We intentionally release our annual report after Tu B’Shvat, the Jewish New Year of the Trees, both as an agricultural milestone and a spiritual and moralclarion call. In our time, this holiday has become a day of reckoning with our ecological interdependence, and our moral obligations to future generations for whom this planet is their birthright.
Adamah embodies what it means to be Jewish in this generation, a link between our ancestors and our descendants, for all peoples, and for our planet as a whole.
As Board Chair and CEO, we are deeply grateful for the extraordinary leadership on our staff and board who bring this vision to life every day, and for all our supporters and partners who help manifest our impact. Together, we see our growth is cumulative. Like time-lapsed photography of forest succession, each annual report is a tree-ring snapshot reflecting years of strategy and investment, talent and trust.
So may we use this moment not only to celebrate, but to recommit. The challenges facing our people and planet are far from receding. May we reconnect to the earth, to tradition, to one another, and to a sense of agency rooted in hope rather than fear.
As you read on, we hope you feel both pride in what has been cultivated and inspiration for what comes next. This tree, this forest, this ecosystem, this organization is growing in deep, powerful ways. The work continues, rings forming as we speak. Together, we will shape our next chapter, growing something that will endure. For our people and our planet.
With gratitude,
Brett Cohen Board Chair
Jakir Manela Chief Executive Officer
WHO WE ARE
Belief Statement
At Adamah, we believe in the deep connection between people & planet, adam & adamah.
Every day, we help people feel that connection, spark Jewish inspiration, and help build a more sustainable future for all.
And because we are the link between our ancestors and our descendants, in this generation we are called to respond to the existential crises of our time with the full power of the Jewish spirit.
Our Mission
To cultivate vibrant Jewish life in deep connection with the earth, catalyzing culture change and systemic change through immersive experiences, Jewish environmental education, leadership development, and climate action.
Core Values
Community and Belonging: We build authentic connections through each encounter, bringing people together to learn, celebrate, and build a better world.
Joy, Love, & Hope: We create joyous experiences filled with love that give people hope for the future.
Jewish Wisdom: We draw guidance and inspiration from Jewish text, prayer, ritual, calendar, stories, and song.
Nature Connection: We tap into and learn from the indigenous healing power of the natural world.
Youth Empowerment: We center and support rising generations as they find their voice and drive change toward a brighter future.
Collective Action: We learn from our elders, going farther together with our partners and allies.
Peoplehood & Planethood: We build bridges for the Jewish people, from Israel and the Diaspora, to build a more sustainable future together.
TORAH OF THE EARTH
These seven texts are foundations of our values, pedagogy, and impact. They provide ongoing inspiration and opportunities for deep study and reflection.
The Torah can and should be experienced through direct encounter and inspiration from nature.
But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; And birds of the sky, they will tell you, Or speak to the earth, it will teach you; The fish of the sea, they will inform you.
Job 12:7-8
Unity and Oneness is the central teaching of Judaism.
Deuteronomy 6:4
The number one principle of the Torah is love.
Adonai is our G!d; Adonai is one.
“Love your neighbor as yourself”–Rabbi Akiva said: This is a basic principle of the Torah.
We are here to care for the earth and protect it through cycles of work and rest.
And G!d placed the human in the garden, to till it and tend it.
Genesis 2:15
We share a generational vision of stewardship with our ancestors and descendants.
Just as my ancestors planted for me; I too am planting for my descendants.
Talmud Bavli, Ta’anit 23a
Our path is experiential, heartfelt, personal, and practical.
Rather, [this] thing is very close to you; it is in your mouth and in your heart, so that you can fulfill it.
Deuteronomy 30:14
The way is joyous, full of song, and a celebration with the rest of creation.
For with joy shall you go forth, and with peace shall you be brought; the mountains and the hills shall burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field shall clap hands.
THE FOURFOLD SONG
There is a person who sings the song of the Self. He finds everything, his complete spiritual satisfaction, within himself.
And there is a person who sings the song of the Nation. He steps forward from his private self, which he finds narrow And insufficiently developed. He yearns for the heights. He clings with a sensitive love to the entirety of the Jewish nation And sings with it its song. He shares in its pains, is joyful in its hopes, speaks with exalted And pure thoughts regarding its past And its future, investigates its inner spiritual nature with love And a wise heart.
There is a person whose soul is so broad that it expands beyond the border of Israel. It sings the song of humanity. This soul constantly grows broader with the exalted totality of humanity And its glorious image. He yearns for humanity’s general enlightenment. He looks forward to its supernal perfection. From this source of life, he draws all of his thoughts And insights, his ideals And visions.
And there is a person who rises even higher until he unites with all existence, with all creatures, And with all worlds. And with all of them, he sings. This is the person who, engaged in the Chapter of Song every day, is assured that he is a child of the World-to-Come.
And there is a person who rises with all these songs together in one ensemble so that they all give forth their voices, they all sing their songs sweetly, each supplies its fellow with fullness And life: the voice of happiness And joy, the voice of rejoicing And tunefulness, the voice of merriment And the voice of holiness.
The song of the soul, the song of the nation, the song of humanity, the song of the world-they all mix together with this person at every moment And at all times.
Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook
Table of Contents
1-2
3-8 9-32
2025 at a Glance
Our Retreat Centers
Pearlstone
Isabella Freedman
Adamah Programs
Adamah Adventure Camp
Teva Day School
Jewish Youth Climate Movement
Adamah on Campus
Adamah Farm Fellowship
Teva Educators
Retreat Yourself!
