Reconnecting Through Purposeful Giving
As an Israeli living in New York for the past few decades, I’ve encountered many American Jews who feel an unshakeable connection with Israel — and others who don’t. It’s not that these Jews harbor hatred for Israel or are diametrically opposed to its existence — but they simply don’t feel that spark, that deep resonance, with the Jewish state.
I’m not here to look down on anyone — the truth is, Israel is a faraway country that doesn’t have a direct impact on the lives of most American Jews — so it’s understandable that a deep connection is lost to many. Even more so, Israel is constantly in the headlines, often negatively, which can certainly make that deep connection difficult.
Why Some Feel Disillusioned — and Why That Matters
This quiet, or not-so-quiet, disconnection, while not an overt threat, is dangerous both to Israel and to those who feel disconnected. It’s dangerous to Israel because, as the heart of the entire Jewish nation, Israel needs the support of every Jew around the world!
And it’s dangerous to those who lack the connection, as this void can erode a sense of shared history and purpose, leaving Jewish identity less anchored. Without a meaningful tie to Israel, a cornerstone of Jewish life for two millennia, something vital risks fading.
Giving as an Act of Jewish Solidarity
I’d like to propose a way to reignite the lost connection among American Jews:
Purposeful giving.
Purposeful giving allows us to move past politics and return to people. It transforms the question from “Do I agree with everything Israel does?” to “How can I stand with my people?”
Giving is an act of solidarity, a way to affirm our shared identity and values as Jews, regardless of where we live and where we stand on policy debates. When American Jews support causes like education, healthcare, and community development in Israel, it’s an opportunity to invest in the people and the future of the Jewish homeland, and to make a difference in an area in which they’d like to see improvement.
This approach is powerful because it’s inclusive. You don’t need to agree with every decision made in Jerusalem to help a child access better schooling or to support an organization providing medical care to diverse communities. Giving allows Jews around the world to focus on shared values like compassion, justice, and resilience, regardless of location or politics.
Practical Ways to Reconnect Through Giving
Purposeful giving doesn’t require millions or grand gestures. It requires constant commitment, thought, and consideration. There are so many areas in Israel that could benefit from the support and understanding of their brothers and sisters in America, such as:
- Cultural and religious divides: Support initiatives that foster coexistence, such as programs bringing together Jewish and Arab communities or religious and secular Jews.
- Public advocacy: Give a voice to efforts that educate global audiences about Israel’s story through media, campus outreach, or public campaigns.
- Global support: Promote initiatives that build diplomatic or community-based alliances for Israel through advocacy and educational programs.
- Education: Donate to programs providing scholarships or resources for underprivileged students in Israel.
- Welfare programs: Give to initiatives addressing food insecurity or poverty, such as those distributing food or providing social services, supporting families and fostering community resilience.
- Medical services and supplies: Contribute to programs offering healthcare, such as pediatric care or medical outreach for underserved populations, improving access to life-saving services.
Before giving, explore organizations that resonate with your values. Do your due diligence and see which organization could benefit the most from what you have to give. You can also turn giving into a communal act by hosting a discussion or small fundraiser with friends to discuss Israel’s challenges and opportunities, amplifying your impact.
Whatever you do, do something.
Bringing Israel Near
At its heart, purposeful giving is not about solving Israel’s challenges from afar. It’s about refusing to let distance or disillusionment define the relationship.
It’s about saying, “I may not live there, I may not agree with everything, but I still belong to this story. And this story still belongs to me.”
When Israel feels distant, purposeful giving is how we draw it near again.
