The Ronald S. Lauder JNF House on New York’s Upper East Side was abuzz with thought-provoking conversation and speakers last week as Jewish National Fund-USA hosted its annual Bar Yadin Family Foundation JNFuture Leadership Institute Summit (JLIS). The event brought together future Zionist leaders of American Jewry, ages 22 to 40, committed to advancing their leadership within the Jewish community and strengthening their connection to the land and people of Israel.
Participant Dev Taylor, president of JNFuture in Chicago, emphasized the unique opportunity that JNFuture—the Jewish National Fund-USA’s donor society for young Jewish professionals—provides for those passionate about Israel and their community. “If you love Israel, and you love Judaism and philanthropy, [joining JNFuture] is the perfect way to make a difference,” he said.
Participants shared their personal experiences and the impact JNFuture has had on their lives and on Israel. “In July 2023, I had the opportunity to go to Israel on a Jewish National Fund mission. It was really impactful to see the work being done over there,” one attendee said, reflecting the deep connection that JNFuture members feel with Israel.
Gary Fayman, a national JNFuture board member, highlighted the significance of the summit: “JLIS is an opportunity for young professional lay leaders from across the country to come together, to network, to learn different skill-building opportunities, to discuss where we are right now and how we can take things back to our communities, to grow our communities, to build awareness about Jewish National Fund-USA, and to support Israel in the best possible way.”
JLIS participants also discussed the challenges they face as the future leaders of American Jewry in the wake of Oct. 7. “We are loud, and we are proud, especially now in a post-Oct. 7 world. We are raising our voices, we are raising awareness, and we are coming together as one,” Fayman said, underscoring the collective resolve of the Jewish community.
Echoing the sentiments of other JLIS participants, Josh Goodkin, a New York board member of JNFuture, said the group has given him a profound sense of purpose. “If I had to describe JNFuture in one word, it would be ‘all-encompassing.’ Jewish National Fund-USA and JNFuture have provided me with so many tools to step up and lead my community. I’ve made lifelong friendships, and I’ve found mentors who have helped me both personally and professionally.”
As the summit ended, participants left energized and equipped to take their newfound knowledge and passion back to their communities, aimed at continuing their work supporting Israel and the Jewish people.
The Jewish Future Leadership Institute Summit is held annually by invitation, and is to a cornerstone event for young Jewish leaders dedicated to making a lasting impact. For more information, email Megan Montgomery at mmontgomery@jnf.org.
