For Bryan Weingarten, philanthropy and the arts have long shared a common purpose: bringing people together, inspiring meaningful conversations, and creating opportunities to make a lasting impact. On June 15, those passions came together in a powerful way as JoinIsrael presented Finding Their Voice: Broadway Stars Unite to Support Israel’s Youth, a special fundraising event held at New York City’s Jerry Orbach Theater.
As President of JoinIsrael, Weingarten has helped guide the organization’s mission of supporting vulnerable children in Israel through trauma-informed therapy, counseling, and emotional wellness programs. The Broadway-themed evening reflected both the organization’s commitment to healing and Weingarten’s longstanding appreciation for the performing arts as a force for connection and community engagement.
The event brought together an impressive roster of Broadway performers and supporters for an evening of entertainment with purpose. Through live performances and personal storytelling, guests were reminded of the important role emotional support services play for children who have experienced the challenges and uncertainty created by ongoing conflict.
A centerpiece of the evening was the presentation of Join Israel’s Spirit of Israel Award to acclaimed actress and Broadway star Tovah Feldshuh. Widely recognized for her celebrated career on stage and screen, Feldshuh was honored for her unwavering support of Israel, her dedication to the Jewish community, and her ability to use her platform to inspire others. Her recognition reflected the spirit of the event itself: using talent, influence, and compassion to make a difference in the lives of others.
The program featured appearances and performances by Broadway artists including Steven Skybell, Romy Fay, Loren Lester, Ariella Serur, Erik Evan Olson, Jenny Anne Hochberg, Zal Owen, Kelly Lester, Neva Small, and Ari Axelrod. Together, they helped create an evening that showcased the power of the arts while raising awareness and support for Join Israel’s mission.
For Weingarten, the event represented more than a successful fundraiser. It reflected a philosophy that has guided much of his philanthropic work: that culture, education, and community involvement can serve as powerful tools for positive change. Throughout his charitable efforts, he has consistently supported initiatives that strengthen communities, expand access to opportunity, and improve the lives of others. Finding Their Voice embodied those values by combining artistic excellence with meaningful humanitarian impact.
Funds raised during the event will help Join Israel continue providing critical mental health resources and emotional support programs for at-risk children throughout Israel. As demand for these services continues to grow, the organization remains focused on ensuring that young people have access to the care and guidance needed to build resilience and hope for the future.
Under Bryan Weingarten’s leadership, Join Israel continues to demonstrate how philanthropy and the arts can work hand in hand. Through events like Finding Their Voice, supporters are not only raising funds—they are helping ensure that children facing trauma are heard, supported, and empowered to move forward with confidence.
As the evening concluded and the final applause filled the theater, the event served as a testament to what can be accomplished when a shared commitment to service is matched by the unifying power of the arts. For Weingarten and Join Israel, it was another meaningful step in a mission centered on compassion, healing, and lasting impact.
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