SITE VISITS
IAJF Volunteers at a Summer Camp for Children with Cancer
August 9, 2019
IAJF-YL member Shireen Cohen volunteered for a day at Sunrise Day Camp on Long Island. Her group hosted a number of science activities for the campers as well as a pizza lunch. The guests also joined the campers for an enthusiastic camp-wide cheer and an impressive gymnastics show performed by campers.
IAJF is honored to partner with Sunrise Association, providing children with cancer and their siblings with the simple pleasures of camp and childhood, among peers who understand the difficulties they face.
“You can’t help but feel stunned at how positive and exultant the campers are despite the tremendous hardships that they face. There is a sense that everyone treats each other like family. It is one of the most uplifting and humbling experiences.” Shireen Cohen
IAJF-YL member Shireen Cohen volunteered for a day at Sunrise Day Camp on Long Island. Her group hosted a number of science activities for the campers as well as a pizza lunch. The guests also joined the campers for an enthusiastic camp-wide cheer and an impressive gymnastics show performed by campers.
IAJF is honored to partner with Sunrise Association, providing children with cancer and their siblings with the simple pleasures of camp and childhood, among peers who understand the difficulties they face.
“You can’t help but feel stunned at how positive and exultant the campers are despite the tremendous hardships that they face. There is a sense that everyone treats each other like family. It is one of the most uplifting and humbling experiences.” Shireen Cohen
IAJF Visits TAU Alliance Center for Iranian Studies
March 27, 2019
An IAJF delegation visited the Alliance Center for Iranian Studies, dedicating a plaque for IAJF’s support of scholarships to advanced degree students over the last ten years, and inaugurating the new IAJF Program on Iranian Jews in Israel. The program will collect material on Zionist activity in Iran, on the immigration to Israel, and on the hardships and achievements of Iranian Jews in Israel during the past 100 years. The program will eventually facilitate the publication of articles and a book on this important topic.
IAJF is proud to work with the Alliance Center on this pioneering historical and sociological research on Iranian Jews, training a new generation of Israeli experts and scholars on Iran.
An IAJF delegation visited the Alliance Center for Iranian Studies, dedicating a plaque for IAJF’s support of scholarships to advanced degree students over the last ten years, and inaugurating the new IAJF Program on Iranian Jews in Israel. The program will collect material on Zionist activity in Iran, on the immigration to Israel, and on the hardships and achievements of Iranian Jews in Israel during the past 100 years. The program will eventually facilitate the publication of articles and a book on this important topic.
IAJF is proud to work with the Alliance Center on this pioneering historical and sociological research on Iranian Jews, training a new generation of Israeli experts and scholars on Iran.
IAJF Visits TeLeM at Kibbutz Mishmar HaEmek
June 29, 2018
IAJF Vice President David Emrani and IAJF VP Frank Lalezarian along with his wife Flora visited one of the Kibbutzim operating the TeLeM program, which offers living arrangements, employment, education, and life skills courses for Ethiopian youth. During their visit, the IAJF representatives met several recipients of IAJF-sponsored scholarships for vocational studies. They also met with Eitzik Shafran, TeLeM Program Manager, and Moran Rosenberg, TeLeM Program Coordinator, toured the Kibbutz, and visited the “TAMA” plant, a world-leading manufacturer of crop packaging products.
IAJF Vice President David Emrani and IAJF VP Frank Lalezarian along with his wife Flora visited one of the Kibbutzim operating the TeLeM program, which offers living arrangements, employment, education, and life skills courses for Ethiopian youth. During their visit, the IAJF representatives met several recipients of IAJF-sponsored scholarships for vocational studies. They also met with Eitzik Shafran, TeLeM Program Manager, and Moran Rosenberg, TeLeM Program Coordinator, toured the Kibbutz, and visited the “TAMA” plant, a world-leading manufacturer of crop packaging products.
