Atlanta, GA., September 14, 2021 — In recognition of the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA) in Atlanta partnered with local rabbis for a series of local ceremonies titled: “Atlanta-Area Synagogues 9/11 Initiative: Honoring our First Responders.”
Rabbi Ari Kaiman of Congregation Shearith Israel in Atlanta, GA
Each synagogue received one or more framed plaques, a gift from JNF-USA and the Consulate General of Israel to the Southeast, to present to the sheriff/police officers who regularly work to protect their buildings. The officers all plan to bring the framed plaque to be hung in their respective precinct offices or station houses. Sixteen frames were given in total. In addition, synagogues presented a total of 24 JNF-USA tree certificates to the officers in recognition of trees being planted in Israel in their honor.
Rabbi Daniel Dorsch of Congregation Etz Chaim said: “This powerful recognition of our security staff was in many ways the emotional highlight of our synagogue’s 9/11 commemoration. We are so grateful for our partnership with JNF-USA, whose creativity enabled this beautiful moment to come to fruition.”
Rabbi Daniel Dorsch of Congregation Etz Chaim in Marietta, GA presents to Officer Scott Price of the Cobb County Police Department
In addition to Rabbi Dorsch, spiritual leaders who participated in this initiative included: Rabbi Hershey Minkowicz of Chabad of North Fulton; Rabbi Binyamin Friedman of Congregation Ariel/Kollel Dome; Cantor Susan Burden of Congregation B’nai Israel; Rabbi Ilan Feldman of Congregation Beth Jacob; Rabbi Lauren Henderson of Congregation Or Hadash; Rabbi Ari Kaiman of Congregation Shearith Israel; Rabbi Joshua Hearshen of Congregation Or V’shalom; Rabbi Joshua Heller of Congregation B’nai Torah; Rabbi Mark Zimmerman of Congregation Beth Shalom; Rabbi Jordan Ottenstein of Congregation Dor Tamid; and Rabbi Larry Sernovitz of Temple Kol Emeth.
JNF-USA Southeastern US Israel Programs Admissions Director Dr. Marnie Nadolne said: “It is incredibly heartwarming to see the deep bond between our community’s synagogues and the officers who protect them. On the 20th anniversary of one of America’s darkest days, JNF-USA and the Consulate General of Israel to the Southeast are proud to honor the brave men and women who ensure the safety and security of our country and the greater Atlanta community.”
Rabbi Joshua Hearshen and Executive Director Adam Kofinas of Congregation Or Ve Shalom in Brookhaven, GA
JNF-USA’s 9/11 Living Memorial in Jerusalem, Israel, is the only commemorative site of its type outside of the U.S. that lists all the names of those who perished on 9/11. JNF-USA holds a commemoration ceremony every year at the memorial in Jerusalem with members and veterans from the US Armed Forces, first responders, airline staff, diplomats, and other dignitaries in attendance.
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About Jewish National Fund-USA
JNF-USA is the leading philanthropic organization for Israel that supports critical environmental and nation building activities in Israel’s north and south. Through its One Billion Dollar Roadmap for the Next Decade, JNF-USA is developing new communities in the Galilee and Negev, connecting the next generation to Israel, and creating infrastructure and programs that support ecology, individuals with special needs, and heritage site preservation.