04/24/2023
Don't forget to Like and Follow our main account the Jewish National Fund of Canada!
Meet Orna Richter, Executive Director of JNF Regional Ontario which includes Hamilton, London, and Windsor!
On her family's first trip to Israel together, they spent their first Shabbat in Jerusalem. During their exploration of the Old City, they visited a JNF project site that holds a special place in her heart. The "Restorers of Jerusalem" project, located at the foot of the Old City walls between the Jaffa and Zion Gates, revitalized an existing park, developed an archaeological garden, and restored walls that had fallen into disrepair. Thanks to the renewal of the promenade, there are now improved access roads for foot traffic, seating areas, and interpretation stations.
As she sat and admired the impressive walls and the bustling crowds passing through the corridor, Orna reflected on the centuries of history and cultures that have converged in this special place. The project site is particularly meaningful to her because it was the project her Zaida, Dr. Bernie Adler, chose when he was honoured as the JNF Edmonton Negev Dinner honouree in 2010. When she saw his plaque, she was moved to tears. Her children were equally amazed to see their Great Zaida's name displayed there! It was a powerful moment for them to realize that their family has a legacy here and their Zaida made a difference in this magical place.
Orna's most-used emoji is 😘 and one thing most people don't know about her is that during her undergrad, she had to dissect a fully grown dogfish shark!
Thanks to her passion and all of her hard work, we feel so fortunate to have Orna leading the Regional Ontario team!
