Gadi Gvaryahu began Tag Meir in 2011 to address racism in Israel and to help solidify a more democratic and humanitarian society informed by Jewish values. Members of the organization come from all sectors of the Israel Jewish and Arab communities as well as from other established social justice organizations. All share a deep desire for a more just and compassionate society.
Israeli Transgender Association
Guided by her own difficult journey, Linor Abergel, a trans woman, found her way out of prostitution to establish a Tel Aviv community center that offers other women in similar circumstances a safe space, nourishing food, clothing, cultural activities and educational opportunities. Linor has also become an advisor to Knesset members on issues important to her community.
Our grant provides funds for individuals who find themselves in need of emergency support.
JLM Food Rescuers
40% of edible food, around 2.5 million tons in Israel alone, is discarded unnecessarily along every step of the food supply chain. At the same time, food insecurity, or the ability for people to provide sufficient healthy food for themselves or their family, continues to be a problem. Daniella Seltzer and Itay Peled have come together to start the JLM Food Rescuers in the Givat Shaul produce market in Jerusalem. This creative social business builds community in the city, while at the same time rescues tons of beautiful produce which is redistributed to hungry people, and also used for delicious recipes for the program’s catering business.
Our matching funds are directed to expenses incurred at the produce market where the program operates.
Kavod v’Nichum
Our society has become more sensitive to the importance and deeply meaningful aspects of life cycle events, even death. Founded 23 years ago by David Zinner, and now led by Sarit Wishnevski, Kavod v’Nichum helps communities learn how to approach all aspects of end-of-life – serious illness, dying, death, bereavement and mourning – with compassion and meaning.
Our matching funds are directed to the organization’s training programs.
Zumwalt Acres
Located in Sheldon, Illinois, the Zumwalt Acres farm has been in the Zumwalt family for over 150 years. Today, a new generation of farmers, led by Gavi and Remi Welbel, recent college graduates who have studied advanced conservation methods, are using environmental farming practices such as agroforestry, cultivating mushrooms, and implementing sustainable soil management practices to build a better food system and tackle climate change. With visions of a hopeful future, their apprenticeship program brings together inspiring and enthusiastic young people ages 18-27, to farm the land, conduct research, establish best practices and more, all within a Jewish framework.
Our matching funds are directed to stipends for participants in the program.
A Courageous Voice
Veronica, now a teenager, endured years of sexual abuse committed by her uncle. For a long time she suffered in silence. Then she participated in a program called Kids Voices Matter, offered by A Courageous Voice, where she learned that it was okay to speak out about her experiences and seek help.
Amy Ever began ACV to provide education and awareness of child sex abuse both on- and offline. The program works with schools and youth groups in the Detroit metro area, where child trafficking and sexual abuse of children is particularly acute. As a survivor herself, Amy says, “I never want to see another child affected the way I was.” As ACV grows, she hopes to protect the lives of many more kids.
Our matching funds are directed to administrative expenses.