From a Voice for Israelis to a United Voice for All Who Stand with Israel
Before October 7
IAC Orange County was a vibrant hub for Israeli Americans in Southern California. Our programs focused on culture, education, and belonging, giving Israeli families a home away from home and connecting them with Jewish life in America. We celebrated heritage, strengthened ties to Israel, and nurtured the next generation through leadership programs like Eitanim and community-wide events like Celebrate Israel.
October 7 Changed Everything
In a single day, our community’s needs, responsibilities, and vision expanded. The attack on Israel and the wave of antisemitism that followed made it clear that our mission could not be only about Israelis living in America. We became an organization that represents and unites all who support Israel and the Jewish state: Israelis, Jewish Americans, and non-Jewish allies who believe in freedom, resilience, and truth.
Building Community with Purpose
Since that day, we have been building a stronger and broader community. Every event we organize carries two purposes: creating community and supporting Israel. From educational gatherings about Jewish history and Israeli society, to mentorship programs where business leaders from Orange County guide teens in innovation and leadership, our goal is to inspire pride, knowledge, and action. Through learning, connection, and shared responsibility, we fight ignorance and hatred while cultivating understanding and love for Israel.
A Collective Voice Against Hate
We are here to build a strong voice, a voice that cannot be ignored, a voice that brings awareness, defends our community, and combats antisemitism. This is done not through isolation but through partnerships, building bridges, and open hearts to all who stand with us.
Leadership That Makes It Possible
This transformation and growth are possible only because of the leadership of our local team and council, our dedicated donors, and our remarkable volunteers who understand the urgency of this moment. We are deeply grateful to our Council members: Golan Levy, Dana Hollander, Arik Vrobel, Eyal Aronoff, Udi Dorner, Roy Dekel, Anna Koreban, and Karen Jaffe.
We are equally thankful to the many volunteers who dedicate their energy and hearts: Stephaney Avital, Elaine O’Connor, Judy Yehuda, Leslie Tucker, Oleg and Marina Krepper, Dawn Kalai, Ilana Silberberg, Aviv Ben Abraham, and many, many more who stand beside us.
Their efforts remind us that IAC Orange County is not one person’s work. It is the result of a powerful collective that understands the stakes, invests their time, and believes in the importance of our mission. Together, we are creating a future where Israel is celebrated, Jewish life is strengthened, and every ally feels at home in this movement.
Looking Ahead
IAC Orange County is no longer just the voice of Israeli Americans. We are the united voice of all who love and support Israel and the Jewish people. With every event, every gathering, and every conversation, we are turning that voice into action, resilience, and hope.
We invite you to be part of this story. Join us at our next event, volunteer your time, mentor a teen, or simply come to learn and connect. There is a place for everyone in IAC Orange County. Together, we are stronger, and together, we stand with Israel.
Interested in volunteering or getting involved?
Email us at igreenberg@israeliamerican.com – we’d love to hear from you!