IAJF Visits Beit Ruth Village in Afula
June 27, 2018
A team of IAJF leadership including Chairman Shahram Yaghoubzadeh; Executive VP Kouros Torkan, along with his wife Karen; and IAJF Treasurer Frank Shahery, along with his sons, Young Leadership Division members Kevin and Daniel, visited Beit Ruth Village for at-risk young girls. During their visit, they met with Iris Twerski, the village managing director, Mor Lipin, the program manager, and members of the counseling team. They toured Beit Ruth’s Residential House and School and the IAJF-sponsored art, music, and therapy rooms. The group enjoyed a musical performance by Beit Ruth’s music class and participated in a special ceremony unveiling a plaque recognizing the IAJF for its support.
A team of IAJF leadership including Chairman Shahram Yaghoubzadeh; Executive VP Kouros Torkan, along with his wife Karen; and IAJF Treasurer Frank Shahery, along with his sons, Young Leadership Division members Kevin and Daniel, visited Beit Ruth Village for at-risk young girls. During their visit, they met with Iris Twerski, the village managing director, Mor Lipin, the program manager, and members of the counseling team. They toured Beit Ruth’s Residential House and School and the IAJF-sponsored art, music, and therapy rooms. The group enjoyed a musical performance by Beit Ruth’s music class and participated in a special ceremony unveiling a plaque recognizing the IAJF for its support.
IAJF Visits Rambam Health Care Campus in Northern Israel
June 26, 2018
Health Care Campus and met with the hospital’s director, Professor Rafi Beyar, and International Relations Director Dr. Esther Golan. They discussed the plans for the soon-to-be-built Eyal Ofer Heart Hospital, where the IAJF has sponsored a post-procedure follow-up care room. In addition, department heads updated the guests on the newest imaging and robotic modalities used at Rambam, as well as the underground parking lot that converts to a hospital in an emergency. IAJF’s ongoing support has been essential in Rambam's efforts to provide state-of-the-art healthcare and facilities to the people of Northern Israel.
Health Care Campus and met with the hospital’s director, Professor Rafi Beyar, and International Relations Director Dr. Esther Golan. They discussed the plans for the soon-to-be-built Eyal Ofer Heart Hospital, where the IAJF has sponsored a post-procedure follow-up care room. In addition, department heads updated the guests on the newest imaging and robotic modalities used at Rambam, as well as the underground parking lot that converts to a hospital in an emergency. IAJF’s ongoing support has been essential in Rambam's efforts to provide state-of-the-art healthcare and facilities to the people of Northern Israel.
IAJF Visits Sheba Medical Center in Tel HaShomer
June 25, 2018
On a recent visit to Sheba Medical Center, a leading medical center in the Middle East, IAJF Chairman Shahram Yaghoubzadeh toured a Trauma Unit central monitoring station sponsored by IAJF. He also visited the recently opened Department of Emergency Medicine and the adjacent planned simulation center that IAJF has pledged to support. Mr. Yaghoubzadeh met with Professor Yitzhak Kreiss, Director-General of Sheba, and Professor Elhanan Bar-On, Head of the Center for Disaster Medicine and Humanitarian Response, who both personally expressed their appreciation for IAJF’s strong support of the hospital and the Center.
On a recent visit to Sheba Medical Center, a leading medical center in the Middle East, IAJF Chairman Shahram Yaghoubzadeh toured a Trauma Unit central monitoring station sponsored by IAJF. He also visited the recently opened Department of Emergency Medicine and the adjacent planned simulation center that IAJF has pledged to support. Mr. Yaghoubzadeh met with Professor Yitzhak Kreiss, Director-General of Sheba, and Professor Elhanan Bar-On, Head of the Center for Disaster Medicine and Humanitarian Response, who both personally expressed their appreciation for IAJF’s strong support of the hospital and the Center.
IAJF Visits Notnim Tikva at Sheba Children’s Hospital
June 25, 2018
IAJF representatives were hosted at the Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital at Sheba Tel HaShomer and taken on a tour by Shmuel Moshe, Notnim Tikva’s CEO, and Dr. Omer Bar-Yosef, Director of Pediatric Clinics. The guests met with patients and family members who have benefited from Notnim Tikva’s volunteers and support. They visited the Music Center and the onsite professional recording studio for children treated at the hospital. IAJF Chairman Shahram Yaghoubzadeh joined in on the drums during a recording session with two of the children. He accepted a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of the IAJF and received a Thank You sign prepared by the children in gratitude for IAJF’s commitment to sponsor a multimedia system for the music center.
