Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City

Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim came from opposite sides of the world—Yaron from Germany and Israel, Sarah from Kansas—but they shared a common dream: to build a more peaceful future for those of all faiths and peoples through diplomacy.

Born in Israel but growing up in Germany, Yaron initially struggled to acclimate to the new language and culture upon the family’s return to Israel. After school, he joined the IDF’s military police and went on to earn two academic degrees, discovering his deep love for learning, diplomacy, and public service. He explored the history and cultures of East Asia and the Middle East and wanted to make improving Israel’s relations with the world his life’s work. Yaron participated in multiple voluntary programs during his studies while serving his faith community as a youth leader. He was universally beloved for his reserved but kind, caring, and sweet personality. A pillar of his community as well as the “glue” of his family, he will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Sarah devoted her life to making the world a better place. She was passionate about the environment, resource sustainability and recycling. From an early age, Sarah’s love for animals was evident in her care of pets and injured animals. Most significantly, Sarah’s enthusiasm for bringing people together developed out of her faith and education of other cultures. Through her work and personal life, Sarah strove to bring peace to the world by building bridges and connecting people through diplomacy.

Yaron and Sarah met while working at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, DC, and quickly fell in love. Their bond was unmistakable — colleagues often saw them sharing lunch, laughter, and a deep commitment to supporting each other and their work. Yaron had planned to propose to Sarah on an upcoming trip.

Tragically, their story ended far too soon. As they were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum, a gunman took both of their lives on May 21, 2025.

This campaign honors the memory of Yaron and Sarah, their love, and their dedication to building bridges across borders. In coordination with the wishes of their families, half of all funds raised will be transferred to a fund to be set up in Sarah Milgrim's memory, which will make grants to programs, organizations and opportunities consistent with Sarah's passions and work during her lifetime. Half of the funds will be transferred through the Jewish Agency for Israel to Yaron's family - a portion will support Yaron's parents, who in addition to losing their son have suffered from significant economic hardship due to the enduring war since October 7, and a portion will be used to support projects and scholarships dedicated to advancing Yaron’s passion for helping new immigrants in Israel and improving relations/furthering understanding between Israel and the world.

Individuals can also support this fundraiser by sending a check to Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City at 5801 W. 115th Street, Overland Park, KS 66211.

Sponsoring Organization Information: My name is Erin Markowicz, and I’m Chief of Staff for Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City. Jewish Federation of Great Kansas City is raising money in memory of Sarah and Yaron.

TO SUSTAIN AND ENHANCE JEWISH LIFE AT HOME AND AROUND THE WORLD.

Every contribution, big or small, makes a real impact. Even just a few pounds can help move this mission forward and reach those who need it most.

If you can’t donate right now, sharing this fundraiser is also incredibly helpful. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity.