Who we are
Keren Hayesod – United Israel Appeal is the preeminent worldwide fundraising organization for Israel, which was established in London in 1920, to serve as the fundraising arm of the Jewish People and the Zionist Movement.
Keren Hayesod is recognized today as a National Institution (Public Benefit Company), with a special legal statues, according to the Keren Hayesod Law of 1956, granting it a unique position in the connection between Israel and world Jewry and friends of Israel.
Since its establishment Keren Hayesod has been at the forefront of Israel’s growth and progress. Its history has been inextricably intertwined with that of the State of Israel, the People of Israel and Jewish communities around the world.
In its early years, Keren Hayesod focused on Aliyah, established over 900 urban and rural settlements and developed the economic, industrial, educational, and cultural framework for the state-on-the-way. It supported the establishment of national and public organizations, such as the national airline EL AL, The Israel Electricity Company, The Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra, the Hebrew University, etc.
Today Keren Hayesod operates fundraising campaigns in over 40 countries and 60 communities around the world and with friends of Israel, in 9 languages, based on partnerships with local offices and leadership.
Our Work
Keren Hayesod works, according to its unique mandate, in partnership with its donors and with organizations in Israel and around the world, to raise funds dedicated to the wellbeing of the People of Israel, through activities that:
- Support and enhance Aliyah and absorption in Israel
- Strengthen Israeli society through improving the lives of disadvantaged populations and those living in the geographic and social periphery
- Strengthen Jewish peoplehood and the connection of young Jews to Israel across the globeυ
- Respond to emergencies that affect the People of Israel
- Address the changing needs and national priorities of Israel and the People of Israel