IAJF representatives were hosted at the Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital at Sheba Tel HaShomer and taken on a tour by Shmuel Moshe, Notnim Tikva’s CEO, and Dr. Omer Bar-Yosef, Director of Pediatric Clinics. The guests met with patients and family members who have benefited from Notnim Tikva’s volunteers and support. They visited the Music Center and the onsite professional recording studio for children treated at the hospital. IAJF Chairman Shahram Yaghoubzadeh joined in on the drums during a recording session with two of the children. He accepted a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of the IAJF and received a Thank You sign prepared by the children in gratitude for IAJF’s commitment to sponsor a multimedia system for the music center.
IAJF Visits Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem
June 24, 2018
IAJF Chairman Shahram Yaghoubzadeh toured Shaare Zedek Medical Center with Akiva Holzer, Director of Special Projects. They viewed the cutting-edge Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) as well as the Emergency Room and Trauma Unit, all supported by IAJF. Mr. Yaghoubzadeh received an update from Professor Jonathan Halevy, Director-General of Shaare Zedek, on the anticipated opening of a new Department of Surgery and Cancer Center. The hospital leadership thanked the IAJF personally for its ongoing support which enables constant striving for medical excellence and expansion of services.
IAJF Chairman Shahram Yaghoubzadeh toured Shaare Zedek Medical Center with Akiva Holzer, Director of Special Projects. They viewed the cutting-edge Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) as well as the Emergency Room and Trauma Unit, all supported by IAJF. Mr. Yaghoubzadeh received an update from Professor Jonathan Halevy, Director-General of Shaare Zedek, on the anticipated opening of a new Department of Surgery and Cancer Center. The hospital leadership thanked the IAJF personally for its ongoing support which enables constant striving for medical excellence and expansion of services.
IAJF Visits Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon
June 15, 2018
IAJF Vice President Hercel Harounian, accompanied by his wife Fariba and son Jason, a Young Leadership Division member, met with Dr. Ron Lobel, Deputy CEO of Barzilai Medical Center, and Michael Shichor, a hospital volunteer. They toured the facilities and discussed the unique challenges of managing a top-rated medical facility within six miles of the Gaza border. IAJF representatives viewed some of the equipment donated by IAJF, as well as the brand-new fortified building that was inaugurated earlier this year and the IAJF-sponsored IVF surgical department. The IAJF representatives also met with Professor Eyal Antebi, head of the gynecology and delivery departments, who personally thanked the IAJF for its longstanding support of the Medical Center.
IAJF Vice President Hercel Harounian, accompanied by his wife Fariba and son Jason, a Young Leadership Division member, met with Dr. Ron Lobel, Deputy CEO of Barzilai Medical Center, and Michael Shichor, a hospital volunteer. They toured the facilities and discussed the unique challenges of managing a top-rated medical facility within six miles of the Gaza border. IAJF representatives viewed some of the equipment donated by IAJF, as well as the brand-new fortified building that was inaugurated earlier this year and the IAJF-sponsored IVF surgical department. The IAJF representatives also met with Professor Eyal Antebi, head of the gynecology and delivery departments, who personally thanked the IAJF for its longstanding support of the Medical Center.
IAJF Visits Aleh Negev-Nahalat Eran Rehabilitation Village in Southern Israel
June 15, 2018
IAJF Vice President Hercel Harounian, along with his wife Fariba and son Jason, visited the Aleh Negev Village for severely mentally and physically challenged Israeli children and youths. The IAJF representatives toured the Complex Nursing Center, Central Garden, and Amphitheater. They also had a special opportunity to meet and even play with the children. Avi Vortzman, the CEO of Aleh Negev, presented IAJF with a plaque for past contributions to the Residential Medical Clinic Building and expressed gratitude for IAJF’s recent sponsorship of a Group Therapy room at the Rehab Neuro-Orthopedic Hospital.
IAJF Vice President Hercel Harounian, along with his wife Fariba and son Jason, visited the Aleh Negev Village for severely mentally and physically challenged Israeli children and youths. The IAJF representatives toured the Complex Nursing Center, Central Garden, and Amphitheater. They also had a special opportunity to meet and even play with the children. Avi Vortzman, the CEO of Aleh Negev, presented IAJF with a plaque for past contributions to the Residential Medical Clinic Building and expressed gratitude for IAJF’s recent sponsorship of a Group Therapy room at the Rehab Neuro-Orthopedic Hospital.
