IsraelLINK and Jewish National Fund-USA Announce Strategic Educational Partnership

(November 1, 2024 — Los Angeles, CA) — IsraelLINK, a division of StandWithUs, a leader in digital Jewish identity and Israel education for students K - 12, and Jewish National Fund-USA, a leading philanthropic movement that builds a strong, vibrant future for the land and people of Israel through bold initiatives and Zionist education, are proud to announce a groundbreaking educational collaboration for educators and students. The new program aims to strengthen Jewish identity education and offer students a unique opportunity to explore modern, practical applications of profound ancient texts. 

As part of the collaboration, educators will have access to professional development workshops in their cities, designed to enhance their understanding and foundational knowledge of Israel's evolving history while equipping them with valuable tools to enrich classroom learning and deepen students’ connection to the land and people of Israel. 

This joint initiative includes launching a new Tu BiShvat lesson focused on the spirit of Israel’s reforestation efforts following the devastation and aftermath of October 7th, and the tens of thousands of acres of destroyed land. This innovative and inspiring lesson will showcase Israel’s resilience and commitment to environmental stewardship, offering students a deep connection to our ancestral Homeland through the shared act of rebuilding, thus embodying the enduring values that shape Jewish identity. 

"This collaboration between StandWithUs and Jewish National Fund-USA is a natural fit," said Mina Rush Executive Director of Classroom Education for StandWithUs and the creator of IsraelLINK. " Together, we are instilling a deep sense of moral responsibility for the next generation to care for the land and people of Israel, while equipping educators with the skills they need to inspire and engage their students.” 

“By combining Jewish National Fund-USA’s deep-rooted commitment to the land and people of Israel and environmental and economic conservation with IsraelLINK’s expertise in digital education and Jewish identity building, this partnership will offer impactful resources and experiences for educators and students alike,” added Marnie Nadolne, Jewish National Fund-USA’s Director of Community Engagement. 

For more information and to register for the Tu BiShvat lesson and Tree Planting Campaign, CLICK HERE.  For professional development opportunities, and to learn more about this exciting partnership, please visit www.IsraelLINK.org or contact info@IsraelLINK.org. 

About IsraelLINK:  

IsraelLINK is dedicated to fostering Jewish connections and deepening knowledge of Israel through dynamic, digital educational experiences. By crafting compelling content and resources, IsraelLINK empowers students and educators to explore Israel’s rich tapestry through the lens of their core values, strengthening the understanding of its foundational and inextricable role in their Jewish identity. Learn more at: https://www.israellink.org/ 

About Jewish National Fund-USA: 

Jewish National Fund-USA builds a strong, vibrant future for the land and people of Israel through bold initiatives and Zionist education. As a leading philanthropic movement, the organization supports critical environmental and nation-building activities in Israel’s north and south as it develops new communities in the Negev and Galilee, connects the next generation to Israel, and creates infrastructure and programs that support ecology, people with disabilities, and heritage site preservation, all while running a fully accredited study abroad experience through its Alexander Muss High School in Israel. Learn more at:  https://www.jnf.org/ 

About StandWithUs:  

StandWithUs is an international, non-partisan education organization that supports Israel and fights antisemitism. StandWithUs empowers and energizes students and communities with leadership training and educational programs on hundreds of college campuses, high schools, and middle schools. StandWithUs informs through social media, print and digital materials, films, weekly newsletters, and missions to Israel. Learn more at:  https://www.standwithus.com/