Robinson Report: January 2025
Jewish National Fund - USA
We are unique, we are strategic, we are visionary, and we have been that way since 1901. Join us.
Dear Friends,
These days I am reminded of the evening I stood before thousands gathered at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv last year. The air was heavy with a mix of hope, resilience, and profound grief. Looking out at the sea of people — mothers clutching photographs, children holding candles, fathers whose eyes seemed to carry the weight of the world — I felt the unshakable unity of our Jewish homeland that refuses to give up on its people. During my address, I said we will never forget their names, we will never let the world forget their names, and we will continue to never let anyone forget the remaining hostages. It was one of the most humbling moments of my life and now, as my wife Marci and I watch the release of more hostages from the clutches of evil, I pray we will see every last hostage released ASAP. You can read more about my joy, heartache, and reflections on the release of hostages here.
A New Year, New Beginnings, And Our Enduring Vision
The start of a new year brings opportunity and new beginnings. However, the realities of October 7 haven’t faded — it is a pain we will carry every day for the rest of our lives. We are determined to build, rebuild, and continue our vision to grow the population of the Negev and Galilee. This is a time for leadership, action, and strengthening our resolve. This is why Jewish National Fund-USA’s mission of Zionist engagement focuses on our Alexander Muss High School in Israel, the premier semester abroad experience.
Our strategic vision has remained constant for 124 years. It’s the foundation of everything we do. You have helped change the course of our Jewish history, and we are still building a nation under creation. We need you now, more than ever.
“Circle of Impact”
With hundreds of Jewish National Fund-USA projects and programs underway, it’s easy to get caught up in the magic and emotion of each initiative.
Yes, each individual project is important, but they are much more than the sum of their parts; they come with a strategic Circle of Impact. We are not just building a medical center, a playground, culinary institute, small business association, resilience centers, regional sports complex, regional community center, or World Zionist Village through your philanthropic investments. No, there is a much bigger picture to be looked at: the Circle of Impact.
Our Medical and Emergency Center: A Catalyst for Change
At the heart of one such “Circle of Impact” is our new Robert and Gale C. Kares Kiryat Shmona Medical Center and Pastor Jentezen Franklin Emergency Response Center.
Let's look at the circles:
Supporting People with Disabilities
One of the most inspiring examples of our “Circle of Impact” is our unwavering support for people with disabilities in the south and the north of Israel.
How do our facilities and services for people with disabilities create "Circles of Impact? Take a look:
By supporting these programs, we’re not just changing lives; we’re shifting societal perceptions and creating a ripple effect of positivity and progress. This is the bedrock of our strategic vision.
Our Global Culinary Institute by JNF (GCI): Nourishing More Than Appetites
With its doors soon opening, this isn’t an ordinary culinary school. No! It’s a total rethink of what culinary education can be and an initiative that will change the narrative of the region.
Just look at these impressive "Circles of Impact:"
By supporting these programs, we’re not just changing lives; we’re shifting societal perceptions and creating a ripple effect of positivity and progress. This is the bedrock of our strategic vision.
Whatever our initiative — our World Zionist Village, Alexander Muss High School in Israel, innovation programs, agricultural initiatives, resilience programs, and more — we are creating Circles of Impact that touch every corner of the land of Israel.
领英推荐
Israel, Sushi, and Lifelong Friendships; the Alexander Muss High School Experience
Why is Israel’s sushi the best? We don’t know. We don’t even know if it is the best. But what we do know is that the teens at the Alexander Muss High School semester abroad experience in Israel won’t stop raving about it!
Our Alexander Muss High School in Israel offers a lifechanging experience where American teens go for a semester abroad (some go longer, some go for our ‘mini-mesters,’ and some come back as volunteers). It’s kind of become its own community of alumni for the past 40 years. It gives our teens a college preparatory experience before leaving the nest.
For many of them, it’s their first time not having their moms wake them up to go to class in the morning — which, for any kid raised by a Jewish mom, can be a bit of a shock. But it’s okay. We let them learn about life, get up in time for breakfast, and find their independence in the safest and most secure environment there is: our world-class campuses, complete with dorms, gym, quad, and more.
