WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., May 6, 2025 — More than 300 philanthropists recently attended Jewish National Fund-USA’s signature annual event in Westchester at Congregation Kol Ami in White Plains, where they learned how the organization’s Beautified Bomb Shelter initiative is supporting the post-October 7 rebuilding of communities in Israel.
Hillel & Caren Hammerman (photo credit: Lauren Saldutti, A Guy and A Girl Photography)
Co-chaired by Alena Markley and Jenna Wise, the “A Night in the Negev” event featured Israeli bomb shelter mural artist Elyasaf Miara, who utilizes spray paint to create extraordinary, whimsical artwork on bleak concrete bomb shelters and makes public spaces like parks and playgrounds safe and welcoming for children.
Miara spray painted several murals during the event, which were auctioned off to support the organization’s Israel Resilience Campaign, which is rehabilitating Israel’s battered North and South (jnf.org/supportisrael).
Bryan & Jenna Wise and Alena & Garrett Markley
“As a young parent, I am especially moved by the fact that, despite all the trauma the children of Israel have endured, the cartoons chosen by my children and painted by Miara on a beautified bomb shelter we sponsored, continue to bring smiles to Israeli children, offering them a small respite from their pain,” said Markley.
The event also featured guest speaker Yedidya Harush, Jewish National Fund-USA’s Halutza Community Liaison, who works with the organization to support regional development in southern Israeli communities. On October 7, Yedidya’s world was turned upside down when he and his friends jumped into action to protect neighboring communities under attack by terrorists.
Elyasaf Miara
"They managed to break our hearts on October 7, these monsters of Hamas,” said Harush. “They hurt us, they killed my best friends, they damaged my children's childhood, but one thing they will never do is break our spirit. We have hope. We believe in tomorrow. Despite the challenges and the dark times we're going through, we will emerge stronger than ever."
Local lay leaders also discussed Jewish National Fund USA’s efforts to rebuild once-vibrant communities. From housing and infrastructure to mental health resources, the organization is working with Israelis in the region to help them recover and thrive.
Leonard Benowich & Ruth Raisfeld
“Israel has always held a special place in my heart, and like all of you, the events of October 7 and the ongoing war have deeply shaken me,” said Wise. “In the face of this devastation, I initially felt helpless, but I was driven to make a difference in whatever way I could.”
Wise added: “The impact of Jewish National Fund-USA has never been more evident. Our Build Together and Reimagine plans are leading the charge in rebuilding and healing. In the South, we’re helping families return home and providing them with the necessary resources to recover. In the North, we’re addressing trauma, displacement, and the ongoing threats they face. Together, we’re rebuilding lives and ensuring a sustainable future. Since October 7, Jewish National Fund-USA has been on the front lines—delivering critical aid, rebuilding communities, and supporting those in need. To date, we’ve raised over $200 million, and this is just the beginning.”
Ellie Sass & Leya Kaufman
The event also recognized local community members Caren & Hillel Hammerman and Ruth Raisfeld & Leonard Benowich for their longstanding dedication to the land and people of Israel.
For more information or to learn about future events in Westchester, contact Samara Rader, Director, Westchester & Southern CT at [email protected] or 212.879.9300 x510.
Brenda & Michael Benn
Attendees at Jewish National Fund-USA’s A Night in the Negev event
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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.
