On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, Birthright Israel Foundation hosted its Annual Philadelphia Regional Event at the Weitzman National…
On November 4, 2024, Atlanta’s most generous supporters of Birthright Israel gathered to celebrate our extraordinary mission and strengthen their commitment to Jewish continuity. Hosted by longtime leaders and supporters Lesley and Gary Glazer, the evening was filled with stories of transformation and unity. The Glazers opened by sharing how Birthright Israel profoundly impacted their children’s lives and reinforced their sense of Jewish identity. They also welcomed esteemed leaders including Doug Ross, vice chair of Birthright Israel Foundation’s board of directors, and Renee Kutner, the CEO of the Atlanta Jewish Federation.
In their opening remarks, the Glazers spoke about Birthright Israel’s incredible legacy—25 years and 850,000 young Jews connected to Israel. They also praised the volunteer initiative launched after the tragic events of October 7, which enabled over 7,500 volunteers to come to Israel and support communities in need, from Kibbutz Re’im to farms in Hadera. They shared that over the years, more than 10,000 young adults from Atlanta have gone on a Birthright Israel trip.
Guests watched a short film compiling testimonials from alumni whose Birthright Israel trips sparked lifelong commitments to Jewish engagement and pro-Israel advocacy. The film showed Birthright Israel to be a foundational experience anchoring Jewish pride and resilience for so many young adults.
The evening featured Shira Boso, a beloved Birthright Israel Tour Educator, who shared insights into helping participants discover their place within the Jewish story. Fearless young activist and campus warrior Tessa Veksler followed, telling of how her Birthright Israel experience empowered her to become a vocal advocate for Jewish students and a proud defender of Israel.
In his closing remarks, Rob Leven, co-chair of the Atlanta Leadership Cabinet, issued a heartfelt call to action, urging attendees to support Birthright Israel’s work. He explained that a gift of $10,000 enables four volunteers to make a difference in Israel. Support of Birthright Israel is an investment in the younger generation of Jewish leaders—the most important investment we can make.
The evening concluded with a renewed sense of purpose as guests departed, inspired to support Birthright Israel’s mission to build a bright and flourishing Jewish future for generations to come.
