ROOTS JEWISH NATIONAL FUND OF CANADA - The Stephen J. Harper Hula Valley Visitor and Education Centre - JNF Canada
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ROOTS JEWISH NATIONAL FUND OF CANADA The Stephen J. Harper Hula Valley Visitor and Education Centre PUBLISHED BY JNF CANADA | TISHREI 5781 | SEPTEMBER 2020 740-5160 DECARIE BLVD. MONTREAL, QUEBEC H3X 2H9 NATIONAL@JNF.CA WWW.JNF.CA
JEWISH NATIONAL FUND OF CANADA
CALGARY - ISRAEL 2020: CONTINUING CARE
CHANUKAH EVENT TBD
MONTREAL - NEGEV CAMPAIGN LAUNCH
W E D N E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 3 0 , 2 0 2 0
OTTAWA / ATLANTIC - NEGEV 2020
TBD
REGIONAL ONTARIO - NEGEV 2020: TOGETHER BUT APART
S U N D AY, N O V E M B E R 1 5 , 2 0 2 0
TORONTO - NEGEV 2020: A NIGHT OF 100 DINNERS
S U N D AY, N O V E M B E R 1 5 , 2 0 2 0
WINNIPEG - NEGEV 2020: A NIGHT OF 100 DINNERS
S U N D AY, N O V E M B E R 1 5 , 2 0 2 0
INCOMING
NATIONAL
PRESIDENT
& CHIEF
EXECUTIVE
OFFICER BETH S. PRICE LANCE DAVIS
NATIONAL PRESIDENT CHiEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
It is hard to believe that another year continue to have an obligation to Israel. past number of years. There are thou-
has passed and what a year it has been! This is personal. Israelis are our family sands of individuals who are delighted to
2020 has presented us with a reality that and even though they are thousands support projects in Israel, but the reason
no one could imagine. Everyone is af- of kilometers away, caring for your they do not give is because they were not
fected adversely by the pandemic and family transcends distance. We will asked. This is our time to reinvigorate
we all know someone for whom the im- proudly continue to speak to Canadian those connections again.
pact was horrific. There are no satisfac- supporters to invest in our projects in We hope that you enjoy reading this
tory words of comfort that we can offer every corner of Israel. magazine. As a supporter of JNF Canada,
to those whose lives have been shattered Now that we cannot hold large gather- we want you to understand how your
by COVID 19. We hope and pray that ings, we need to pivot and to dedicate donations are directed. Your donations
2021/5781 will bring much happiness more time and energy to individual have a return on investment in terms
and most importantly, good health. meaningful conversations with our do- of the social good that we facilitate.
A new Board of Directors and Executive nors. Thanks to wonderful technology Although we often help build capital
will be elected shortly for a three-year we can engage small groups of people projects, JNF’s success is not measured
term. It is a superb group of people who and families in a personal way. Of by developing a certain number of
are dedicated to Israel and prepared course, face to face is the best format, square feet. Rather, JNF is focused upon
to work diligently to advance JNF’s but we have learned that we can achieve how did the facility in which we invested
mission. We are an optimistic group! a great deal using technology. enhance and enrich the lives of Israel’s
We could approach the current situation Some of you have recently received a citizens. We want you to know that your
as a nightmare. Instead, we choose to call with respect to making a planned donations help real people, your family
perceive it as an opportunity. We have an gift. This is a conversation about a gift in Israel, in a profound way. We are
opportunity to consider - where do we that will come to fruition many years inspired by JNF Canada’s work and we
want to be as an organization by 2023? from now. This is a great time to ad- hope you are as well.
How can we develop as an organization vance our efforts in our planned giving Wishing you and your family a very
to better connect Canadians with Israel? strategy as many people are starting to happy and HEALTHY new year.
Even though there are many needs consider their plans for the future. Shanah Tovah!
here in Canada that are important and This is an opportunity to contact sup-
must be addressed, we believe that we porters whom we have missed over the
4 BRAND STORY 20 JNF PRESIDENTS 30 JNF HAPPENINGS
6 NEGEV HONOUREES 22 VENTILATOR CAMPAIGN 36 LEADERSHIP HIGHLIGHT
8 HULA VALLEY VISITOR AND 23 JNF EDUCATION 37 HISTORY OF THE BLUE BOX
EDUCATION CENTRE 24 CLIMATE SOLUTIONS AWARD 38 JNF FUTURE
12 JNF PROJECTS 26 THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS 39 WALK WITH JACK
18 JNF HIGH HOLIDAY CAMPAIGN 29 MESSAGE FROM OUTGOING PRESIDENT
WISHING YOU A
SHANAH TOVAH!
The paper used for this magazine is 100% recyclable and is produced in an environmentally responsible manner.
3
OUR NEW BRAND & VISUAL IDENTITY ARE
MUCH MORE THAN A NEW ICON AND TAGLINE,
IT’S ISRAEL’S FUTURE.
Over the previous decades, d’etre. Together, we have con- ing on our environmental mis-
many of you have grown up with tributed to Israel’s successful rise sion, we have also identified the
our logo featuring three colours from its once fragile state to a need to address the lack of chari-
- blue, green, and brown. Blue technological and environmen- table social service infrastruc-
for water, green for environmen- tal light among nations. ture for the people of Israel to
talism, and brown for land. They As Israel has developed, JNF survive and thrive.
defined JNF Canada’s raison Canada has also evolved. Build-
4
Why did JNF Canada redesign its logo?
We did more than just redesign was to purchase land for the early service needs.
our logo. Guided by the consult- pioneers. After the state was estab- The new JNF Canada logo is not a
ants at Blueprint, we spent many lished, there was a focus on for- rejection of the past, rather we em-
months reflecting on who we are ests, gardens, and lookouts. As the brace it. The values at the core of
and what our core proposition was population grew, Israel experienced JNF Canada have not changed. The
to our supporters. What makes JNF water shortages so reservoirs were key message of our new visual iden-
Canada unique? Our answer is that required. These needs have been tity is that we are forward-looking,
JNF is the only Canadian charity addressed, thanks in part to the dynamic, creative, and modern
that, together with our generous success of our work. More recently, while respecting our beautiful past.
donors, are “Building the Founda- JNF Canada has become more in- We are inspired by the founder of
tions for Israel’s Future.” We help volved in social infrastructure pro- modern Zionism, Theodore Herzl,
build charitable projects that are jects like community centres, play- who dreamed of an Old-New Land
essential to enhance and enrich the grounds, rehabilitation facilities – Altneuland. JNF Canada will
lives of Israel’s citizens in every part and youth centres. While our en- continue to honour the values and
of the country. vironmental mission will remain a traditions of our past as we turn our
In every generation, Israel’s needs priority, we are excited to also sup- eyes forward to building the foun-
change. In pre-statehood, the need port these vitally important social dations of Israel’s future, together.
