Before there was Israel, there was a dream. A millennia-old yearning to return to the Jewish people’s ancestral soil. And there were the women who made it happen.
In January of 1948, Golda Meir was relatively unknown in the American Jewish community. She was back home in the United States, touring the country and rallying economic support for the soon-to-be State of Israel. The goal was to raise $25 million. She came back with $50 million.
In just a few months, those funds would be used to defend Israel against hostile armies.
Even before becoming Prime Minister, Golda carried the burden of a nation under threat while refusing to let fear dictate our people’s future. The strength she exhibited during moments of uncertainty set a standard for generations of supporters who understand that Israel’s survival has always depended on people willing to step forward when it matters most.
Today, we are fortunate to live in a world where Israel exists, thanks in part to women like Golda. But with that reality comes the responsibility for us to sustain it—especially during moments of crisis. Israelis continue to live under the threat of missile attacks from Iran targeting cities and civilian infrastructure. In recent days, strikes and rockets from its regional allies have triggered sirens across Israel as Israelis nationwide have returned to their bomb shelters.
That’s where Women for Israel (WFI) steps in.
Continuing the same spirit that defined early Zionist pioneers like Golda, the women of WFI, a Jewish National Fund-USA affinity group, have built a powerful philanthropic network committed to uplifting the land and people of Israel.
For more than 25 years, female donors within the organization have supported its circles of impact, a comprehensive approach to revitalizing and reimagining Israel’s North and South by empowering individuals, strengthening families, and uplifting entire regions. Their commitment is creating a better life for Israelis, from basic resources to self-sustaining economies.
Anyone can be a Zionist. But these are the women who live their Zionism through action.
Like Golda, the women of WFI didn’t ask for a seat at the table. They made their own.
And like the generations before them, they mobilize when Israel faces difficult moments. Through their networks, missions to Israel, and initiatives, these women help ensure that communities under threat receive the support they need to endure and rebuild.
During the month of March, we recognize the achievements and milestones of iconic women throughout history. But we must also recognize the countless women who don't make the history books—the organizers, donors, volunteers, and community-builders who quietly shaped outcomes through perseverance and care.
While Women for Israel center around women’s leadership, the work itself welcomes everyone who believes in strengthening Israel’s future.
By supporting Jewish National Fund-USA, anyone can continue a legacy that began long before statehood: stepping up when something needs to be done, creating community where it is needed most, and turning dedication into action.
Now that we have Israel, our work is just beginning. And those who answer the call will make sure it is protected and continues to thrive for generations to come.
Jewish National Fund-USA is offering a $1 million match this Women’s Month, thanks to an anonymous donor. You can give in honor of Women’s Month here.
About Jewish National Fund-USA
Jewish National Fund-USA is building a strong and vibrant future for the land and people of Israel. Through its One Million Voices for Israel campaign, the organization unites supporters nationwide around its holistic approach to supporting individuals, families, communities, and regions in Israel's North and South, known as circles of impact. Leveraging its 125 years of impact, Jewish National Fund-USA is developing the most livable towns and cities in frontier communities to attract 800,000 new residents; creating a lifelong continuum of Zionist education through travel, learning, and leadership; and establishing the World Zionist Village in Be'er Sheva, a global hub for connection and peoplehood. With donor recognition and legacy giving at its core, supporters ensure their values and impact endure—yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Learn more at jnf.org.
