The prestigious award was given to Nefesh B'Nefesh for its success in encouraging North American Jews to move to Israel. The organization helps finance immigration and eases newcomers through Israel's bureaucratic system. It also aids them in finding jobs before and after their arrival in the country. Nefesh B'Nefesh, which means "soul with soul," has organized flights for more than 5,000 Canadian and American olim , new immigrants, since it was founded in 2002. The next flight is scheduled to arrive December 29.
Nefesh B'Nefesh officials told reporters today that North American Aliyah (immigration to Israel) has reached a 21-year high. The recent olim have already brought concrete benefits to Israel, they said. As an example, they cited the 19 emergency-room trained physicians who arrived on a special program in memory of Dr. David Applebaum, who was murdered last year by Palestinian terrorists.
The Begin awards were given in the presence of Finance Minister Binyamin (Bibi) Netanyahu and Jewish Agency Director Salai Meridor. The prize is awarded annually for contributions and work on behalf of Israel.
Mr. Eric Swim was given the Menachem Begin award in recognition of his donation of a kidney to 10-year-old Moshiko Sharon two months ago. A Marysville, Kansas resident, Swim didn't know anything about the child and his search for a life-saving kidney until he read his story on the internet. He explained to Arutz-7 that he began wondering if anyone would help his own daughter of the same age if she ever faced a similar situation. Swim, brought up as a Lutheran, told the Menachem Begin audience that he has now 'embraced the Torah of Moshe,' and he and his family observe many Jewish customs. He flew to Israel in October with his wife and two children to donate the kidney. Moshiko Sharon is today functioning nicely with his new kidney.
The third Begin prize was awarded to Keren Leibowitz, who was paralyzed while serving in the army but persisted in living as full a life as possible. She has won seven Handicapped Olympic medals in swimming, including five gold medals. Keren was cited as an "example and model of strength and will power" in overcoming handicaps.
Nefesh B'Nefesh officials told reporters today that North American Aliyah (immigration to Israel) has reached a 21-year high. The recent olim have already brought concrete benefits to Israel, they said. As an example, they cited the 19 emergency-room trained physicians who arrived on a special program in memory of Dr. David Applebaum, who was murdered last year by Palestinian terrorists.
The Begin awards were given in the presence of Finance Minister Binyamin (Bibi) Netanyahu and Jewish Agency Director Salai Meridor. The prize is awarded annually for contributions and work on behalf of Israel.
Mr. Eric Swim was given the Menachem Begin award in recognition of his donation of a kidney to 10-year-old Moshiko Sharon two months ago. A Marysville, Kansas resident, Swim didn't know anything about the child and his search for a life-saving kidney until he read his story on the internet. He explained to Arutz-7 that he began wondering if anyone would help his own daughter of the same age if she ever faced a similar situation. Swim, brought up as a Lutheran, told the Menachem Begin audience that he has now 'embraced the Torah of Moshe,' and he and his family observe many Jewish customs. He flew to Israel in October with his wife and two children to donate the kidney. Moshiko Sharon is today functioning nicely with his new kidney.
The third Begin prize was awarded to Keren Leibowitz, who was paralyzed while serving in the army but persisted in living as full a life as possible. She has won seven Handicapped Olympic medals in swimming, including five gold medals. Keren was cited as an "example and model of strength and will power" in overcoming handicaps.