2013
ANNUAL REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Many of the photos used throughout this publication were submitted by alumni during the 2013 Taglit-Birthright Israel social media photo contest.
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A Letter from the Chair
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Building the Future of Birthright Israel
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Birthright Israel Foundation: The Vision
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Birthright Israel Foundation: The Mission
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Birthright Israel Foundation: The Expectation
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A Letter of Thanks
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The Trip
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2013 Niche/Special Needs Trips
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Year in Review
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The Mifgash
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Grassroots Support
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Gathering the Community
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Sonja’s Birthright Israel Journey
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NEXT: A Division of Birthright Israel Foundation
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Social Media
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Board of Directors and Professional Team
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Regional Councils
38 Financials 39
Statement of Activities
a letter from the chair
It’s hard to imagine a time before Birthright Israel. Can we drive through Jerusalem without spotting a Birthright Israel bus? Can we sit in a café in Tel Aviv without striking up a conversation with some Birthright Israel participants? Can we hike Masada without crossing paths with a Birthright Israel group? Most of the time the answer is no. Fourteen years after our inaugural group of students landed in the Jewish homeland for a free, educational 10-day trip, Birthright Israel has taken root and become part of the landscape. More importantly, it’s become ingrained in the Jewish community as the signature initiative engaging young people, allowing them to exercise a birthright and form a connection that will grow over a lifetime – strengthening their Jewish identity and connection to Israel, and more broadly, the continuity and solidarity of our community. In 2009, I was honored to become Chair of Birthright Israel Foundation with the opportunity to help guide this dynamic and ever-growing program, and advocate for its critical importance to the future of the Jewish State and the global Jewish community. As I step down at the end of 2013, I welcome my successor, Joshua Nash, a Trustee of the Birthright Israel Foundation since its inception and a board member for some of the most prominent cultural, educational and philanthropic organizations in the Jewish and general communities. He has been a close partner to me, and brings deep commitment to his new role, as does his Vice Chair, Laurie Blitzer. Ending my tenure, I reflect on the great successes and achievements of the past five years. 2
I define it as a period of immense growth in participation; innovation and creativity in programming; new and visionary professional leadership; increasing and broader based support and partnerships; and, a more solid infrastructure of engagement and communication with you – our donors, supporters and advocates - without whom Birthright Israel would not be the jewel that it is. Consider that in just five years, the number of Birthright Israel alumni has more than doubled – to more than 350,000. This number, which will continue to grow, is significant not only as a measure of popularity, awareness and strength of programming, but also because every participant is a potential sphere of positive influence for Israel and a candidate for community involvement and leadership. Our level of support continues to grow as well, due to energized outreach, programming for supporters, and effective use of communications tools. Yes, the past few years have been ones marked by positive transition. I am confident that we will continue along this trajectory, especially as our new chair finds a passionate, active and engaged board devoted to new ways of thinking. Birthright Israel is an invaluable asset. It is a collective gift to our youth, our community, and our future. I look forward to supporting its continued growth and I thank you for being partners on this journey.
Daniel S. Och 3
Building the Future of Birthright Israel David Fisher
President, Birthright Israel Foundation One of the most stirring sights to me occurs at Ben-Gurion Airport, when a plane full of Birthright Israel participants opens its doors for young adults whose lives are about to be so immeasurably enhanced. That moment, filled with anticipation and excitement, captures the start of a 10-day journey to the promise that is Israel, and a lifelong connection to a homeland, self-identity and a community that is the Jewish people. When I became President of Birthright Israel Foundation a year ago, I couldn’t have imagined the number of people I would meet who have been touched and transformed by the Birthright Israel experience – starting with participants and extending to their families, friends and communities. This connection extends to you as well, as supporters of this truly unique and transformative program. Together, through generosity and advocacy, we make possible a reality that was once only a dream.
