A prominent Boston-based family foundation will match funding for the initial research phase of The Joint Institute for Global Food, Water and Energy Security (the JNF Institute). A unique partnership between The University of Arizona, Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA) and the Arava Region, the Joint Institute was established in 2019 under a much-lauded global Research & Development Memorandum. This first phase will focus on demonstrating sustainable methods of food production against the nexus of energy, land use and water conservation in an arid environment.
The Boston-based foundation has been a generous partner of Jewish National Fund-USA’s work in Israel, particularly in the development of the Central Arava. Inspired to provide seed money for this novel collaboration, the foundation hopes the research will consolidate innovative technological capacities so vital to building food, water and energy security not only for Israel, but also for vulnerable communities throughout the world. In committing to fund this pioneering effort of the JNF Institute, the foundation believes that, by offering to match gifts, together we can change the world.
“It was a natural fit for their passion,” said Jewish National Fund-USA national campaign director Sharon Joy. “This foundation has always supported our work that focuses on infrastructure, water resources and our vision to highlight the ‘Positively Israel’ message and tikkun olam (making the world a better place). We are so grateful for their generosity and dedication and hope to see many wonderful results and relationships come from the Joint Institute.”
“This really is an unprecedented program for our region,” said JNF Joint Institute project co-director Udi Gat. “However, the ultimate goal is to deepen the global impact of the Joint Institute, all of which is made possible by the philanthropy of others, like the foundation, which supports the mission.”
Added Joy, “This is a very special and important investment for the Central Arava, for Israel and for all the arid regions of the world.”
The JNF Joint Institute was created to facilitate the integration of cutting-edge advancements in sustainable food, energy and water resource management and resiliency. During this first research phase, members of the Arava Region will work closely with representatives from the University of Arizona to adapt proven methods of sustainable food production to the Arava. The refined methodology will then be introduced to other arid environments throughout the world. Over the next three to five years, the Joint Institute plans to launch at least three multi-disciplinary programs in Africa to provide technology transfer, applied research, knowledge, training, ongoing guidance and education.
For more information about the Joint Global Institute or to get involved with Jewish National Fund-USA, contact national campaign director Sharon Joy at sjoy@jnf.org or 212-879-9305 ext. 810.
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