On November 20, 2019, we gathered with our Philadelphia community for an evening to benefit Birthright…
On Thursday, July 7th, members of the South Jersey community joined to learn about Birthright Israel Foundation’s important work. The event was held at a private home in Longport, NJ. Miriam Feldman and Anat Cohen chaired the evening. National Board Member and Philadelphia Regional Council Co-Chair Margie Honickman spoke about the enormous impact of Birthright Israel and how young Jews return home proud of their heritage and proud supporters of Israel.
Alix Ablaza, a 2015 alumna, shared her story and explained how Birthright Israel connected to Judaism for the first time. As a result, she came home and connected with her grandmother on another level. They soon began lighting Shabbat candles together. Her grandmother passed away a few months ago at 102, but Alix is so grateful that Birthright Israel gave them seven years to make meaningful memories.
Guests also heard from Caroline Milgram, a recent Birthright Israel participant. She shared the roles of the Israeli participants in the group and how they changed her perception of the Israeli military. The Israeli participants also let her have honest conversations about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Her mom, Marla Milgram, joined her and spoke about the impact she saw on Caroline upon her return home. Marla then decided to join the Philadelphia Regional Council to ensure other children like her daughter could experience Israel firsthand through this life-changing program.
Susan Schwartz, Philadelphia Regional Council Co-Chair, concluded the evening and made the case to support Birthright Israel Foundation. We thank those in attendance and look forward to securing the Jewish future together.
