Last month, a grove of trees was planted in the Be’eri Forest in the Negev region, a testament to the power of collective action and cross-continental collaboration. This grove, a donation from CJP’s Boston-Haifa Connection schools, stands as a symbol of resilience and enduring commitment to Jewish tradition and heritage.
The project was part of the School-to-School Connections Program, an initiative by the Boston-Haifa Connection that pairs 16 schools in Haifa with 16 schools in Boston. This program fosters Jewish identity and community through mutual learning and shared responsibilities. By engaging students in both educational and hands-on experiences, the program strengthens their connection to their heritage and the broader Jewish community.
In this year’s project, students were encouraged to reflect on what gives them hope and to connect with nature through the “Tree of Hope” initiative. The effort included a fundraising component, where students demonstrated leadership and community spirit by raising $3,700. This amount not only covered the cost of planting the trees but also exemplified the spirit of collective contribution and taking action in a time when hope is really needed.
KKL-JNF, inspired by the dedication of the students and their communities, decided to plant an entire grove in the Be’eri Forest on behalf of all participating schools. This generous gesture underscores the impact of working together toward a common goal and highlights the importance of collective effort in creating lasting change.
In recognition of this collaborative achievement, a tile was placed at the Nahal Assaf recognition center near Kibbutz Re’im at the end of June. This tile serves as a lasting tribute to the partnership and the shared commitment to fostering hope and growth.
For 35 years, the Boston-Haifa Connection has been a beacon of Jewish unity and collaboration. The School-to-School Program, in particular, stands out for its ability to bridge communities and deepen the understanding of Jewish heritage among students. By engaging on multiple levels—knowledge, experience and action—students gain a comprehensive perspective on their identity and their role within the larger Jewish community.
Looking ahead, the “Tree of Hope” project aims to continue expanding, with hopes that next year’s initiatives will further strengthen the connections between schools and communities while contributing to the rehabilitation of Israel’s forest destroyed by the war. Visitors to Israel are encouraged to visit the tribute center at Nahal Assaf and share their experiences, continuing to foster a bond that transcends borders.
The Boston-Haifa Connection remains committed to nurturing these connections and ensuring that future generations stay engaged with their shared heritage. Through projects like this, the partnership not only celebrates Jewish traditions but also demonstrates how collaboration and shared values can inspire hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
Anna Varsanyi is the Peoplehood Committee coordinator at CJP’s Boston-Haifa Connection. Anna made aliyah 12 years ago from Budapest, Hungary, and lives in Haifa with her husband, two daughters and an ever-changing number of cats.
Stephanie Ben Shimon is the educational coordinator of the Jewish Peoplehood Committee at CJP’s Boston-Haifa Connection. Stephanie lives in Givat Ela, a communal settlement in the Jezreel Valley Regional Council in Israel. She is married to David and has three sons.