Jewish National Fund-USA’s annual brunch

About 150 people attended JNF-USA’s annual United for Israel brunch, “Navigating Antisemitism & Championing Israel Advocacy,” on May 4, at Temple Sinai of Bergen County in Tenafly. Chaired by Sheryl Sarnak, the keynote speaker was Shahar Azani, a veteran Israeli diplomat, StandWithUs in New York’s former executive director, Jewish Broadcasting Service’s former senior vice president, and also a 16+ year member of Israel’s Foreign Ministry.

“As we gather here, where IDF hero Edan Alexander grew up, we remember him and all of our brothers and sisters held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza and will continue to fight for them until they’re back home,” Azani said. “We are united as one, and JNF-USA is an integral part of Israel’s pain and joy. The organization’s shelters in the south saw some of the horrendous atrocities of October 7, as well as some of the most heroic acts. Now, JNF-USA volunteers are helping to rebuild Israel and support its people, and together we shall celebrate in all of Israel’s success and achievements to be. Am Yisrael Chai.”

The Solomon Schechter Day School Bergen Choir performed and the program honored the memory of three philanthropists who helped Jewish National Fund-USA establish a presence in the Northern New Jersey region. “Gerry Rosen, Bob Levine, and Chuck Shain were pioneers — not only in their generosity but in their vision,” said Rachel Kahn, JNF Fund-USA’s director, Northern New Jersey and Rockland County. “Long before it was common to speak about building up the Negev or strengthening the Galilee, they saw what was possible. Thanks to them, JNF-USA is not just a name in our community; it is a movement. It represents lives changed, millions of dollars raised, and perhaps most importantly, futures secured.”

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For more information, email Ms.Kahn at rkahn@jnf.org, call (973) 593-0095, ext. 824, or go to jnf.org.