Local community leader and volunteer, Lauren Iselin has been announced as the inaugural Chair of Jewish National Fund-USA’s (JNF-USA) Women For Israel division in the Capital Region.
Iselin has previously served as President of Congregation Beth Emeth and also chaired the Federation’s Literacy Program.
“I’ve been on JNF-USA’s Capital Region board for approximately three years and the more I’ve learned, the more I have become involved,” said Iselin.
While JNF-USA is best known for its tree-planting efforts in Israel, Iselin is determined to educate the broader community about the organization’s work in other areas such as water conservation, housing site development, and programs that support people with disabilities.
“I care deeply about Israel and I know so many people in the area who feel the same, yet they are unaware of JNF-USA’s philanthropic work beyond tree planting.”
According to The Boston Consulting Group, between 2010 and 2015 private wealth held by women grew from $34trn to $51trn— an increase of 50% in merely five years. Moreover, most of the private wealth that will change hands in the coming decades is likely to go to women.
“I think each family is unique and in some [families], it’s the women that lead their charitable giving,” said Iselin. I also believe that Women for Israel could be a great outlet for women in the Capital Region who are looking to connect with other like-minded women who share their passion for Israel.”
Iselin also feels that Women for Israel enables women who support Israel to “no longer be bystanders.” Iselin added, “what’s great about Women for Israel is you don’t need to have a political affiliation.”
Although upcoming Women for Israel events will be held in the virtual world, Iselin hopes to resume in-person meetings when it’s safe to do so.
Iselin is also encouraging Jewish women in the Capital Region to become more involved with Women For Israel – beyond their gift. “Being a part of the Women For Israel makes you feel like you’re truly connecting with others in a way that allows you to learn about their stories and why they support Israel.”
JNF-USA is hosting a special virtual tour to Israel between January 25-29, 2021 for Capital Region women. No minimum donation is required to “travel” to Israel with JNF-USA. To learn more about the virtual tour or Women for Israel, contact Lauren Iselin at 518.265.7983 or [email protected].