IAJF Visits Sunrise Day Camp on Long Island
July 28, 2017
In July IAJF board member Ben Moosazadeh participated in Sunrise Day Camp’s annual Volunteer Day, joining in activities with the campers. Mr. Moosazadeh also toured the camp facilities, meeting staff and volunteers who contribute daily to bettering the lives of children with cancer and their families.
"It was a sad, rewarding, and moving experience. I was glad to see that through people's and organizations' generosity, these kids have some normality in their lives and in the life of their siblings. It makes me proud that IAJF has decided to support this worthy cause." ~ Ben Moosazadeh
In July IAJF board member Ben Moosazadeh participated in Sunrise Day Camp’s annual Volunteer Day, joining in activities with the campers. Mr. Moosazadeh also toured the camp facilities, meeting staff and volunteers who contribute daily to bettering the lives of children with cancer and their families.
"It was a sad, rewarding, and moving experience. I was glad to see that through people's and organizations' generosity, these kids have some normality in their lives and in the life of their siblings. It makes me proud that IAJF has decided to support this worthy cause." ~ Ben Moosazadeh
IAJF Visits Aleh Negev-Nahalat Eran Rehabilitation Village in Southern Israel
July 13, 2017
In July Young Leadership Division member Mina Yaghoubzadeh visited Aleh Negev. She toured the multifaceted facility that provides a home and a safe environment to children and young adults with severe disabilities. Mina also visited the new clinic in the Village sponsored by IAJF.
“Aleh Negev is thoughtfully designed to cater to [residents’] needs and strengthen their physical and cognitive abilities. It is the only place of its kind and serves as a model for hope around the world. It’s such a happy place and really makes me believe we all have the ability to change the world for the better.” ~ Mina Yaghoubzadeh
In July Young Leadership Division member Mina Yaghoubzadeh visited Aleh Negev. She toured the multifaceted facility that provides a home and a safe environment to children and young adults with severe disabilities. Mina also visited the new clinic in the Village sponsored by IAJF.
“Aleh Negev is thoughtfully designed to cater to [residents’] needs and strengthen their physical and cognitive abilities. It is the only place of its kind and serves as a model for hope around the world. It’s such a happy place and really makes me believe we all have the ability to change the world for the better.” ~ Mina Yaghoubzadeh
IAJF Visits Yemin Orde Youth Village in Northern Israel
July 2, 2017
Several IAJF board members visited Yemin Orde in July. They met with staff and graduates of the Young Men’s Mechina, a gap-year program for disadvantaged immigrant youth. They also met with participants in the IAJF vocational scholarship program, Mechina graduates who have completed their military service.
“It was so heart-warming to see an organization taking these young guys who do not have supportive families, under their umbrella, giving them guidance, and teaching them some skills and profession in their vocational school, to make them productive and successful members of society. They deserve full support.” ~ Frank Lalezarian
Several IAJF board members visited Yemin Orde in July. They met with staff and graduates of the Young Men’s Mechina, a gap-year program for disadvantaged immigrant youth. They also met with participants in the IAJF vocational scholarship program, Mechina graduates who have completed their military service.
“It was so heart-warming to see an organization taking these young guys who do not have supportive families, under their umbrella, giving them guidance, and teaching them some skills and profession in their vocational school, to make them productive and successful members of society. They deserve full support.” ~ Frank Lalezarian
IAJF Visits TeLem at Kibbutz Maagan Michael
July 2, 2017
In July a group of IAJF board members visited Telem, based on Kibbutz Maagan Michael. They toured Plasson, the kibbutz's plastics factory employing Telem graduates. The group also met Telem staff and recipients of IAJF vocational scholarships who spoke about their achievements and the possibilities ahead of them due to IAJF support.
“Over 1,000 graduates who received these lifesaving skills already succeeded in developing a career and leading a more productive life.” ~ Hersel Torkian
In July a group of IAJF board members visited Telem, based on Kibbutz Maagan Michael. They toured Plasson, the kibbutz's plastics factory employing Telem graduates. The group also met Telem staff and recipients of IAJF vocational scholarships who spoke about their achievements and the possibilities ahead of them due to IAJF support.
“Over 1,000 graduates who received these lifesaving skills already succeeded in developing a career and leading a more productive life.” ~ Hersel Torkian
IAJF Visits Amigour Sheltered Housing in Kfar Saba
April 12, 2017
There are a lot of images here – will let you know which one(s) to use.
Several members of IAJF’s board visited Amigour in April. They viewed recently completed rent-subsidized residential units that are home to 143 elderly people. The group also met with Holocaust survivors and immigrants who are among Amigour’s residents. The board members enjoyed a performance of the in-house senior choir and unveiled a plaque recognizing the IAJF’s support.
“It was so wonderful to see these seniors living the rest of their lives together as a family.” ~ Hercel Harounian
There are a lot of images here – will let you know which one(s) to use.
Several members of IAJF’s board visited Amigour in April. They viewed recently completed rent-subsidized residential units that are home to 143 elderly people. The group also met with Holocaust survivors and immigrants who are among Amigour’s residents. The board members enjoyed a performance of the in-house senior choir and unveiled a plaque recognizing the IAJF’s support.
“It was so wonderful to see these seniors living the rest of their lives together as a family.” ~ Hercel Harounian
IAJF Visits Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem
April 5, 2017
In April a group of IAJF board members toured the new Sarah Westman Davidson Tower and underground operating rooms at Hadassah Medical Center. The group also met with Hadassah Director and trauma care expert, Prof. Yoram Weiss.
“Hadassah Medical Center was established over one hundred years ago with the mission to extend a hand to all, without regard for race, religion or ethnic origin. We are proud to be a partner with this fine institution that provides the most modern medical care not only to the people of Israel but also to those who travel there for advanced care in hope of a cure.”
~ Shahram Yaghoubzadeh
In April a group of IAJF board members toured the new Sarah Westman Davidson Tower and underground operating rooms at Hadassah Medical Center. The group also met with Hadassah Director and trauma care expert, Prof. Yoram Weiss.
“Hadassah Medical Center was established over one hundred years ago with the mission to extend a hand to all, without regard for race, religion or ethnic origin. We are proud to be a partner with this fine institution that provides the most modern medical care not only to the people of Israel but also to those who travel there for advanced care in hope of a cure.”
~ Shahram Yaghoubzadeh
IAJF Visits Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem
June 29, 2015
In 2015, members of the IAJF board visited the magnificent new 19-story Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower in Ein Kerem, Jerusalem. Hospital Director Professor Yoram Weiss and renowned physicians welcomed the IAJF as a Guardians of the Dream sponsor. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the IAJF's Orthopedics Department rehabilitation room, dedicated to the IDF. Representatives also toured the hospital's five-floor, high tech underground Emergency Preparedness hospital, which was designated by the Israeli government as a "safe site in times of war." It can house the entire hospital and is impermeable to biological and chemical weapons.
SAVING A LIFE! In an emotional part of the visit, the group met Dvir, a thin young man in his twenties with a limp and a cane. When he was 12 years old and on a school field trip, he was out picking blueberries and stepped on a land mine that had been planted right next to his school bus by terrorists. He was gravely wounded and was sent immediately to Hadassah where he battled for his life. He needed reparative surgery on his legs and groin. Dvir acknowledged the remarkable care he received at Hadassah, which lasted years and included over 20 reconstructive surgeries and rehabilitation. He credited Hadassah's compassionate and caring doctors and nurses for his treatment. His chief surgeon was asked to preside at his wedding.
In 2015, members of the IAJF board visited the magnificent new 19-story Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower in Ein Kerem, Jerusalem. Hospital Director Professor Yoram Weiss and renowned physicians welcomed the IAJF as a Guardians of the Dream sponsor. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the IAJF's Orthopedics Department rehabilitation room, dedicated to the IDF. Representatives also toured the hospital's five-floor, high tech underground Emergency Preparedness hospital, which was designated by the Israeli government as a "safe site in times of war." It can house the entire hospital and is impermeable to biological and chemical weapons.
