About JNF

What is JNF?

JNF is a not-for-profit organization and United Nations NGO (non-governmental organization) that gives all generations of Jews a unique voice in building a prosperous future for the land of Israel and its people.

When was JNF established?

Jewish National Fund-Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (KKL-JNF) was founded at the Fifth Zionist Congress in Basel, Switzerland on December 29, 1901. In the United States, JNF was established in 1926. While we work very closely with KKL-JNF in Israel, we have no role in the management of KKL-JNF. JNF in the U.S. is managed by a board of directors who represent a broad spectrum of Jewry from across America and projects are donor designated to the specific work JNF focuses on.

Why was JNF created?

Jewish National Fund began in 1901 as a dream and vision to reestablish a homeland in Israel for Jewish people everywhere. Jews the world over collected coins in iconic JNF Blue Boxes, purchasing land and planting trees until ultimately, their dream of a Jewish homeland was a reality. Today JNF embodies both heart and action; our work is varied in scope but singular in benefit. JNF strives to bring an enhanced quality of life to all of srael’s residents and translate these advancements to the world beyond. JNF is “greening” the desert with millions of trees, building thousands of parks across Israel, creating new communities and cities for generations of Israelis to call home, bolstering Israel’s water supply, helping develop innovative arid agriculture techniques and educating both young and old about the founding and importance of Israel and Zionism. JNF is the single largest provider of Zionist programs in the U.S. Its work is divided into seven program areas: Forestry & Green Innovations, Water Solutions, Community Building, Zionist Education & Advocacy, Research & Development, Heritage Sites, and Disabilities and Special Needs.