OUR BRAND MISSION
Building Israel Together The Blue Box (Pushke)
JNF builds strong communities for Israel’s future. JNF Made up of the four pillars and the coin slot above, this
projects help people live better by linking the generosi- modern representation of the Blue Box is a powerful
ty of Canadians to the environmental and social infra- symbol of JNF Canada's long fundraising history and
structure needs in Israel. We have supported commu- the enduring support of our donors.
nity growth for generations, and we passionately carry
The Pillars
our historic mission forward for a strong and sustain-
The four pillars represent strength and upward growth.
able future. JNF is the go-to organization for those who
This will also be used in our design system to represent
want to connect with and build a better Israel together.
buildings, as a core element of our brand “Building
Our Visual Identity Israel Together”.
Our new logo is made up of an icon and uses the ac- The Leaf
ronym JNF. This reflects how most people inside and We replaced the tree from our previous logo with a
outside the organization colloquially refer to us. We young leaf sprouting from a branch. It is a nod to our
will still use Jewish National Fund of Canada on formal
environmental history, our ongoing commitment to
and legal documents. environmental projects, regeneration, and new begin-
Our icon is full of meaningful symbols: nings. We have been connecting Canadians to Israel
for decades, but still perceive ourselves as young and
The Colours
dynamic.
JNF Canada’s new visual identity conveys Israel
With the new branding also comes a revitalized ap-
through the use of blues and white. The focus of our
proach to fundraising and many exciting and mean-
work is exclusively directed toward Israel and no two
ingful building project opportunities. We look forward
colours exemplify Israel more than these.
to sharing these (and more of our new look) with you
in the coming months!
5
Diane Colley-Urquhart
2020 / 2021 JNF CALGARY
NEGEV
Diane Colley-Urquhart, a 20-year veteran of Calgary City
Council, has time and again been a voice for Jewish Calgary.
Most recently, she brought forth a motion to Council to
adopt International Holocaust Remembrance Day, observed
for the first time in Calgary this past January 27th. She is also
HONOUREES
working on the adoption of the IHRA working definition
of antisemitism. Diane gained significant insight into
antisemitism as a Police Commissioner for 13 years, and
feels very strongly about educating youth so they understand
antisemitism as it manifests itself today.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR
COMMITMENT & DEDICATION
TO ISRAEL
Odette & Jacob Masliyah
JNF EDMONTON
Odette & Jacob Masliyah demonstrate an unswerving
dedication to family, education, and community. Both
were born and spent their formative years in Baghdad, Iraq
and were forced to leave to establish a new life elsewhere.
To Canada’s good fortune the Masliyahs brought their
considerable talents to Edmonton. Jacob is an Officer of
the Order of Canada and a member of the Alberta Order
of Excellence. A professor of engineering for over 40 years,
Jacob’s work in bitumen extraction has been recognized
internationally. Odette, a talented linguist and educator,
served as a Hebrew teacher at the Edmonton Talmud Torah.
6
Jeff Hart Dr. Ted Lyons O.C.
JNF MONTREAL J N F M A N I TO B A / S A S K ATC H E WA N
A successful entrepreneur from the age of 16, Jeff Hart is Dr. Ted Lyons is a globally renowned expert and the author of
the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Victoria Park many articles, chapters, and books in the field of radiology. He
Medispas, a network of award-winning world-class medispas. is a pioneer in ultrasound research and his groundbreaking
Formerly the Executive Vice President of Hartco, Jeff is a work has helped make ultrasound technology one of modern
generous philanthropist who is passionate about supporting medicine's most widely used diagnostic tools. Dr. Lyons has
the local Jewish community and ensuring accessible Jewish received the Officer of the Order of Canada (O.C.), which
education for every child. The co-founder of the Quebec recognizes a lifetime of achievement and merit of a high
Chapter of the David Suzuki Foundation, Jeff ’s love for the degree. Ted is a philanthropist and a public-servant. He
environment dates back to planting JNF trees as a child. He has served in numerous leadership roles at the University
hopes to be the bridge between Israeli high-tech ingenuity of Manitoba, the Jewish community and professional
and addressing the global climate crisis. associations.
Lowell & Cindy Richter Denise and Ron Wexler
J N F H A M I LT O N JNF LONDON
Lowell and Cindy are being recognized for many years of Denise and Ron Wexler have long been entrenched in
dedication in the Hamilton and Jewish communities and London’s medical and Jewish communities. Denise, a
beyond. Lowell has been very involved in the auto industry respected dermatologist, was elected to the Board of the
at high levels both locally and provincially, served as co- Ontario Medical Association; Ron is a retired anesthesiologist
president of Hamilton JCC and volunteers with Cindy at at St. Joseph’s Hospital, former director of the Intensive
Out of the Cold, for which Cindy is a coordinator. Cindy Care Unit at University Hospital, and former president of
has served as president of Hadassah-WIZO and Beth Jacob the Ontario Medical Association. They were one of Temple
Synagogue. As well, she has received Na’amat’s Women of Israel’s founding families in 1985. Ron also serves the board
Inspiration Award and served as the Chair of the Canadian of the Temple as well as Restmount Cemetery.
Cancer Society’s residential campaign in Ancaster.
7
THE STEPHEN J. HARPER
HULA VALLEY
VISITOR AND
EDUCATION CENTRE
INAUGARATION
Situated amid the world’s most important wetland habitats for resident and
migrating bird species, the Stephen J. Harper Hula Valley Visitor and Education
Centre stands ready to become one of Israel’s most popular tourist attractions
Named in honour of Stephen Harper, constant live feed of the birds visiting 500 million birds each year, and experts
one of Canada’s longest serving Prime the site, while also acting as a trivia game project that avitourism (environmen-
Ministers and a dedicated friend of Israel, where questions are answered simply by tal travel and tourism for birdwatchers)
the cutting-edge facility was funded in the movements of your hands. Moreover, will become one of the most lucrative
part with proceeds from the 2013 Toronto a state-of-the art 200-seat auditorium components of Israel’s growing multi-
Negev Dinner chaired by Senator Linda will allow the centre to host a variety of billion-dollar tourism industry. In fact,
Frum and Howard Sokolowski. Spanning events for the communities in the region. new Canadian statistics indicate that
3,000 square meters and filled with The Hula Valley is situated along the birdwatching has become more popular
interactive experiences, the centre boasts Syrian-African Rift Valley, which marks than gardening, while in Israel, hundreds
a virtual reality station, where the users the halfway migration point for numer- of active bird watching societies have
view themselves as a bird in flight over the ous species that make the arduous jour- cropped up.
reserve. An 18-square-meter interactive ney between Africa and Europe. The “This park is one of the greatest
digital wall provides guests with a valley acts as a temporary home to some restoration stories, just like this country is
Recognition centre for major donors at the entrance to the
Stephen J. Harper Hula Valley Visitor and Education Centre
8
to the Jewish people,” the former Prime this beautiful occasion and will never Minister Harper - there is nothing that
Minister declared at the November forget this visit.” I, or anyone else present, can say to
2019 inauguration ceremony, which In her remarks at the inauguration, JNF express our gratitude for what you have
was also attended by his wife, Laureen. Canada’s President, Wendy Eidinger done and continue to do to strengthen
“It is a magnificent honor to have this Spatzner addressed Prime Minister relations between Canada and Israel…
centre named after me. I am grateful for Harper with a heartfelt speech. “Prime It was just a few years ago when you led
9
an official mission to Israel as the sitting are thrilled that you are part of our JNF number of years, we hope to double
Prime Minister. Canadian Jews all stood family... From the bottom of my heart the number of guests from 500,000 to
a few inches taller when you addressed and on behalf of everyone present, I say one million annually. JNF is committed
the Knesset, the first time a Canadian to you in the simplest and most sincere to seeding and strengthening the
Prime Minister had this honour. When manner - Todah Rabbah - Thank you economic, social and cultural life in
you stated that Canada will stand by very much.” Israel’s outlying communities.
Israel shoulder to shoulder through fire The new Visitor Centre is part of JNF
and water, we were bursting with pride. Canada’s extensive work in developing
You are a singular statesman and we Israel’s peripheral regions. Within a
1011 11
BUILDING
ISRAEL
TOGETHER
From lending a helping hand to new Israeli
immigrants, to discovering next-generation
green innovations, to even conducting research
to find a cure for COVID-19, JNF’s work impacts
nearly every sector of society. Make your mark
and let’s build Israel together!
Healing the Long-Term
Effects of PTSD
How Can We Help Children In Sderot
Suffering From PTSD?
For children and their families, growing up with Red Alerts amid a constant threat of war
has led to high incidents of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). According to ex-
perts, residents of Sderot experience PTSD at a rate three or four times greater than that
of the rest of the country. These dangerous conditions have damaged the emotional
development of an entire generation of children and young adults, causing serious,
long-term psychological harm.
How JNF Is Making A Difference.
Animal-assisted therapy promotes interaction with many types of animals and
serves as a method to reduce anxiety and stress. Many studies have shown that
having access to an emotional support animal has a tremendously positive effect
on PTSD recovery rates. Supporting the construction of a new Animal-Assisted
Therapy Centre in Sderot will benefit the more than 1,500 children and young
adults living with PTSD in the region.
PICTURED - ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY CENTRE
12Helping Students
Living in the Periphery
How Does Living In Israel’s Peripheral Regions
Affect Academic Growth?
One of the main challenges for high school students residing in Israel’s peripheral cities is
overcoming the educational achievement gap between their peers who live in the centre
of the country. Growing up in Tel Aviv means having access to an abundance of extra-
curricular experiences and resources that are simply not yet available in the Negev or in
the Galilee.
How JNF Is Making A Difference.
JNF is dedicated to empowering the next generation of Israel's leaders in the periphery.
In an effort to close the educational achievement gap, JNF will foster academic success by
collaborating with KKL-JNF Israel to build a centre in Sderot dedicated to STEM educa-
tion, empowerment, and enrichment. With a successful pilot centre now fully operational
in Nof Hagalil (formerly Upper Nazareth), we intend to build a new facility and repli-
cate the outcome for the teens living in Sderot. The Beit KKL-JNF Canada House will be
completely fortified as Sderot is located along Israel’s most hostile border. It will be open
to youth from all the surrounding communities in the Gaza envelope and the services will
be free so that no child is excluded due to a lack of financial resources. This project has a
matching grant, thereby doubling the impact of your donations.
PICTURED
RENDERING OF THE KKL HOUSE OF EXCELLENCE / JNF CANADA HOUSE
13
13With the world
sadly losing
our community
of Holocaust
survivors, the
task of keeping
the memories of
the Shoah alive
Holocaust has only become
Education in the more challenging.
Jerusalem Hills There is an
indescribable
How Can We Continue To Memorialize
The Shoah?
Situated in the picturesque Jerusalem Hills roughly 600 metres above sea
spiritual feeling
level is one of the most powerful Holocaust memorials anywhere in the
world. In 1951, as a living tribute to six million Jewish lives brutally cut that you get
short, JNF operations from around the world planted six million pine,
cypress, eucalyptus and carob saplings, which have grown tall and strong.
The Martyrs' Forest has become a living monument and one of the most
when coming
beautiful places in Israel.
here that cannot
How JNF Is Making A Difference.
Over the past 70 years, the impressive Martyrs’ Forest has become a be replicated in
popular landmark where generations of Israelis have come to strengthen
and enhance their connection to the past as well as to enjoy nature and
lovely forest trails. JNF has begun a development initiative at the western
a classroom.
entrance to the forest that will include landscaping projects, as well as
modern leisure and recreation areas. Thanks to the generosity of the Eran Goldblatt
Windsor community, JNF is able to help ensure that the memories of the
Holocaust will remain paramount for generations to come. High School Educator
PICTURED - THE RAPOPORT SCROLL OF FIRE MEMORIAL
FOR THE MARTYRS OF THE HOLOCAUST
14PICTURED - THE RENDERING OF THE ALEX EISEN PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE AT BEIT HALOCHEM IN ASHDOD
Helping Israel’s Injured Heroes
Reclaim Their Lives
Why Wounded Veterans? How JNF Is Making A Difference.
There are over 6,500 wounded veterans who live in the vicin- JNF has teamed up with Beit Halochem, the foremost
ity of Ashdod. Many of these individuals require rehabilita- institution for treating and rehabilitating Israel's wounded
tion services to help rebuild their lives and they simply do veterans and victims of terror, to construct a physiotherapy
not have the capacity to travel to other rehabilitation cen- wing as part of the new Beit Halochem facility that will
tres in other parts of the country. They gave their bodies in open in Ashdod. The new wing will include hydrotherapy,
service of Israel. Now it is our turn to ensure the veterans' massage therapy rooms, as well as well-equipped clinics for
wellbeing. treatments with physiotherapists. Thanks to the generosity of
the Toronto and London regions, JNF was able to help fund
the construction of this important component of the facility.
Supporting
Special Needs
What can we do to assist children with the
most severe special needs?
Children and young adults from all backgrounds living with severe
disabilities must have access to the best available resources to reach
their fullest potential. Unfortunately, these special individuals are often
confined to their residence as they simply do not have the capacity to
explore the beautiful parks and gardens of Jerusalem.
