Magazine
The Asheville, North Carolina Jewish community is small in size but big in spirit, and since May 2024, it has warmly embraced Jewish National Fund-USA. Led by a growing team of local donors, Asheville has become a model for how a close-knit community can strengthen its connection with Israel. Through heartfelt events like “Shabbat for Israel,” parlor meetings supporting painted bomb shelters, and meaningful mitzvah projects like cards for children at ADI Negev, the impact has been both local and far-reaching.
“We’re not just asking for donations,” say Allan and Ellen Kellam, leaders of Jewish National Fund-USA’s local community efforts. “We’re helping people see the breadth of our work—how it supports real lives and real needs in Israel.”
The couple’s involvement has deepened after their trip with Jewish National Fund-USA, where they saw their efforts come to life. “We were there seeing it with our own eyes. We were so impressed with the attention to detail and the thoughtfulness,” shared Ellen. “The word vision is used so often but it’s true, you can see how Jewish National Fund-USA’s vision is playing out.”
Asheville’s Congregation Beth HaTephila’s Rabbi, Batsheva Meiri, affirms the deep connection being built: “Jewish National Fund-USA has helped keep the people of Israel at the forefront of our minds through the enthusiasm and dedication of its local ambassadors. Their passion and the uplifting stories they share about Israel’s progress make a real difference.”
In a city known for its lively Jewish community, Asheville shows that even a small group can create a big difference, one relationship at a time.
To learn more, email smallcommunities@jnf.org
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