From Witness to Ambassador: How the Solidarity Journey Is Strengthening Jewish Atlanta

February 27, 2026

When 45 members of Jewish Atlanta traveled to Israel on the recent Solidarity Journey, they went to bear witness. They returned home with something even more powerful: a deeper understanding of what partnership truly means. 

The journey was designed with intention. As Rich Walter, Chief Impact Officer of Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, shared, the goals were clear: to demonstrate the impact of Federation’s investments since October 7, to show that immense needs remain in rebuilding and recovery, and to stand with Israeli communities so they know they are not alone  

This trip marked Heather Feinstein’s first visit to Israel; and the decision to join was deeply personal. 

“Since the devastating events of October 7, my husband and I felt compelled to do something to tangibly help the victims,” she said. “It was one thing to see the images and read the reports — but something totally different to see it with my own eyes.” 

What surprised her most was learning that Federation’s response did not begin in crisis. 

“Before the trip, I didn’t know that many years of work had been done to provide assistance in Israel, and that these prior years of effort provided the scaffolding to quickly and effectively provide meaningful assistance after October 7.” 

That realization shifted her giving. “I feel compelled to increase our family’s contribution to the Federation’s work.” 

Trip Chair Julie Elster hoped participants would feel that deep connection. 

“We wanted people to leave with a clearer understanding of how connected the Atlanta community is to Israel and to each other,” she said. “Seeing and hearing from people on the ground makes everything more personal and more urgent in the best way. It turns giving from just sending money into a personal connection you can really feel.” 

For Bari Beilinson, a next-generation leader, the relationship felt deeply personal. “The bond we share is not just organizational, but deeply personal — truly mishpacha, family,” she said. After meeting Israelis rebuilding in the wake of unimaginable loss, she returned home committed to sharing the story. “Our support is not abstract — it provides real resources, real hope, and real connection. Just as important, our presence matters.” 

That presence was felt powerfully in Israel. 

“Hosting Jewish Atlanta was first and foremost an opportunity to say thank you,” said Eliad Eliyahu Ben Shushan, Atlanta & St. Louis Federations’ Representative in Israel and Partnership Director Yokneam & Megiddo- Atlanta & St. Louis. “It was a powerful act of solidarity and a visible reminder that our communities truly stand together.” 

For Eliad, partnership goes beyond funding. “It represents mutual responsibility at its very best,” he said. “In many ways, Federation’s role is like family — not only standing beside someone in the hospital, but walking with them when they return home.” 

Rich shares, “We now have 45 ambassadors who have seen directly how a gift to Federation can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.” 

Federation Board Chair, Debbie Kuniansky, also attended the Journey. She says “I’ve been on many missions, but this one was more powerful than I ever imagined. Seeing the devastation of October 7th was heavy and heartbreaking, but seeing the resilience of the survivors, the soldiers, and the kids we support was life-changing and affirming. It really hit home for me: our collective dollars through the Federation aren’t just ‘donations’—they are an over 30-year strategic investment in human lives.” 

Debbie reiterates, “We didn’t just show up after the tragedy; we’ve been there for decades building the very foundation these people are using to heal right now. I went there thinking I was the one providing strength, but the people of Israel ended up giving it to me. Our partnership is the heart of this recovery, and our Federation donor’s support is what keeps that heart beating.” 

Seeing this impact builds confidence. It deepens commitment. It transforms donors into storytellers — strengthening Jewish Atlanta in the process. 

Federation is currently developing future Journeys to Israel for community members who want to see, feel, and strengthen that partnership for themselves. 

Julie puts it simply: “GO! This trip is for anyone who cares about our community and wants to see the bigger picture in Israel. You’ll come back inspired, connected, and reminded that Am Yisrael Chai.”