A new educational initiative will bring together students, families, universities and community organizations from Florida and Israel through the launch of the AM YISRAEL LIVE! Educational Gateway, a program designed to strengthen Jewish identity and encourage lasting connections between the two communities.
Announced on November 4 by the Greenwald Family Impact Foundation (TGFIF), the initiative will be a central part of the upcoming AM YISRAEL LIVE! Jewish Arts & Music Festival, scheduled for January 24, 2027, at Gateway Park in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida.
Presented by TGFIF, with the Jewish Shield Action Alliance as a collaborating co-sponsor, the festival will combine music, arts, education, wellness and community activities in a celebration of Jewish identity and the relationship between the United States and Israel.
Connecting Educational Institutions in Florida and Israel
The Educational Gateway will feature a Community Exhibitor Program bringing together academic institutions and organizations committed to education, innovation and cultural exchange.
Among the participating institutions are:
- Florida-Israel Institute (FII)
- Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
- Bar-Ilan University in Israel
Through this program, students, families and visitors will have opportunities to learn about academic programs, research initiatives, student experiences and educational opportunities connecting Florida and Israel.
The initiative aims to take these relationships beyond university campuses and make them accessible to the broader community.
Joseph Sabag, executive director of the Florida-Israel Institute at Florida Atlantic University, said the organization is honored to participate and introduce attendees to educational, research and innovation opportunities connecting the two regions.
He emphasized that the initiative will help bring international partnerships directly into the community, creating opportunities for students, families, educators and other participants.
Strengthening Jewish Identity Through Education
Jonathan S. Greenwald, founder and executive director of the Greenwald Family Impact Foundation, described education as one of the most important investments the Jewish community can make in future generations.
He emphasized the importance of helping young people understand their history, heritage and identity while developing confidence in their Jewish and Zionist values.
According to Greenwald, the Educational Gateway is intended to provide practical opportunities for learning, connection and engagement at a time when antisemitism presents growing challenges for Jewish communities.
The program’s broader vision is to make education and cultural exchange accessible to multiple generations while encouraging stronger relationships with Israel.
A Festival With Three Distinct Experiences
The Educational Gateway will be part of a full day of programming at AM YISRAEL LIVE! on January 24, 2027.
The festival will feature three main experiences:
AM YISRAEL LIVE! – CHAI-FLOW | 9:30 a.m.–11:45 a.m.
A morning wellness experience bringing together movement, mindfulness and community.
AM YISRAEL LIVE! – Jewish Arts & Music Festival | 12 p.m.–6 p.m.
The main festival will feature music, arts, culture, educational experiences and community engagement. The Educational Gateway and Community Exhibitor Program will be included in this part of the event.
AM YISRAEL LIVE! – AFTER DARK | 7 p.m.–10 p.m.
An evening program featuring music and entertainment celebrating Jewish identity, creativity and connection.
Together, the three experiences are designed to welcome different generations and provide opportunities for participation throughout the day.
Building Lasting Connections Between Florida and Israel
The Educational Gateway is intended to create relationships that continue long after the festival ends.
By introducing young people and families to universities, educational programs and organizations working between Florida and Israel, the initiative hopes to encourage future academic opportunities, research collaborations and cultural exchange.
Additional participating institutions and organizations will be announced as their involvement is confirmed.
About the Greenwald Family Impact Foundation
The Greenwald Family Impact Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Jewish communities, supporting Israel, combating antisemitism and creating opportunities for education and engagement.
Through partnerships and collaborative programs, the foundation brings together organizations and individuals in the United States and Israel. Its work focuses on education, community resilience, humanitarian support, innovation and initiatives that strengthen Jewish identity and connection.
Credit: Jewish News Syndicate (JNS)
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