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Fourteen years ago, a group of visionary funders established Birthright Israel and launched an initiative that now counts more than 350,000 participants (25,000 this past summer alone) from 64 countries. At the Birthright Israel Foundation, we have a team of energetic, creative and dedicated professionals and lay leaders building an increasingly strong infrastructure ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of this enormous success story. When I joined this team, I was honored to partner with a tireless chair, Daniel Och. He steps down now after five years, and I offer deepest thanks to him for taking us to new levels of recognition, growth and success, and for his personal guidance and leadership this last year. While it will be difficult to see Dan’s term end, I welcome and look forward to building another close and productive partnership with our new Chair, Joshua Nash, and new Vice Chair, Laurie Blitzer. Joshua, a member of our board for several years and a prominent business, philanthropic and Jewish community leader, will draw on his considerable record of success as we move ahead and build upon the achievements of the past. Laurie as well brings unique experience and perspective from her deep involvements in the Jewish and secular communities, including service on our board since its inception and multiple Foundation committees overseeing all aspects of our operations. The Adelson Challenge One of the common themes we reaffirm at the Birthright Israel Foundation is leverage, our approach to extracting the greatest benefit from our work. The Adelson Family Foundation, one of our most generous supporters, has taken the idea of leveraging to new heights for us. Earlier this year we announced a new $40 million gift from Dr. Miriam and Sheldon Adelson continuing their commitment to Birthright Israel. The gift, which includes a $20 million challenge grant, brings the Adelsons’ total donations to the program to an historic $180 million. (cont’d.) 5
The Adelson Challenge Grants have led other generous supporters of Birthright Israel Foundation to create their own challenge grants, on both a national and local level, further sweetening the value of every gift made. The momentum of one challenge triggering another has been a powerful force for us and one we most gratefully treasure. Moving into 2014, we will see the Birthright Israel Foundation building upon progress in three broad areas:
Growing our Financial Support •
Our annual campaign benefits from energized outreach and communications
with donors. With support from more than 26,000 this year, we’ve raised over
$47 million* for our 2013 annual campaign - a 14 percent increase from last year.
•
A planned giving and endowment program is being developed to ensure the
sustainability of Birthright Israel for decades to come.
Expanding Our Programs •
An ever-growing network of 12 regional councils allows more than 200 lay
leaders to orchestrate locally focused programming and outreach to supporters,
and provides a portal for engagement of new and existing donors.
•
A variety of news and information channels on the national, regional and
local levels continue to be developed as we recognize that regular, accessible
communication and community outreach are key to long-term partnerships.
•
New donor affinity groups are allowing deeper relationships and programming
for supporters. The Founders Circle, for those who have contributed at
minimum $2.5 million, launched with an event in October. Our Benefactors
Circle, for those making a minimum $100,000 annual contribution, will be
launched with a very special mission to Israel in January 2014.
*Excluding the support from the Adelson Family Foundation. 6
Strengthening Our Structure and Team • We’ve invested in building a strong, creative and energetic team of professionals. This past year, I welcomed Jennifer Goldstone as Chief Operating Officer with a charge to find the best talent and make Birthright Israel Foundation the premiere workplace in the Jewish world. With her strong non-profit finance experience, she is expertly positioned as part of our dynamic, future-oriented staff. • Our governance structure is evolving and strengthening, with new practices and committees being established to guarantee a diverse and representative board that is active and far-reaching in vision and impact. • We continue to integrate with, and build stronger programming and partnerships with Jewish Federations, Taglit and NEXT.
I invite you to read this annual report and see how Birthright Israel is changing individual lives, creating connections, and embracing new opportunities. With a blueprint for 2014 and beyond, we are proud of our partnership with you to ensure that every Jewish young person is given the gift of Birthright Israel.
David Fisher
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THE VISION Taglit-Birthright Israel began with a bold idea – offering a free, life-changing, 10-day trip to Israel for young Jewish adults between the ages of 18 and 26. Founded in 1999 by a remarkable group of committed Jewish philanthropists, led by Charles Bronfman, Michael Steinhardt and Lynn Schusterman, Birthright Israel strengthens Jewish identity, builds a lasting bond with the land and people of Israel, and reinforces solidarity of the Jewish people worldwide. The trip is available to every young Jewish adult, from every strata of society, from every level of personal experience, from every facet and dimension of contemporary Jewish life.
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THE MISSION The Birthright Israel Foundation fortifies and grows financial support from North America, and broadens public awareness to ensure Taglit-Birthright Israel can flourish and touch generations to come. Working with our founding partners – the Government of Israel, and a global network of Jewish communities represented by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), The Jewish Agency for Israel and Keren Hayesod – the Foundation is creating the infrastructure of support to firmly establish Taglit-Birthright Israel as an engine of Jewish community growth, engagement and continuity.
“Israel forever changed my life and I’ve never felt more at peace with a community and myself. I’m proud of who I am and am confident with my faith and spirituality. Israel is my utopia.”
—Farah M., Participant Winter 2012 9
THE EXPECTATION 10 days. 40 new friends. A once in a lifetime experience. With my suitcase and ticket in hand I am on my way to the airport. It feels surreal to be travelling with 40 peers. I don’t know any of them but I will soon. For 10 days we will be bus mates and roommates and become friends as we explore a land full of history, culture and tradition. I hear that this trip is life changing. I don’t know what that means but I am anxious to find out for myself. Today I am going to Israel… I am claiming my Birthright.