How JNF Is Making A Difference.
JNF is dedicated to enhancing and enriching the lives of Israel’s vulner-
able citizens and is working with ALEH - a leader in providing care to
severely disabled individuals. Its Jerusalem facility houses 80 inpatients
and welcomes hundreds of outpatients every day. However, it lacked an
outdoor space for enjoying sunshine and fresh air. Thanks to the gen-
erosity of the Pacific Region, JNF was able to help fund the significant
development work that was required to complete a beautiful outdoor
terrace. This resource helps alleviate stress and boost mental health for
the patients and staff at Aleh Jerusalem.
15Lending A Helping
Hand to Kids at Risk
How Do We Care For Kids At Risk Who Require
After School Care And Enrichment?
The community of Kiryat Shemona, located on the border with Lebanon is typical of many peripheral towns. There
are numerous economic challenges that make life difficult for many. There is a shortage of extra-curricular activities
for the children and youth. Sadly, many have nowhere to go after school. Additional resources are needed to engage
children in productive activities
How JNF Is Making A Difference.
The Israel Tennis & Education Centre (ITEC) facility in Kiryat Shemona was over-subscribed with at-risk children,
many from low-income families. Therefore, in collaboration, JNF and ITEC developed a plan to expand the social
service infrastructure that enables the organizers to reach more children who need help. An existing abandoned
building at the site was rebuilt for two multipurpose classrooms equipped with computer stations, ceiling projector,
sound projector, a library, and a kitchenette. This new space enables the staff to run educational programs, new im-
migrant integration activities, special needs student workshops, girl's empowerment training and more. The oppor-
tunity to learn how to play tennis brings the children to the centre, but once they are engaged, the ITEC provides an
array of social services above and beyond the athletics. There is additional space that will serve as a Children’s Club. It
will be a shared space that children and youth can come to relax, do homework, play games, enjoy afterschool snacks,
hang out on hot or rainy days. Thanks to the generosity of the Ottawa Region, the Daniel Alfredsson Social Services
Complex and Children’s Club was brought to fruition.
PICTURED - CHILDREN PARTICIPATING IN ITEC PROGRAMMING
Bringing Relief To
Israelis Suffering
from PTSD
What Can We Do To Provide More Resources For PTSD
And Mental Health Care?
Over the years, an increasingly high rate of Israelis have been diagnosed with some
form of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This record demand has placed sig-
nificant strain on the healthcare system, thereby reducing Israel’s overall capacity to
provide critical mental health support. Jerusalem’s Herzog Medical Centre currently
provides mental health services at three dilapidated centres which lack basic amenities
and are not accessible to those with mobility challenges. Israel lacks sufficient facilities
to care for those suffering. Therefore, JNF decided to invest in its largest project to date.
How JNF Is Making A Difference.
Together with Herzog Medical Centre, internationally recognized experts in psycho-
trauma and mental health, we are addressing this problem by building a first-of-its-
kind facility that will stand as a model of excellence throughout Israel and all over
the world. The new Dr. Max and Gianna Glassman PTSD and Health Centre will
streamline and improve outpatient care by consolidating the hospital’s Commu-
nity Mental Health Centre, Children’s Clinic, and the Israel Centre for the Treat-
ment of Psychotrauma under one roof. Patients will be treated in a first-class
facility and doctors will no longer waste countless hours fighting Jerusalem’s
traffic commuting between clinics. When the new centre is opened, it will
increase overall capacity by 25%.
16 PICTURED - DR. MAX & GIANNA GLASSMAN PTSD AND MENTAL HEALTH CENTREWe have great
co-existence, and
embrace programs
for at-risk kids.
We also have a
wonderful special
needs program
for adults. And
nothing would
please me more
than to introduce
the ITEC to as
many people in
my community as
possible. What
we do here really
makes the ITEC
an amazing
and unique
organization, way
beyond tennis.
TAL AMSALEM
Manager of ITEC,
Kiryat Shemona
172 0 2 0 / 5 7 8 1 H I G H H O L I D A Y A P P E A L
FINDING THE CURE
SUPPORT COVID-19
VACCINE RESEARCH
This High Holiday season, we invite you to join JNF in supporting the brilliant researchers from the
MIGAL Galilee Research Institute in their efforts to finding a vaccine so that we can be one step
closer to having our extended family and friends join us for Rosh Hashanah dinners once again.
MIGAL’s interdisciplinary vaccine team is engaged in groundbreaking research on COVID-19.
With your gift, JNF will support this effort to develop a vaccine.
Located in Israel’s Galilee region, biotechnology, agricultural technology, closely partnered with industry leaders,
MIGAL is an internationally renowned, and environmental sciences. Over the innovative startups, and technology
multi-disciplinary applied research past 40 years, MIGAL has become a accelerators.
institute specializing in cutting-edge recognized research powerhouse and has Four years ago, MIGAL’s interdisciplin-
18ary vaccine development team launched These recent discoveries may be used Help Speed Up The Process!
a program to develop a vaccine against to establish a centre for the continued JNF Canada invites you to partner with
Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), a development of future vaccines, both us on a life-saving mission for the ben-
coronavirus that we now know to be for genetic mutations of the coronavi- efit and betterment of all of humankind.
similar to COVID-19. They recently dis- Supporting this year’s High Holiday
covered that IBV shares the same infec- campaign means that you will directly
tion mechanism and genetic code with JNF Canada invites help the ambitious team of researchers
the virus that causes COVID-19. you to partner with reach our common goal by funding cut-
With further research, MIGAL’s scien- ting-edge technologies in microbiology
tists hope to adjust the IBV vaccine to us on a life-saving and protein design needed to analyze
combat the COVID-19 virus. Moreover, odyssey for the benefit DNA and RNA.
the vaccine being discussed has several and betterment of In addition, supporting MIGAL goes
distinct safety advantages over others in hand-in-hand with JNF’s recent efforts
production: all of humankind. to strengthen the economic and societal
. It does not contain live viruses impact of Israel’s northern peripheral re-
. It can be administered orally rus and for other viruses that are liable gion. Just as with our many projects in
. It is based upon four years of proven to break out in the future. Action taken the South, JNF believes that Israel’s suc-
research now will help speed up future vaccine cess is directly linked to the prosperity of
This vaccine can also be produced in development that could stop the next vi- the entire northern region.
relatively large quantities and at signifi- ral outbreak in its tracks. Together with your help, we can create
cantly less cost than other methods. a better and healthier world!
19J E W I S H N AT I O N A L F U N D O F C A N A DA
PRESIDENTS
Karen Aflalo Montreal
Karen Aflalo was confirmed as President of JNF Montreal at the last AGM in December 2019.
