Hadassah Women's Zionist Organization of America

Hadassah Women's Zionist Organization of America is a prominent Jewish nonprofit organization with a rich history and extensive influence in both the United States and Israel. Founded in 1912 by Henrietta Szold, it has evolved into one of the largest Jewish organizations in the U.S., boasting nearly 300,000 members.

History

Origins

Henrietta Szold's journey with Hadassah began after a visit to Palestine in 1909, where she witnessed firsthand the need for modern healthcare. This experience led her to transform a study group into a fundraising organization focused on healthcare and Zionism. On February 24, 1912, Szold and other Zionist women met at Temple Emanu-El in New York City, establishing the "Hadassah Chapter of Daughters of Zion." Szold was elected the first president, and by the end of 1912, Hadassah had expanded to five chapters across major U.S. cities.

Early Years

In 1913, Hadassah sent two nurses, Rose Kaplan and Rae Landy, to Jerusalem to provide health services, marking the beginning of its public health initiatives in Palestine. By 1914, the organization officially became known as Hadassah, The Women's Zionist Organization of America. During World War I, Hadassah continued to expand its health initiatives by establishing the American Zionist Medical Unit in 1918, which later became the Hadassah Medical Organization in 1921.

Development and Impact

Throughout the interwar period, Hadassah grew significantly, becoming the largest single Zionist organization in the U.S. by 1939, with 66,000 members. It continued to support social welfare projects in pre-state Israel while educating American Jewish women about civic and national responsibilities. During World War II, Hadassah played a crucial role in the rescue of Jewish children through Youth Aliyah, founded by Henrietta Szold. Over the decades, Hadassah has fostered women's leadership and advocated for women's rights and public health in both the U.S. and Israel.

Activities and Focus

Health and Education

• Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO): One of Hadassah's most notable contributions is its support for the HMO, which includes two major research hospitals in Jerusalem. These hospitals have been at the forefront of medical research and have provided healthcare services to the population of Israel regardless of race or religion.
• Youth Aliyah: Founded by Henrietta Szold during the Nazi era, Youth Aliyah was instrumental in rescuing thousands of Jewish children and providing them with education and care. Today, Hadassah continues to support these programs, helping at-risk youth in Israel.

Advocacy and Community

• Women's Empowerment and Rights: Hadassah is dedicated to enhancing women's health and promoting gender equity both in the U.S. and Israel. It advocates for women's rights, educational opportunities, and Jewish values.
• Zionist and Jewish Community Engagement: Beyond its health initiatives, Hadassah fosters a connection to Israel and promotes Jewish education and social welfare projects. It also supports organizations like Young Judaea, which engages Jewish youth in Zionist activities.

Impact and Legacy

Hadassah's contributions have been recognized globally, with the Hadassah Medical Organization receiving a Nobel Peace Prize nomination in 2005 for its role in advancing healthcare in a multicultural and multireligious society. Today, as a testament to Henrietta Szold's vision, Hadassah remains a powerful force in health advocacy, women's empowerment, and community development, inspiring generations of women worldwide.