(Courtesy of Birthright Israel) Nearly 200 guests gathered at the Harmonie Club in Manhattan recently for a special Birthright Israel Foundation event to honor Jeffrey R. Solomon and present the inaugural Jeffrey R. Solomon Prize to an exceptional Birthright Israel trip staff member.
The first-ever Jeffrey R. Solomon Prize was awarded to Aviva Klompas, Birthright Israel trip staffer and co-founder/CEO of Boundless Israel, in recognition of her outstanding contributions. Klompas, who has staffed 18 Birthright Israel trips, was celebrated for her dedication to the program and her role in shaping the experiences of young Jewish adults in Israel.
The event was co-chaired by Charles Bronfman, co-founder of Birthright Israel, and Audrey Weiner, president of the Fund for the Aged at The New Jewish Home.
(Credit: Michael Priest Photography)
The Jeffrey R. Solomon Prize was established to honor individuals who have made a significant impact while serving as madrich(a) on the Classic 10-Day Birthright Israel trips. The award recognizes Jewish professionals whose work has profoundly influenced the Jewish journeys of young adults. According to Birthright Israel, the organization believes that the most effective Jewish educators are those who inspire others through their actions. The Jeffrey R. Solomon Prize is an expression of Birthright’s appreciation for individuals who are strengthening Jewish continuity and perpetuating Jewish Peoplehood.
Solomon, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping Birthright Israel’s success, addressed the crowd with a heartfelt message: “I’m so fortunate to have spent my career in service to the Jewish people. I deeply appreciate my colleagues and friends for joining me as we recognize the vital role professionals play in connecting young people to their Jewish identity. At this critical moment in history, Jewish pride and resilience are more important than ever.”
(Credit: Michael Priest Photography)
The event also featured a video message from Isaac Herzog, president of Israel, who shared his heartfelt congratulations and remarks with the guests.
The Birthright Israel Foundation’s mission is to provide Jewish young adults with transformative experiences in Israel, fostering a foundation for lasting Jewish connection. More information about the Jeffrey R. Solomon Prize can be found at: Birthrightisrael.foundation/jrsprize
