Since October 7, the need for education and open discussion about Zionism has become more important than ever. The World Zionist Village (the Village) will welcome community leaders and scholars from around the world to provide seminars and immersive programs about Zionism’s history, heritage and pioneering spirit for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Jewish National Fund-USA’s Village will fill this critical need now and for future generations. Russell F. Robinson, CEO of Jewish National Fund-USA, calls the Village a “really out-of-the box” vision. As the “largest project happening in the Jewish world,” it will bring together multigenerational, multicultural, religious and non-religious people from around the world to study, deeply experience, and discuss Zionism. Robinson is enthusiastic that people with “all political views… will come from Barcelona to Boston” to learn about Zionism’s past, present and future. It’s “about opportunity for all of us to have a pathway forward.”
Every JNF-USA initiative undergoes considerable short and long-term strategic planning. The Village is no exception. This extraordinary vision was evaluated over a six-year period with 1,200 focus groups. A broad multidisciplinary team assessed opportunities and weak points.
Now the Village is closer to becoming a reality. Its detailed master plan was unanimously approved by Be’er Sheva’s City Council in June 2025. Screening and selection of the lead architect to execute the design is underway with construction anticipated to begin in 2027.
Be’er Sheva, the largest city in the Negev desert of southern Israel, is a perfect location for the World Zionist Village. Because of you, its dry riverbed was turned into a lovely 30-acre lake with sport-tech and nature trails. With deep biblical ties to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Be’er Sheva is also deeply steeped in history.
Ira Green, the Village’s CEO, envisions 20,000 to 25,000 visits annually. Many will be high school kids from Jewish National Fund-USA’s Alexander Muss High School’s southern campus, while others will likely come from Israeli and international high school programs. Older generations will come as individuals or in groups from synagogues, churches, or other organizations.
Students will learn in modern, multi-purpose classrooms and event spaces. Open courtyards and pathways, beautiful dining rooms, and the Village’s Athletics and Sports Center will provide many opportunities to connect in other ways. On-site hotels, residences and student dorms will offer short and long-term accommodations.
Young people will have the opportunity to expand their horizons and will be exposed to diverse perspectives in a safe, supportive environment. The Village’s International Learning Center for high school students and college graduates will host seminars, conversations, and hands-on experiences to strengthen understanding and connection to our 3,000 years of history. There will be short and long-term programming for varied communities, including gap-year mechinot for Israeli pre-army and pre-university international youth.
The Village’s interactive “Living Lab for Innovation” will showcase Israeli creativity in fields like Climate, Agricultural, and Desert Tech- so visitors can see first-hand how Israel is “repairing the world.” The “Innovation Hub,” a center for thought leadership, dialogue and strategy, will focus on the future of Zionism and its impact on the world. Health and wellness programs about Israeli science, research and innovations in healthcare and medicine will also be featured.
Students will be able to explore the latest desert tech and other innovations being developed in the Be’er Sheva area that are leading Israel’s environmental impact across the globe. Proximity to over 100 high-tech companies and universities, along with easy transportation to Tel Aviv and other cities will provide many opportunities for internships and employment.
Located half a mile from Abraham’s Well* where our Zionist conversation first began, the World Zionist Village will create our own shared conversations, experiences and passion for Zionism—now and for many generations to come.
*A JNF-USA-supported Heritage Site
Written by Dvorah Richman member of JNF-USA's: Greater Washington Board (immediate past President of the Board); Disabilities Task Force; Women for Israel; and Lawyers for Israel.