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From Baltimore to Israel ASSOCIATED MISSION TO ASHKELON Last week, a delegation of 30 individuals representing THE ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore traveled to Israel to officially launch the Baltimore/Ashkelon Partnership. Our new friendship with the city of Ashkelon provides the Baltimore Jewish community with a wonderful opportunity to bond with our brothers and sisters overseas on issues of shared concern, with the goal of strengthening relations among Jews in Israel and the Diaspora. The purpose of this mission was for members of the delegation to obtain a better understanding of the Ashkelon community’s priorities and needs. For five very full days and nights, we became immersed in the life of Ashkelon as we met with her residents and visited schools and businesses. Our delegation had the opportunity to have Shabbat dinner in individual homes as we discussed our commonalities, shared stories about our children, and examined the potential to connect the two communities. We met as partners as we deliberated on some of the many potential programs we could collectively develop. The city itself is simply beautiful. Situated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Ashkelon is impeccably clean, and her citizens are incredibly friendly and hospitable. They are excited about Baltimore’s new friendship and remain appreciative of the continuing show of solidarity between American Jewry and Israel during the always difficult times. The city has many of the same needs and concerns we have in Baltimore, including assisting children at risk, providing services to seniors, and helping form strong Jewish identities for the next generation. Therefore, in the coming weeks and months, members of the Baltimore Jewish community will work hand in hand with the hundreds of volunteers in Ashkelon to craft various programs and initiatives that will strengthen our two communities. Individuals will focus on social services, Jewish education, and the promotion of volunteerism, economic development, a women’s forum, and health care. We look forward to working together with our new friends on what we know will be a significant and meaningful program for both Baltimore and Ashkelon. |