFuture (Jewish National Fund-USA’s community for young philanthropists), reflected on the weight of the moment:
“Just returning from Israel, seeing the devastation firsthand, and now hearing directly from Aviva—it solidifies why our support is critical. Especially the residents of Kibbutz Kfar Azza, who believed in building bridges before October 7 and still do—they inspire me deeply. Even in the face of such inhumanity, they hold on to their humanity.”
Stone also issued a call to her peers:
“My grandparents fought for our Jewish communities. My parents built them. It’s now our job to protect them. This is the first time in our generation that Jewish communities are truly being questioned, even threatened. It’s up to us—young professionals—to step up as philanthropists and leaders.”
As Jewish National Fund-USA continues to lead rebuilding efforts in Israel's battered North and South, forums like these underscore the power of solidarity and the unshakable hope that binds the Jewish people to the land of Israel.
To support rebuilding efforts in Israel's North and South, visit jnf.org/supportisrael
About Jewish National Fund-USA
Jewish National Fund-USA builds a strong, vibrant future for the land and people of Israel through bold initiatives and Zionist engagement. The organization’s circle of impact extends beyond individual projects, generating a ripple effect that drives population growth and economic development in Israel’s north and south. From developing new communities in the Negev and Galilee to advancing environmental sustainability, supporting people with disabilities, preserving heritage sites, and connecting the next generation to Israel, Jewish National Fund-USA’s strategic approach ensures every initiative strengthens the fabric of Israeli society. The organization also operates the fully accredited Alexander Muss High School in Israel, offering an immersive study-abroad experience driven by academic excellence. Learn more at jnf.org.
