Birthright Israel Foundation Blog

Six months ago, our world was forever changed.  We woke up on October 7 to the news that 1,200 innocent Israelis were murdered and 234 were kidnapped by Hamas.  Homes and families were destroyed as our homeland was under attack. Quickly, we understood the substantial impact these horrific attacks would have on Israeli society, its economy, and Jews around the world.… Read More 

Roberta and Stanley Bogen generously opened their doors for Birthright Israel Foundation's annual Palm Beach event. Guests were treated to inspiring remarks by Roberta Bogen, Birthright Israel co-founder Charles Bronfman, and alumni, highlighting the program's profound impact. From Waitlist to Deep Friendship Chloe Bogen, a University of Texas at Austin graduate, captivated the audience with her story. Initially waitlisted for… Read More 

New Los Angeles Cabinet members Melissa and Roee Wiczyk generously welcomed more than 50 friends of Birthright Israel Foundation to their home on Monday, February 26. Guests had the privilege to hear from host Roee Wiczyk, Los Angeles alumna Drea Rice, and Dr. Zohar Raviv, the International Vice President of Educational Strategy for Birthright Israel. Roee opened the gathering by giving… Read More 

Last week, National Board Member Roberta Menzin and her husband, Joe, hosted an evening of support for Birthright Israel. Their home was filled with the energy and passion of the Birthright Israel's Miami community. It was a truly inspiring evening that reminded us all of the importance of connecting young Jewish adults to Israel. Celebrating Jewish Identity and Connection Professor… Read More 

Israel holds a special place in the hearts of Irwin and Faye Siegel, supporters of Jewish causes. So, when their grandchildren returned from Birthright Israel trips over the years with eyes alight and stories of the vibrant Israeli culture and its unwavering spirit, it was like watching a familiar flame bloom brighter. The Siegel's recognized the transformative power of the… Read More 

In 2023, Birthright Israel witnessed an extraordinary outpouring of connection and resilience. Over 27,000 young Jewish adults embarked on transformative journeys, immersing themselves in Israel’s vibrant culture and rich history through our programs. These programs, be they the classic 10-day trip, Onward or Excel, were more than just sightseeing; they sparked personal growth and ignited a sense of belonging to… Read More 

On Thursday, November 9, 2023, hundreds of Los Angeles Birthright Israel Foundation supporters gathered to honor lay leader Steven J. Fishman and hear the incredible news of the Arline & Buddy Pepp $1,000,000 match. We are grateful to our co-chairs, Lynn & Les Bider, Caroline & Michael Hackman, and Janice Kamenir-Reznik & Benjamin Reznick. The evening represented the community's unwavering support for Israel and demonstrated the… Read More 

On Sunday, November 12, 2023, San Francisco donors attended our Show Up for Israel event supporting Birthright Israel Foundation. The event was chaired by Nancy Grand and honored Lily Kanter for her dedication to Birthright Israel's program. MAKE A GIFT NOW The evening's five speakers built a strong case for supporting Birthright Israel. We hope that their words and experience inspire our community's… Read More 

Last week, I had the most impactful days of my life in Israel. I participated in a two-day solidarity mission to Israel with about a dozen international lay leaders of Birthright. It is so important to those who we met with that they share what they experienced and that, in turn, we all share what we learned as broadly as… Read More 

On Tuesday, November 14, 2023, Birthright Israel Foundation supporters Lyn & Barry Chasen hosted an intimate and inspiring evening for their community in support of Birthright Israel's mission. Lyn opened the evening by showing gratitude to the nearly 300,000 people, including hundreds of Birthright Israel alums, who attended the March for Israel. MAKE A GIFT NOW Three Birthright Israel alums, Arielle Becker, Gabriella… Read More 

On Tuesday, November 14, 2023, the Jewish community in the US had a monumental display of support for Israel. The March for Israel, the nation's largest pro-Israel rally, was organized with the firm conviction to remind the world about the kidnapped hostages and to confront antisemitism head-on. An impressive crowd of nearly 300,000 individuals convened at Washington, DC's National Mall,… Read More