What is JNF? Q and A With Elliott Steinberg Executive Director, JNF Calgary 

1. What is JNF?

JNF Canada is an independent Canadian charity devoted to building the State of Israel. We work with a number of Israeli NGOs to improve the lives of all Israeli citizens. We are also an environmental organization (our original mandate) and provide educational opportunities about Israel.

2. Why are you asking for donations to Israel?

JNF has helped build Israel by buying land, planting trees, and building water systems, but it’s fair to ask why, in 2021, the “Start-Up Nation” needs our support. It’s because Israel’s needs have changed over the decades, and the government has to spend an inordinate amount of money on defense, fighting terrorism, and absorbing immigrants. That means that Israel is far behind in supporting its needs for social infrastructure (hospitals, rehabilitation centres, recreation, public safety, cultural arts facilities etc).

3. How long have you been living in Calgary?

I’ve been in Calgary for 25 years.

4. Why do you think JNF is the best?

JNF Canada has a proven track record of successful project-building. Our staff in Israel ensure timeliness, accountability, and transparency. We have the flexibility to work with different agencies in Israel, many of whom have the means to create programs and services, but not to manage fundraising and oversight for construction. This allows us to offer donors just about any kind of building project they can imagine. Something that is meaningful to them.

5. Can you tell us about upcoming events?

Our High Holiday Campaign is on now, and there are a few weeks left to YALLAH! Get Active for Israel. We have some tentative plans for late fall, but most importantly we’re anticipating the Alberta Cup Hockey Tournament in Edmonton in the new year, our Annual Campaign around Tu B’Shvat (including our ever-popular Laugh Yourself Silly Comedy Night), and our biggest event of the year, the Negev Gala, in May.

Bonus question. What did you think of my JNF Baseball Team, the “Gurus” and its players?

A fun bunch who gave their all!

Thanks for letting me feature Jewish National Fund and capture this aerial view of the teams.

Thank YOU for the help and the coverage!

Thank YOU for the help and the coverage!

You're welcome, Elliott!