We are fundraising money for a project in the Hula Valley Nature Reserve in honor of Elan Ganeles Z"L. Please help us make this tribute to our beloved Elan a reality by making a contribution to the fundraiser and sharing this page with your family and friends.



Elan Ganeles Z”L was killed on a trip to Israel on February 27, 2023 at the age of 26. He was on his way to a childhood friend's wedding when his car was shot at by Palestinian gunmen.

Following his upbringing in West Hartford, Connecticut, Elan made the deliberate decision to embark on a gap year in Israel, make aliyah, and commit himself to a full term of service in the IDF.

After completing his military duty, Elan pursued his education at Columbia University, where he graduated with a double major in sustainable development and neuroscience. He started his career as a geospatial analyst.

Elan's thirst for knowledge, passion for travel, and love for geography shaped his dynamic character. Above all, Elan cherished forming meaningful friendships and fostering connections between people of diverse backgrounds.

Elan had a particular love for birds, and from a young age could identify them by their appearance and sound. He would take his friends and family to special bird-watching locations, sharing his passion with them.

The Hula Valley Nature Reserve, a sanctuary for thousands of migrating birds each year, held a special place in Elan's heart. For this reason, we are raising money to donate a place in the nature reserve that Elan's family and friends can visit and feel is essence and spirit as they take in the natural beauty.

Elan's memory lives on, inspiring others to bridge differences and cultivate unity. Elan is survived by his parents, grandparents, two brothers, sister-in-law, extended family in Israel and abroad, and the many friends he had touched.