Jewish Green Business Network
33-38
Climate Action
Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition
Climate Action Fund
Roadmap to Decarbonize Jewish Life
39-54
Community Impact Hubs
Atlanta
Baltimore
Detroit
Los Angeles
New York
San Francisco
Signature Events
55-62
Peoplehood & Planethood
Adamah Israel Experiences
Young Adult Mifgashim Encounters
Countering Antisemitism
63-74 Gratitude
Our Team
Lay Leadership
Funders
Partners
Friends
ADAMAH AT A GLANCE
45,000
PARTICIPANTS across all Adamah programs in
9,000
STUDENTS engaged through the Jewish Youth Climate Movement and Adamah on Campus, empowering the next generation!
Total Participants by Program Area
Who is wise? One who learns from all people
Pirkei Avot 4:1
OUR RETREAT CENTERS
Where transformation takes root
Across Pearlstone and Isabella Freedman, Adamah welcomed 18,000+ guests in 2025.
Our retreat centers are beloved gathering places for Jewish life rooted in:
Rest and renewal
Jewish learning and joy
Connection to land and season
Community across difference
What we do
This vibrant living laboratory for both Jewish and universal inspiration engages 15,000 annual visitors in experiential learning, immersive retreats, and joyous celebrations on 180 acres of lush forest, rolling hills, wild meadows, and organic farmland.
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES
Group Hikes
Eco Crafts
Farm-to-Table Workshops
Fire Circle
Retreats & Rentals
Adamah Adventure Camp
Farm and Forest School
Way of the Wilderness
RETREATS
Sold-out holiday celebrations
Group rentals
Gramp Camp
Retreat Yourself!
Family Farm Camp
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
Sundays on the Farm Swim Club
U-Pick
Climate action
Controlled meadow burns
Thank you to all of the Pearlstone staff for helping us have a truly great and fabulous weekend/Shabbaton. We had a great time, and all of the staff were lovely and helpful. I personally found it inspiring to be such a wonderful space sharing a Shabbat with people with a wide range of observances and views. It gives me hope for our people!
-Aunt Karen, the Great and Fabulous
THOLIDAY RETREATS
COMMUNITY RETREATS
New Greenwald Amphitheater!
The Myerberg Stage at The Greenwald Amphitheater opened in October 2025 with the inaugural Harvest Music Festival.
Rosh Hashanah
Pesach
Sukkot
Shavuot
What we do
Situated on 400 acres in the Connecticut Berkshires, we warmly welcome dozens of synagogues and professional groups each year, as well as host weddings, b’nai mitzvot, and other private events.
EDUCATION & IMMERSIVE LEARNING
FELLOWSHIPS & LAND STEWARDSHIP
Jewish learning integrated into every oncampus experience. Programs emphasize:
Text and tradition
Reflection
Nature as a teacher
At the heart of our campus is the Adamah Farm Fellowship: Live, learn, and work the land Study Jewish texts and teachings Teaching, farming, and leadership development
The weekend was magical and transformative. Not only did we have an amazing time, but the retreat had a real and lasting impact on how the students thought about themselves, spirituality, and their relationship to Judaism.
-Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg, Tufts University Hillel
HOLIDAY RETREATS
COMMUNITY RETREATS
2025 Campus Updates!
Rosh Hashanah
Pesach
Sukkot
Shavuot
And G!d placed the human in the garden, to till it and tend it.
Genesis 2:15
FOR KIDS
Jewish Learning From The Roots Up When kids play outside, they grow to love and learn from the Earth.
Adamah Adventure Camp at Pearlstone serves youth from kindergarten through 12 grade, including a CIT program.
The Teva Day School Program is for 5-6 graders, bringing the teachings of Torah to life through immersive nature and hands-on learning at both of our retreat centers. th
Summer camp for youth K-12, with Day Camp and Overnight Camp options. Through immersive nature adventures and hands-on earth-based activities, campers get to experience nature with Jewish wisdom as their guide.
Camp Activities:
Swimming in the creek
Exploring meadows
Hiking in the forest
Working the rich soil on our farm
Building fires
Climbing on the ropes course
Singing songs
Building friendships
And more!
154
60% growth from 2024 to 2025
55 days of programming happy campers
Our son had an amazing time at camp. He loved meeting so many like-minded people. I think he has told us about every moment of every day in great detail! He was so impressed by and appreciative of the freedom they had, the quality of all the programming, the natural space, the camp's guiding principles, way of managing food and the mess kits, the counselors, everything! He loved how Shabbat was observed. We are thrilled he came home talking about his new friends - he was immediately texting them and wanting to stay in touch.
–Emily, Camper Parent
Teva weaves earth-based, experiential Jewish learning with togetherness and community building, focusing on responsibility and environmental ethics through a Jewish lens.
About the Program:
Designed for middle school Jewish Day School students
Participants span all Jewish denominations
Hosted at Isabella Freedman and Pearlstone campuses
Unplugging, slowing down, and taking the time to learn and live in nature fosters responsibility and independence within young learners
825 Participants
22 Schools and 1 Synagogue across 8 States
42
Unique days of programming
[At Teva] students discovered a true joy in their religious practice and in honoring the environment... I wish more institutions had such exciting and inspiring instructionswhat an honor to be part of your community... I will so recommend Teva to other schools!
–Jonathan, Teva chaperone
It is not your duty to complete the work, but you are not free to neglect it . Pirkei Avot 2:16
YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
Adamah is empowering a joyful and resilient generation of Jewish leaders, coming together to build a better world through Jewish environmental education, community building, and climate action.
2025 Total Reach: 14,100 individuals
Adamah's Jewish Youth Climate Movement (JYCM) inspires, supports, and empowers Jewish teens nationwide through leadership development, immersive experiences, local programming, Jewish holiday celebrations, and community building.
