Miami Community Unites for Birthright Israel at the Rubell Museum

More than 200 supporters gathered in Miami’s Rubell Museum on December 8 to celebrate 25 years of Birthright Israel, led by Event Chairs Colleen and Richard Fain, Miami Cabinet Co-Chairs Jane Gold and Scott Srebnick, and with gratitude to hosts Michelle and Jason Rubell. Jane explained why she supports Birthright Israel: "Because nothing shapes Jewish identity like seeing Israel with your own eyes. Because our young people deserve connection, pride, and belonging. And because right now, when the world feels so uncertain, Birthright Israel is one of the strongest bridges we have between young Jews in the Diaspora and the State of Israel." Scott added, reflecting on meeting 80 participants last summer, “I have never felt so confident in the future of the Jewish people. One visit to Israel can change your life.”

Guests honored the memories of David Shechter z"l, Richard Furman z"l, and Larry Mendelson z"l, then heard a stirring keynote from alumna Sarah Cohen, whose Birthright Israel journey helped shape her career in Middle East diplomacy.

Birthright Israel Foundation President & CEO Elias Saratovsky launched the Generations Campaign and recognized Miami Legacy Chairs Sharon and Howard Socol, followed by remarks from Reyna Dominitz, who introduced Colleen Fain. Colleen presented Distinguished Alumni Awards to David Bitton, Nicole Erdfrocht, Miranda May, Liora Redman, Shaked Rogovsky, Brendan Schneier, and Alejandro Glatt, celebrating their leadership across tech, philanthropy, the arts, and the IDF.

In closing, Colleen shared a video message from Richard and announced their decision to double their gift—enough to sponsor a full Birthright Israel bus—inviting the Miami community to join them in ensuring that one trip continues to change everything.