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Howard Blas

Howard Blas

Howard Blas is a social worker and special-education teacher by training. He teaches Jewish studies and prepares students with a range of disabilities for b’nai mitzvah. He regularly leads Birthright Israel “classic” and service trips for people with disabilities. His publications can be viewed here.

At a Tel Aviv gathering, volunteers hear the story of an Ethiopian immigrant’s journey to Israel as the organization seeks to strengthen its growing community beyond IDF bases.
More than 3,000 athletes from over 40 countries took part in the “Jewish Olympics,” held a year after the Games were postponed due to the war with Iran.
After becoming the first Israeli women’s national basketball team to win a European medal, the team reflected on the bond that fueled its remarkable run.
Despite falling short in the series, Team Israel celebrated a historic performance, new friendships and valuable preparation for the European Championship.
Despite facing hostility throughout the tournament, Team Israel captured gold and now has its sights set on qualifying for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
From Cuba to Estonia, immigrants to Israel proudly compete under their former homelands’ flags while celebrating their shared Jewish identity.
Maccabiah Israel Chairman Asaf Goren tells JNS that memorial swims, commemorative pins and even favorite foods are helping athletes remember 18 fallen members of the Maccabi family.
Thousands of Jewish athletes from a record 43 countries gathered at Teddy Stadium to launch the “Jewish Olympics,” with moving tributes to hostages, wounded soldiers and Israel’s fallen.
Jewish National Fund-USA brought together 40 Israeli architectural firms to explore plans for a new hub for Zionist education, leadership and innovation in the Negev.
Israel’s Education Ministry recently approved the platform for its Summer 2026 catalog, encouraging youngsters to create with technology rather than simply consume it.
Tickets are now available for the July 1 opening ceremony, which will showcase leading Israeli and American performers, including Montana Tucker.
The five-year exemption plan targets new immigrants and returning residents amid a global outreach effort.