Formerly the Chair of JNF Future, Karen is a recent graduate of the Wexner Heritage Program, and
is a recipient of the Gertrude and Henry Plotnick Young Leadership Award—an honour given to
outstanding young members of the Montreal Jewish community. A Territory Business Manager for
RB Health by trade, Karen was part of a select group of company leaders who traveled to Tanzania
last year to participate in the Global Volunteer Challenge. Under Karen’s leadership, we are certain
that JNF Montreal will achieve new heights.
David Baker Ottawa
David Baker has been the JNF Ottawa Board chair since 2018. His involvement with JNF Canada
began at age 19 when he and his family traveled to Israel for his brother’s Bar Mitzvah. David’s father,
Barry, and Uncle Allan were JNF Ottawa’s 2015 Negev Dinner Honourees. As the proud owners
of European Glass & Paint, the family is a strong community builder and continuously gives. In
David’s own words, “It’s a great feeling to know that what we are doing in our local communities can
so positively impact the lives of so many of our brothers and sisters in Israel.”
Sharon Bookhalter Edmonton
President of JNF Edmonton since 2018, Sharon has always had a strong connection to Israel. Early
in her career she spent time in Israel working at Tel Hashomer hospital. More recently, Sharon
served as Dean of the Faculty of Health & Community Studies & Nursing at MacEwan University in
Edmonton. Now retired, she devotes much of her time on worthy causes and community endeavors.
Sharon has participated in two JNF bike missions to Israel.
Bernice Carmeli Pacific Region
Born and raised in Vancouver BC, Bernice Carmeli learned old school values at a very early age
from her parents Sidney and Marie Doduck. Her early interaction with JNF was in her elementary
school days collecting coins in order to purchase “her tree” in Israel. In 2015, Bernice became a
board member of the JNF Pacific Region and co-chaired a few Negev Dinners. In 2017 she became
the Vice President and joined the National Board of JNF. In 2019 Bernice became President. She
“Looks forward to continuing my family's tradition with being an active caretaker to the Land of
Israel and our people by building the foundations of Israel’s future."
Jennifer Charron Windsor
Jennifer Charron is the Human Resources Manager at Erie Shores HealthCare. Jennifer has over
10 years’ experience in Human Resources and Recruitment and is actively involved with the Jewish
National Fund, Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce. Jennifer was the recipient of the 2016
Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Award for Young Professional
of the Year. Jennifer has been actively involved in JNF Windsor for five years and is currently the
President of the Board where she proudly supports the JNF Canada initiatives which benefit the
20
20 land and people of Israel. She and her husband Jeremy are the happy parents of Noah and Mathieu.Although they hail from 11 different parts of the country, each
regional president is a leader in their local community. They
are united in their collective love for the land and the people
of Israel. We are truly grateful for their dedication and we wish
them luck throughout their mandates.
Haim Goldstein Hamilton
Haim has served as the President of JNF Hamilton since October 2015 and is an active member
of the Jewish community in Hamilton. When he isn’t working as a civil engineer in the private
and public sectors, he can be found supporting Temple Anshe Sholom and the Hamilton Jewish
Federation. Married for over 33 years, Haim and his wife are proud parents of Jeremy and Jasmin.
Haim expresses his love for Israel through community involvement and is proud to serve JNF.
Cheryl Gurevitch Calgary
A member of the JNF Calgary Board of Directors for the past five years, Cheryl has served as
president since 2018. On a recent leadership mission, she experienced first-hand the pressing social
needs of Israel’s most vulnerable. Previously, Cheryl devoted her time to teaching English and Social
Studies at Akiva Academy, an Orthodox Jewish Day school in Calgary. In the larger community,
Cheryl has volunteered her time performing various communications roles, and is currently helping
to distribute meals to families experiencing food insecurity during the Covid-19 pandemic. She is
happily married to Jason and they have two children – Jacob and Gabrielle.
Nola Lazar Manitoba/Saskatchewan
Nola has served on the JNF Manitoba Saskatchewan board for the last 6 years. Taking on the role as
president in 2019, Nola has been inspired to help improve the quality of life for Israel’s vulnerable
communities on her many trips to Israel. Nola also serves as Vice President of Mercaz Canada and is
on the board of the Canadian Zionist Federation. Locally, Nola has been active with her Synagogue
serving on many committees including programming for youth. Nola is a fabric artist specializing
in silk painting with Jewish themes. She is married to Matthew and is the mother of 4 adult children,
two of whom have made Aliyah and have completed their service in the IDF.
Jack Malkin London
Jack was born and raised in Israel. JNF was part of his childhood in primary school where every
Friday Jack would bring a coin to school and put it into the Blue Box that was in each classroom.
Fifteen years ago, he moved to Canada with his wife and two children. He didn’t hesitate when he
was asked to join the JNF London Board. Not only was it a closing of a circle, but it also gave him
the opportunity to contribute to JNF and Israel, especially in a time when widespread lies and
distortion against the State of Israel are commonplace.
Winston Siegel Toronto
Winston Siegel is partner at SwitchGear Consulting, a change management consulting firm. He
specializes in coaching sales and customer service teams, building leadership at management level,
and great execution of service strategies. He is an avid squash player, semi-enjoys golf, is learning
Spanish and hates cold weather, thus escapes Toronto winters in Costa Rica as often as possible with
his wife Lucia, and daughters Angelica and Carmen. He has been an active volunteer with JNF since
2011. 21Ventilator Campaign:
BREATHING LIFE INTO
HOSPITALIZED PATIENTS
The COVID-19 pandemic has altered The pandemic exposed the unfortu- and Soroka Hospital (Be'er Sheva).
the world as we once knew it. Physical nate reality that in Israel, surviving an At the time this article is being writ-
distancing guidelines have prompted aggressive case of Covid-19 may de- ten, a second wave of the virus is now
many of us to transition our lives and pend largely on one’s physical proxim- threatening to cause even more de-
careers towards remote working and ity to the country’s Central Region. struction in Israel than the first wave.
living, while our heroic frontline work- In April and May hundreds of Cana- Statements from government officials
ers in Canada and in Israel are still dians, regardless of their own personal indicate that the end to this unforeseen
struggling to treat the critically ill. financial challenges, stepped forward crisis is nowhere on the horizon.
