“Every organization needs to have a vision,” said KKL-JNF World Chairman
Danny Atar. “The vision determines the goals, the purpose, the work plan and the budget.” Atar noted that the vision will take shape on two tracks: thinking about content and setting up a digital platform that will allow for widespread
international consultations.
“We will enable every Jew who so desires to have a say and to participate in the discussions that will eventually determine KKL-JNF’s vision,” Atar went on to say. “I hope that within two years, we will complete the process, after which we’ll be able to say that everything we do is being done on behalf of the Jewish people.”
Yaron Shavit, a member of the World Zionist Organization Executive, was chosen to lead the international process of shaping KKL-JNF’s vision. “As an Israeli, I am convinced that without the continued support of world Jewry and additional supporters of Israel, our country would be in trouble. KKL-JNF is the only entity where the diverse voices of the Jewish people can be expressed. Our intent is to that our future direction should spring from our roots. The Zionist vision is to create a modern country, where everyone feels that they belong and are proud of.”
He also emphasized the need to think out of the box in every possible way. “Remember that KKL-JNF represents the solidarity of the general public worldwide, we all share a common denominator. KKL-JNF’s most important asset is not land, but rather the bond between Jews all over the world.”
Shavit noted that an advanced digital system is being developed in order to allow the general public to participate in the decision-making process.
Participants were divided up into five groups, according to language, and each group addressed three central questions: How is it possible to deal so many partners throughout the world who will be involved in shaping the vision? What are the main topics that KKL-JNF should be identified with? Which points are controversial and might have a negative effect on the sense of solidarity?
At the conclusion of the discussion, the representatives of the groups presented their ideas to the entire audience. Among the points that were brought up: KKL-JNF is the connection of the Jewish people to the land of Israel, Israel is a very vibrant country with a rich culture, renewing the pioneering spirit in the
Negev and
Galilee, connecting to new Zionism, strengthening ties between KKL-JNF and Diaspora Jewry, partnership beyond
donating money, investing in Israel’s future, connecting to roots for the future,
Zionist education for the younger generation, encouraging young people to
visit Israel, adopting unwavering positions when defending KKL-JNF, and the unity of world Jewry.
“Some of the groups raised concerns that I had not thought of, which goes to show just how important this discussion was,” said Yaron Shavit. “There are different cultures, and people see things in different ways. That’s why it’s important to meet the challenge of finding a common denominator. It’s important for us that as large a group as possible should influence the results.”
Danny Atar summed up the discussion: “It was impressive to see how the representatives raised the topics, which proves that the discussions were deep and significant. This process will be a success only thanks to your help. Today’s meeting is the beginning of our shared discussion. It is from disagreements that new and fruitful ideas often grow.”
Strengthening the bond
“The KKL-JNF World Leadership Conference is the only place where it’s possible to share ideas with other countries and to initiate cooperation,” said
KKL Belgium President
Jacky Benzennou. “This conference strengthens the bond between us and empowers our work. This is also an opportunity to hear updates from the KKL-JNF leadership in Israel and to get a clear understanding of what’s happening, rather than just hearing rumors.”
Deputy
JNF USA Chairman
Alan Dabrow said that he was in Israel not only for the World Leadership Conference, but also for Israel’s seventieth anniversary celebrations. “I have visited Israel many times, but I was never here on Independence Day. It’s an amazing feeling to tour the country and to get an impression of the projects and the change that’s happening here. This is the trip of my life!”