5,300+ Program participants
100 Teen-led programs
80 Kvutzot (chapters) across 12 states since inception
Program Highlights:
JYCM hosted two teen-led climate leadership Shabbatonim/retreats in 2025.
Our inaugural New York Regional Council launched in spring 2025! 17 members frequently gather and lead events, including a service day for Climate Week NYC and a Shavuot teach-in.
JYCM teens in Los Angeles hosted a Day of Education and Advocacy, where they partnered with Resilient Palisades to learn about restoration efforts after the January 2025 wildfire. LA teens also spent a day on Wattles Farm together and led a meditative Chanukah hike in December.
I do experience climate grief, especially during hurricane season. I handle it by coming to my JYCM community. In bleak times, I can always rely on the friends I have made to understand what I cannot even put into words. I feel supported and loved no matter what; this gets me through the toughest of times.
-Hope A. 2025 Leadership Board member
Adamah Teen Israel Journey!
July 5-27, 2026 Grades 9-12
JYCM TEEN LEADERSHIP BOARD
Leadership Board members facilitated a 9-week Kvutzah/Chapter Leaders Fellowship, in addition to running monthly national calls on a variety of themes; examples include a teaching on the connections between Judaism and food ethics, a Chanukah celebration, and a lobbying training.
Adamah on Campus cultivates vibrant Jewish campus life in deep connection with the earth, engaging thousands of college students across North America through Jewish environmental education, climate action, and community building.
3,700 Students engaged
160+ Student-led campus programs
118 Student leaders
45 Chapters across 18 states + Canada
In 2025, we piloted regional retreats and our inaugural National Chapter Leaders Shabbaton at Pearlstone. Highlights include:
87.5% feel more connected with Jewish tradition and feel inspired to turn to Jewish tradition for guidance in living more responsibility on this planet
91% feel a greater sense of hope for the Jewish people
100% feel ready to take action and mobilize their local communities.
Participating in this cohort was exactly what I didn't know I needed... The positive energy of every participant, rich discussions around Jewish texts, and supportive facilitators provided me with hope for the future.
-Shamati Participant and Jewish Educator
During my first and now second semester at college, I felt like I was beginning to lose parts of my Judaism. Adamah and the Adamah on Campus Shabbaton reminded me why I love being Jewish.
-Noa S., Kent State University
THE SHAMATI INITIATIVE
Generously funded by the Covenant Foundation, The Shamati Initiative provides Jewish educators with tools for helping young people grappling with climate change.
400 Jewish educators reached nationwide
3
Educator Cohorts + dozens of workshops
Just
as my ancestors planted for me, I
too
am planting for my descendants.
Talmud Bavli, Ta’anit 23a
YOUNG ADULT LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS
The Adamah Farm & Fellowship and Teva Educators Program are the root system of the entire Adamah movement.
They are where Jewish environmental identity is formed, where leadership pathways begin, and where thousands each year encounter Judaism as embodied, joyful, ecological, and alive.
Cultivating Soil and Soul
Adamah Fellows feel the impact of their work firsthand, as the fruits of their labor nourish both themselves and their community. While much of Adamah’s work reaches broad scale, this fellowship offers a deeply immersive, transformative experience that truly changes lives.
The fellowship includes:
Farm work and food preservation
Jewish study
Communal song, ritual, and shared meals
Reflection on leadership, identity, and community
20 Farm fellows
Over 2 cohorts (fall and summer) lbs of vegetables harveted
40,000
80
Families received weekly harvest through CSA program
$13,000
Worth of produce delivered to local food pantries
Served fresh produce straight from the field to Isabella Freedman retreat guests
Successfully piloted an after school program to local students
The first of our chestnut trees fruited
Adamah introduced me to a web of Jewish community that is so much bigger than me and that I'm inspired to be a part of. It felt deeply powerful to be at Adamah during the High Holidays / fall season of transformation within and around us.
— Rae, Farm Fellow
Teva Educators
Seeding the Next Generation of Leaders in Jewish Environmental Education
Educators spend three months living together in vibrant Jewish community with fellow eco-conscious change-makers and share their passions with the next generation. Their days are spent outside sharing their passions with middle school Jewish Day School students, teaching an interactive curriculum that focuses on awareness, ecology, togetherness, and responsibility.
2 Cohorts run in 2025 (fall and summer)
14 Teva Educators
8 States
Many Adamah partner organizations were founded by or have employed Teva Educators and Adamah Farm Fellow Alumni.
Here at Teva, I experienced exactly what I was looking for: a new community, new ways to pray and be Jewish, and new ways to teach in nature. I was surprised and so grateful to see how much people in the Teva community cared for each other in every aspect of life here: living, singing, cooking, praying and working together.
– Kedem, Teva Educator
If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?
Pirkei Avot 1:12
PROGRAMS FOR JEWISH PROFESSIONALS
From retreats and local meetups, to online learning sessions and networking opportunities, Adamah supports Jewish professionals in building a more sustainable future for all.
Retreat Yourself!
What is Retreat Yourself?
Fully subsidized getaways for Jewish Communal Professionals
Participants engage in meaningful Jewish learning and restorative programming
Participants connect with nature, eat delicious kosher food, and enjoy many fun on-site programs and amenities that the retreat facilities have to offer
152 Participants
2025 Overview: stats here
Place numbers here
139 Jewish organizations represented
4 Retreats held on the East coast
With Midwest and West coast planned in 2026
Net Promoter Scores arein the 90s—a rare rating in hospitality. Demand far exceeds supply, with hundreds of applications for each retreat.
