DETROIT, MI, January 14, 2025 – Jewish National Fund-USA is proud to announce the appointment of Rabbi Dan Horwitz as its new Executive Director for the Midwest States, based in Detroit. Horwitz officially joins the organization on January 6, 2025, bringing extensive leadership experience and a passion for Jewish communal service to his new role.
“Dan's remarkable background as a Jewish communal leader and his deep connection to the Midwest make him an invaluable addition to our team,” said Ellen Spira Hattenbach, Jewish National Fund-USA’s National Campaign Director for the Midwest. “His expertise in donor relations and his proven ability to foster meaningful connections within the Jewish community will help us strengthen our impact for the land and people of Israel. With Dan on board, we’re confident in our ability to continue supporting Israel’s growth and resilience, and uniting our Mid-Western community around our homeland.”
Horwitz’s career spans decades of service in the Jewish community. Before joining Jewish National Fund-USA, he served as CEO of the Alper JCC in Miami and the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, and as a rabbi at Adat Shalom Synagogue in Farmington Hills, MI. He was also the founder of The Well, a Detroit-based initiative focusing on engaging Jewish millennials, and is the author of Just Jewish: How to Engage Millennials and Build a Vibrant Jewish Future.
“I’m thrilled to join Jewish National Fund-USA and work alongside such a dedicated and talented team,” said Horwitz. "Metro Detroit's Jewish community is a gem -- committed, connected, philanthropic, and unapologetically Zionist."
He added, “Our community has always played a critical role in Jewish National Fund-USA’s mission to support Israel’s North and South, and I look forward to partnering with our incredible donors to further this important work. Together, we can ensure that Israel continues to thrive and provide opportunities for all its residents.”
Horwitz joins Jewish National Fund-USA at a pivotal time, as the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to restoring and rebuilding Israeli communities devastated by the October 7 terrorist attacks. From constructing bomb shelters and housing for displaced families to providing rehabilitative services for those affected, the organization has been at the forefront of efforts to support Israel’s communities.
“As we enter 2025, the Midwest region will be a vital part of our mission to rebuild, strengthen, and beautify Israel,” added Hattenbach. “With Dan's leadership, we’re excited to deepen our presence and engage even more closely with our Michigan supporters.”
The Jewish National Fund-USA Midwest team also includes Jason Rose (Director), Liora Bachrach (Associate Director), Bill Adolph (Director of Planned Giving), Robyn Schneider (Major Gifts Director), Lori Schwartz (Operations Manager), and Adam Schenberg (Events Manager).
Jewish National Fund-USA invites the community to welcome Horwitz at several upcoming events, including:
- A Night with Special in Uniform (February 10, 2025)
- Shabbat for Israel (May 2, 2025)
- Global Conference for Israel (October 23–26, 2025, in Hollywood, FL)
- Volunteer Missions to Israel (Ongoing through December 2025)
To contact Rabbi Dan Horwitz or learn more about JNF-USA’s initiatives, email him at dhorwitz@jnf.org.
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