As parents, you may be attracted to Muss’ ability to nurture and develop your teens’ academic talents in an environment that also makes them proud of their heritage. However, can I let you in on a secret? Most of our students come to socialize and have fun, meeting peers from across the country and establishing lifelong friendships (and future networks). AP Calculus and Biology aren’t exactly top of mind for them (but they are for us). And that’s where you find our “Muss Magic;” The ability to meet each student where they are at academically and inspire them to shine in their studies as they learn to love and embrace their Jewish and Zionist heritage in a way that’s meaningful to them.
With so much misinformation and drama happening here in the U.S. (especially on college campuses), this is the best time to give the kids a break and send them on a trip to Israel to connect with their roots and gain a fresh new perspective. For more information or to register, visit www.amhsi.org, call 800.327.5980, or email [email protected].
Shabbat for Israel
Turn your home blue and white, celebrate Israel’s shining light!
Bring the light, love, and spirit of Israel into your homes on May 2 with our Shabbat for Israel. This year, as we celebrate Israel's independence, we wanted to create a way for everyone to feel the joy, pride, and connection of being in Israel—right from their own homes. That’s how Shabbat for Israel was born. We’re inviting you to join thousands of people across the country for an evening that brings the Zionist spirit to your Shabbat table.
Imagine homes filled with the laughter of friends and family, the aroma of your favorite dishes, and the unmistakable warmth of Shabbat infused with Israel’s spirit. Whether you’re hosting or attending, this is your chance to celebrate Israel’s story, its resilience, and its incredible culture in a deeply personal way.
Together, let’s create a mosaic of Shabbat dinners united in love and support for our land and people of Israel. It’s more than a meal — it’s a movement. Will you be part of it?
Whether you host at home, in a synagogue, or a community space, this is your opportunity to share your love for Israel and celebrate the unifying spirit of Shabbat.
Join us in making this moment unforgettable. Become a host today at jnf.org/shabbatforisrael
Honoring the Legacy of a Zionist Titan - Bob Levine OBM
When Bob Levine walked into a room, you didn’t just meet a man — you met a movement. For over 95 years, Bob served as a titan of our Zionist cause, a builder of bridges both literal and metaphorical, and a source of unending inspiration for all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in our shared story, yet his legacy will continue to guide us toward a brighter future for the land and people of Israel.
I met Bob 27 years ago, shortly after I began my journey as CEO with Jewish National Fund-USA. From our very first handshake — though with Bob, it was more likely a hug — it was clear I was in the presence of greatness. He embodied everything our organization stands for: warmth, passion, and a relentless commitment to action. Bob didn’t just believe in the power of Zionism; he lived it.
Bob’s first of hundreds of trips to Israel left an indelible mark on his heart. Flying over the desert, he saw trees transforming barren land into an oasis of life and hope. He wanted to be part of that miracle. From that moment on, he dedicated his life to planting not just trees, but seeds of hope and renewal, ensuring that every project he touched grew into a legacy that would endure for generations.
Whether as our Campaign Chair, Vice President of Zionist Education, or the heart and soul of countless events like Israel’s Tu BiShvat celebrations, Bob’s fingerprints are on every milestone Jewish National Fund-USA has achieved. Under his leadership, we reached financial milestones that many thought impossible, built bridges—both literally, like “Bob’s Bridge” in Be’er Sheva — and figuratively, connecting people to our ancestral homeland. His efforts turned visions into realities, like the vibrant Be’er Sheva River Park, which transformed an arid landscape into a symbol of possibility.
Bob understood that the future of Zionism depended on our youth. Whether captivating students with his famous magic tricks or rallying young leaders around the Blue Box, Bob ensured that the next generation not only understood their connection to Israel but celebrated it. And next year, his legacy will further be immortalized as “Blue Box Bob” is brought to life as a character in a children’s book series that will inspire countless young Zionists.
In his honor, Jewish National Fund-USA will continue to build upon the foundations Bob helped lay. We will plant more trees, construct more bridges, expand our semester study abroad program at the Alexander Muss High School in Israel, and bring more young leaders to our homeland. Through our Go North and Blueprint Negev initiatives, we will carry forward Bob’s vision of transforming Israel’s peripheries into thriving communities.
Bob, we miss you dearly. Thank you for teaching us not just to believe in Zionism but to live it. May your memory always be a blessing.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we are shaping the future of our land and people of Israel—one Circle of Impact at a time.
With gratitude,
Russell F. Robinson
P.S. Don’t forget to register for our Global Conference for Israel, October 23-26 in South Florida. Take advantage of our Early Bird rates today at jnf.org/global
Insightful!