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CSR Supports Israel
The World Zionist Congress (WZC) meets every five years and controls a $1 billion annual budget that impacts democracy and the rights of Reform Jews in Israel. Our congregation’s campaign team is fighting for our Reform values in Israel. To get more information, volunteer with us, or to pledge to vote, sign up on this website.
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To learn more about the WZC or to vote, visit their website at www.vote4reform.org. #VoteReform2025
WAYS TO GIVE TO ISRAEL
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There are many worthwhile organizations that you may consider donating to in support of Israel and choosing one can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate these options, CSR has identified 8 organizations that are addressing specific needs in Israel right now, including in the South. You will also find a more extensive alphabetical list below.
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American Friends of Soroka Medical Center
American Friends of Soroka Medical Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Soroka Medical Center, Israel’s only major hospital in Southern Israel.​
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Friends of the Israeli Defense Forces
Gifts to the FIDF go toward temporary field hospitals, intensive care ambulances, hygiene kits, as well as other urgent needs identified by the IDF.
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Magen David Adom operates Israeli’s ambulance and Medivac units, runs its emergency dispatch system dispatch system, trains its paramedics, and serves as the sole blood supplier for the Israeli Defense Forces. Michael Bloomberg has pledged to match all contributions.
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NATAL is the Israel Trauma and Resiliency Center. It is an apolitical organization providing multidisciplinary treatment and support to direct and indirect victims of trauma due to terror and war in Israel.
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Israel’s largest independent, non-profit, fully volunteer emergency medical service organization that provides the fastest emergency medical service throughout Israel, free of charge. Currently conducting an emergency campaign for emergency equipment. You can make a monetary donation or donate specific medical equipment.​
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World Union for Progressive Judaism
More Places to Donate
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Support Israeli Artists
Despite these difficult times many Israeli artists are trying to conduct business because they have to make a living. Stores in Jerusalem are closed but they continue to fulfill online orders. Any support would be greatly appreciated!
Birthdays come every year or perhaps you have a Bar or Bat Mitzvah or wedding is on the horizon. There is always a place for Israeli art in our homes and synagogues.
We encourage you to make purchases, using the artists' websites. Here is the growing list of artists who have asked us to spread the word. MANY ARE WORKING!! THEY NEED US!!!
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TAKE ACTION​
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AJC
The American Jewish Committee is asking people to contact their elected leaders and ask that those leaders stand with Israel against Hamas. Read more
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Letters to Lone Soldiers
Send a personal message of gratitude to an IDF Lone Soldier currently serving in the IDF. A “lone soldier” is a soldier in the IDF with no family in Israel to provide them with support. ​
​RESOURCES
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Speaking With Your Children
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If you are looking for ways to speak with your child(ren), here are a few quality resources to help guide you in the conversation.
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Information for Interfaith Families
12 tips for Talking about Israel in Interfaith Families
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Israel and Jewish History Resources (curated by Rabbi Daniel Gropper)
Podcasts
Podcasts from The Times of Israel
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Video
The Story of the Jews: Simon Schama
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Jewish History Books
History of the Jews by Paul Johnson
History of Israel
Israel: A Concise History of a Nation Reborn
Daniel Sokatch: Can We Talk About Israel
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Current Issues
Letters to my Palestinian Neighbor
List of Historical Novels from Google
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Israeli Literature - to understand its land and its people.
STAY INFORMED
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In a world where change is the only constant, and news is updated continually, 24/7, staying informed is not just a choice but a responsibility. CSR recommends the following sources which offer news in a manner consistent with the values of our pluralistic, Reform Jewish Movement and congregation.
The Times of Israel is an online news source that covers a broad spectrum of Israeli news, from politics to technology and lifestyle. It provides timely updates on the Israeli government and its politics and is widely
regarded as centrist in outlook.
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The Jerusalem Post is a widely respected English-language newspaper that provides comprehensive coverage of Israeli news, politics, culture, and more. With a legacy spanning over 85 years, it offers a balanced perspective on events in Israel and the wider Middle East.
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JTA (Jewish Telegraphic Agency)
The JTA offers news relevant to Jewish communities worldwide, including news from Israel. It often provides insightful coverage of the political landscape and its impact on global jewry.
Haaretz is known for its in-depth analysis and critical reporting on Israeli politics, society, and culture. Its high-quality journalism and progressive-leaning opinions often elicit comparisons to the New York Times here in the US. While Haaretz has a paywall for some content, it also offers a limited number of free articles each month.