“My life as a Jewish woman was forever changed and enriched by the Birthright Israel trip I was able to go on two years ago.” 10
—Amy W., Participant Summer 2011
a letter of thanks
I headed for the airport on January 2, 2013 with a lot of questions: Will I stand out because I didn’t go to Hebrew School or have a Bat Mitzvah? Am I really “Jewish enough” to go on this trip? I had no idea what I would be walking into when the doors swung open… but when they did, I was met with smiling faces and warm introductions. As the group soon learned, my religious background was slightly more complicated than others. My mother, grandmother and great-grandmother are all Jewish. My father and his side of the family, however, are not. Unfortunately, when I was ten months old my mother suddenly passed away. My father did the only thing he knew how to do – he turned to his church. I was signed up for Sunday school, Youth Club, and a Christian camp during the summer. As fun as these activities could be, something always seemed out of place. Spiritually, I was lost. I did not apply for the Birthright Israel trip on a whim. A colleague of mine came back from Israel with a connection to the country and community that he couldn’t fully describe, and I longed for that same feeling. To say I was excited for this experience would be an extreme understatement. I was ecstatic... and I tried to prepare for it all. I truly cannot thank the donors enough for allowing me to have this experience. Because of this trip I have committed myself to the Jewish community and faith. Israel became my second home, and I will always love and defend it and its people. Sincerely, Stephanie 11
THE TRIP
44,495
Participants in 2013
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Birthright Israel offers the gift of a free, educational 10-day trip to Israel for eligible young Jewish adults between the ages of 18 and 26. The trip allows them to claim their birthright. They discover the joy and exuberance of new friends, common purpose and expanded horizons.
COUNTRIES
THIS SUMMER
The trip has three profound objectives: • To strengthen each participant’s
identity as a Jew.
Canada Mexico United States
• To build an understanding, a friendship
and a lasting bond with the land and
people of Israel.
• To reinforce the solidarity of the
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Jewish people worldwide.
Guatemala Panama
350,000+
Participants since inception
64 COUNTRIES
FROM THE START
Austria France Germany Italy Netherlands Spain Sweden United Kingdom
Argentina Bolivia Brazil Colombia Paraguay Uruguay
Belarus Czech Republic Hungary Latvia Lithuania Moldova Poland Ukraine
Azerbaijan Georgia India Kazakhstan Russia Uzbekistan
Australia
South Africa
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2013 NICHE/SPECIAL NEEDS TRIPS The common experience of the Birthright Israel trip is central to all participants, but we also offer uniquely focused trips for local communities, college campuses, participants with shared interests or for those from specific cohorts. This year Birthright Israel offered participants the opportunity to travel on a community bus from 23 cities across the U.S. as well as the chance to choose from over 20 niche and special needs trips.
LGBTQ
Israel by Bike
Photographers
Culinary
Special Needs Medicine
COMMUNITY BUSES
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
Atlanta • Boston • Chicago • Cleveland • Colorado • Dallas • Detroit • East Bay • Las Vegas • Los Angeles • Metro West NJ • Miami • New York • Northern NJ • Orange County • The Palm Beaches • Philadelphia • Phoenix • St. Louis • San Diego • San Francisco • Southern Arizona • Washington, DC
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Molly’s recipe for Israel When Molly Yeh learned about the culinary niche trip she knew there was no better way for her to experience Birthright Israel. Molly, an avid food blogger, joined a bus full of fellow bloggers, chefs and foodies on a journey for the mind, soul and stomach. Molly was inspired by the freshness of the food and her time cooking for 600 soldiers on an IDF base. When she returned home, Israel was on her mind. Molly focused her time on learning and reading more about Israel as well as adding its flavor to her menu.
Molly’s Chicken Schnitzel with Challah Crust
DIRECTIONS
. Add parsley 1) Rip challah into 1-inch piecesPulse in a food taste. to r peppe and salt and fine have you until er blend or sor proces crumbs. s in between 2) One at a time, place chicken breast e sure (mak wrap c two large pieces of plasti unding surro wrap of s inche couple a are there er INGREDIENTS the chicken), and pound them/with a hamm thick. inch 4 1 are they until pin or rolling Roughly 1/4 of a challah loaf plates in this 3) Set up three shallow bowls horcrumb (any type will do, except raisin) s. challa and egg, flour, order: 4 sprigs of fresh parsley, plus more for serving flour, and then 4) Dredge each chicken breast inand then the egg, the with it coat y A few pinches of salt and pepper evenl crumbs. 4 chicken breasts medium high 5) Heat oil in a frying pan overabout a 1/2 inch to up 3/4 cup all-purpose flour come heat. Oil should tzels in the pan. When oil is hot, fry the schni two about , brown 2 eggs, beaten on each side until golden minutes. Oil, for frying 6) Serve with a sprig of parsley, a lemon wedge, Hummus and lemon wedges for serving and hummus! *originally appeared on The Jew & The Carrot
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Taglit-Birthright Israel marks 14 years of impact with over 350,000 participants from 64 countries and over 1,000 North American colleges and universities. This year alone, 44,495 participants began a lifelong connection to Israel and the Jewish community on a Taglit-Birthright Israel trip. While gathering within a common sphere of friendship, community, and connection to Israel through a free, ten-day educational trip is a constant, accommodating and appealing to youth with varying interests is an opportunity. So in addition to already existing niche and special needs trips, creative and bold new initiatives have been designed and introduced in the past year to further enhance the Taglit-Birthright Israel experience.
