April 2023
As Israel marks 75 years of independence, we at NATAN are reminded of the country’s resilience and determination. For nearly two decades, NATAN has been at the forefront, providing humanitarian aid in disaster zones worldwide. Israeli citizens – Jews and Arabs — and volunteers from overseas run together, toward danger in times of crisis. Time and again, our volunteers prove their commitment to helping others, regardless of borders or politics.
As we celebrate this milestone, we recognize the role that Israel has played in providing assistance to those in need. NATAN is proud to be part of this tradition of humanitarian aid; we remain committed to help those affected by natural disasters, conflict and other crises. Working together, we believe that can make a positive impact on the world. On this Independence Day, let us renew our commitment to building a better future for all, in Israel and beyond.
NATAN volunteers coordinate with local authorities to support refugees displaced by the war in Ukraine.
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Ukraine: Helping the Helpers
No one can give forever. Even the most dedicated helpers deserve care and support. NATAN’s training for team members of our partner organization in Ukraine, Fundacja Humanitarna Folkowisko, focused on strengthening psychological “first aid” and resilience strategies for people working on the front lines, with refugees who have experienced trauma and disaster. Read more here.
Supporting front-line workers with resilience training in Ukraine.
Alan Silberstein, NATAN Advisory Board Chair, in Ukraine
NATAN Advisory Board Chair Alan Silberstein visited Poland and Ukraine this spring. He met with front-line volunteers, NATAN Folkowisko partners, and mental-health professionals who serve Ukrainian refugees and others whose lives have been disrupted by war. One especially illuminating experience: turning a bomb shelter into a comfortable, and comforting, homelike space. Read more here.
Making a shelter feel like home: Bright, clean dormitory-style beds, children’s artwork decorates the walls.
Nepal: Fighting Gender-Based Violence
NATAN and Relief Nepal, based in Nepal’s Dudhauli region, work together to empower communities to address gender-based violence. Alongside our partners from All Hands and Hearts, NATAN volunteers collaborate with local organizations, creating a program that is sustainable, culturally sensitive and effective in reaching it goals. A focus on community responsibility ensures that interventions are appropriate and relevant. Read more here.
Volunteer Spotlight: Einav Levy
“My father’s experience as a Holocaust survivor has played a big role in shaping my perspective. When he was fleeing for his life, he relied on the kindness and generosity of strangers to help him survive. That’s the kind of impact that I hope to have in my own work.” Einav Levy
Dr. Einav Levy has been a dedicated NATAN volunteer for 13 years. On his volunteering “bar mitzvah,” Einav reflects on his work with NATAN, from Haiti to Turkey, and his hopes for the future.