The pandemic forced everyone to piv- to support this emergency campaign. On behalf of the hospitals we funded,
ot. For JNF, this means switching from Your collective generosity has generat- JNF Canada expresses its profound
our core principle of building social ed enough funding to purchase five life- gratitude to you, our donors, for your
service infrastructure to launching an saving hospital-grade ventilators for the generous suppport toward this life sav-
emergency campaign to secure funding Barzilai Medical Centre (Ashkelon), ing campaign.
for life-saving ventilators. Herzog Medical Centre (Jerusalem)
22Jewish National Fund of Canada
EDUCATION Shlicha: Yifat Bear Miller
Although the distance from Tel Aviv to er generation understands not only my ability to travel and has also sadly
Canada spans 10,000 km, it is my mis- “why” and “how” Israel was birthed forced JNF to postpone what would
sion as JNF National Shlicha to make into existence, but to cultivate pride in have been a sold-out, second-annual
it seem like Eretz Yisrael is only just Educator’s Mission to Israel in July.
around the corner. However, it has definitely not prevented
I travel across the country to provide It is my mission me from running virtual programming
exciting programs and activities to as JNF National to all regions.
schools, synagogues, camps and youth If you’re an educator or a parent who
groups. I offer a slice of Israel to Can- Shlicha is to make wishes to bring more Israel content into
ada’s next generation and engage with
the future supporters of JNF. I strive to
it seem like Eretz your school, or even into your own
homes, I invite you to reach out and I’ll
bring meaning and symbolism to our Yisrael is only just be more than happy to collaborate! In
Jewish holidays with activities such as the meantime, I hope everyone stays
planting seeds with elementary school
around the corner. safe, and I look forward to when I can
children on Tu Bi’Shevat. once again bring the gigantic map of
As history drifts further away from its impressive place in today’s global Israel directly to you.
1948, and as first-hand educational re- community as a technological and agri-
sources become increasingly more dif- cultural light unto the nations. Contact me at yifat.bear@jnf.ca
ficult to obtain, I feel a strong sense of Naturally, the global pandemic has
purpose to ensure that Canada’s young- put an immediate and indefinite stop to
23Here’s a thought: Are the solutions for overcoming the climate crisis just bouncing
around in the minds of university professors in Rehovot, or perhaps already written on
the blueprints of a Negev-based researcher?
According to Jeff Hart, Montreal’s 2020-2021 Negev Honouree and founder of the JNF
Climate Solutions Award, this is not just wishful thinking, but a very likely scenario.
“We all know Israel is the ‘Start Up Na- many areas. But what about climate so- like Kenya and Ethiopia are actively
tion’. No other country in the world lutions? I think the answers could also benefiting from Israeli-developed cut-
can match its relative dominance in be found in Israel. All they need is the ting-edge devices designed to increase
the fields of medical technology, finan- encouragement.” food production while simultaneously
cial technology, cybertech and artificial Consider Israel’s great successes in ag- decreasing water consumption. Preci-
intelligence, just to name a few of the ritech. Farmers in developing countries sion agriculture involves downloading
24real-time data from satellites orbiting that no stone is left unturned.” says it will run through 2021. JNF Canada
the earth. It is an integral factor in en- Hart. Proceeds from the JNF Climate hopes to engage other regions to join in
hancing food security for millions of Change Award will be allocated toward this effort as well as other JNF opera-
people. Imagine if the R&D centres who jumpstarting the progression of game- tions around the world.
conceived these original ideas were not changing ideas required to solve the cli- “Jonathan Medved [CEO of Our-
supported? mate crisis. Crowd] and Joseph Abramowitz [co-
Jeff further explains the value of incu- Having once upon a time co-founded founder of the Arava Power Company
bating big Israeli-conceived green ideas the Quebec Chapter of the David Su- and one of Israel’s most influential en-
by pointing to the success of Augwind zuki Foundation, Jeff ’s appreciation vironmentalists] have both agreed to
Energy, an Israeli company that has for the environment runs deep. As a be part of the selection committee. The
become a force in the world of renew- JNF honouree, he hopes to harness the Peres Centre for Peace and Innovation
able energy. Its special technology en- power of Israeli high-tech ingenuity in will also feature the winners... We’re all
ables the storage of clean energy under- set to make some serious waves” adds
ground in the form of compressed air Jeff.
without using traditional batteries. The
If you want to make Equally important to Jeff ’s vision of
result has been a significant ability to an immediate impact accomplishing “literal Tikkun Olam” is
reduce their consumption of fossil fuels. to help solve the true his hope that the campaign galvanizes
The JNF-backed Eilat-Eilot Renewable youth around environmentalism and
Energy Initiative, a non-profit organi- existential crisis of our enhances Jewish pride by demonstrat-
zation located in the Negev desert that times, now is the time to ing how fellow Jews are at the forefront
is dedicated to promoting the research of overcoming the climate crisis.
and development of green energy has get on board with JNF “I believe JNF is the best positioned
stood behind Augwind from the start. organization to lead this initiative" says
order to solve the big environmental Jeff. "It has been watering the seeds of
Performing Literal Tikkun Olam challenges of our time. green innovation for decades by part-
“We want to perform literal Tikkun After completing a fact-finding and nering with universities and research
Olam (healing the world) by encour- partnership building mission to Israel, centres. If you want to make an imme-
aging the research and development which included meetings with ma- diate impact to help solve the true ex-
of new clean and green technologies. jor universities, incubators, and many istential crisis of our times, now is the
I’m positive that there are game chang- thought leaders and influencers, Jeff be- time to get on board with JNF.”
ing ideas which have a real shot at re- lieves that this is the time to take action.
versing climate change just waiting to JNF Montreal will start the campaign
be noticed. We’re going to make sure for this project in September 2020 and
25THANK YOU
The Almond
Laurent Amram
Allan and Lisa Brown
The Brown and Lindenberg Families
Fabricland Distributors Inc.
Jay and Vered Feldman
Barry and Eleanor Appleby Canadian Friends of Bar-Ilan University Felsen Foundation
David and Sharon Appotive Canso Investment Counsel Ltd. Ferguslea Properties Limited
Jeffrey and Sharon Appotive & Families The Estate of Phyllis Chisvin George and Lois Fine
Aqueduct Foundation CI Investments Tamara and Gary Fine
Sol Armel CIBC Ab and Phyllis Flatt
Shane and Rebecca Asbell Cineplex Entertainment LP The Frankel Family Foundation
The Asper Foundation Citipark Inc. Freed & Orman Families
Daniel Assouline The Charles and Ethel Cohen Family Foundation Charitable Foundation
The Averbach Family Wendy and Stephen Cole Yetta Freeman
Baker Tilly Montréal Columbus Travel Estate of Jack M. Freiman z"l
Bank of Montreal Conam Charitable Foundation Daniel Friedmann
Vera Barcza The Sydney and Florence Cooper Family Foundation The Linda Frum & Howard Sokolowski
Sheldon Barris Ariela and The Honourable Irwin Cotler P.C. Charitable Foundation
Baskin Wealth Management Crowe BGK LLP Ganz Family Foundation
Bayview Summit Development Ltd Dahavland Capital Corporation Mitchell and Anne-Marie Garber
BC Turf Foundation Harvey and Jody Dales GCSE LLP
Bellus Health Inc. Danbe Foundation Inc. Jon and Marina Geist & Family
The Benjamin and Levitt Families Lance Davis and Family GFI Investment Counsel Ltd.
