We began with a trip to the United States, which included meetings with Jewish communities, donors, and partner organizations. It was an intense and exciting week, during which we held 24 meetings and connected with more than 775 individuals who demonstrated deep support for Israel and the Lone Soldiers serving there. Alongside donors and partners, we also met parents of Lone Soldiers who wanted to learn more about the Center’s work and share their experiences. In every meeting, you could feel the love, solidarity, and willingness to step up for those who chose to serve the country without a supportive family network by their immediate side. 

After returning to Israel, the Center’s Annual Fundraising event took place. It was a memorable evening of community singing with artists and prominent figures from across Israeli society. Please check out the video here. Thank you to our President, Drorit Nitzani, pictured above, for her leadership and partnership. Her dedication, hard work, and commitment played a significant role in making this event a success. During the evening, we presented a summary of LSC’s activities for 2025. When you pause and look at the numbers, it is hard not to be impressed by the scale of the work: thousands of soldiers who received guidance, a home, a community, and professional support at some of the most significant moments of their lives. 

Behind every number are people, stories, and lives changed thanks to your support. 

 

We then kicked off June with one of the most significant moments in the organization’s history: receiving the President of Israel’s Award for Volunteerism. Out of approximately 300 nominations submitted this year, the Lone Soldier Center in Memory of Michael Levin was selected, alongside only ten other organizations, to receive this award in recognition of its contribution to Israeli society.

At the ceremony held at the President’s Residence, I chose to share this special moment not only with the organization’s management and board, but also with volunteers and former Lone Soldiers who continue to dedicate their time and talents to supporting the next generation of Lone Soldiers. Thank you again to Drorit for her significant role in us receiving this recognition. The award represents a meaningful acknowledgement of many years of leadership, service, and commitment to supporting Lone Soldiers. It was moving to see their sense of pride and excitement, and their understanding that this recognition belongs to every person who gives their time, energy, and heart to our shared mission.

 

Standing alongside President Herzog and First Lady Michal Herzog was a tremendous honor, but also a powerful reminder of the importance of this work and the responsibility we share to continue supporting Lone Soldiers across Israel.

 

This week, the Center will participate in JNS 2026 International Policy Summit, during which we will host guests and partners at our new home in Tel Aviv, the newest addition to our network of homes and centers. It was built with the vision of giving Lone Soldiers not only a roof over their heads, but also a sense of belonging, stability, and family.

I am writing these words on the train on my way home after more than 12 hours of work, with a big smile on my face. I am returning from a visit to our newest center in Haifa (pictured above), another place that has transformed from a dream into reality.

 

What stayed with me most was meeting the house manager, who had prepared a homemade meal for the Lone Soldiers who came by that evening. When I heard the soldiers say they could not remember the last time they had enjoyed such a delicious homemade meal, I was reminded once again that the smallest gestures are often the most meaningful.

 

Moments like these remind me that our work is about much more than programs and services. It is about ensuring that Lone Soldiers always have a place where they feel cared for, supported, and never alone.  

 

I am ending the day with a deep sense of gratitude, satisfaction, and pride. Pride in an organization that has received national recognition for its work. Pride in the professional, dedicated, and values-driven team that walks alongside me day after day, challenge after challenge. And above all, pride in the remarkable Lone Soldiers we have the privilege to serve.

 

Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping ensure that no Lone Soldier ever feels alone.

With gratitude,

 

Liora Rubinstein
CEO, The Lone Soldier Center in Memory of Michael Levin