June 10,2025
Kfar Saba, June 9, 2025 – Under the theme of service to the community, B’nai B’rith Israel held its 97th Annual Conference today in Kfar Saba, with 350 representatives voting on new appointments, constitutional amendments, and the organization’s financial reports for 2024.
The organization has seen unprecedented growth over the past five years, expanding from 1,300 members and 44 lodges in 2017 to 3,200 members and 112 lodges today. B’nai B’rith Israel contributes thousands of volunteer hours each month, aiding the elderly, women affected by domestic violence, and other vulnerable populations. It also offers scholarships to reservist soldiers and mentors high school students, among many other initiatives. This month, the organization will provide hundreds of volunteers to support the Maccabiah Games.
President Emanuel (Mano) Cohen presented the organization’s strategic plan, which includes recruiting younger leaders, achieving financial growth through the planned expansion of B’nai B’rith Israel’s senior living facility in Haifa, and strengthening ties with B’nai B’rith lodges worldwide. In addition, he reviewed the key national and regional projects implemented by volunteers over the past year. Certificates of recognition were awarded to those who excelled in their volunteer work.
Video greetings included remarks from B’nai B’rith International’s newly elected President, Robert Spitzer, who praised B’nai B’rith Israel’s growing membership as a model for other branches and highlighted its deep commitment to community service. Additional greetings were shared by Dr. Benny Monheit, President of B’nai B’rith Australia and New Zealand; Susznna Chalon, President of B’nai B’rith Argentina; and Jay Harris, Chairman of the Board of B’nai B’rith Canada.
Guest speakers included Rafi Saar, Mayor of Kfar Saba; Gad and Noa Kedem, the father and sister of Tamar Kedem, who was murdered along with her husband and three children by Hamas terrorists on October 7; and Major General (res.) Udi Shani, Chairman of Yad LeShiryon, an organization to which B’nai B’rith provides scholarships for reservist soldiers. Also present was Alan Schneider, Director of the B’nai B’rith World Center in Jerusalem.