YEAR IN REVIEW
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A sampling:
Taglit Village
Sports Day (Yom Sport)
Down in the Negev, participants from different
Daylong sporting events for over 2,500
Taglit-Birthright Israel groups came together for
Taglit-Birthright Israel participants from different
a half day of elective educational programs and
groups and countries forged connections and
workshops like yoga, meditation and stargazing.
common experiences through competition.
It was a true desert experience, and an opportunity to meet and forge connections with other Taglit-Birthright Israel trip participants.
Global groups Intermingling groups from various countries
Taglit-Birthright Israel Plus
enriched experiences and advanced the notion of a truly global Jewish community linked. In 2013,
Four-day trip extensions geared to specific
groups were mixed from several South and Central
interests allowed participants to dig deeper into
American countries, as well as between North
their own passions through the lens of Israel.
American and South American youth.
Four extensions were designed and offered in 2013: exploring Israel as a hi-tech, start-up nation; touring the Galilee and doing volunteer work in communities there; engaging with Israeli Defense Forces and Magen David Adom personnel to learn about search and rescue operations; and taking part in environmental projects.
Taglit Tech A longer trip gave techies an in-depth look inside Israel’s technology corridor, offering exposure to industry leaders and innovators, and presented opportunities for internships and cross-cultural joint projects.
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MIFGASH Mifgash means “encounter” in Hebrew and it has become one of the most meaningful aspects of the Birthright Israel trip. In the Mifgash, young Jews from around the world meet their Israeli peers, most of them Israel Defense Forces soldiers, and together they create bonds of understanding and friendship that can last a lifetime. On a typical Birthright Israel trip, six to eight young Israelis join a Birthright Israel group for at least half of the 10-day trip. They are full participants and become an integral part of the trip experience. The power of this encounter can be life changing – and not only for the young adults from abroad. Josh Webber left Los Angeles on his Birthright Israel journey this past June. In addition to discovering his own Jewish identity, Josh was hoping to learn more about his 92-yearold grandfather, Max, who had escaped a
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concentration camp during the Holocaust and found his way to Israel. Josh, a filmmaker working on a documentary about his grandfather, shared his quest for missing pieces with his new Israeli friends, two soldiers on his bus. With their help, and their Hebrew, Josh was able to track down the man who helped build a tunnel out of the camp with his grandfather – one that saved the lives of over 20 Jews. Max’s partner, thought to be dead, was in Haifa and eager to speak with Josh. The missing piece of the puzzle was found, thanks to the soldiers onboard the bus. The impact on young Israelis is equally profound. To date, 65,000 young Israelis, 7,100 this year alone, have participated in the Mifgash and their experience has a transformative effect on next-generation Israel. Young Israelis develop connections to a larger Jewish world and the trip sparks a desire to learn more about Judaism. While many Israelis initially join the program thinking they will help participants better understand Israel and the IDF, they also discover their own identities and generate a newfound pride in IDF service, pride in country and pride in being Jews.
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GRASSROOTS SUPPORT Birthright Israel Foundation engages with our donors in many ways. Through direct mail, digital communication, telemarketing, events, and personal cultivation, we are constantly having a conversation about Birthright Israel. Our creative focus strengthens longterm ties between supporters and our organization. We strive for donors to become passionate advocates of Birthright Israel, and to renew their support year after year. Each contact with a supporter is an opportunity to educate, to inspire, to motivate, and to cement a long-term commitment to Birthright Israel in order to ensure that the gift of a free, 10-day educational trip is available for young Jewish adults, ages 18-26, now and for generations to come.
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To date, our most successful grassroots campaign is the Fill a Bus Challenge, which asks donors across the nation to fund a full bus of participants to Israel. A Birthright Israel bus is much more than a mode of transportation for its passengers. The bus opens up a new world, introducing 40 young Jewish men and women to the history, culture, traditions and people of Israel over 10 incredible days. Our donors come from the ranks of Birthright Israel alumni, their parents, and individuals who support our mission. Broadening our base of support is key to our growth strategy. In this specific campaign, the gifts of 500 donors came together to fund two buses.