So many moments of Jewish joy! Inparticular, I loved the Kabbalat Shabbat services and the radical amazement nature walk. I loved having the time and space to be in nature and in community, especially after a really hard year as a Jewish person and professional.
-Molly, Retreat Yourself! participant
The opportunity to gather with a large group of Jewish people to focus on self-nourishment was amazing! The incorporation of prayer and yoga to start my day was so very meaningful and something I want to continue. I met so many extraordinary people!
-Alison, Retreat Yourself! Participant
The Jewish Green Business Network connects green business leaders, experts, young professionals, business students, and others to strengthen Jewish peoplehood and accelerate climate solutions through community building, leadership development, and strategic partnerships.
After its launch at NYC’s Climate Week in September 2025, the Jewish Green Business Network has already grown to:
6 Countries
2025 Event Recap
2025 Overview: stats here Place numbers here
7 Events
5 Cities
27
800 Members States
On the horizon:
Community & Collaboration: Hosting virtual and in-person meetings.
Intergenerational Mentorship: Pairing experienced professionals with rising climate leaders.
Scaling Impact: Growing as a connector between innovation, institutions, and people.
There’s a large, engaged community of Jews working on real sustainability and climate solutions. I didn’t know a network like this existed.
—
Jonathan Levine, Boston
And who knows, perhaps it is for a moment like this that you gained power.
Esther 4:10
CLIMATE ACTION
Jewish organizations across North America are already experiencing climate disruption. Camps have faced destructive fires or closed temporarily due to smoke or extreme heat. Synagogues and schools face rising insurance premiums and emergency repairs after storms. Federations and social service agencies are responding to climate-driven economic instability.
At the same time, the Jewish community has extraordinary assets to bring to this moment: our institutions, our moral tradition, our philanthropy, and our history of collective action. We have a rare opportunity to lead.
Our coalition represents Jewish organizations engaging millions of people of all ages and backgrounds, across the world. Together, we recognize the urgency of the climate crisis and our obligation to do more. Climate Action Fund
42 Programs & workshops run 200 6 Organizations have joined 508
by
Being part of the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition has been instrumental in elevating our congregation's climate action efforts to a prominent place on the Synagogue's agenda. We credit Adamah's support (in the form of both human and financial resources) with enabling us to achieve our ambitious goals.
—Beth David Reform Congregation, PA
Climate Action Plans
Members of the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition submit a climate action plan each year detailing their commitment. Here are cumulative results from 2025:
Adamah has an ambitious climate vision: Decarbonize American Jewish life by
2040.
To decarbonize means to eliminate climate-warming emissions from how Jewish institutions power our buildings. heat and cool our spaces, and move people and goods.
On Tu B'Shvat 2026, Adamah published the first phase of a Roadmap to Decarbonize American Jewish Life. The Roadmap is a climate action guide for the American Jewish community.
On Tu B’Shvat 5785, Adamah announced a three-year, $3 million dollar investment in Adamah’s climate work from Jewish Climate Trust (JCT), co-chaired by Stephen Bronfman and Michael Sonnenfeldt.
CURRENT HUB LOCATIONS
Torah is not gained except in community.
Talmud Bavli, Brachot 63b
COMMUNITY IMPACT HUBS
Adamah Community Impact Hubs implement our mission and values at scale, bringing national resources to local soil.
Each hub multiplies the impact of Adamah's national programs, infused with local talent, communal priorities, and unique programmatic identity.
Adamah Hubs are our greatest area of burgeoning growth, now in six communities and engaging over 20,000 people!
Launched in 2023 with seed funding from the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, and in partnership with Georgia Interfaith Power and Light, Adamah ATL provides critical and practical resources, coaching, support, partnership, and programming for local Jewish community members and organizations. Federation and in
Jewish day school (named for Rabbi Harry H. Epstein z’’l)
Partner Spotlight
Jewish after-school and youth enrichment organization
Atlanta-based Jewish summer day camp
Adamah developed two experiential learning programs: an interactive Rosh Hashanah lesson on the role of honeybees, and a schoolwide initiative making Jewish farming laws engaging and accessible.
Adamah curated a yearlong program of Jewish naturebased curricula for their outdoor classroom. Lessons are experiential and offer a refreshing way to teach about Jewish holidays and values.
Adamah provided naturebased electives for all camp sessions in 2025 and renewing for 2026!
Total Annual Impact
2,450+
Adamah Atlanta Community Programs 51
150 Native Trees Planted Within Schools, Synagogues, and Community Organizations
Youth and Family Participants
Total Participants
2025 Highlights
Jews + Food Panel: 65 community members and four panelists discussing how Jewish values inform our relationship with food, health, and the land
Reverse Tashlich River Clean-Ups: Three river clean-ups throughout Atlanta
Sukkot: 45 young adults participated at the third annual Sukkot Shabbat Dinner Under the Stars
Adamah On Campus: Now active at five local universities
This program provided such provocative ‘food for thought’ about how our Jewish values can inform our dietary habits, allowing us to nourish our bodies while being mindful of the impact it has on the planet.
-
-Dina Fuchs-Beresin
Baltimore
Adamah has a deep and growing presence in Baltimore, anchored at Pearlstone, our national headquarters and Baltimore campus. From this base, Adamah engages thousands of Baltimorearea residents each year through education, climate action, youth leadership, campus engagement, environmental stewardship, and multifaith partnerships.
Partner Spotlight
Adamah and The Associated have joined together to create the Baltimore Environmental Sustainability Network (BESN), supporting community environmental programming. BESN organizes and supports educational workshops, community conversations, hands-on projects, and advocacy events.
