The Jewish people are always looking for meaningful ways to connect with the land of Israel. Interacting with Israel’s dynamic and vibrant culture is a fun and effective way to connect with and support Israel. One organization has made it their mission to spread Israeli culture throughout the world by creating cultural programs.
The Israel Innovation Fund (TIIF) was founded in 2017, by Adam Scott Bellos, as a U.S. – and Israel-based nonprofit with the aim of reigniting Zionism by spreading cutting-edge Israeli culture around the world. TIIF’s current projects include Wine on the Vine (which focuses on awareness of Israeli wines and the importance of planting grapevines in Israel); the Hebrew Wallpaper Project (which offers young artists a stipend and promotion); What If? Studios (film & video); and Jaffa Nights (nightlife/events). TIIF aims to launch projects that have both a compelling model for self-sustenance and give voice to the best, most commercially viable Israeli cultural experiences. In addition, through Wine on the Vine, TIIF offers financial support to Israeli social charities that are selected for their innovation, efficiency, and impact.
“Through cutting-edge contemporary culture, lifestyle, and travel, young diaspora Jews and non-Jews are discovering new ways to personally connect to the Israeli experience in ways that go far beyond conflict and survival,” says Bellos.
Wine on the Vine, a modern spin on tree planting, is TIIF’s flagship program. It allows people to virtually plant grapevines in top Israeli wineries and donate to a charity at the same time. One grapevine cost $18, with the majority going to charity. The premise is simple: choose your winery, choose your cause, plant a grapevine in Israel.
As of now, you can plant grapevines in Carmel, Psagot, Jezreel, Tulip, Maia, Herzberg, Gush Etzion, and Yatir, which are widely considered some of the best Israeli wineries. You can also choose from a variety of important charities to receive most of your donation. Some of these include The Lone Solider Project, DARCA Schools, Save a Child’s Heart, among others.
Head over to www.wineonthevine.org to plant a vine today!
