Explore

Samaritan Scout and Volunteer Hub: Platforms Connecting Diaspora Jews to Volunteer Opportunities in Israel

Samaritan Scout and Volunteer Hub: Platforms Connecting Diaspora Jews to Volunteer Opportunities in Israel

Dvora Inwood, inspired by her daughter's need for volunteer work and her own battle with Stage 4 colon cancer, has developed a nonprofit search engine called Samaritan Scout. This platform connects individuals with volunteer opportunities. Initially conceived to help her daughter find volunteer work, the project gained momentum after Inwood's cancer diagnosis in 2022. Inwood partnered with Mosaic United, an initiative of Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, to create Volunteer Hub. This platform specifically links Diaspora Jews to volunteer opportunities in Israel. Co-founder William Rosenthal, who was a high school senior at the time, played a significant role in programming the platform. Despite challenges, including the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, the initiative has continued to grow, driven by a diverse group of college-aged volunteers.

Nonprofits Debate Efficacy of Glamorous Galas Amid Rising Needs

Nonprofits Debate Efficacy of Glamorous Galas Amid Rising Needs

As the year-end approaches, nonprofit organizations are hosting a series of fundraising galas, sparking debate over their effectiveness. Events such as the UJA-Federation of New York's Wall Street Dinner and the Israel Policy Forum's annual gala are among many taking place. These gatherings aim to raise funds and awareness for various causes, but their efficacy is questioned, especially in light of recent global events like the October 7 terror attacks and rising antisemitism. Some argue that these high-profile events are essential for engaging donors and elevating organizational profiles, while others see them as inefficient, potentially straining donor relationships and failing to provide substantial financial support. Studies on the topic have shown mixed results, with some indicating a moderate increase in flexible donations, while others suggest minimal contributions to financial sustainability.

Cosgrove Calls for Greater Criticism of Israel at AZM Conference

Cosgrove Calls for Greater Criticism of Israel at AZM Conference

During a recent conference organized by the American Zionist Movement (AZM), Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove made a significant call for allowing greater criticism of Israel. This statement was made in the context of ongoing debates within the Jewish community about the role and efficacy of fundraising galas, especially in light of recent global events such as the October 7 terror attacks and the rise of antisemitism. The conference highlighted the tension between traditional fundraising methods and the growing need for more effective and transparent approaches to address the community's needs. Cosgrove's remarks have sparked discussions about the balance between supporting Israel and being able to critique its policies constructively.

Australia's Antisemitism Surge Prompts Call for Israel-Diaspora Unity

Australia's Antisemitism Surge Prompts Call for Israel-Diaspora Unity

Australia has released a national report highlighting a significant rise in antisemitic incidents, prompting calls for stronger unity between Israel and Jewish diaspora communities. The Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) emphasizes the need for a coordinated global effort to ensure the safety of Jewish communities worldwide. This call comes as Israel conducts national drills simulating the arrival of thousands of new immigrants from crisis zones, underscoring the interconnected futures of Israel and the diaspora. Arsen Ostrovsky, the incoming head of AIJAC Sydney, stresses the importance of mutual empowerment between Israel and diaspora communities, citing a Talmudic saying about Jewish responsibility for one another. The report indicates that antisemitism in Australia has reached unprecedented levels, affecting the sense of security among Jewish communities.

Dvora Inwood's Cancer Diagnosis Inspires Launch of Israel Volunteer Hub

Dvora Inwood's Cancer Diagnosis Inspires Launch of Israel Volunteer Hub

Dvora Inwood, a former product manager at McGraw Hill, was inspired to create a volunteer search engine after her daughter struggled to find volunteer opportunities for high school requirements. This idea was put on hold until Inwood was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in 2022, which led her to seek positive outlets during her treatment. She collaborated with her daughter's friends to develop Samaritan Scout, a nonprofit search engine connecting people with volunteer opportunities. Following the October 7 attacks in Israel, Inwood partnered with Mosaic United, an initiative of Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, to create Volunteer Hub, a platform linking Diaspora Jews to volunteer opportunities in Israel. The initiative was supported by college-aged volunteers from diverse backgrounds, who remained committed despite campus protests.

Mobile App HOBSCOTCH Shows Feasibility for Tracking Epilepsy Outcomes

Mobile App HOBSCOTCH Shows Feasibility for Tracking Epilepsy Outcomes

A study presented at the 2025 American Epilepsy Society Annual Meeting highlighted the feasibility of using the HOBSCOTCH mobile app for daily self-reporting by epilepsy patients. The app was used in a randomized controlled trial to collect data on seizure frequency, medication adherence, and cognitive function. The study involved 109 participants who submitted over 22,000 daily reports. The app's use of daily logs and notifications facilitated high engagement, particularly during intervention phases. Researchers noted significant trends in memory strategy use and well-being, suggesting the app's potential to enhance understanding of intervention dynamics.

Seven Aban Front Emerges as a Defiant Movement Against Iran's Regime

Seven Aban Front Emerges as a Defiant Movement Against Iran's Regime

The Seven Aban Front, a movement opposing Iran's regime, has been gaining attention for its stance against antisemitism and its solidarity with Israel. The group, labeled as 'Zionists' by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, actively engages in discussions with other organizations to foster cooperation. The movement's activities include advocating for human rights and opposing the Iranian government's policies. The Seven Aban Front's position on Israel and its opposition to antisemitism both within and outside Iran highlight its distinct approach in the region. The movement's actions are part of a broader resistance against the Iranian regime, which has faced criticism for its domestic and foreign policies.

Study Reveals Cats' Purrs Provide More Individual Identity Cues Than Meows

Study Reveals Cats' Purrs Provide More Individual Identity Cues Than Meows

A recent study conducted by researchers from the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin and the University of Naples Federico II has found that a domestic cat's purr is more indicative of its individual identity than its meow. The research, published in Scientific Reports, utilized automatic speech-recognition methods to analyze the vocalizations of both domestic and wild cats. The study revealed that while meows are highly variable and situation-dependent, purrs remain stable and are individually recognizable. The research team, including bioacoustician Mirjam Knörnschild, discovered that domestication has increased the variability of meowing, making it a flexible tool for cats to communicate with humans in various contexts.

Climate-Resilient Horticulture: Strategies for Sustainable Production

Climate-Resilient Horticulture: Strategies for Sustainable Production

The horticulture industry is facing significant challenges due to climate change, which affects crop quality, pest dynamics, and stress tolerance. To address these issues, there is a growing emphasis on developing climate-resilient practices and varieties. Key strategies include genetic enhancement, improving abiotic stress tolerance, and implementing carbon sequestration techniques. These efforts are crucial for sustaining fruit and vegetable production in the face of increasing environmental pressures.

Chargers vs Eagles MNF: Economic Impact on Publicly Traded Companies

Chargers vs Eagles MNF: Economic Impact on Publicly Traded Companies

Chargers vs Eagles MNF: Economic Impact on Publicly Traded Companies

Ken Griffey Jr.'s Iconic Nike Sneakers Make a Comeback in Mariners Colors

Ken Griffey Jr.'s Iconic Nike Sneakers Make a Comeback in Mariners Colors

Ken Griffey Jr.'s Iconic Nike Sneakers Make a Comeback in Mariners Colors

Big Tech's Expansion Sparks Concerns Among American Farmers Over Land and Resources

Big Tech's Expansion Sparks Concerns Among American Farmers Over Land and Resources

In the United States, a growing conflict is emerging between rural farmers and Big Tech companies over land and resource allocation. Farmers are increasingly worried about the impact of data center developments on their operations, particularly concerning energy and water resources. These data centers, which require significant amounts of land, energy, and water, are being established in rural areas, leading to competition with agricultural needs. In Indiana, local residents successfully opposed a Google data center proposal, highlighting community resistance to such developments. The expansion of data centers is also contributing to rising energy prices, as these facilities are major power consumers. This situation is exacerbating concerns among farmers about the affordability and availability of essential resources.