Nearly 500 philanthropists united at the Newton Marriott on Monday, April 7, 2025, for Jewish National Fund-USA’s annual Breakfast for Israel to show their steadfast support for the land and people of Israel and to learn how the organization is spearheading initiatives to rebuild communities in Israel’s North and South.
Co-chaired by Roberta & Bill Greenberg, Danielle & Steven Senzer, and Julianne Zeff, the event’s keynote speaker was Gadi Ezra, a Special Forces veteran, legal expert, and Israel’s former National Public Diplomacy Unit Director at the Prime Minister’s Office. Ezra drew upon his experience to highlight how Israel navigates complex issues on the global stage, explaining the country’s delicate balance of national security, legal considerations, and the critical need to shape public perception. Ezra also analyzed the connection between Hamas and UNRWA, which he noted are sometimes intertwined.
“The vast majority of UNRWA employees in the Gaza Strip are local, and you can’t really distinguish between them,” said Ezra in a recent episode of Jewish National Fund-USA’s IsraelCast. “So one should not be surprised when affiliated members are actively participating in attacks on Israel and inciting the younger generation by inflaming antisemitism.”
The organization’s local lay leaders and professionals also discussed Jewish National Fund-USA’s Circles of Impact, in which every project, vision, and program supports job creation, community resilience, and economic development—key drivers of population growth in Israel’s Negev and Galilee regions.
“It’s a ripple effect—revitalizing communities, boosting local economies, and fostering greater security and resilience,” said Jewish National Fund-USA Executive Director, New England, Sara Hefez. “Our work is not just about constructing buildings or launching programs; rather, it is intrinsically designed to create lasting change that strengthens Israel’s future.”
“There is so much incredible work that we do,” added event co-chair Julianne Zeff. “No matter what your profession or your passion is, there are going to be projects or affiliate groups at Jewish National Fund-USA that mean something to you.”
The lay leaders also highlighted Jewish National Fund-USA’s comprehensive Build Together plan for Israel’s south and Reimagine plan for the north, and how the organization is working in both regions to invest in housing, infrastructure, and mental health resources to help Israeli communities recover and thrive.
“October 7 was nearly 550 days ago, but it feels like yesterday,” said the organization’s Boston Board of Directors President and Women for Israel Chair Rhonda Forman. “Decades prior to October 7, 2023, Jewish National Fund-USA has been there for the people of the North and the South. We are rebuilding, revitalizing, and rejuvenating Israel. I invite you to act today—not out of obligation, but out of conviction. Conviction in a dream that is thousands of years old, a dream we’ve been fortunate enough to see become reality in our lifetime.”
Attendees were also invited to Jewish National Fund-USA’s Global Conference for Israel in Hollywood, FL, taking place from Thursday, Oct. 23, to Sunday, Oct. 26.
For more information about Jewish National Fund-USA or to learn about upcoming events in Boston, visit jnf.org or contact Boston director Emily Pfeffer at epfeffer@jnf.org or 617-423-0999 ext. 812.
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