Judge Norman Bennett and Judy Bennett Decarie Motors GGFL LLP Chartered Professional Accountants
Dan Bensoussan and Wendie Polachek Dentons Canada LLP GiftPact Foundation Inc.
Howard and Judy Bernick Peggy and Philip Dezwirek Estate of Samuel Gilfix z"l
Ralph and Etty Bienstock Diamond Foundation Giovanni's Restaurant
Binkley Investments Ltd. The Shirley Diamond Foundation Lillian and Norman Glowinsky
Gad & Sandra Bitton Family Foundation District Realty Gluskin Sheff + Associates Inc.
Marjorie Blankstein Joe Dubrofsky Leo and Sala Goldhar
BloombergSen Alexander Dworkin Endowment Fund Bradley and Nathalie Goldhar
Blostein-Beumer Investment Group Martin and Leona Eidinger Richard Goldhar and Jennifer Shupak
Gary Bluestein Charitable Foundation Wendy and Elliott Eisen & Family The Goldman Group
BMO Financial Group Peter and Stella Ekstein & Family Lorne and Carol Goldstein
Brandy Lane Homes Eldee Foundation Morris and Rosalind Goodman
Family Foundation
The Rudolph P. Bratty Family Foundation Jonathan and Ariella Eltes
Daniel and Tiffani Goodman
Reesa and Martin Braun European Glass & Paint
Goodmans LLP
Bridging Finance Inc. EY (Ernst & Young LLP)
26Thanks to the dedication, commitment, and compassion of JNF Canada's leading donors, we are able to build the
foundations for Israel’s future. We extend our appreciation to everyone listed below as well as the thousands of donors
who stand with JNF Canada and the people of Israel.
JNF Canada helps build facilities to care for the vulnerable, nurture at-risk youth, enrich the lives of special need
individuals, cultivate the environment, beautify public places, heal the injured and launch the next generation of leaders
in Israel. With your generosity, we are able to enrich and enhance the lives of Israelis in every corner of the country.
Leadership gifts made between September 2019- August 2020 listed below.
Stanley and Rhonda Gordon The Koffler Foundation Minuk Construction & Engineering Company
The Allen & Milli Gould Family Foundation Julia and Henry Koschitzky Mizrahi Development Inc.
Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP Sarena and David Koschitzky Estate of Israel Mooney z"l
Hon. Jerry and Carole Grafstein Gerald and Grazyna Krigstin Miles Nadal and Peerage Realty Partners
Grayhawk Investment Strategies Inc. The Kuhl, Rosenthal and Schachter Families The Naiberg Family
Great Gulf Homes Grant and Roberta Kurian Arlene and Daniel Neiditz
Barry and Laurie Green Labarge Weinstein Neil Nisker & Our Family Office Inc.
David Green and Daphne Wagner & Family William and Nan Lassner The Noble, Farkas and Moseson Families
Robert Greenberg The Albert & Temmy Latner Janice and Earl O'Born
Alan Greenberg and Darcia Rowntree & Family Family Foundation Penny Offman
The Stephen and Jocelyne Greenberg Foundation Brian and Mary Lazarus Olymbec Development Inc.
Paul Greenspoon Lianne and Bruce Leboff & Family Osmington Inc.
Greenwin Inc. and the Green Family Joseph Lebovic and Wolf Lebovic Pacific International Equities
Stephen and Saryl Gross Hesty Leibtag and Terry Verk Paratus Investors Corp. Ltd.
Kitty and George Grossman Estate of Moe Lerner z"l Marvin and Hannah Pascal
Joshua Grunberg Michael Levy and Rita Brown Pertman Families
Jeffrey and Geraldine Hart Nathan and Glennie Lindenberg The Pezim Family /Bedford
Harold and Michele Heilbut Bruce and Heather Linton Consulting Group Inc.
Jake and Virginia Herman The Fred Litwin Family Estate of Miriam Pinczowski z"l
Mary Ellen Herman Richard and Jan Lubell Polachek Family Foundation
David and Danna Horwood Mamma Teresa Restaurant Limited Estate of David Pollack z"l
Hugheslittle Investment Management Ltd Terry and Carol Marcus Michael and Melanie Polowin
Ingot Metal Ira and Shirley Marder Estate of Iser Portnoy z"l
Avraham and Elissa Iny Mark Motors of Ottawa Ltd. Alan and Sandy Posluns
The Jewish Foundation of Manitoba Ralph Markin and Bob Markin PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
J.N. Miller Professional Corporation Marlboro Window & Door Manufacturer The Properties Group
Johnny Farina's Marsid Family Foundation: Lana and Doug Pulver
June Inc. Marie Doduck, Cathy Golden, Bernice Carmeli Al Quesnel
David and Margo Kardish Dr. Joel Maser Ted and Sylvia Quint
Sam and Joanne Katz Jacob and Odette Masliyah Karen and Harry Radomski
Martin Kelman and Gilda Tanz Joy and Seymour z"l Mender RBC
Warren and Debbie Kimel Menkes Family Developments Realstar Group
Marlene and Joel King Metropia Management L.P. Regional Group
The Dianne & Irving Kipnes Foundation Miller Bernstein LLP Rochelle Reichert and Henry Wolfond
Leslie and Vera Klein Faye Minuk Philip and Hannah Reichmann
Family Foundation 27THANK YOU Lowell and Cindy Richter Winston Siegel and Lucia Dell'Agnese Carole Mitchell and Richard E. Venn Richter Charitable Foundation Estate of Isaac Sigal z"l Venterra Realty Riocan R.E. Investment Trust Estate of Solomon Sigal z"l Viana Roofing & S.M LTD. Robins Appleby LLP Jonathan Sigler and Kathy Myron Larry and Tova Vickar Ronmor Holdings Inc The S. Sigler Family Charitable Foundation Stephen & Gail Victor, David & Lenka Cutler Estate of Stanley Rossby z"l Silver Family Charitable Foundation Viner Assets Inc. Richard and Joanne Rothberg Murray Silverberg Lewis and Freya Wasel Robert and Joan Rothberg Vivian and Sheldon Silverberg WCPD Foundation Rothfam Foundation Jacqueline Simkin Thomas and Sasha Weisz Shelley and Sidney z'l Rothman Barry and Christine Slawsky Weisz Family Foundation Gerry Rowan Sigmund and Linda Soudack Shelley and Jerry Werger RP Investment Advisors Southside Construction Managment Limited Werger Realty Limited Jeff and Honey Rubenstein & Family Mark and Wendy Spatzner Joseph Wertmen Ben, Shirley, Wendy & Shelly Sauder Trust Ben and Karen Springer Westdale Construction Co. Limited Save a Child's Heart Jeff Springer and Leslie Lerer Frank A. and Judith Wilson & Family Scenic Investments Limited State Building Group & Madison Homes Heleena and Eddie Wiltzer The Gerald Schwartz & Heather Reisman Steele Valley Developments Ltd. Jack and Judy Winberg Foundation Howard and Vivian Stotland Chuck and Libby Winograd Ron and Joanne Schwarz STUDIO tla Rosalind and Stanley Witkin Joey and Melissa Schwebel Sygmenta Inc. Estate of Lorne A. Wolch z"l Scolnick and Stern Families Tacc Developments The Honey & Leonard Wolfe Family Scotiabank Lawrence and Judy Tanenbaum Charitable Foundation Moishe Shiveck and Barbara Seal-Shiveck C.M. TD Bank Group Harold and Carole Wolfe Seerco Investments Inc Harvey and Wynne Thal Melvyn and Pedie Wolfond Alvin Segal Family Foundation TJRJ Fund Yosef Wosk The Joseph Segal Family Foundation Torquest Partners Stan and Vicki Zack Servomation Inc. Mayor John Tory Leonard and Helen Zenith The Shabinsky Family Foundation Joe and Freema Trager Bernard and Carole H. Zucker Ilana and Perry Shak David Train Nathan N. Share Estate of Bernard Uncyk z"l Isadore and Rosalie Sharp University of Ottawa Heart Institute Foundation Gerald Sheff and Shanitha Kachan Urbandale Corporation Kaelen Sherman Paul and Leah Van Eyk Jackie and Michael Shulman & Family Vault Mortgage Corporation We apologize for any errors or omissions 28
