Full Breakdown
Mark Wilf Leads The Jewish Agency Through Post-October 7 Recovery
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Leadership During the Crisis
When Mark Wilf became chairman of The Jewish Agency for Israel’s Board of Governors in July 2022, he entered a role that would be tested by the October 7 attacks. Within ten days of the attacks, Wilf was in Israel meeting displaced residents at Agency centers, emphasizing personal presence as a complement to financial aid. He has repeatedly described the Agency’s response as “energetic” and driven by a “ruach (spirit) to our work,” underscoring the belief that solidarity must be expressed through both resources and human connection.
Initiatives and Programs Launched
- Communities2Gether – pairs Israeli communities affected by the attacks with Jewish societies abroad, blending financial assistance with sustained personal relationships.
- Western Negev Building Project – launched with the Israeli government and global Jewish partners, it aims to create up to 1,000 new homes for growing families.
- Roaring Lion Fund – provides financial and emotional support to victims of Iranian missile attacks.
- Fund for the Victims of Terror – delivers immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation grants to Israelis.
Official Statements & Responses
Maj.-Gen. (res.) Eric D.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Throughout, he has brought vision, integrity, generosity, and a remarkable sense of responsibility to our shared work,” — Eric D. Fingerhut
- “There’s a ruach (spirit) to our work,” — Joseph Wilf
- “Many of these programs were created from scratch because the needs demanded it,” — Joseph Wilf
- “It’s important to be the messenger,” — Joseph Wilf
Looking Ahead
As Wilf prepares to step down, J. David Heller is slated to succeed him as chairman. Wilf will remain involved as co-chair of the Agency’s Centennial Committee, which will steer a campaign toward the organization’s 100th anniversary in 2029.