Adamah worked with the Baltimore area JCC with a master plan for the land and building, paying special attention to nature-based solutions. A local artist worked to install a new educational area amidst nature trails with a focus on native species, and there are local volunteers who have helped plant trees, remove invasive plants, and enhance nature trails.
Adamah awarded Myerberg a Climate Action Fund grant for an energy-efficient refrigerator. After their communal celebration of climate action, a member of the community center was inspired to donate an energyefficient freezer. In 2025, their main focus was on their building envelope, and they continue to update siding, windows, and roofing to be more efficient.
2025 Highlights
All five Maryland Hillels are now members of the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition
Adamah co-leads the Baltimore Environmental Sustainability Network with The Associated, uniting Jewish organizations around climate education, food waste reduction, and environmental advocacy
Ongoing partnership with the Baltimore Jewish Council advances environmental advocacy and public programming, including the Annual Environmental Forum
Adamah staff has taken time with our Hillel staff and student leadership to help us identify a few key actions that could be taken to increase our commitment to climate justice right away.
-Goucher Hillel
Since launching in 2015, Adamah Detroit has been a key convener and catalyzer, bringing the richness of the Jewish environmental movement to Southeast Michigan. Joyful Jewish experiential education programs instill a passion and sense of responsibility for the earth in young learners. Leadership development initiatives build the field of Jewish environmental education in the Detroit region and local implementation of the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition empowers and resources Jewish institutions to take meaningful climate action.
Partner Spotlight
For the third year in a row, Adamah Detroit developed and led two sold-out weeks of Adamah Nature Camp, a specialty camp for campers in 1 – 6 grades, offered in partnership with JCC Day Camps.
st th
Adamah Detroit developed and facilitated a series of Jewish outdoor experiential education trainings for over 50 Jewish early childhood educators throughout our region, inspiring and resourcing innovative programs for our youngest learners.
Adamah Detroit launched our new after-school Nature Club with Hillel Day School in 2025 – providing 8 sessions of enriching outdoor learning and play for 20 students, while providing meaningful afterschool childcare support for community parents.
2,000 Total Annual Impact
Community Program Partners (including 16 Coalition members)
Jewish Program Leaders and Educators Trained 300 44
750 2,000+
Youth Participants
Program Participants
I always leave Adamah Detroit community gatherings feeling energized and grateful for the work that this team is doing. The summit was a wonderful opportunity for me to learn from other [Jewish] organizations in metro Detroit, and it was a good reminder that we aren’t working alone.
-Detroit Community Summit participant
2025 in Los Angeles was a season of challenge and resilience. After devastating wildfires and mudslides Adamah LA helped mobilize resources, and support community.
Partner Spotlight
The Adamah LA Sustainability Fund provides up to $20,000 in matching grants to any Jewish organization situated in Los Angeles County or serving the Los Angeles Jewish community for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Projects are selected based on emissions reduction impact in the areas of: sourcing clean electricity, going electric, and/or energy efficiency. Supported by a generous grant from the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles and Robert S. De Leon and Susan Mattisinko.
Seven projects were selected in 2025 for a total of $113,000.
1,640
Supporting emergency relief efforts including assembling and distributing 100 wildfire emergency kits and 1,000+ garments to fire victims and volunteering at local supply drives.
50 1,000 $113,000 1,640 Adamah LA Programs Facilitated
2,200+
Relief Efforts: Assembling and distributing 100 wildfire emergency kits and 1,000+ garments to fire victims and volunteering at local supply drives
Coalition: 52 Jewish organizations have joined in the LA Hub region, with 15 new members in 2025
Program Participants
Garments Distributed to Fire Victims ask questions, brainstorm ideas, or f
15 Jewish organizations joined the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition.
Awarded for Sustainability Projects in the Local Community
12 community events included a Reverse Tashlich beach clean up, New Year New Trails educational hike, and native seed bomb programs
I genuinely feel so supported by the Adamah on Campus staff and would be so lost without their guidance and support... They were always accessible and approachable, making it easy to ask questions, brainstorm ideas, or get feedback without feeling intimidated.
-
-Rachel, UC Irvine, Class of 2028
Adamah NY strengthens the Jewish community’s resiliency in the face of global uncertainties and implements Adamah’s national mission at a local scale, connecting people and planet in NYC, Westchester, and Long Island.
Partner Spotlight
Partner Spotlight
With support from Adamah NY’s Climate Action Fund, Park Slope Jewish Center upgraded to energy-efficient systems, eliminated single-use ware, added solar lighting, and hosted teen and borough-wide climate workshops advancing Brooklyn’s sustainability leadership.
Central Synagogue convened Jewish climate leaders for an Earth Day summit with Adamah NY and other local partners, featuring Bill McKibben, to inspire and mobilize communities toward climate justice.
Supported by 62 Jewish organizations and funded by UJA, over 1,200 volunteers joined ROOTED—a Jewish day of service for the earth— launching Climate Week NYC and welcoming Rosh Hashanah.
Total Annual Impact
3,582
1,200+
1,300
3,582
Adamah NY Events & Programs
Volunteers for a Citywide Environmental Day of Service
Young Adults Engaged in Programs
Participants in Community Events
Climate action is an act of faith… Adamah NY and the synagogues in its network are living out a vision of justice and stewardship this borough desperately needs. You remind us that civic leadership and spiritual leadership go hand in hand.
–Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso
In September of 2025, Wilderness Torah joined forces with Adamah to create Adamah SF, bringing the best of both to the Bay Area and beyond.
Partner Spotlight
Partner Spotlight
Bringing earth-based Judaism and nature connection into the East Bay JCC curriculum for all ages, an exciting JCC partnership model with replicable scale potential both locally and nationwide.
