As I write in this final printed edition of our magazine, I do so with gratitude, pride, and a deep sense of responsibility. For many years, this publication has reflected the heart of ESRA—our values, our volunteers, our partners, and the communities we serve. Through its pages, we have shared stories of impact, resilience, generosity and commitment.
While this is the last printed edition, the Magazine Editorial Board is certainly not concluding its work. The team remains dedicated to producing thoughtful, relevant, and inspiring content. What is changing is the platform—not the quality and not the commitment.
Moving to a digital format through our newsletters will allow us to broaden and enrich what we offer. Without the limitations of print space and production schedules, we can share articles more frequently, include direct links for deeper reading, and incorporate visual and multimedia elements—extended interviews, photo galleries, and even short videos that bring ESRA's work to life. This transition reflects not only modern communication habits but also our commitment to responsible financial stewardship.
I will leave it to our editor, Merle, to expand on how this new format will function and the exciting opportunities it presents. I have full confidence that ESRA's voice will continue to inform, connect, and inspire.
In the same spirit of thoughtful reassessment, the printed annual calendar—so successfully led by the Netanya branch for many years—has also come to a close. The calendar was a creative and meaningful initiative, and we are deeply grateful to the Netanya team for their dedication and hard work. However, the number of hours and distribution costs have required us to consider where our resources can have the greatest impact.
It is important to emphasize that advertising opportunities within ESRA continue—indeed, in many ways, they expand. Advertising that previously appeared in the magazine or calendar can now be integrated into our website, digital newsletters, and national and local events. These platforms offer broader and often more sustained exposure, reaching members and partners across the country. Rather than limiting visibility, this shift allows us to offer advertising on a larger, more national basis.
At the same time, I would like to address something very important.
We sincerely hope that members will not connect their membership solely to receiving a printed magazine or calendar. ESRA membership is not a subscription—it is a commitment. It is the backbone of our organization. Membership fees provide the stable foundation that enables ESRA to exist, to plan responsibly, and to support those who need us most.
Your membership ensures continuity. It allows us to maintain infrastructure, develop programs, and respond when communities require support. It signals belief in our mission and trust in our leadership.
By choosing not to allocate membership funds to printing and postage, we are demonstrating responsible stewardship. Every shekel that is not spent on production costs can be redirected to our educational initiatives, volunteer programs, and community support. This is something that should make every member proud. It reflects maturity, discipline, and clarity of purpose.
ESRA's strength has always rested on its members. Our volunteers give their time. Our donors give generously. But it is our members—through their steady and loyal support—who form the organization's core. Membership is a statement that ESRA matters. That its work matters. That the communities we support matter.
Alongside these communication changes, we have continued strengthening ESRA internally. A key focus has been the consolidation of our younger volunteers. We are intentionally building a cohesive and structured younger network, providing opportunities for leadership, initiative, and connection. This is the first stage in ensuring long-term sustainability. Once this group is firmly established, the next stage will be to deepen collaboration across generations.
We have also completed a comprehensive strategic planning process, sharpening our focus on our core strengths—educational support, volunteer-driven initiatives and community-based programs. Clear priorities and measurable outcomes now guide our work.
In addition, we finalized a new governance document that strengthens clarity, accountability, and succession planning within the organization. Strong governance ensures that ESRA remains transparent, professional, and well-positioned for the future.
These changes are not cosmetic. They are purposeful. They reflect an organization that respects its members, values its donors, and is determined to use every resource wisely.
As we turn the final printed page of this magazine and bid farewell to the physical calendar, we do so not with nostalgia alone, but with confidence. ESRA is evolving thoughtfully and responsibly. Our mission remains steadfast. Our commitment remains strong.
We thank you for your continued membership—not because of what you receive, but because of what together we are able to give.
With gratitude and determination,
Nella Feldsher
Chair ESRA