In a heartfelt address at the Jerusalem Post Annual New York Conference, Zalman Duchman, executive director of Colel Chabad, emphasized the vital role of connecting Jews worldwide to Israel. For over two centuries, Colel Chabad has been bridging the gap between the Diaspora and Israeli communities through direct support and aid.
Colel Chabad: A Legacy of Helping and Connecting
Founded back in 1788 by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, the Chabad-Lubavitch movement’s pioneer, Colel Chabad has grown into a lifeline for Israel’s most vulnerable. It holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest continuously operating charity fund.
Zalman Duchman explained the organization’s mission with a simple, powerful message: “Every single Jew needs a connection to Israel.” That connection, he says, is nurtured by supporting those in need throughout Israel. The charity distributes over NIS 400 million annually, touching thousands of lives in a meaningful way.
This isn’t charity in a vacuum. Colel Chabad works hand-in-hand with local Israeli municipalities and the government, ensuring that aid is delivered efficiently and effectively. From routine support to crisis response, their infrastructure stretches far and wide.
The organization’s reach is impressive. When emergencies strike — whether natural disasters or sudden outbreaks of violence — Colel Chabad is among the first to respond, demonstrating their commitment not just to long-term care but urgent needs as well.
Building Bridges Beyond Borders
The idea behind Colel Chabad goes beyond just financial aid. It’s about fostering a sense of shared identity and responsibility among Jews around the globe. The executive director made it clear: maintaining this connection strengthens the community both abroad and at home.
Duchman’s speech underscored a larger truth — the Diaspora and Israel are intertwined. Support isn’t just a one-way street; it’s part of a bond that feeds spiritual and cultural roots. It’s about belonging to a community that stretches across continents.
His remarks resonated especially in New York, home to one of the largest Jewish populations outside Israel. Here, the yearning to keep ties alive is strong. Through Colel Chabad, that yearning is translated into action — from delivering meals to the elderly, supporting education, to assisting struggling families.
In his remarks, Duchman said that this connection is vital for Israel’s resilience. The Jewish state faces ongoing challenges, but knowing it has a global network standing behind it creates strength beyond weapons or politics.
This snapshot only tells part of the story, though. The real impact is felt in individual lives — a warm meal, a helping hand, or just the knowledge that someone cares deeply.
A Personal Note on Connection and Responsibility
Duchman’s message carried a personal touch too. He spoke not just as a leader but as someone deeply invested in the Jewish community’s future. “It’s about more than charity,” he said. “It’s about identity, history, and the continuity of our people.”
And let’s face it — in a world where many feel disconnected, these kinds of bonds matter more than ever. They remind us all that even the smallest gesture can echo across time and space.
In times when headlines often highlight tension and conflict, Duchman’s words brought a refreshing reminder of unity and care. Colel Chabad’s work quietly but powerfully keeps the ties alive — across generations and geographies. It’s a mission that proves no matter where you live, Israel is never far from the heart.
