As geographic distances and cultural differences grow, it becomes crucial to strengthen connections between Jews in the diaspora and in Israel to preserve Jewish identity, heritage, and values.
Supporting Education and Youth
We work on joint educational initiatives, including programs like school twinning, summer camps, and teacher exchange opportunities, to help youth in both communities form bonds and learn about each other’s culture and way of life.
Fostering Connections
Our partnership fosters exchanges of ideas, culture, and experiences that create greater understanding between Jewish communities in Atlanta and Israel. Through trips, delegation visits, and exchange programs, we create strong personal and communal ties between the residents of Atlanta and Yokneam Meggido.
Supporting Vulnerable Populations
By working together, we can support social services and educational initiatives that promote economic growth, education, and health services in the vulnerable populations in Yokneam Meggido, including children, new immigrants, and those in need of economic support.
School Twinning
Our school twinning program connects students from Jewish day schools in Atlanta with students in the Yokneam Meggido. Through joint educational projects, video chats, and exchange visits, students develop meaningful relationships, gain a deeper understanding of Israeli and American Jewish life, and build a strong connection to their Jewish identity.
Partnering with Nahal Oz
After the October 7 massacre, Kibbutz Mishmar Haemek in our partner region of Yokneam Meggido sheltered nearly 400 evacuees from Kibbutz Nahal Oz. Since then, our Federation—alongside St. Louis and our Israeli partners, as a part of Communities 2Gether, a program of the Jewish Agency —has supported their ongoing recovery through the Communities Together initiative.
Together, we’ve funded trauma therapy, hosted Hanukkah celebrations, organized fundraisers, and created connections between Nahal Oz and our communities in Atlanta and St. Louis. From Purim care packages to story-sharing sessions, we continue to stand with them—bringing light, love, and lasting support.
Delegation Exchanges
We regularly facilitate delegation exchanges between community leaders, educators, and volunteers from Atlanta and Yokneam Meggido. These visits allow participants to share knowledge, best practices, and create new opportunities for partnership in fields like education, social services, and economic development.
Social Impact Programs
Our partnership supports programs that focus on improving the lives of vulnerable populations in Yokneam Meggido, including:
- Economic Development Initiatives: Job training and entrepreneurial support programs aimed at new immigrants and low-income families.
- Health Services: Collaborations to enhance medical and mental health services for residents in need.
- Cultural and Social Programs: Joint events that celebrate Jewish culture, history, and arts, bringing people together from both regions.
Bridging Communities
Through the partnership, hundreds of Atlantans have visited Yokneam Meggido and formed lifelong friendships. From student exchanges to leadership development programs, the connections fostered through these visits have bridged the gap between our two communities, promoting unity and understanding.
Supporting Vulnerable Populations
In recent years, our partnership has helped fund critical projects in the region, including educational resources for underprivileged youth and support services for new immigrants integrating into Israeli society. These initiatives have improved lives and created long-lasting impact for the most vulnerable in the Yokneam Meggido area.
Participate in our next delegation trip to Yokneam Meggido or host Israeli visitors in your home during exchange programs.
Stay connected by attending upcoming events related to our partnership, from cultural celebrations to educational panels.
Be part of the next journey to Yokneam Meggido and experience firsthand the impact of this meaningful partnership.
Join us in supporting our brothers and sisters in Israel. Your involvement helps bring healing, hope, and connection to those rebuilding their lives. To learn how you can make a difference, contact Jenn Handel at jhandel@jewishatlanta.org.