More than 250 young professionals from JNFuture, Jewish National Fund-USA’s division for 22– to 40-year-olds, came together at the organization’s 2,500-plus strong Global Conference for Israel to stand in solidarity with the Jewish Homeland.
The Nov. 30 to Dec. 3 Conference’s JNFuture program featured an exclusive luncheon with Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and documentarian Yuval David, as well as a tutorial on how to engage in difficult conversations with Ido Aharoni Aronoff, senior faculty member in the Coller School of Management at Tel Aviv University, and former Israeli Consul-General in New York.
“This has been a really uplifting weekend, even with the event’s underlying somber tone,” said JNFuture national president Ian Sachs. “The spirit of unity that I’ve seen between so many young professionals who believe in our vision is something I can take back to my local community. The excitement to share the things that I learned, my feelings, and all the amazing work we’re doing in Israel has given me the energy that I think we’ve all needed.”
In addition, JNFuture members mentored seniors attending the conference’s College Summit, where they offered career advice and an opportunity to network with like-minded individuals who work in the students’ desired fields. They also enjoyed a Saturday-night soirée with food, music and networking as Zionists from across the country met and bonded over their shared interests.
“This year, obviously, the conference has taken on a whole new level of importance after Oct. 7,” said JNFuture national vice president Danielle Hankin. “And to have so many young people feeling comfortable, showing up, and coming together to share their love for Israel and the importance of our mission is one of the greatest things that can be happening right now.”
“Being together with so many young Jewish philanthropists was nothing short of inspiring,” said national director, JNFuture, Melissa Asarch Wittenberg. “The strength, courage and fortitude that we gained from immersing ourselves in a weekend of Jewish solidarity, learning and enrichment will last with us forever. Those who joined us in Denver made a historic decision to step out from the sidelines and make a difference for the land and people of Israel. These are the changemakers who will drive our community forward for decades to come.”
JNFuture is Jewish National Fund-USA’s fastest-growing demographic. For more information, visit: jnf.org/jnfuture. Register for the 2024 Global Conference for Israel at: jnf.org/globaldallas.
