Memphis Jewish Federation’s partnership with the central Israeli city of Shoham, which is part of the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI)’s Partnership2Gether program, has led to many meaningful relationships blossoming between members of the two linked communities.
This item, from a recent JAFI newsletter about partnerships like ours, shows the warmth of cultural connection the project brings, both to Memphis and to Shoham.
Keeping with American tradition, Thanksgiving is an opportunity for family reunion so why not in P2G. This year, volunteers from Shoham organized a Thanksgiving celebration, inviting young people from Memphis alone in Israel: olim (new immigrants), lone soldiers and MASA participants in GAP year studies.
We gave warm support and a family hug to our new friends from Memphis while introducing young Israelis to the culture of American Jewry and their family tradition. A great opportunity to deepen Israel-Diaspora understanding and forge new friendships. All taking place while enjoying a holiday meal starring turkey, cranberry sauce and baked sweet potato — laden of course with a twist of Israeli tahini. There is no doubt that this is the beginning of a new tradition – a Partnership called ShoHOME!
Check out this smile-inducing video to hear testimony from Memphians and their hosts from Shoham!