Hosting Adamah’s 'ReTreat Yourself!' free respite and rejuvenation experience for Jewish communal professionals, scheduled for April 2026, as well as exploring a deeper partnership around Jewish outdoor, environmental, and farm education.
Joining Adamah’s Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition as a local anchor member, leader, and partner in mobilizing climate action across our local Jewish communities.
Total Annual Impact
4,450 Wilderness Torah’s
600 Workshops, Community & Youth Program Participants
3,850 4,450
Wilderness Torah Programs Facilitated 27 th
Total Program Participants in 2025 Holiday Program Participants
It's an opportunity both to inspire their curiosity, and it feeds the desire to be Jewish—to be identified as Jewish—and then to learn what that means.
–Lauren T., Youth Programs Parent
The entire Jewish people are responsible for one another.
Talmud Bavli, Shevuot 39a
We build bridges for the Jewish people—from Israel and the Diaspora—to build a more sustainable future together.
Through immersive experiences, Jewish environmental education, leadership development, and climate action, Adamah brings Israelis and Diaspora Jews into meaningful relationship, shared learning, and collaborative action.
We engage Israel with open minds and open hearts, acknowledging complexity while remaining committed to relationship, responsibility, and long-term investment in a shared future for all people.
National Leadership Israel Mission March 2025
Made possible with generous support from Crown Family Philanthropies and the Jim Joseph Foundation
Overview
Adamah’s first leadership mission convened 38 Jewish leaders from North America and Israel, including Adamah staff, board members, and community leaders
Explored environmental sustainability, peacebuilding, and climate innovation in Israel
Examined how environmental work can support shared society
This trip reconnected me to the idea of peoplehood - that Jews are connected no matter where we live. Though our backgrounds are different, we all carry a tradition that can help us respond to the real and existential threats of our day. It unites us and it is worth sharing with the world.
–Becca
Adamah NY Roots & Resilience: Environmental Journey to Israel May 2025
Launched Adamah NY’s first journey to Israel with support from the UJA-Federation of New York
Overview
Designed for Jewish climate professionals from across New York City, Long Island, and Westchester
Learned from Israeli organizations advancing climate adaptation and community resilience
Visited environmental projects in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and surrounding regions
Explored ecological challenges and restoration efforts at the Jordan River and Dead Sea
Connected Jewish tradition, spiritual practice, & nature throughout the experience
What moved me most was the access to trailblazing innovators who are turning vision into action, even amid conflict and uncertainty. Their stories reminded me that real change is possible when we lead with hope and act with purpose.
–Mindy
Adamah Teen Israel Journey!
Peacebuilding through Environmental Leadership for Grades 9-12 | July 5-27, 2026
YOUNG ADULT MIFGASHIM ENCOUNTERS
From global convenings to residential fellowships & on-the-ground shaliach leadership, these experiences strengthened Jewish connection, resilience, & shared responsibility for people & planet.
Global & Regional Encounters
Convened young Jewish climate leaders around COP27, with encounters in Egypt and Israel that connected global climate action with Jewish values
Integrated Israeli young adults into the Adamah Farm Fellowship and Teva Educator Program
Created space for learning, dialogue, and peer connection across national, cultural, and political lines
PEARLSTONE SHALIACH PROGRAM
The Associated’s Shaliach Program is a vital initiative that connects Jewish communities with the rich heritage and values of Israel. It is part of the broader shlichim (emissaries) program through The Jewish Agency for Israel.
Avihay
Avihay serves as a visible and trusted Israeli educator across Pearlstone programs, bringing Israel to life through hands-on activities, Hebrew music, and earth-based Jewish learning.
COUNTERING ANTISEMITISM
NOT PLAYING DEFENSE
Adamah does not organize Jewish life around fear or constant defense. We respond to antisemitism by strengthening Jewish life itself — building community that is visible, rooted, and contributive.
Our work is grounded in joy, love, and hope:
Joy through shared purpose and meaningful work
Love expressed in responsibility for one another and the Earth
Hope practiced through action
We are not asking to belong. We are showing up fully and building what the world needs.
WHAT THIS LOOKS LIKE IN PRACTICE
Adamah’s strategy is not reactive. We do not respond to antisemitism incident by incident. Instead, we cultivate Jewish presence that is:
Visible and unapologetic
Useful and contributive
Grounded in Jewish wisdom and tradition
Capable of holding complexity without shrinking
This approach comes to life in Humans of Adamah, where every story reflects a Judaism that is vibrant, connected, and actively engaged with the world.
DANIEL CONWAY
Jewish Green Business Network
A climate professional with progressive values who openly identifies as Jewish and connected to Israel, Daniel found in Adamah a community that keeps him grounded and whole. “I often don’t fit the mold of many of my peers… simply because of my Judaism and connection to Israel.”
“I had never felt so seen in my Judaism before.”
ZAHAVA STERLING
Adamah on Campus
After first encountering Adamah, Zahavah discovered a form of Jewish leadership where environmental commitment and spiritual identity reinforced one another.
“No matter your political or Judaic leanings, you are included.”
ANDY DEUTSCH GABRIEL EISEN
Atlanta Hub
Through his local Atlanta Hub, Andy found home with like-minded Jewish community rooted in his values of climate action and sustainability.
“I discovered I feel connected to my grandparents and my history in ways I never had before.”
BEYOND THE JEWISH COMMUNITY
Adamah Farm Fellowship
Through farming, music, and daily life at Adamah, Gabriel experienced Jewish peoplehood as lived continuity.
REVEREND CAROL DEVINE
National Multifaith Climate Partner
“Working with Adamah has deepened my own faith. I see people living their values through action.”