THIS YEAR OUR GRASSROOTS EFFORTS RAISED FUNDS TO SEND
OVER 300 BUSES TO ISRAEL
“Birthright Israel was a catalyst for my daughter’s Jewish journey; the program strengthened her connection to her Jewish identity and has had a real, long-lasting impact on her life as a young Jewish adult.” —Bonnie F., Parent West Caldwell, NJ
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GATHERING THE COMMUNITY CHICAGO,IL
JULY 10, 2013
Chicago Event
Taking advantage of great summer weather, Jennifer and Andrew Lucas hosted a Birthright Israel barbecue targeted to younger members of the community whose children are not yet old enough to go on a Birthright Israel trip. Israeli Mifgash alumna Staff Sergeant Lea Lehavi shared the impact of her Birthright Israel experience with the 35 guests in attendance. 24
From left to right: Lea Lehavi, Andrew and Jennifer Lucas and Gary Weinstein, Foundation Regional Director.
DETROIT, MI
MAY 21, 2013
Detroit Event
Jane and Larry Sherman hosted members of the Detroit community at their home to honor special guests and Foundation philanthropists, Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson. Thanks to the generosity of some 60 guests in attendance, nearly $3 million was raised throughout the community in multiple-year gifts. Combined with the 2013 Adelson Challenge, this was a historic one-day fundraising total in Detroit. Local Birthright Israel Detroit Chairs David Schostak and Gregg Orley were joined by Midwest Regional Council Co-Chair Lynda Giles and a host committee of 23 members who supported the event.
From left to right: Lynda Giles, Jane Sherman, Sheldon and Miriam Adelson. 25
PALM BEACH, FL
NOV 17, 2013
PALM BEACH MEETING
Palm Beach County Leadership Council members Nanci and Stephen Dephoure hosted 65 guests for brunch at the High Ridge Country Club. Guests heard about the importance and impact of Birthright Israel from Judith Levy, Palm Beach County Leadership Council Chairman & Florida Chairman, and Michael Soberman, National Director at Canada Israel Experience, a Birthright Israel trip provider.
Michael Soberman, National Director at Canada Israel Experience, spoke to guests about the importance of Birthright Israel.
SCARSDALE, NY
OCT 16, 2013
SCARSDALE MEETING
Birthright Israel Foundation hosted Elyezer Shkedy, CEO/President of EL AL Airlines and former IDF Commander-in-Chief of the Israeli Air Force at the home of Robin and Scott Gottlieb. Guests heard his powerful narrative as well as from Birthright Israel alumna Shira Kaiserman. From left to right: Dan Och, Foundation Chair, Eleyzer Shkedy, CEO EL AL Airlines, Danny Saadon, VP/General Manager EL AL Airlines and David Fisher, President Birthright Israel Foundation. 26
LAS VEGAS, NV
OCT 4-6, 2013
VEGAS WEEKEND
Birthright Israel Foundation hosted its second annual Las Vegas weekend for 65 of our supporters who each made a minimum commitment of $25,000 to the campaign. Israel Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ron Prosor opened the weekend and provided the group with his perspective on the situation in the Middle East. The events concluded with brunch at the home of Dr. Miriam and Sheldon Adelson. The weekend raised close to $2 million.
From left to right: Mike Leven, Las Vegas Weekend Chair, Foundation President David Fisher, Ambassador Ron Prosor and Taglit-Birthright Israel CEO Gidi Mark.
“Birthright Israel is probably the best opportunity to win the hearts and minds of young Jewish Americans and encourage them to become passionate about the importance of Israel and of the beauty and teachings of Judaism.”
—Steven F. Parent, Los Angeles, CA 27
SAN FRANCISCO, CA
DEC 3, 2013
SAN FRANCISCO EVENT
Anita and Ron Wornick hosted an intimate evening for 36 guests at their home on the seventh night of Chanukah. Foundation President David Fisher spoke to guests about the importance of supporting Birthright Israel and the Wornick’s grandson, Harry Wornick, shared his Birthright Israel experience. The evening concluded with lively conversation, leaving guests energized about the commitment in their community
From left to right: Anita, Harry and Ron Wornick.
to Birthright Israel.
ATLANTA, GA
NOV 6, 2013
ATLANTA GATHERING
More than 100 guests, many new to the Birthright Israel Foundation, joined Linda and Steve Selig at their home for an engaging evening featuring guest speakers Mike Leven, Birthright Israel Foundation board member, as well as Birthright Israel alumnus, David Koonin. The evening raised $275,000 with the majority coming from first time gifts.
Doug Ross, Regional Council Chair, engages guests.
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PHILADELPHIA, PA
DEC 2, 2013
PHILADELPHIA EVENT
Philadelphia Leadership Council Co-Chair Margie Honickman and her husband Jeffrey hosted more than 100 guests at their home. In addition to lighting candles and singing the Chanukah blessings, the guests had the privilege of hearing from Birthright Israel co-founder, Charles Bronfman, as well as Birthright Israel alumni Zach Berman and Jason Mazursky. The evening raised close to $900,000.
From left to right: Jeffrey and Margie Honickman, Rita and Charles Bronfman, Susanna Lachs Adler, Co-Chair Philadelphia Leadership Council, and Alex Stroker, Interim CEO Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia.
