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Dear Reader,
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
This May, Israel celebrates 65 years of independence. Over the past six-and-a-half decades, this small desert nation has made incredible strides, both in the development of country and infrastructure, and in its contribution to the world. Innovation, spirit and wonder are just a few of the words that come to mind when describing Israel. We asked some of our Board Presidents across the country to share their thoughts on what Israel means to them (pages 16-17). Turn to pages 18-21 to see some of the ways in which Israel has progressed since the Jewish State was declared in May 1948 and read about the bravery and resourcefulness that Israelis have exhibited on their country’s journey to becoming the nation that it is today.
5 Project Spotlight on Arava Medical Center
A cornerstone laying ceremony marked the beginning of construction on the Danielle A. and Irving J. Grossman Arava Medical Center, which will benefit 3,700 local residents.
11 2012 National Conference in Orlando
JNF hosted its most successful National Conference to date in Orlando in October. Check out some of the highlights!
12-13 JNF’s Successful Emergency Campaign
We hope you enjoy this issue. Send your feedback to newsletter@jnf.org.
JNF jumped into action to provide relief to communities affected by the conflict between Israel and Gaza in November. See how your donations made a difference.
Regards, B’Yachad Editorial Staff
16-21 Israel @ 65
Israel is celebrating 65 years of independence this May. Read about the ways that Israel, with the help of JNF, has grown into a thriving country with much to offer the world.
B’YACHAD STAFF EDITOR IN CHIEF: Ariel Vered PUBLISHER: Russell F. Robinson EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Jodi Bodner MANAGING EDITOR: Sarit Schonbrun CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Sherene Strausberg
24 Students of All Faiths Discover Israel with JNF Twenty-five student leaders of all faiths traveled to Israel on the second annual Caravan for Democracy mission to see first-hand the distinctive and dynamic nature of its culture, politics, and community.
JEWISH NATIONAL FUND (JNF) began in 1901 as a dream and vision to reestablish a homeland in Israel
for Jewish people everywhere. Jews the world over collected coins in iconic JNF Blue Boxes, purchasing land and planting trees until ultimately, their dream of a Jewish homeland was a reality. Today, JNF continues to give all generations a unique voice in building and ensuring the prosperity of the land of Israel through their generosity and partnership with the people of Israel.
WINNER OF THE AJPA ROCKOWER AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN ORGANIZATIONAL NEWSLETTERS Printed on recycled paper with vegetable-based ink
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JNF embodies both heart and action; our work is varied in scope but singular in benefit. We strive to bring an enhanced quality of life to all of Israel’s residents, and translate these advancements to the world beyond. JNF is greening the desert with millions of trees, building thousands of parks, creating new communities and cities for generations of Israelis to call home, bolstering Israel’s water supply, helping develop innovative arid-agriculture techniques, and educating both young and old about the founding and importance of Israel and Zionism. JNF is a registered 501(c)(3) organization and United Nations NGO, which continuously earns top ratings from charity overseers. For more information on JNF, call 888.JNF.0099 or visit jnf.org.