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What Is Nefesh b'Nefesh?

August 10, 2024 158 Time to read: 7 min.

Nefesh b’Nefesh, often abbreviated as NBN, is a lifeline for Jews seeking to make Israel their home. The name “Nefesh b’Nefesh,” which translates to “Soul to Soul” in English, encapsulates the program’s deeply personal approach to aliyah. This name reflects the belief that each individual’s journey to Israel is a profound, soul-stirring experience that requires personalized support and guidance.

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    By addressing the practical, emotional, and logistical challenges of relocating to a new country, Nefesh b’Nefesh has revolutionized the aliyah experience, making it more accessible and less daunting for Jews from North America and the United Kingdom.

    Since its inception, NBN has played a pivotal role in revitalizing aliyah and strengthening the demographic fabric of Israel. The program’s innovative approach enlarged the number of olim and improved their long-term success and integration into their new community. By fostering a supportive community and providing ongoing assistance, Nefesh b’Nefesh turns the dream of returning to the ancestral homeland into an achievable reality for thousands of families and individuals.

    The Mission of Nefesh b’Nefesh

    Nefesh b’Nefesh intends to revitalize and simplify Jewish immigration to Israel. The primary goal of the program’s representatives is to remove or significantly reduce the money, career, and logistical challenges that olim have to deal with in their journey to make aliyah. This mission is rooted in the belief that a thriving, diverse Jewish population is crucial for the continued growth and prosperity of Israel.

    Bnefesh has developed a wide array of services to achieve its goals, each designed to address specific challenges in the aliyah procedure.

    Beyond simplifying the immediate process of aliyah, Nefesh has a broader vision of strengthening Israel’s national and economic security through strategic population growth. The program’s “Go North” and “Go South” initiatives encourage olim to settle in Israel’s peripheral regions, contributing to the development of these areas. Through these efforts, Nefesh b’Nefesh is shaping the country’s demographic landscape and fostering a more robust, diverse Israeli society.

    History of Nefesh b’Nefesh

    Nefesh b’Nefesh was launched in 2002 by Rabbi Yehoshua Fass and Tony Gelbart. The inception of bnefesh was driven by a profound recognition of the challenges facing North American Jews who aspired to make Israel their home. Fass, motivated by a personal tragedy linked to terrorism in Israel, joined forces with entrepreneur Gelbart to launch an organization that would revitalize and streamline the aliyah procedure.

    In its early years, Nefesh rapidly gained traction and recognition for its innovative approach to facilitating aliyah. The program introduced groundbreaking initiatives such as chartered aliyah plane transportation, which not only provided a practical solution for immigration but also created a symbolic and emotionally powerful experience for new olim. By 2005, Nefesh b’Nefesh had already assisted thousands of North American Jews in making aliyah, marking a significant turnaround in the declining numbers of Western immigrants to Israel.

    This period also saw the expansion of the program’s services, such as the development of comprehensive employment assistance programs and community integration initiatives.

    As Nefesh entered its second decade, its impact on aliyah and Israeli society became increasingly profound. The program expanded its reach to include Jews from the UK in 2006, further broadening its influence. A significant milestone was reached in 2008 with creating the “Go North” program, encouraging olim to settle in Israel’s northern region and contributing to the area’s development. By 2021, Nefesh b’Nefesh had made the aliyah of over 70,000 North American and British Jews easier, fundamentally altering the landscape of Western immigration to Israel.

    Contact Information for Nefesh b’Nefesh

    For individuals seeking to make aliyah or requiring assistance with their immigration procedure, Nefesh b’Nefesh provides multiple channels of communication. The program maintains a robust online presence and physical offices in both North America and Israel, ensuring comprehensive support for potential olim and recent immigrants. Below is the essential contact information for bnefesh:

    Website: www.nbn.org.il

    Phone Numbers:

    North America (Toll-Free): 1-866-4-ALIYAH (1-866-425-4924)

    Israel: 02-659-5800

    Office Locations:

    Jerusalem, Israel: NBN Aliyah Campus, 10 Sderot Yitzchak Rabin

    Tel Aviv, Israel: Lone Soldiers Program, Beit Hachayal 60 Weitzman

    These contact points serve as vital links for those navigating the complex journey of aliyah, offering personalized assistance throughout the immigration procedure.

    Nefesh b’Nefesh Programmes and Services

    Key Programs and Services:

    • Employment Services: Job board, career counseling, and professional networking events.
    • Financial Planning: Personalized financial advice and grants for eligible olim.
    • Aliyah Flight Charters: Dedicated flights for new program members, offering a supportive start to their journey.
    • Lone Soldier Program: Comprehensive support for individuals serving in the IDF without immediate family in Israel.
    • Go North and Go South Initiatives: Incentives and assistance for olim settling in Israel’s peripheral regions.
    • Community Integration: Social events, language programs, and cultural orientation sessions.
    • Education Consulting: Guidance on schooling options and higher education in Israel.
    • Government Advocacy: Assistance in navigating Israeli bureaucracy and accessing government benefits.
    • NBN MedEx: Specialized support for medical professionals making aliyah.
    • Guided Aliyah: Detailed assistance throughout the immigration procedure.

    These services collectively address the practical, emotional, and social aspects of aliyah, fostering successful integration and community building across Israel.

    How to Access Nefesh b’Nefesh Website and Login

    Nefesh b’Nefesh is a crucial portal for individuals embarking on their aliyah journey. Accessing the nefeshbnefesh platform provides users with a wealth of resources and personalized services.

    To enter the Nefesh b’Nefesh website and login to your personal page, follow these steps:

    1. Go to the prefered browser and enter the address of the website to (www.nbn.org.il).
    2. On the bnefesh main page, locate the “Login to my application” button, typically found in the top right corner.
    3. Enter your registered email and password in the designated fields.
    4. Press the “Login” button to access your personal profile.
    5. If you don’t remember your password, click the “Forgot Password” link below the login fields.
    6. Provide your email to get a mail with a password reset instruction.
    7. Visit your mailbox and press your unique link to set a new password.

    If you havent already registered, you need to create a new profile. You’ll be required to provide basic personal information and set a robust password. Once registered, you can immediately login to your new account. The Nefesh b’Nefesh website is designed for easy navigation, allowing users to access the aliyah application procedure, job listings, and community resources. Your nefeshbnefesh account is your gateway to a personalized aliyah experience, so be sure to keep your login information secure and up-to-date.

    FAQ

    Are Nefesh b'Nefesh services available for Canadian Jews?

    Yes, Nefesh b’Nefesh services are available for Jews from both the USA and Canada who wish to make aliyah to Israel. This institution offers comprehensive support for North American olim, including those from Canada, throughout their aliyah journey.

    Is there a cost associated with using Nefesh b'Nefesh services?

    Nefesh b’Nefesh offers its core services free of charge to eligible olim. This includes assistance with the aliyah application procedure, pre-aliyah guidance, and post-aliyah support. However, some specific programs or advanced services may have associated costs. It’s best to login to your bnefesh account for detailed information about any potential fees.

    How can I join Nefesh b'Nefesh community events in Israel?

    Nefesh organizes numerous community events for olim across Israel. To participate, check the events calendar on the Nefesh b’Nefesh website after you login to your profile. It’s also possible to join local Nefesh b’Nefesh Facebook groups or sign up for email newsletters to stay informed about upcoming events in your area.

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