LOS ANGELES, CA
NOV 20, 2013 LOS ANGELES EVENT
Frank Luntz hosted a successful evening at his home with Co-Chairs Debbie and Mark Attanasio. Some 80 guests were in attendance and heard from Mike Leven on the importance of supporting Birthright Israel. The evening successfully raised over $250,000 in new gifts.
From left to right: Mark Attanasio, Mike Leven, Richard Sandler (President Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles) and Frank Luntz. 29
y Sonja’s Birthright Israel Journe in January. 2013. Sonja, 25, and her husband Sam, 27, participated in a Birthright Israel trip
I wish that everyone could see what it’s like to honor Jewish values and bring them into your home…I’d always heard great things about Birthright Israel, but I don’t think it’s possible to appreciate how life-changing the trip is until you experience it for yourself. It’s unforgettable. Growing up, Israel had always been an abstract concept for me, but now I look at it very differently. I feel a real connection to the country and its people. The trip gave Sam and I the push we needed to be observant in ways that have meaning for us. Birthright Israel reinforced our cultural identity; now, we want to take that pause on Shabbat, for example. I find a lot of comfort in Jewish traditions— the power of these rituals is really important to me.
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Since we visited Israel, we’ve done a lot of Shabbats with Birthright Israel friends;we’ve also done charity work with them, delivering food to Jews in need. Thanks to our Birthright Israel experience, there’s a real Jewish community here for us now, which we never had before.
Shabbat of a Lifetime
One of my absolute favorite experiences was having Shabbat dinner in the home of a rabbi and his family. It was so lovely to be welcomed into their home and to experience how they live and celebrate the Sabbath. I wish that everyone could see what it’s like to honor Jewish values and bring them into your home as this Israeli family does. Sleeping under the Stars
We stayed overnight in a Bedouin tent in the desert, then got up in the morning and had a camel ride. It was a beautiful way to start the day. Mifgash (“Encounter”)
Traveling with Israelis was one of the most incredible parts of the program. It’s eye-opening to spend time with kids your age who have had three years’ military service, and to hear about their lives and experiences.
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NEXT A DIVISION OF BRIF
Empowering Alumni to Create & Connect to Jewish Experiences Our community has an unprecedented opportunity to help 10-day Birthright Israel trips spark lifelong Jewish journeys. As the only organization working on behalf of Birthright Israel alumni on a national level, NEXT: A Division of Birthright Israel Foundation leverages this opportunity, building partnerships with organizations big and small – grassroots and mainstream – to create a more dynamic Jewish landscape for the Birthright Israel generation. What does this look like? Take, for instance, the Idea Slam NEXT hosted in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Las Vegas. At this creative brainstorming event, NEXT put a group of local Birthrighters in the ‘driver’s seat’ of their involvement with the Las Vegas Jewish community. In just one hour, they emerged with 100+ ideas for new projects that they believed would engage the city’s growing population of young Jewish adults.
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And it doesn’t stop there. These Birthrighters will be empowered to bring their ideas to life in the coming months, solidifying their role as equal partners in community building. “Birthright Israel is just the beginning,” says Elliot B. Karp, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Las Vegas. “It has changed their lives, and our alumni are helping to create a rich, diverse and dynamic future for our Las Vegas Jewish community.” By consulting with communities like Las Vegas to effect systemic improvements in young adult engagement, and providing individual opportunities for Birthrighters to create their own Jewish experiences, NEXT will deepen their connection to Judaism, Jewish communities, the Jewish people, and Israel.
THE NUMBERS NEXT SHABBAT ■
7,500+ Birthrighters have hosted more than 17,400 NEXT Shabbat experiences with a
total attendance of 240,000 young adults.
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Moishe House residents have hosted 1,000+ additional NEXT Shabbat experiences.
NEXT HOLIDAY GRANTS ■
1,325+ alumni have hosted 1,650+ Jewish holiday experiences with a total attendance
of 22,500+ young adults.
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NEXT’s interactive High Holiday map included 568 events in 295+ cities across the
United States.
ACCESS TO LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS ■
NEXT’s search-by-city directory (birthrightisraelnext.org/directory) connects alumni with
150+ organizations, projects and meet-ups in 41 local Jewish communities.
TRAINING PROFESSIONALS & VOLUNTEERS ■
In 2013, NEXT trained 135 professionals and volunteers tasked with engaging young adults
from 95 different organizations at 7 convenings throughout the country.
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SOCIAL MEDIA Since January 1, 2013 the Birthright Israel Foundation has hosted a series of daily interactions aimed at connecting with our diverse audience. Whether through contests, haikus, Jewish themed playlists, fill-in-theblanks, or Israeli news stories, we aim to converse with and reconnect to all facets and demographics of our constituency using the various forms of social media now available. Each channel offers a slightly different way to stay informed.