Message From
WENDY
EIDINGER
SPATZNER
PRESIDENT,
JNF CANADA
Shalom, until we meet again... ing donors and board members, and to meet: those individuals you recognize
share the stage with the former Prime immediately as kindred spirits; the il-
In 2017 I began my three-year term as Minister. The centre is expected to at- luminating, hilarious, and sometimes
JNF National President. Looking back, I tract as many as 800,000 guests per year heart-breaking conversations. No mat-
am struck by how much ground I cov- to the Hula Valley, a remarkable wildlife ter the event, the venue or the time zone,
ered, literally and figuratively: not merely preserve and migratory bird sanctuary. someone would always ask if I knew so-
logging thousands and thousands of air My visits to Israel made it clear to me and-so from Montreal, or if I had been
miles, but witnessing the range of JNF’s that the nation is evolving at break-neck to Israel. Yes, I would reply, my fam-
vision and the scope of our accomplish- speed in social and technological arenas, ily visited Jerusalem, and we traced the
ments, visible in projects undertaken and that we at JNF must adapt in concert. resting place of my great-grandmother,
with our partners at home and abroad. Our organization’s original mission, to for whom I’m named, on the Mount of
My many flights over 36 months-- from transform the desert into an oasis, has Olives.
Montreal to Calgary, Ottawa to Lon- succeeded beyond imagining. Thanks to How rich and diverse our experiences
don, Toronto to Vancouver, Hamilton worldwide support, more than 250 mil- are in the Canadian Jewish community,
to Winnipeg-- were eased by the warm lion trees have been planted in Israel: from region to region, and how much we
welcomes I received everywhere and the by the year 2000, forests had expanded have in common. We nurture the same
pleasure of renewing bonds of fellowship from two percent in1948 to almost nine hopes for Israel; we dream the same
and commitment with JNF leaders and percent of the country. This is an aston- dreams for the continued safety and
supporters, coast to coast. Regrettably, ishing achievement unmatched by any well-being of our beloved communities.
my plans to visit Edmonton and Wind- other nation. I could not have shouldered this job
sor this past spring were disrupted when As a result, JNF is increasingly turn- without the support of past presidents, a
history and COVID-19 intervened. ing its attention from planting seedlings board of directors whose counsel I relied
I was privileged to visit Israel on sever- to developing new infrastructure and upon and an exemplary staff of commit-
al occasions during my tenure. Together expanding social services for Israel’s citi- ted professionals. I am deeply grateful
with the National executive and board of zens. We are partnering with organiza- for their generosity, loyalty, and friend-
directors, I travelled to JNF projects un- tions like Migdal Ohr to establish hous- ship. Above all, my success as president
dertaken on the nation’s periphery, in its ing for at-risk youth. One of our recent would not have been possible without
neediest and most underserved outlying partnerships is with Save a Child’s Heart the support of my husband and biggest
regions. I was on hand to dedicate the to provide their patients with beautiful fan, Mark, who dared me to dream big.
John Baird Park in Sderot, a beautiful na- outdoor space. Concurrently, at home, Thank you Mark for being at my side on
tional project spearheaded by the Pacific we launched a campaign to design a this journey. I am proud of all that we
Region. The mayor spoke of his grati- fresh, dynamic and contemporary JNF have achieved together, and know that
tude while local children played happily logo, engaging supporters from across JNF will continue to contribute in out-
in the splash park, a 15-second sprint the country to participate in developing standing ways to Israel’s prosperity and
from the bomb shelter. On another trip, our new visual identity. Through JNF vitality. I continue to be uplifted by the
near Lake Kinneret at the Hula Valley, Future, we maintain a vital leadership Canadian Jewish community’s fierce de-
I brought greetings from Canada to the pipeline of young and energetic profes- votion to Israel’s strength and security,
opening ceremonies of the Stephen J. sionals, nurturing their connections and and inspired by all that the JNF commu-
Harper Visitors and Education Centre. engagement with Israel. nity accomplishes by working together,
It was an honour to be in the company As any volunteer appreciates, the best heart to heart and hand in hand.
of so many JNF past presidents, lead- part of the job is always the people you Tamid Kadima-always forward!
29JNF CANADA
HAPPENINGS
A LOOK AT ALL THE EXCITING EVENTS WE HOSTED THIS PAST YEAR!
WE LOOK FORWARD TO COMING TOGETHER ONCE AGAIN.
JNF MONTREAL THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2019
NEGEV GALA
Nearly 400 supporters celebrated and honoured Barbara Seal, C.M.— a Canadian patriot, philanthropist, and community leader.
Together, we are helping construct the new Abramovich Building for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology at Tel Aviv University. Much
appreciation to Co-Chairs Etty Bienstock and Emmelle Segal as well as Dinner Chair, Heleena Wiltzer.
SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020
J N F TO R O N TO
SURF YOGA
JNF Future brought the OM in Shalom as they
participated in a day of networking and yoga,
all while raising money for Jaffa Daled After-
School Educational Enrichment Centre.
30You can also read
