Israel

Collective Lavo B’tov

Often, people with disabilities lack social contacts and meaningful support. Shoshi Margolin and Rachel Kolette Wheeler, originally mentee and mentor, have come together to found Collective Lavo B’tov, a colloquialism that refers to having a good attitude. Collective Lavo B’tov is one project within a larger effort that empowers those with disabilities who are often isolated and provides them with community and support. As Israel navigates the trauma of October 7 and an ongoing war, Lavo B’tov’s programming removes the isolation and provides a community of caring and compassion for disabled people.

Our funds are directed to start-up costs for this new venture.

Brit Ha’Leviot

When Leora’s daughter Nili was 15, she shared that she felt uncomfortable in her body. For two years, Nili’s mental health deteriorated, until she met with a therapist who helped her through her gender transition.

What do parents do in that kind of situation? Seeking support, Leora came upon the work of Brit Ha’Leviot. “At first it was rough. I cried about…how bad things are…. But “the alliance of lionesses encouraged me … I found people who understood what I was going through,” Leora says.

In 2016, Merav Livni Keish joined with three other mothers of trans kids to address these new challenges. Their mutual support evolved into Brit Ha’Leviot, an organization now dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of trans and gender diverse children, supporting their families, transforming institutions and educating Israeli society at large.

Our matching funds are directed to administrative expenses.

Tag Meir

Gadi Gvaryahu began Tag Meir in 2011 to address racism in Israel and to help solidify a more democratic and humanitarian society informed by Jewish values. Members of the organization come from all sectors of the Israel Jewish and Arab communities as well as from other established social justice organizations. All share a deep desire for a more just and compassionate society.

Israeli Transgender Association

Guided by her own difficult journey, Linor Abergel, a trans woman, found her way out of prostitution to establish a Tel Aviv community center that offers other women in similar circumstances a safe space, nourishing food, clothing, cultural activities and educational opportunities. Linor has also become an advisor to Knesset members on issues important to her community.

Our grant provides funds for individuals who find themselves in need of emergency support.

JLM Food Rescuers

40% of edible food, around 2.5 million tons in Israel alone, is discarded unnecessarily along every step of the food supply chain. At the same time, food insecurity, or the ability for people to provide sufficient healthy food for themselves or their family, continues to be a problem. Daniella Seltzer and Itay Peled have come together to start the JLM Food Rescuers in the Givat Shaul produce market in Jerusalem. This creative social business builds community in the city, while at the same time rescues tons of beautiful produce which is redistributed to hungry people, and also used for delicious recipes for the program’s catering business.

Our matching funds are directed to expenses incurred at the produce market where the program operates.

Magen for Jewish Communities

Sexual abuse within Israeli society (and elsewhere) has finally come out of the shadows and is receiving the attention it deserves. As the Executive Director, Shana Aaronson and her staff are deeply committed to providing multiple ways to support victims of this trauma. Working with compassion, they offer victims access to therapy and other communal resources. But, perhaps, most important is their belief in the victim, so often missing in these circumstances. Magen also works to educate the community and promotes full transparency. For them, victims’ needs take precedence.

Our funds are directed to advocacy and investigatory staffing.