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50,000+ LIKES TWO CONTESTS IN 2013 SOCIAL MEDIA REFERRAL CONTEST
• 11,655 unique visits to our website
• 2,917 signups for trip news Not quite sure what to pack for your upcoming trip? Need a kitschy, Jewish-themed craft project? Our Pinterest page is a virtual pin board that organizes and shares all the interesting things we find on the web relating to Birthright Israel.
PHOTO CONTEST
• 793 unique entries • 3,583 pictures uploaded • 6,000+ click throughs to the contest page from over ten countries • Prizes included flights to Israel, iPads, and more!
8,500+
FOLLOWERS @TAGLITBRI
YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM
#BIRTHRIGHTISRAEL Watch a participant’s trip unfold live by following our hashtag #birthrightisrael
83+ VIDEOS • 1,794 subscribers • 3,339,957 lifetime video views
SPOTIFY
LISTEN TO THE SOUNDS OF ISRAEL with the official Birthright Israel Playlist on Spotify!
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Board of Directors EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
BOARD MEMBERS
Daniel S. Och Chair Charles R. Bronfman Vice Chair Joe Gutman Vice Chair Sander Levy Treasurer / Vice Chair Laurie Blitzer Jon Jacobson Al Levitt Joshua Nash
Madlyn Abramson Mark Charendoff Sender Cohen Susie Gelman Michael Jesselson Arlene Kaufman Ivan Kaufman Debbie Kimel Ex-officio Michael A. Leven David Mamet Marlene Post Secretary Remy Roizen Michael J. Sacks Jenna Segal Jane F. Sherman Stephen M. Siderow
DIRECTORS EMERITI Edgar M. Bronfman z�l Lynn Schusterman Michael H. Steinhardt
Professional Team Miguel Alfonseca Suzanne Alpert Barbara Aronson Special Advisor to the President Margot Atlas Michelle Ben-Aviv PJ Cherrin Daniel DiPaolo Pamela Fertel Weinstein David Fisher, President Faina Fishman Liz Foreman Scott Friedman Deborah Fuld Mara Ganz Ruvym Gilman Jennifer L. Goldstone Chief Operating Officer
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Irit Gross Sean Hallerud Jennifer Hillel Shira Hutt Vice President, Principal Gifts & Strategic Initiatives Gail Hyman Vice President of Communications & Marketing Emily Kandel Jessica Katz Dorothy Kauffman Carole-Ann Levine Niccole Lewis Rachel Lowenstein Marina Markina Aidel Miller Chaia Nadal Serena Orgel Young
Art Paikowsky Meryl Rowin Alison Saltz Judy Secunda David Shapiro Chief Financial Officer Cynthia Simmons Max Stettner Sarah Thomas Jason Thompson Keren Veisblatt Toledano Mitchell Wein Amiel Weisblum Gary Weinstein Hannah Wolff Zhe Yang Serena Young Harriet Zeitlin
Regional Councils ATLANTA Ginny Adams Eliot Arnovitz Jeremy Becker George Birnbaum Lois Blonder Ellen Chalef Claire D’Agostino Ann Davis Larry Frank Nancy Galanti Adrian Grant Keith Greenwald Michael Horowitz Scott Horowitz Ross Kogon David Koonin Michael Leven Andrew Levin Noah Levine Bernie Marcus Honorary Chair Harry Maziar Larry Miller Matt Oppenheimer Barbara Perlis Doug Ross Chair Alyssa Schmucker Jessica Segal Linda Selig Cathy Selig Kuranoff Orit Sklar Allen Soden Lynda Walker LONG ISLAND Barbara Cooper Steven Cooper Ned Dorman David Fastenberg Bettina Finn Amy Fromer Jon Held Susan Held Freddi Kadden James Krantz Lori Krantz Michael Lax Larry Magid Robert Miller David Pelton Rebecca Schaja Steve Shenfeld
Barry Swidler Chair Carol Swidler
Alain Roizen Ellen Roizen Chair Remy Roizen Saskia Siderow Stephen Siderow Wendy Siegel Mitchell Steir Nancy Ganz Steir
MIDWEST John Abrams Lynn Abrams Nancy Barnett Bradley Bell Chuck Cohen Andrew Echt Jeff Finkelstein Loren Frieder Lynda Giles Betsy Green Paula Harris Gordon Hecker Brian Hermelin Sue Kaufman Lori Komisar Andy Lucas Jen Lucas Mort Naiman Todd Polikoff Nancy Rhein Marc Schwartz Cindy Shapira Greg Siwak Amy Snider Scott Solomon Todd Stettner Gail Weinberg Lori Wishne Suzanne Wolf NORTHWEST Dennis Albers Debbie Berkowitz Marc Blattner Amanda Glincher Jennifer Gorovitz Arielle Hendel Joe Levin Moses Libitzky Scott Seligman Chair Lisa Tabak Carol Traeger NYC Laurie Blitzer Susan Bogatin Lisa Cohen Susan Leavitt
