Strengthening Bonds, Building the Future

Philadelphia was abuzz with excitement as the annual Maccabi Shlichim Seminar brought together the passionate representatives of Maccabi World Union (MWU). Though it might sound like a long-standing tradition, this impactful initiative began just five years ago. In that short time, it has grown into a cornerstone event, fostering personal and professional growth among participants while amplifying Maccabi's influence across North America.

  

Meet the Dream Team

This year's seminar welcomed five enthusiastic Maccabi Shlichim (emissaries), each making waves in their communities:  

Lior Vitlin: Central Shlicha for MWU in Maccabi USA based in Philadelphia.  

Yuval Alon: Representing Maccabi at the David Posnack JCC in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Ido Mizrahi: Bringing Maccabi spirit to Baltimore through BZD (Baltimore Zionist District).  

Lee Naftali: Making strides with JCC Association.  

Tal Maimon: Spreading the Maccabi vibe at BBYO.  

These Shlichim do not just represent Maccabi—they embody its mission, strengthening partnerships, fostering connections, and enriching their host communities with impactful educational and cultural initiatives.  

 

Why the Seminar Matters

The annual gathering serves as a springboard for innovation and collaboration. It's about straightening the bonds between the Shlichim, building strong delegation, brainstorming new ideas, and sharing impactful projects. This year, a special emphasis was placed on integrating the Maccabiah spirit, tying its theme, 'MORE THAN EVER,' into workshops, discussions, and interactive activities throughout the seminar.  

 

What's on the Agenda?

From mastering fundraising to sharpening partnership-building skills, the seminar is all about equipping the Shlichim with tools for success. 

The gathering featured a lineup of professionals sharing their expertise, including:

Deb Lichtenfeld, MWU Director of Development North America; Adi Ratzon, Director of Resource Development; Daniel Kurtz, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives, Maccabi USA, Nati Deri, Heading Maccabi's efforts at Yeshiva University and Pawel, Steering Maccabi Florida. Even those unable to attend in person, such as MWU's CEO Amir Gissin, Roie Tshuva, Chairman of the North America Desk & Shlichut Dept. and other key leaders, including Shirit Saks Haim, Ronit Ne'eman, and Ilana Ben Namer, participated via Zoom to offer their insights. 

 

Expanding the Team

Exciting news: The Maccabi delegation is about to grow! Three new Shlichim are preparing to join the ranks: Daniela Hochman will head soon to Mexico City for a shared mission with Hashomer HaTzair at the CDI; Daniela Ironi and Dean Assif will represent us as the Shlichim for the JCC Maccabi Games in Tucson, Arizona & Pittsburgh Pensilvania.

With these additions, the Delegation will include eight Shlichim, ready to spread Maccabi's message and values across the continent.  

 

Did you know? 

Beyond the Shlichim, Maccabi also sends Sh'nat Sherut (gap year) participants to the U.S. Currently, three participants are working with Maccabi Tzair branches in South Florida, while four others are stationed in New York (Rochester), San Diego, St. Louis, and Orlando.  

 

Join the Movement  

If you've ever dreamed of becoming a Maccabi Shaliach, this is your chance! Dana Berger, Director of North America Desk & Shlichut Dept., is ready to help you take the first step.  

📩 Email Dana: [email protected]

🌐 Learn more: https://www.maccabi.org/education/shlichim 

Whether you're inspired to join, collaborate, or simply cheer them on, one thing is clear: Maccabi's Shlichut is alive and thriving - MORE THAN EVER! Stay tuned because this movement is only getting started!