VOORHEES, N.J., October 17, 2025 — On Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 9:00 am, Jewish National Fund-USA is hosting its annual Spirit of Israel Brunch in Voorhees, where 200 community members will unite in resounding solidarity with the people of Israel while learning how the organization is supporting Israel’s rebuilding and recovery efforts.
Co-chaired by Pam & Bob Benedon and Marcia & Arnie Cohen, the event’s keynote speaker is Elie Klein, the North American Director of Advancement and Jewish National Fund-USA Liaison for ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran. Playing a crucial role in Jewish National Fund-USA’s Circle of Impact, where every project, initiative, and program supports job creation, community resilience, and economic development—key drivers of population growth in these areas, the state-of-the-art rehabilitation hospital in the heart of the Negev helps people with disabilities and provides all-inclusive medical, rehabilitative, and emotional assistance for Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers and civilians who were impacted by the Israel-Hamas war.
"In addition to empowering and enhancing the lives of those living with and touched by disability, ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran is committed to promoting acceptance and true inclusion by highlighting the reality of disability,” said Klein. “Throughout our one-of-a-kind village, rehabilitation patients - including many war-wounded soldiers and civilians - are being nursed back to health by utilizing the same therapeutic resources as our residents and special education students with severe disabilities. As they rehab side by side with our ADI family members, these IDF heroes and Negev residents are taking control of their mobility while flexing their empathy muscles and gaining perspective.”
Klein added: “As we celebrate the cessation of more than two years of brutal conflict and rejoice at the return of our hostages, it's crucial that we never lose sight of Israel's daunting rehabilitation and mental health crises. With the support of Jewish National Fund-USA, ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran has been leading this charge since October 2023, providing comprehensive, state-of-the-art recovery services for the hardest hit communities in southern Israel, while also creating innovative programming for individuals and families grappling with trauma. Our ultimate success in this endeavor lies in our ability to embrace our shared humanity and ensure that no one is left behind."
Local lay leaders will also highlight how Jewish National Fund-USA has been on the ground in Israel’s North and South, just as it has been for decades, providing immediate and long-term support. From helping farmers pick crops and supporting critical mental health services to deploying hundreds of bomb shelters and funding Israel’s firefighters, community members will hear how the organization is attracting 800,000 new residents to the country’s frontier regions.
“Jewish National Fund-USA is more than an organization—we are a lifeline for Israel’s people and a partner in its future,” said Event Co-chair Arnie Cohen. “We continue to deliver real impact for the land and people of Israel when it matters most.”
To register or learn more, visit jnf.org/spiritofIsraelor contact Asya Zlatina at azlatina@jnf.org or 215.832.0690 x862.
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About Jewish National Fund-USA
Jewish National Fund-USA builds a strong, vibrant future for the land and people of Israel through bold initiatives and Zionist engagement. The organization’s circle of impact extends beyond individual projects, generating a ripple effect that drives population growth and economic development in Israel’s north and south. From developing new communities in the Negev and Galilee to advancing environmental sustainability, supporting people with disabilities, preserving heritage sites, and connecting the next generation to Israel, Jewish National Fund-USA’s strategic approach ensures every initiative strengthens the fabric of Israeli society. The organization also operates the fully accredited Alexander Muss High School in Israel, offering an immersive study-abroad experience driven by academic excellence. Learn more at jnf.org.