NYC ALUMNI COUNCIL Melissa Cooper Elizabeth Snell Co-Chair David Swidler Sam Zises Co-Chair ORLANDO Charles Schwartz Chair
PALM BEACH COUNTY Sara Aronson Kenneth Bierman David Brodsky Charles Bronfman Honorary Chair Deborah Cable Nanci Dephoure Stephen Dephoure Hope Dunkel Marla Egers Rani Garfinkle Amy Jonas Barbara Kay Jack Kay* Brahm Levine Edwin Levine Harriet Levine Judith Levy Chair Stacey Levy Bente Lyons Susan Pertnoy Selma Rosen Adele Shamban Alan Shulman Stuart Silver Gilda Slifka Mike Stein* Judy Swartz
PHILADELPHIA Leonard Abramson Madlyn Abramson Bryna Berman Nancy Fox Marjorie Honickman Co-Chair Susanna Lachs Adler Co-Chair Phil Neff Gail Norry Rabbi Michael Uram Lenard Zimmerman SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Jon Bosse Lili Bosse John Burnham Rick Entin Helgard Field Irwin Field Jodie Fishman Steven Fishman Anne Goldstein Denne Goldstein Debi Granoff Marc Granoff Ron Greitzer Marjorie Gross Robert Gross Marcia Jacks Corie Koss Michael Koss Aaron Leff Fae Lipeles David Mamet Robert Meth Lawrence Miller Adam Milstein Gila Milstein Joe Roberts Jay Sanderson Carrie Scott Michael Scott Scott Seligman Chair Auna Simon Joel Simon SOUTHWEST Michelle Blumenberg Elliot Karp Sara Koplik
Sarah Langert Judy Laufer Michael Leven Carol Levy Stuart Mellan Devon Schad Scott Seligman Chair Alex Shapiro Shelly Silverman Leonard Stone TEXAS David Barish Burton Bluestone John Eger Marilyn Englander Sarah Glauben Suzanne Jacobson Arielle Levy Ashleigh Miller Dr. Susan Noorily Stuart Prescott Dr. Barry Schneider Scott Seligman Chair WESTCHESTER Norm Alpert Eileen Bloom Ellen Brown Jeremy Cohen Susan Efron Tom Fleisch Martine Fleishman Peter Gatof Ellen Horing Mark Jurish Ellen Kaidanow Karen Spar Kasner Sheryl Kaye Shelly Kivell Co-Chair Michael Lowenstein Co-Chair Jane Och Tina Price Heidi Rieger Stephanie Spiegel Susan Weisfeld Keri Zaro
*Deceased
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Statement of Financial Position AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2012
ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents
$ 27,005,627
Cash held in escrow
230,623
Accounts receivable
339,752
Contributions receivable - net
1,617,242
Prepaid expenses and other assets
140,040
Investments 31,300 Fixed assets - net
635,836 $30,000,420
TOTAL ASSETS
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued expenses Deferred rent TOTAL LIABILITIES
$
979,013 241,441 1,220,454
NET ASSETS Unrestricted Temporarily restricted
22,617,546
TOTAL NET ASSETS
$28,779,966
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
$30,000,420
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$ 6,162,420
Statement of Activities FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012 FOUNDATION REVENUES AND OTHER SUPPORT
Contributions $ 101,939,119 Interest 12,491 Realized gain on investments 1,077 Other income 8,176 TOTAL REVENUES AND OTHER SUPPORT
101,960,863
EXPENSES PROGRAM EXPENSES
TAGLIT - Birthright Israel NEXT - Post programming TOTAL PROGRAM SERVICES
75,881,085 1,937,500
77,818,585
SUPPORTING SERVICES
Management and general 3,392,272 Fundraising 5,978,446 TOTAL SUPPORTING SERVICES
9,370,718
TOTAL EXPENSES
87,189,303
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS
14,771,560
NET ASSETS - BEGINNING OF YEAR NET ASSETS - END OF YEAR
14,008,406
$ 28,779,966
The statements of Financial Position and of Activities were derived from the 2012 audited financial statements of the Birthright Israel Foundation. A copy of the audited financial statements and form 990 for 2012 are available upon request. Our independent auditor is Grant Thornton.
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Statement of Activities FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2013* (PROJECTED)
REVENUE General contributions
$ 95,725,000
Investments and other income
$
30,000
$ 95,755,000
Grants to Taglit
$ 77,500,000
Operating expenses
$
TOTAL EXPENSES
$ 86,425,000
TOTAL REVENUE
EXPENSES
8,925,000
EXCESS OF REVENUE OVER EXPENSES
*AS OF NOVEMBER 2013
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$ 9,330,000
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