

My JNF-USA Fundraising Page
Barbara Israel Bortniker
Barbara Israel Bortniker
After over two years of relentless physical and psychological warfare, Israel's spirit is the backbone of Jewish perseverance. With more than 200 heritage sites spread throughout the country, each is steeped with the rich legacy of the Zionist spirit. JNF-USA and SPIHS continue its activities on the front lines of building strength through our unique, heritage oriented programs for children and adults to contribute to the mental wellness of each and every evacuee, and to bolster national resilience and the understanding of the Zionist mission.
Through the success of the heritage-based resilience programs for border communities from Kiryat Shmona down to Eshkol, and everywhere in between, SPIHS and JNF-USA have expanded their impact to those most affected by the war– evacuees and border communities, IDF soldiers, reservists and their families, widows and orphans and those struggling with complex trauma.
These dynamic programs and activities are rooted in experiential education and understanding the sacrifice of Israeli heroes from across generations, in the historic sites where Israeli history was made. By helping these communities understand the challenges of Israel’s early pioneers, we are giving them the strength to persevere and thrive in the face of the most difficult adversities.
Our guides and educators are stepping up to the challenge, with all hands on deck to provide a unique experience that transports participants into some of the most influential moments in Israeli history, creating an understanding of the challenges and triumphs of the modern Zionist movement and the legacy that this generation and the next will create as they write the next chapter of the history of the Jewish people.
SPIHS provides spaces of healing and remembrance for war widows and orphans, offering workshops, retreats, and heritage site visits that foster community and emotional well-being. These programs create a sense of belonging, helping participants connect with others who share their experiences while engaging in activities that honor their loved ones and reinforce their place in Israel’s collective history. The initiative ensures that they are not forgotten and remain supported through meaningful engagement.
Through the success of the heritage-based resilience programs for border communities from Kiryat Shmona down to Eshkol, and everywhere in between, SPIHS and JNF-USA have expanded their impact to those most affected by the war– evacuees and border communities, IDF soldiers, reservists and their families, widows and orphans and those struggling with complex trauma.
These dynamic programs and activities are rooted in experiential education and understanding the sacrifice of Israeli heroes from across generations, in the historic sites where Israeli history was made. By helping these communities understand the challenges of Israel’s early pioneers, we are giving them the strength to persevere and thrive in the face of the most difficult adversities.
Our guides and educators are stepping up to the challenge, with all hands on deck to provide a unique experience that transports participants into some of the most influential moments in Israeli history, creating an understanding of the challenges and triumphs of the modern Zionist movement and the legacy that this generation and the next will create as they write the next chapter of the history of the Jewish people.
SPIHS provides spaces of healing and remembrance for war widows and orphans, offering workshops, retreats, and heritage site visits that foster community and emotional well-being. These programs create a sense of belonging, helping participants connect with others who share their experiences while engaging in activities that honor their loved ones and reinforce their place in Israel’s collective history. The initiative ensures that they are not forgotten and remain supported through meaningful engagement.

Comments