Chicago Unites for Birthright Israel's 25th Anniversary

On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, Birthright Israel Foundation’s Chicago Annual Event brought together community leaders, alumni, and supporters for a remarkable 25th Anniversary Celebration. Allyson Greenbaum, Vice President of the Central Region, recognized the extraordinary leadership of event co-chairs Lori Komisar & Morrie Silverman, and Jen & Andy Lucas, along with our most generous supporters in the Midwest. The program honored an exceptional group of alumni—Randi Karlinsky, Molly Robinson, Tali Kuhn & Zack Romanek, David Pawlan, and Rachel & David Chaimovitz—who exemplify how one transformative trip can spark a lifetime of Jewish leadership and contribution.

Birthright Israel Foundation President & CEO Elias Saratovsky shared his personal story and the program’s proven, generational impact — from strengthening Jewish identity to inspiring urgent engagement since October 7, while calling on supporters to invest boldly so every Jewish young adult can experience Israel.

The celebration highlighted not only the nearly 900,000 alumni who have experienced Birthright Israel but also the bold vision for the next 25 years. Guests heard from alumni leaders such as Rachel Moon, Ashley Waxman Bakshi, Zach Sage Fox, James Maslow, and Tessa Veksler, whose shared stories of resilience and advocacy. Closing remarks by Davey Komisar and Nicole Lucas called on the community to invest in the next generation, emphasizing that one trip—and one donation—can change everything. The evening concluded with Israeli music, dessert, and dancing, leaving guests inspired to secure the Jewish future together.