The TLV-LA Partnership

Executive Summary

Background and Introduction
 

1. The goal of this report is to offer a strategic framework for the potential vision and structure of the Tel Aviv-Los Angeles Partnership within the broader context and framework of Partnership 2000 of the Jewish Agency (recently renamed as 'Partnership 3.0', hereinafter 'the Partnership(s)). This report seeks to answer the question: “What does a cutting edge, 21st century model partnership look like, and how can the TLV-LA Partnership become one?"

2. This report is intended to offer principles and guidelines for a model Partnership. Implementing these ideas will require additional work on the part of the Partnership.

3. It is based on the work of the Reut Institute on the future of Israel's relations with the Jewish world, and on dozens of conversations with lay leaders and professionals in the TLV-LA Partnership, in other Partnerships and in Partnership 2000, as well as others.

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Chapter 1: Broader Context: Major Trends Affecting the Jewish World

1. The broader context for this report are the major trends affecting the Jewish world that are transforming the relations between Israel and Diaspora Jewry and therefore also the work of the Partnerships. The most significant of these trends include:

   • A call for a renewed Zionism, which emphasizes the concept of Peoplehood and blends it with Zionism, demanding greater focus on world Jewry;

   • Israel's economic success during an economic downturn in the USA replaces the 'Rich uncle-poor nephew' mindset with an expectation for synergy, mutuality and true partnership;

   • Relationship between Israel and Diaspora is shaped by multiple direct people-to-people and community-to-community connections instead of the previous old-boys-network where decisions were made by a few individuals at the leadership of organizations such as UJC (now JFNA) or JAFI;

   • A controversy around Israeli policies not only impedes on community-wide engagement with Israel, but also makes Israel a divisive issue in some synagogues;

   • The relationship between Jewish communities is moving from relationships between institutions to partnerships around issues.

2. Six major issues prominently capture attention, energy and resources: Tikkun Olam, fighting anti-Semitism and Israel's delegitimization, embracing Jewish heritage, Israel, building prosperous and resilient communities and Hebrew.

3. In order to thrive in this changing reality, Partnerships need to adapt their model. In general, organizations that will creatively embody the emerging trend will thrive, while those that will cling to the old mindset may find themselves declining in support base, resources and membership.

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