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 and teacher exchange opportunities, to help both of our 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, Yokneam, Megiddo, and Nahal Oz.
Supporting Vulnerable Populations
By working together, we support social services and educational initiatives that promote economic growth, education, and health services in the vulnerable populations in Yokneam, Megiddo, and Nahal Oz, including children, new immigrants, and those in need of economic support.
Lone Soldier Project– Partnership2Gether
Yokneam, Megiddo, and Nahal Oz proudly support Lone Soldiers from Atlanta and St. Louis serving in the IDF. This Israeli-led program provides care packages, holiday support, connection to local host families, and community recognition, reminding them that they are never alone.
This program strengthens the bond between our communities and honors the commitment and resilience of our Lone Soldiers.
Shinshinim IL – The First Reverse Shinshinim Program in Israel
This unique program brings recent high school graduates from Atlanta and St. Louis to Yokneam and Megiddo, where they volunteer, connect, and make a lasting impact, bringing the spirit of their home communities to ours.
School Twinning
Our school twinning program connects students from Jewish day schools, synagogues, and unaffiliated Jewish youth in Atlanta with students in the Yokneam, Megiddo, and Nahal Oz.
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 Megiddo 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, Yokneam, Megiddo, and Nahal Oz. 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, Megiddo, and Nahal Oz, 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.
- Support Services: Our partnership has helped fund educational resources for underprivileged youth and support services for new immigrants integrating into Israeli society.
Bridging Communities
Through the partnership, hundreds of Atlantans have visited our Partnership region and formed lifelong friendships. From student exchanges to leadership development programs, the connections fostered through these visits have bridged the gap between our communities, promoting unity and understanding.
Participate in our next delegation trip to Yokneam and Megiddo 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 and Megiddo 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.