The recently held UJIA North West Annual Dinner raised £680,000 for projects in Israel and the UK.
New UJIA Manchester Chair Nici Wertheim outlined her vision of “every Jewish home in Manchester” supporting the people of Israel and “the future of Jewish generations in this country” through UJIA at the North West Annual Dinner.
350 guests attended the event, which was held at The Manchester Hilton, and raised £680,000 for projects and programmes in Israel and the UK. Nici spoke of her own background in UJIA-supported activities, including Israel Tour, Gap Year, and Jewish life on campus, and her commitment to “boost UJIA’s reach by catering to different sections of the community with new events and activities.”
This year will see the launch of a Women’s Brunch on 11th March and a Young Professionals Group for those in their 20s and 30s.
“Your presence is so very much appreciated. It demonstrates your support for Am Yisrael and your intense commitment to ensure the future of young Jewish life both in this country and in Israel,” she told guests.
In the appeal, UJIA Chairman Bill Benjamin, asked guests to give an extra 20 per cent so that UJIA can meet its goal of doubling funds available for vital work over the next four years. Two films were also screened during the evening to showcase the impact of UJIA’s work. They focused on Gap Year in Israel for Jewish 18-year-olds, and development work benefiting children and families in northern Israel.
Guest speaker Ambassador Michael Oren, who served as Israel’s Ambassador to the United States from 2009 to 2013, spoke about his journey from being raised in New Jersey to his Aliyah to Israel in 1979 and political career. He also praised UJIA for its work in the disadvantaged Galil.
Eldan Kaye, UJIA Director of Regional Campaign, said: “Together, we continued our shared journey as a proud Jewish community, united more than ever in these challenging times. There was a true sense of solidarity for Jews in the UK and the people of Israel, and the money raised will help to build our future and make sure we are connected to Israel and to Jewish life.”
The event was sponsored by The DanІ Foundation.