Through sustained collaboration, Carol encountered Jewish leadership defined by contribution and care.
RACHEL SORIAH KHORASHADI
Adamah on Campus
“Although I was raised culturally Muslim and am not Jewish, Adamah gave me a sense of grounding and belonging through caring for the Earth together. My involvement reminds me daily that caring for the Earth is a shared spiritual practice that transcends background or borders.”
WHAT THIS ADDS UP TO
Adamah does not counter antisemitism one incident at a time. We cultivate Jewish life that is joyful, rooted, and active in the world.
Identity shaped through relationship and shared work Presence that holds complexity without shrinking Hope practiced through contribution
You do not have to choose between your people and your planet.
Leadership Team
Jakir Manela Chief Executive Officer
Rabbi Jacob Siegel Chief National Programs Officer
Management Team
Elias Andrade
Executive Chef, Isabella Freedman
Rebecca Eisen Director, Human Resources
Tiffani Irwin Director, Sustainable Facilities
Heather Mekiliesky Director, Sales
Liana Rothman Director, Youth Empowerment
Jodi Mansbach Chief Community Impact Officer
Meira Silverstein Chief of Staff
Our Team
Simone Stallman
Senior Director, Isabella Freedman
Rachael Walkins Director, National Culinary
Becca Bodenstein Director, Adamah LA
Hannah Pollack-Feiler Director, Foundation Relations
Or Katzman Co-Director, Jewish Green Business Network
Liore MilgromGartner Director, Climate Action
Dr. Shahar Sadeh Director, Adamah NY
Rina Thav Director, Guest Services
Amit Weitzer Director, Adamah Detroit
David Rendsburg Chief Finance & Administration Officer
Yoni Stadlin Chief Immersive Programs Officer
Adam Sher Chief Strategy & Advancement Officer
Eve Wachhaus Chief Operating Officer
Sallie D’Alonzo
Executive Chef, Pearlstone
Rachel Feldman Director, Digital Enablement
Joanna Kobylivker Director, Adamah Atlanta
Emily Nadel Director, Teva
Shamu Sadeh Managing Director, Education
Vlastik Valasek Director, Guest Services
Rabbi Fred Scherlinder
Dobb Director, Climate Partnerships & Advocacy
Talya Herring Co-Director, Jewish Green Business Network
Sonia BloomWilk
Deputy Chief Strategy & Advancement Off.
Leora Match Director, Adamah Adventure Camp
Ashley Pressman Senior Program Director, Pearlstone
Janna Siller Farm Director & Advocacy Coordinator
Sarah VanderWalde Director, Marketing & Communications
Sarah Wolk Director, Information Systems
Adamah reaches new heights every year due to our talented and dedicated staff team of 130+ individuals! Meet our Management Team, who help support each corner of our work.
Thank You to Our Lay Leadership
NATIONAL BOARD of DIRECTORS
Brett Cohen, Chair Josh Fidler, Vice Chair
David Platt, Treasurer
Becky Brenner, Vice Secretary
Wendy Bronfein Sonia Cummings
Daniella Hirschfeld, 2nd Vice Chair, Secretary
Mark Smolarz, Vice Treasurer
Andrew Deutch*
Robert Frier Alexandra Golub* Jessica Haller
Darren Findling
Michael Hidary
Anya Kamenetz Susan Mattisinko Liz Minkin-Friedman Aviva Minkoff*
Noa Rudisch*
Mark Russo
FINANCE COMMITTEE
David Platt, Chair Becky Brenner
AUDIT COMMITTEE
Emily Raviv
David Resnick*
Brett Cohen Linda Gendin Marc Hertzberg Mark Smolarz Jed Snerson
Mark Smolarz, Chair Brett Cohen Jonathan Fish Jonathan Rhine Jeff Rosen Abby Weinstock
GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE
Becky Brenner, Chair Emile Bendit
Brett Cohen Josh Fidler
PEARLSTONE ADVISORY BOARD
Liz Minkin-Friedman, Chair
Wendy Bronfein
Sam Hopkins
Eric Metzman*
Rabbi Elissa Sachs-Kohen
Jill Aizenstein
Steve Bruno
Marc Hertzberg
David Platt
Eli Schlossberg
AMPHITHEATER TASK FORCE
Eric Metzman, Chair
Sam Hopkins
Adam Baumwald Paul Weinberg
Daniella Hirschfeld Leete Garten Mike Markovits
Adam Baumwald
Sarah Davison
Carly Levin
Mitchell Platt*
Ken Schwartz
Toby Blumenthal
ISABELLA FREEDMAN ADVISORY BOARD
Mark Russo, Chair Brett Cohen
Marty Friedman
2025 NEW YORK JEWISH RETREAT TASK FORCE
Adam Berman
Zoya Raynes
Brett Cohen
David Resnick
Alisa Doctoroff
Emile Bendit
Leete Garten
Micah Loveland
Joan Plisko
Wendy Bronfein
Adam Sher
Zubatnik Owner Representation
Becky Brenner
Brad Hecht
Batsheva Messing
Joe Rombro
Sarah Davison Ben Greenwald
Josh Fidler
DEVELOPMENT, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
Emily Raviv, Chair
Larry Kopald
Graham Cannon Richard Stone
Dan Smokler
Marina Lewin
Brett Cohen Lisa Colton Lisa Effress
From strategy to stewardship, Adamah’s lay leaders are essential partners in advancing our mission and sustaining our growth.
