search
Deb Lust Zaluda

Finding Hope Amid Challenges

Volunteer on a Jewish National Fund-USA mission
A volunteer on a Jewish National Fund-USA mission

This past year has been one of unparalleled challenges coupled with incredible inspiration. Tears of despair following the horrific attacks of October 7, 2023, juxtaposed with tears of joy at our sold-out Global Conference for Israel. At first, we were overwhelmed with grief; now we are overwhelmed by the unprecedented philanthropic support shown by our partners (donors) throughout the country.

Through our “Build Together” initiative for the South and “Reimagine” campaign for the North, we have taken strides to rebuild homes and entire communities with an eye toward a safer, more secure and prosperous future for Israel’s frontiers.

In looking at our 2024 Year in Review, our achievements underscore why we have every reason to believe that our best days are yet to come. Thanks to our supporters, we have raised over $202 million—almost double last year’s contributions. These gifts have been strategically deployed to provide critical aid, from relocating 63,000 Israelis to safety immediately following October 7 to delivering 19,000 support packages crafted from local small businesses in the days, weeks, and year-plus that followed.

Beyond emergency aid, we have continued to lay the groundwork for a brighter tomorrow. Projects like our Galilee Culinary Institute by JNF and Kiryat Shmona Medical Center, which began long before October 7, show that progress is possible even amid a moment of unprecedented challenges. In the Gaza border town of Sderot, over 100% of displaced residents have returned, and new families have joined the city. Our vision to attract 500,000 new residents to Israel’s south and 300,000 new residents to Israel’s north becomes more of a reality every day.

Every crisis has reminded us of the truth behind our promise: “We were there yesterday, we are there today, and we will be there tomorrow.” Our efforts are not just about rebuilding but about reimagining Israel as a beacon of hope and resilience for future generations.

The challenges ahead are undeniable. But the spirit of the Israeli people and the unwavering support of our global community inspire me every day. Together, we are responding to crises and forging a future filled with potential. This year, let us continue to build, reimagine, and believe in the strength of our shared vision, because tomorrow is already here.

Deb Lust Zaluda is President of Jewish National Fund-USA

About the Author
Deb Lust Zaluda serves as President of Jewish National Fund-USA. A lifelong Chicagoan and highly involved community member, Zaluda spent 25 years as a successful attorney before turning her attention to her two lifelong passions – Israel and philanthropy. In addition to leading the organization, she is a member of its Sapphire Society and the immediate past Chair of its Go North West Task Force. Locally, she has served as President of Jewish National Fund-USA’s Chicago chapter. Zaluda also started her own Israel travel business that combines philanthropy and experiential travel. She has visited Israel numerous times and continues to work directly with its people to create a more resilient and prosperous Jewish homeland for all of its residents.
Related Topics
Related Posts