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Standing
With Israel

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Across the United States, Hadassah demonstrated our steadfast commitment to Israel and all of its people, from emergency campaigns supporting Israel under fire to our domestic and global advocacy to national and local events. These included our One Heart, One People event marking the anniversary of October 7, 2023, bringing our essential work in Israel to life for more than 500 attendees. This mission continues through the lifechanging Youth Aliyah villages and our efforts to empower women and youth.

“Coming to the youth village was the best decision I could have made in my life. If I hadn't gone there, I truly believe I wouldn't be where I am today.”

— Hadassah Neurim alumna Fenta Workia, who is currently working toward a law degree at the University of Haifa


Hadassah is “a powerful advocate of Israel, always,” Israel’s President Isaac Herzog said in his address to attendees at Hadassah’s annual national conference in August. He noted that the conflict in Israel and the surge in antisemitism have only deepened this commitment. “Since October 7, you've stepped forward with clarity and purpose.”

“The Issenberg family has always been ardent Zionists…. Hadassah provides me with the opportunity through its mission to change lives.” 

— Diane Issenberg, co-coordinator (2024–2025), Hadassah Philanthropy Division

Hadassah Zionism

For more than a century, Hadassah has played a central role in shaping a vibrant, inclusive and forward-looking Zionist movement.

Advocating for Israel in DC & Beyond

As part of Hadassah’s 2025 federal advocacy supporting the US-Israel relationship, Hadassah helped advance security funding for Israel in the National Defense Authorization Act, which authorized $500 million for missile defense cooperation. Hadassah leaders advanced our policy agenda through more than 50 high-level meetings with congressional offices and Administration officials in Washington, DC, and across the country. Hadassah also advocated for the release of $274.5 million through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program and expanded interfaith partnerships, including with the American Muslim & Multifaith Women’s Empowerment Council, to confront rising hate and antisemitism. 

Elevating Zionist Voices

Hadassah elevates the diverse voices driving Zionism forward. Our 2025 list of 18 American Zionist Women You Should Know, for example, featured trailblazers, including award-winning actress Patricia Heaton, who is mobilizing Christian communities to fight antisemitism, and Anila Ali, a Muslim American activist and educator building bridges across communities.  

Building Futures, Changing Lives

For more than 90 years, Hadassah-supported Youth Aliyah villages in Israel have provided a safe, nurturing home for vulnerable teens from Israel and around the world, including refugees. In 2025, 175 students graduated from Meir Shfeyah and Hadassah Neurim, where educational, vocational and therapeutic programs help young people build confidence and skills for the future. Students gain hands-on experience through opportunities such as an animal sanctuary, a winery and STEM programs.

Coming Together

At the 39th World Zionist Congress, 32 Hadassah members and Young Judaeans joined delegates from around the globe to deliberate and define the direction of the Zionist movement and allocate funding that affects Israel and world Jewry. Hadassah delegates stood up for pluralism, democracy and partnership between Israel and the diaspora. 

In the Spotlight: Inspiring Support for Israel

Hadassah presented actress Gal Gadot with Hadassah’s Power of Dreams Award at the 2025 Jerusalem Film Festival. “This is an opportunity for me to say a huge thank-you for the award to Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, which plays a vital role in the development of medicine in Israel,” Gadot said. “I love my country, and I’m proud to be a part of it and to make our voices heard.”

As Israel faces complex and painful challenges, her voice offers clarity and strength, Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz said. “This award is not just about dreams [but] the responsibility that comes with influence and the hope it will continue to inspire.”

Seeking Accountability

In 2025, Hadassah remained steadfast in the fight to hold Hamas accountable for sexual violence and war crimes through our End The Silence campaign, which mobilized more than 150,000 advocates in nearly 120 countries. Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz testified before the Knesset, calling on the United Nations to act. Hadassah leaders met with UN-affiliated partners and foreign officials and spoke out against efforts that would legitimize terror and undermine peace. In August, the UN blacklisted Hamas as a party credibly suspected of sexual violence.

“We will not give up. Accountability is key to preventing future atrocities.”
— Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz

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Explore the 2025 Impact Report

With the support of generous donors, Hadassah made a lifechanging impact across the US, in Israel and around the world to build a stronger, healthier future in 2025.

© 2026 Hadassah, The Women's Zionist Organization of America, Inc. Hadassah®, the H logo, and Hadassah the Power of Women Who Do logo are registered trademarks of Hadassah, The Women's Zionist Organization of America, Inc.
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