Empower Yonatan's Dream to Give Back to Israel

Help Yonatan Golan Fulfill His Dream to Give Back to Israel

Why We Need Your Support

The Golan family relocated from Israel to Florida in 2022 with their three boys. Yonatan, the eldest and now a high school senior, has always felt a deep connection to Israel and a desire to give back. But everything changed on October 7th. That day, Yonatan’s beloved cousin, Adir, was killed while heroically saving his girlfriend at the Nova Festival. The tragedy profoundly impacted Yonatan, strengthening his resolve to volunteer in Israel in a meaningful way.

What was once a personal aspiration has now become a moral imperative—he is determined to return to Israel for a gap year at Mechina Rabin, a prestigious leadership academy, to serve, grow, and contribute (both in Israel but also when he returns to the US as a future leader in our community).

About Yonatan

Yonatan has been an active member of the Israeli Scouts since fourth grade. Even after moving to Florida, he remained deeply connected to his roots. He is a talented saxophone player, having played with the Netanya Conservatory in Israel before continuing his musical journey in the U.S. as part of his high school’s prestigious marching band and performing at the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Now, he’s ready to take on his biggest challenge yet—immersing himself in a transformative gap-year experience at Mechina Rabin.

What is Mechina Rabin?

Mechina Rabin, named after former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin (z”l), is a highly competitive, 10-month leadership program in Israel. Through community service, academic studies, and communal living, it shapes socially conscious, engaged leaders ready to contribute to Israeli society and abroad in the Diaspora.

For Yonatan, attending Mechina Rabin is not just about personal growth—it’s his way of honoring his cousin’s legacy and laying his foundation as a future Jewish community leader in the Diaspora.

Why We Need Your Help

Despite their best efforts, Yonatan’s parents are struggling to cover the costs of this program. As recent transplants to Florida, they don’t yet qualify for many of the available scholarships, leaving them with a significant financial gap. They have secured some funding through local Jewish organizations but are still far from their goal. Yonatan has also recently started working to help contribute and make his dream a reality.

The Mechina will also try to help but will only do so after the Golan family exhausts all available means and resources. As a condition of the Mechina’s help, Yonatan will not be able to come home/have vacation at all once he starts as he’ll be required to work in Israel as a contingency of any future funding.

Financial Need Breakdown:

• Mechina Rabin Tuition & Fees: $16,000

• Round-Trip Flight: $2,000

• Total Need: $18,000

Funds Secured So Far:

• Jewish Federation Support: $2,365

Remaining Need: $15,635

Yonatan is ready to dedicate himself to this mission, but he cannot do it alone. This is where our community—family, friends, and the Jewish people—can come together to help him realize his dream. Let’s help him and his family reach this goal!

Every Donation Makes a Difference

By contributing, you’re not just supporting one young man—you’re investing in the future of Israel. Yonatan’s journey is a testament to resilience, commitment, and the unbreakable bond of the Jewish people. Let’s help him take this next step.

Please donate today and share this campaign with others who believe in supporting the next generation of Jewish leaders.

Toda Raba—Thank You!