Here's to Our Future

When Ian Sachs and Danielle Hankin took on their new roles as President and Vice President of JNFuture, Jewish National Fund-USA’s division for 22 to 40-year-olds, on October 1, they could not fathom the new reality they would face just one week later.  The pair have since helped lead a massive surge in engagement among Jewish National Fund-USA’s fastest-growing demographic, and they believe the groundswell of support for Israel is here to stay.

“I’ve truly seen the numbers in terms of volunteers, donors, and gifts increasing exponentially since October 7, and more so general interest in ‘How can I get involved? How can I do something? How can I help? What don’t I know?’” said Sachs. “It’s been very clear that people will continue to get more and more involved, not just now but for the foreseeable future.”

Hankin’s passion for the power of JNFuture shines through as she described her own involvement over the years, “As a member of JNFuture, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of community and purpose in the young professional age range. Beyond supporting vital work in Israel, being part of JNFuture opens doors to a network of like-minded young professionals, fostering meaningful connections and collaborations. Together, we not only shape the future of Israel but also our own paths, seizing unparalleled networking opportunities and making a tangible impact on the world around us. In the post-October 7 climate, the power of the JNFuture network has been more evident than ever before.”

Eager to contribute, JNFuture members have been joining volunteer missions to Israel and giving funds in record-breaking numbers. Since October, around 6,000 young partners have donated over $3.2 million, a JNFuture record. Jewish National Fund-USA’s Israel Resilience Campaign is providing critical support including evacuation aid, urgent supplies, firefighting equipment, childcare activities, psychological support and is now helping people move back home to their communities on the border with Gaza.

Hankin believes that at a time when young Jews across the world need community, Jewish National Fund-USA offers the right space and a clear path to action.

“Obviously, there are many young people who care, who want to give their money, who want to be involved, so it’s really more important than ever that an organization like this exists not only for the work we do but for the community to have that strength in numbers and have access to information,” said Hankin.

In addition to donations, JNFuture has been highly active in volunteer missions to Israel to help rebuild and support impacted communities, with two sold-out JNFuture trips held over the winter, as well as many joining missions open to all ages.

“These missions are extremely important because they get young people over to Israel,” said Sachs. “It’s now more important than ever for us to be there helping and seeing the impact. It’s a good experience for the people on the trip, and it’s good for Israel.”

These trips are part of Jewish National Fund-USA’s Build Together strategic initiative, a mission to help honor the memory of those lost and boost hope for the future as displaced Israelis return home. Volunteers help through a variety of projects, including working on farms, packing supplies, visiting hospitals and beautifying evacuated communities so their members will feel welcome.

The powerful, widespread response since the October attacks through volunteering and donations makes it clear that young people are passionate about Israel and understand how crucial this specific time in history is in protecting the Jewish State.

“It is truly inspiring to witness and be a part of such a strong community,” said Hankin.

From anywhere in the country, young people can become a voice for the people of Israel. To get involved in JNFuture, contact Melissa Asarch Wittenberg at mwittenberg@jnf.org