Event Chairs Jennifer Failla, Lauren Hamer, and Tracy Solomon with Elica Le Bon at the Women for Israel Cocktail Party. Credit: Jason Casady

On May 7, 2025, over 300 philanthropic “wonder women” united at the Dell Jewish Community Center for Jewish National Fund-USA’s annual “Austin Women’s Wednesday,” events where Austinites showed their staunch support for the land and people of Israel at both an elegant luncheon and an evening cocktail reception, all while learning how the organization’s “circles of impact” have brought Israel’s northern and southern regions to life.

Co-chaired by Jennifer Failla, Lauren Hamer, and Tracy Solomon, both receptions featured guest speaker Elica LeBon. An Iranian-American attorney, artist, and activist, LeBon has dedicated her life to bridging divides and championing human rights. From advocating for truth in the Middle East to addressing misconceptions about Israel, she has reached millions of audiences worldwide, inspiring action with powerful messages of hope and humanity.

“I know that you are subjected to so much hate in the world right now, and it’s scary and overwhelming,” she recently said in an article from the Australian Jewish News. “Don’t let the enemy’s voice become your voice. Remember who you are. Remember the voice in your head, which is the voice of your ancestors who survived every single time. If you keep telling yourself what your ancestors know, you will survive this too.”

Additionally, local lay leaders discussed the importance of supporting and preserving the land of Israel as a Jewish homeland. They noted that when Israel thrives, the diaspora Jewish communities flourish with it.

“I want my children to see Israel not just as a homeland, but as a responsibility,” said Event Co-chair Failla. “To know that supporting Israel means investing in its future—whether through education, environmental sustainability, or helping communities rebuild after hardship. Jewish National Fund-USA has the heart, the history, and the strength to turn our love for Israel into real impact. I’m proud to have deepened my involvement and to stand with all of you in this mission.”

Lay leaders also showcased how Jewish National Fund-USA is leading efforts to rebuild and rehabilitate Israel’s battered North and South through its Build Together and Reimagine plans. By investing in new housing sites, employment initiatives, medical centers, mental health services, schools, playgrounds, resilience centers, and more, the organization is creating multiple “circles of impact” that support its vision of attracting 800,000 new residents to Israel’s frontier regions.

“Jewish National Fund-USA has never just planted trees—it has planted the seeds of a thriving, resilient, and strong Israel,” said Event Co-chair Tracy Solomon. “Through projects that build infrastructure, support agriculture, create jobs, and develop communities, the organization has always been a force for growth and renewal. Our work in the Negev and Galilee is not just about geography—it’s about people. We ensure that every Israeli has the opportunity to flourish and that the land of Israel continues to be a place of strength and innovation.”

And with the increase in Jew hatred nationwide, attendees are determined to ensure that their voices are heard. “We now understand we no longer have the option to be complacent,” added Event Co-Chair Lauren Hamer. “Especially when here, in our own communities, we have faced our own battles. Rising antisemitism, vandalism, arson, and hate spread through protests on our streets, and the same rhetoric is in our schools and workplaces. This fight belongs to all of us– it’s about standing together for what’s right regardless of faith or background.”

In addition, attendees were invited to attend Jewish National Fund-USA’s Global Conference for Israel taking place in Hollywood, FL, this fall, from Thursday, October 23 to Sunday, October 26, 2025 (jnf.org/gc).

For more information about Jewish National Fund-USA or to learn about upcoming events in Austin, visit jnf.org or contact Chayla Furlong, director, Central Texas, at [email protected] or (512) 410-1438 x948.