On October 29, 2024, IAJF held its 23rd Annual Gala at Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall. Coming together after an extremely difficult year, it was energizing to see a full house, with over 1,200 people in attendance, including more than 500 members of our active Young Leadership Division. It was a powerful and emotional evening, with dignitaries, speakers, and local leaders joining our community to recognize IAJF’s work.

 

Some of the evening’s highlights:

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· IAJF gala emcee, Fauda star, actress, and dancer Rona-Lee Shimon, directed the audience through the evening’s touching journey, emphasizing the light IAJF brought to a dark year.

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· The NYPD Ceremonial Unit Color Guard performed the Star-Spangled Banner.

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· IAJF’s connection to Israel, always strong, was deepened this year, and that bond was on display throughout the evening. Singer and actor Omer Shaish sang a beautiful rendition of Hatikvah and led a prayer for the IDF soldiers. Consul General of Israel in New York Ofir Akunis thanked IAJF for its work on behalf of the State and people of Israel.

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· New York Governor Kathy Hochul spoke passionately about the importance of a strong friendship between the U.S. and Israel.

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· Naftali Bennett, 13th Prime Minister of Israel, delivered a message of optimism for the future and highlighted the importance of all Israelis and Jews standing united, coming together despite our differences to support one another during these challenging times.

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· IAJF President Steven Khadavi addressed IAJF’s strong standing and partnerships here at home and on the ground in Israel, and how these were used to help thousands impacted by the war. He spoke movingly about what IAJF has accomplished this past year, providing physical and emotional support to thousands of soldiers, refugees, terror victims, and heroes.

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· Young Leadership Division Presidents Daniel Mahfar and Ashley Yadidi spoke of the connection they feel to the youth and young adults in Israel who have been suffering this past year. After a successful fourth campaign supporting at-risk youth impacted by the war, our young leaders are now raising money for survivors of the Nova attack, ensuring that their peers in Israel have the support they need to recover and thrive.

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· NOVA survivors in the audience were acknowledged. Nili Margalit told her personal story as a survivor of Kibbutz Nir Oz, her experience as a hostage in the hands of Hamas and spoke passionately about those still in captivity.

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IAJF raised $10 million in the last year, including $4.6 million in emergency funds, and we are grateful to the IAJF community for its support and generosity.