Your contributions to Federation’s Annual Campaign help treat and support Israelis traumatized by war and terrorism – and this year, our Israel & Overseas partnership with NATAL: Israel Trauma and Resiliency Center’s Stronger Together program benefited both Israelis and Greater Hartford residents as we battled the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In June, Federation and NATAL partnered to present a virtual seminar on trauma response for local Jewish leaders. Coordinated by Federation Vice President of Jewish Education and Leadership Heather Rubin Fiedler, the program offered tips and resources from Israeli trauma experts on coping with stress and anxiety while supporting affected community members.

 “The psychologist speaker had worked closely with the IDF and spoke from vast experience with direct and indirect trauma victims,” said Katie Hanley, Jewish Family Services’ newly appointed Chief Executive Officer, who attended the workshop. “I am incredibly grateful we were invited to participate and learn from one of Federation’s expert Israeli partners.”

Meanwhile, in Israel, NATAL cared for Israelis battling a new kind of trauma: an invisible virus ravaging their communities. Among those most affected by burnout, depression, and grief are Israel’s frontline first responders — nurses, doctors, paramedics, and social workers. Responding to the call for added support, NATAL created an emotional assistance helpline staffed by mental health professionals. Click here to learn more about NATAL's life-changing work. 

Photo caption: Contributions to Federation's Annual Campaign support our Israeli partner, NATAL: Israel Trauma and Resiliency Center.