Veteran Israeli Diplomat Headlines Jewish National Fund-USA Luncheon

On September 17, 2025, over 100 Greater Washington philanthropists united at the Hyatt Regency in Bethesda for Jewish National Fund-USA’s Stand with Israel Legacy Luncheon, where community members learned how their support is helping rebuild Israel’s South and reimagine the North, as well as the many ways they can leave behind a lasting legacy of philanthropy.

The event’s keynote speaker was Ambassador Ido Aharoni Aronoff. As Israel's longest-serving Consul General in New York and the tri-state area, Aharoni oversaw Israel’s largest diplomatic mission from 2010-2016 and is one of the world’s foremost experts in public diplomacy and nation branding. With pinpoint precision, Aharoni discussed his optimism for the future of Israel, what needs to change in how we speak about the country, and how Jewish National Fund-USA is leading the charge.

“We need to broaden the scope through which Israel is perceived, because no product can thrive by discussing its problems alone,” Aharoni said. “You have to talk about what you bring to the table, your competitive edge and relative advantages. And that’s exactly what Jewish National Fund-USA is doing. You are strengthening Israel’s national security, because reputation is an important part of our safety today.”

Attendees also heard from Wesley Seidner, a local student who described his experience attending Alexander Muss High School in Israel (Muss), Jewish National Fund-USA’s college-prep, study abroad in Israel experience for American teens.

“Muss gave me the chance to live and learn in Israel, where every tiyul (trip) became part of my education,” Seidner said. “Learning history while standing in the places it happened gave me a new perspective not only on Israel, but also on myself. I came home with more pride in my Jewish identity, more understanding of Israel’s struggles and triumphs, and more gratitude for the chance to experience it all firsthand.”

In addition, Jewish National Fund’s Northeast Director of Planned Giving, Allison Nagelberg, Esq. discussed how individuals can meet their personal, financial, and estate planning goals through charitable giving. From Donor Advised Funds to Charitable Gift Annuities, gifts of real estate, gold, stocks and other assets, Nagelberg walked the crowd through different ways they can support the land and people of Israel while maximizing their tax benefits.

“Planned gifts are wonderful tools to solve financial and estate planning problems,” said Nagelberg. “They can save taxes, provide you with a steady stream of generous lifetime income, and maximize the benefits of your IRA. You can leave enduring legacies that create a lasting impact on Israeli lives while leaving the most tax-advantaged assets for your family.”

For more information about Jewish National Fund’s Planned Giving opportunities, visit jnflegacy.org or contact a planned giving specialist at 800.562.7526 or plannedgiving@jnf.org.

###

About Jewish National Fund-USA

Jewish National Fund-USA builds a strong, vibrant future for the land and people of Israel through bold initiatives and Zionist engagement. The organization’s circle of impact extends beyond individual projects, generating a ripple effect that drives population growth and economic development in Israel’s north and south. From developing new communities in the Negev and Galilee to advancing environmental sustainability, supporting people with disabilities, preserving heritage sites, and connecting the next generation to Israel, Jewish National Fund-USA’s strategic approach ensures every initiative strengthens the fabric of Israeli society. The organization also operates the fully accredited Alexander Muss High School in Israel, offering an immersive study-abroad experience driven by academic excellence. Learn more at jnf.org.