SAVING A LIFE! In an emotional part of the visit, the group met Dvir, a thin young man in his twenties with a limp and a cane. When he was 12 years old and on a school field trip, he was out picking blueberries and stepped on a land mine that had been planted right next to his school bus by terrorists. He was gravely wounded and was sent immediately to Hadassah where he battled for his life. He needed reparative surgery on his legs and groin. Dvir acknowledged the remarkable care he received at Hadassah, which lasted years and included over 20 reconstructive surgeries and rehabilitation. He credited Hadassah's compassionate and caring doctors and nurses for his treatment. His chief surgeon was asked to preside at his wedding.
IAJF Visits Eshkol Regional Council
June 29, 2015
Members of Eshkol hosted the IAJF at Kibbutz Nirim and held a beautiful inauguration ceremony at the playground sponsored by the IAJF. Gadi Yarkoni, the new head of Eshkol’s Regional Council presented the IAJF delegation with a flower-shaped sculpture made from a Kassam rocket, as a symbol of peace, turning destruction into art and rockets into flowers. Mr. Yarkoni is a true symbol of triumph over tragedy, becoming seriously injured in the last hour of the Gaza war from a mortar, losing both legs, and two of his friends were also killed. Following a difficult physical and emotional rehabilitation, Gadi chose to run for leadership of Eshkol.
The Kibbutz members acknowledged the importance of the IAJF support, which enriches the children's pastime, adds color to the Eshkol landscape and symbolizes solidarity and empathy – a valuable key to their internal resilience.
Members of Eshkol hosted the IAJF at Kibbutz Nirim and held a beautiful inauguration ceremony at the playground sponsored by the IAJF. Gadi Yarkoni, the new head of Eshkol’s Regional Council presented the IAJF delegation with a flower-shaped sculpture made from a Kassam rocket, as a symbol of peace, turning destruction into art and rockets into flowers. Mr. Yarkoni is a true symbol of triumph over tragedy, becoming seriously injured in the last hour of the Gaza war from a mortar, losing both legs, and two of his friends were also killed. Following a difficult physical and emotional rehabilitation, Gadi chose to run for leadership of Eshkol.
The Kibbutz members acknowledged the importance of the IAJF support, which enriches the children's pastime, adds color to the Eshkol landscape and symbolizes solidarity and empathy – a valuable key to their internal resilience.
IAJF visits Beith Halochem for IDF Disabled Veterans
June 29, 2015
Members of the IAJF board visited Beith Halochem Tel Aviv in June 2015 and met with ZDVO members and disabled veterans. During a brief tour of the facilities, the delegation saw a wheelchair basketball team in training, table-tennis play and fitness center workouts. IAJF members also visited the Physical Therapy Center and learned about therapeutic treatments available to disabled veterans. The visit ended with a viewing of the renovation of the Olympic swimming pool and the construction of the state-of-the-art Hydrotherapy Pool supported by the IAJF. Lives of many disabled veterans are about to greatly improve physically, emotionally and morally.
Members of the IAJF board visited Beith Halochem Tel Aviv in June 2015 and met with ZDVO members and disabled veterans. During a brief tour of the facilities, the delegation saw a wheelchair basketball team in training, table-tennis play and fitness center workouts. IAJF members also visited the Physical Therapy Center and learned about therapeutic treatments available to disabled veterans. The visit ended with a viewing of the renovation of the Olympic swimming pool and the construction of the state-of-the-art Hydrotherapy Pool supported by the IAJF. Lives of many disabled veterans are about to greatly improve physically, emotionally and morally.
AJF visits The Interdisciplinary Center (IDC)
June 25, 2015
Members of IDC Faculty and students met with IAJF board members at the beautiful and vibrant campus. A dynamic discussion took place with the students who shared their personal stories, their experience at IDC and their contribution back to the community. The students recognized the opportunities presented to them as a result of IAJF’s scholarships.
Members of IDC Faculty and students met with IAJF board members at the beautiful and vibrant campus. A dynamic discussion took place with the students who shared their personal stories, their experience at IDC and their contribution back to the community. The students recognized the opportunities presented to them as a result of IAJF’s scholarships.