In the aftermath of October 7 and the ongoing regional tension, many Israeli communities continue to face significant challenges in their efforts to rebuild. They are working to restore farms, schools, social services, and local organizations, all while facing an unprecedented shortage of volunteers caused by the dramatic decline in tourism.

Thanks to the generosity of UJA donors, Toronto's Jewish community is helping fill that gap.

UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, in partnership with Birthright Israel, is supporting an ambitious volunteer initiative that will bring thousands of volunteers to Israel over the next five years. Through hands-on service, participants will help communities recover while experiencing firsthand the resilience, strength, and determination of the Israeli people.

Working alongside UJA-supported partners- including Leket Israel, Pitchon Lev, and The Jewish Agency for Israel (The Jewish Agency)-volunteers are providing critical, hands-on support to communities rebuilding in the aftermath of October 7.

This initiative is made possible through extraordinary philanthropic leadership and UJA's strategic investment in Israel's recovery. Recognizing both Israel's urgent need and the powerful impact of volunteer service, the Rosenbaum Family made a transformational $2 million investment to help bring Canadians back to Israel and expand participation beyond Birthright Israel's traditional audience, allowing more members of our community to answer Israel's call.

Building on that leadership, UJA's Israel & Overseas Committee committed an additional $720,000 from the Israel Emergency Campaign to support volunteer opportunities focused on communities most directly affected by October 7 and the ongoing conflict.

"We are deeply grateful to the Rosenbaum family for kickstarting this initiative through their passion, vision, and extraordinary investment," says Dan Held, Chief Program Officer, UJA Federation of Greater Toronto. "Their leadership has made it possible for thousands of volunteers to support Israeli communities at a critical moment while forging deeper, lasting connections between our community and Israel."

This is more than a volunteer program. It is a powerful expression of our commitment to Israel and the global community.

Because of your support, Israeli communities receive the helping hands they urgently need today, while our own community returns home with a deeper understanding of Israel, stronger relationships, and a renewed commitment to Jewish life. Together, we are not only helping rebuild Israel—we are strengthening the enduring bond between Toronto and Israel for generations to come.