About the Department

The Department for Empowerment of Zionist Identity in the Diaspora | KKL-JNF

Photograph: Zohar Vloski, US KKL-JNF Shaliach
The Department for Empowerment of Zionist Identity in the Diaspora works within the framework of the Education and Community Division of KKL-JNF, and leads the Zionist, moral and experiential educational work among the Jewish communities around the world and in Israel.
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael – Jewish National Fund, which was established over 120 years ago, constitutes a central pillar in the Zionist enterprise and works to strengthen the relationship between the Jewish people and its land and heritage. Alongside its many years of activities in reclamation of the soil, forestation and development of the land, KKL-JNF views education as a fundamental component in building an identity, a sense of belonging and an intergenerational connection.
 

Vision and Work

Education as a Bridge Between Israel and the Diaspora

The Department works to strengthen the affinity between Diaspora Jewry and the State of Israel, deepening the Jewish-Zionist identity and making the values of Zionism, sustainability and solidarity accessible to diverse audiences.
 
Through experiential educational programs, international cooperation and educational emissaries, the Department offers teachers, educators and communal leaders a rich toolbox for conveying significant relevant and inspiring content – both within formal and informal frameworks.

Goals of the Department

Building Identity, Connection and Leadership
 
The Department works to achieve key goals, including: 
  • The strengthening of the link and affinity between Jewish communities in the diaspora and the State of Israel
  • The empowerment of Zionist and Jewish education around the world
  • The development of young leadership and Zionist educational leadership
  • The cultivation of values of Zionism, sustainability and social responsibility
  • The strengthening of the sense of partnership between diaspora Jews and Israeli society

Target Audiences

Education for Every Stage and for Each Community
 
The activity of the Department is intended for a wide variety of audiences, including:Students of Jewish schools, members of youth movements, students, educators, communal leadership, rabbis, guides, Zionist organizations and Jewish communities of all denominations around the world.

Activity in Israel

A Direct Educational Experience
 
In Israel, the Department offers experiential educational programs for visitors from the diaspora, which includes tours, encounters for teenagers, educational activities, tree plantings, visits to the field centers of KKL-JNF and activities in nature.
 
The activities enable the participants to be exposed to Israel as it is – including its landscapes, values and challenges – and encourages them to become ambassadors for their communities upon their return home.

Activity in the Diaspora

Making Israel Accessible to the Jewish Communities of the World
 
The Department operates a variety of programs and educational kits in the diaspora, including educational caravans, games, workshops, seminars and digital resources. The activities deal with Jewish identity, Zionism, holidays, nature, the environment, leadership and current day Jewish-Israeli life.
 
Through this activity, the Department empowers children, teenagers and adults, and strengthens their personal, moral and emotional connection to Israel and the Jewish people.
 
For additional details – You are welcome to contact the Overseas Education Department.