Dear Hasbara Fellowships Alumni, Family and Friends,

Many of you know me as a staff member of the Hasbara Fellowships, but long before that, I was a Jewish student facing anti-Israel propaganda on my campus, and I needed help. I was privileged to be a participant on the very first Hasbara Fellowships activism training program in Israel, an experience which profoundly changed my life. On the Hasbara program, I gained the knowledge, tools and confidence to transform my university into a thriving hub of Israel supporters.  

Hasbara Fellowships did not just build me into a successful Israel advocate; it endowed me with a strong sense of Jewish leadership. When I graduated, I realized that I had an exciting opportunity – a responsibility – to impart my knowledge and experience to future student leaders. Since then, I have been a proud member of the Hasbara Fellowships professional team, where I have learned that giving is truly more rewarding than receiving. I have cherished experiencing Hasbara anew with each season of new Fellows, as well as working on a team of idealistic, innovative and dedicated Israel activists. I truly believe that Israel is a safer place, and that we are better people, for having contributed to our noble cause.

These ten years have passed quickly, and while we have had many successes, our real impact will be gauged through our ability to sustain our efforts for decades to come. Please take a moment to remind yourself of what compelled you to participate in the Hasbara Fellowships program as a student – the desire to know, the thrill of the Israel trip, and the sense of worth you gained from your accomplishments when you returned to campus.

I hope you will support our campaign, and pay it forward to the next generation of Israel advocates on campus.

With love and appreciation,

Natalie