ATLANTA ADVISORY COUNCIL
Ruth Menter, Chair
Dina Fuchs-Beresin
Max Miller
Robert Wittenstein
Jordan Braunig
Nate Gaul
Mark Papier
Rose Capin
Seth Herschthal
Logan Ritchie
Rebecca Chalmers
Myrtle Lewin
Nina Rubin
Andrew Deutsch
Josh Marks
Hannah Shultz
BALTIMORE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY NETWORK- ADVISORY COUNCIL
Rabbi Nina Beth Cardin, Chair
Miriam Glaser
Aaron Mintzes
Richard Reiches
David Speer
Rabbi Tyler Dratch
Emma Jarvis
Jessica Monaghan
David Saunders
Dana Stein
DETROIT ADVISORY COUNCIL
Jodee Fishman Raines, Chair
Robert Mattler*
Jackie Victor
Jill Eisen
Mark Kaiser
Inbal Neun
Mark Smolarz
Carole Taylor
Professor Karla Goldman
Rabbi Blair Nosanwisch
Rabbi Ari Witkin
LA ADVISORY COUNCIL
Susan Mattisinko, Chair Annie Austin
Rochelle Eisenberg
Janet Kaplan
Jen Overton
Abigail Snyder
Tara Hack Mallory Shiffman
Ryan Hertz
Rebecca Starr
Robert De Leon Marcia Mankoff
LA SUSTAINABILITY FUND COMMITTEE
Robert De Leon
Warren Fong
NY ADVISORY COUNCIL
Brett Cohen
Rand M Manasse
Tracy Stein
Mindy Germain
Lisa Phillips
Lisa Friedman
Marcia Mankoff
Yvonne Epstein
Paul Lurie
Melissa Peters
Sam Sobel
Rachel Jacobson
Professor Samuel Stolper
Alexandra Golub
Emily Raviv
Jessica Haller
David Schieren
NY CLIMATE ACTION FUNDS GRANTS COMMITTEE
Robert De Leon
Alexandra Golub
SF ADVISORY COUNCIL
Julie Wolk, Chair
Jason Post
Adam Cummings
Lauren Tolk
Tara Slone-Goldstein
Tracy Stein
Susan Mattisinko
Michael Lustig
Adam Jacobs*
Melinda KramerZvika KriegerSeth Leslie
Thank You to Our Lay Leadership
YOUTH EMPOWERMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Jonah Goldman
Valerie Gerstein
Anya Kamenetz
Ingrid Steinberg
JEWISH YOUTH CLIMATE MOVEMENT LEADERSHIP BOARD
David Abrams
Max Feldman
Dani Grinker
Marlowe Levine
Jacob Reicher
Hope Adelson
Gabe Fisher
Shira Hertzberg
Ross London
Elijah Schaffzin
Nava Andorsky
Shira Flores
Ariel Horberg Decter
Olivia Meyer
Esther Schonberger
Alex Berman
Ami Gelman
Shiffy Kabakov
Alex Miller
Ellah Varano
Danielle Edley
Mali Goldberg-Kellman
Harry Lackowitz
Liora Pelavin
Eva Vinik
ADAMAH ON CAMPUS LEADERSHIP BOARD UNIVERSITY REPRESENTATION
American Claremont
Emory
Hillel Silicon Valley
Minnesota
Ontario (UofT)
Spelman (AUC)
UC Irvine
UGA
UMich
William and Mary
Baruch
Clark
FSU
Hofstra
Muhlenberg
Princeton
Staten Island
UCLA
UMass Amherst
URI
Williams
Berkeley
Columbia/Barnard
Georgia Tech
Illinois
NYU
Purdue
Syracuse/ESF
UC Santa Barbara
UMBC
USC
Wisconsin
Binghamton
CU Boulder
Harvard
KU Oberlin
Queens College
Towson
UC Santa Cruz
UMD
Vassar
Yale
JEWISH GREEN BUSINESS NETWORK ADVISORY BOARD
Yosef Abramowitz
Uriel Klar
Rafi Addlestone
Eran Sandhaus
TEVA ADVISORY COUNCIL
Arielle Aronoff
Jonathan Dubinsky
Casey Yurrow
Eli Bass
Daniel Kieval
Rachel Barr
Adam Berman
Elan Margulies
CLIMATE ACTION ADVISORY COUNCIL
Daniella Hirschfeld (Chair)
Mirele Goldsmith
Gerald Bernstein
Sonia Isard
Ava Trachtenberg
Brown
Dickinson
Hillel 818
Kent State
Ohio State
Rutgers
UC Davis and Sacramento
UF
Wesleyan
Shannon Edelstone Iva Kaufman
Amy Bram
Amy Meltzer
Yishai Cohen
Nili Simhai
Brett Cohen
Susan Mattisinko
Butch Weaver
CLIMATE ACTION GRANT FUND COMMITTEE
Gerald Bernstein
Robert De Leon
Robert Frier
CLIMATE ACTION LOAN FUND COMMITTEE
Ben Gershowitz
Michael Hidary
Rand Manasse
Robert De Leon
Joshua Ratner
Valerie Yasner
Daniella Hirschfeld
Leora Zabusky
Robert Frier
Dana Stein
Leora Zabusky
From strategy to stewardship, Adamah’s lay leaders are essential partners in advancing our mission and sustaining our growth.
Marcia Riklis & Family Foundation
Robert Frier
Genine Macks and Josh E. Fidler
This year’s remarkable growth did not happen by accident. It happened because of you. The generosity of our donors made bold expansion possible, from grassroots programming to national impact. We extend deep gratitude to our donors for their leadership, and heartfelt thanks to every member of our giving community.
Thank You to Our Partners
We are deeply grateful to our 20+ major national and international umbrella Jewish organizations who are founding members of Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition.
