Connecting You With Israel.
Nurturing The Bonds Between You And The State Of Israel.
Baltimore Zionist District (BZD) uses its direct Israeli connection as a home base for the creation of cultural and political programs and educational activities which deal with all aspects of Zionism and modern Israeli life.
Our Mission
“To Foster Knowledge And Understanding Of The State Of Israel, To Facilitate Dialogue, To Raise Awareness, To Advocate For A Secure Future For Israel And Nurture The Bonds Between Our Local Community And Israel.”
BZD-Baltimore Zionist District is a Zionist organization. As anti-Israel propagandists and anti-Semites try to transform the word ‘Zionism’ into a badge of shame or disgrace, we Zionists won’t allow them to do so. That said, what is Zionism?
“Zionism is the national liberation movement of the Jewish people. According to Zionism, it is the common responsibility of the Jewish people for its continuity and future to ensure a Jewish, Zionist, democratic and secure State of Israel. It was Zionism that brought about the State of Israel’s establishment.”
BZD supports the government of Israel, irrespective of which party is in power. BZD is not aligned with any political or religious ideology.
“Zionism is the national liberation movement of the Jewish people. According to Zionism, it is the common responsibility of the Jewish people for its continuity and future to ensure a Jewish, Zionist, democratic and secure State of Israel. It was Zionism that brought about the State of Israel’s establishment.”
BZD supports the government of Israel, irrespective of which party is in power. BZD is not aligned with any political or religious ideology.
Our History
As a Baltimore-based Zionist organization, BZD’s roots can be traced back at least 100 years! Few other Jewish organizations, locally or nationally, can boast that kind of longevity. Since its inception, we have been a proud and active member of the American Zionist Movement. We also continue to be represented at executive meetings of the World Zionist Organization. In 1994, BZD became an independent Zionist organization, the largest in the US.
Over the decades, a few BZD (and its predecessor organization Zionist Organization of America- Baltimore District) leaders distinguished themselves by rising to national prominence. Alleck A. Resnick became National ZOA President as did W. James Schiller who also rose to become National President, American Zionist Movement, as well as National Treasurer and Vice-President, Jewish National Fund. Ronald Weitzman served as National Treasurer of ZOA.
Over the decades, a few BZD (and its predecessor organization Zionist Organization of America- Baltimore District) leaders distinguished themselves by rising to national prominence. Alleck A. Resnick became National ZOA President as did W. James Schiller who also rose to become National President, American Zionist Movement, as well as National Treasurer and Vice-President, Jewish National Fund. Ronald Weitzman served as National Treasurer of ZOA.
Zionism Today
BZD-Baltimore Zionist District is, as its name suggests, a Zionist organization. Today, unfortunately, anti-Israel propagandists and anti-Semites have tried to hijack the word ‘Zionism’ and transform it into a badge of shame or disgrace. We Zionists refuse to allow others to define us. As such, it is entirely appropriate to ask ourselves what is the purpose of Zionism?For the answer, we need look no further than to the American Zionist Movement for some insights.
Our Partners
BZD is proud to partner with organizations that share BZD’s mission to foster knowledge and understanding of the state of Israel, to facilitate dialogue, to raise awareness, and to advocate for a secure future for Israel.
Our Staff
Our staff represents a unique blend of talents, personalities, and world views that help make us such a diverse and creative organization.
Caren Leven
Executive Director
Carenl@bzdisrael.org
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Carenl@bzdisrael.org
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Meet Caren Leven our new Executive Director. Prior to coming to the BZD, Leven – Who grew up here in Baltimore, but was born and raised in Haifa Israel, is fluent in both English and Hebrew — She spent five years as the Director Of Congregational Engagement at Temple Oheb Shalom. At the Pikesville congregation, she led community outreach efforts and created, revamped and implemented hundreds of community-based, marketing campaigns. Working with volunteers and lay leadership, she significantly grew membership during her tenure, In addition, Caren has extensive experience in sales and account management. “I was attracted to the [BZD] because Israel holds a very special place in my heart, I was born and raised in Haifa and came to the United States when I was 10 years old — exactly 30 years ago. Although I have spent most of my life here, a piece of me was left behind. Now, my life has come full circle”. Caren is a graduate of Towson University with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and a minor in Marketing, She lives in Pikesville with her husband, Jon, their two children, Ayden and Ava, and their dog, Lulu.
Sarah Rohan
Executive Assistant
Office@bzdisrael.org
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Office@bzdisrael.org
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Sarah was born and raised in Rutland, Vermont and moved to the Baltimore area as a teenager. After graduating from Pikesville High School in 2006, she studied Early Childhood Education in college but ultimately accepted a position at a local synagogue which began her passion for working in the Baltimore Jewish community. She has worked and volunteered for multiple Jewish organizations throughout Baltimore in various administrative roles. She is excited to join the team at BZD and looks forward to being a part of this amazing organization. Sarah resides in Pikesville with her son, Cameron and her puppy, Remy.
Ido Mizrahi
Israel Shlicha
Shlichut@bzdisrael.org
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Shlichut@bzdisrael.org
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Ido was born in Israel 26 years ago and grew up in Hadera. As far as I can remember, I've been part of the youth movement "HaMacabi Hatzair" and have been involved in education and guidance for most of my life. After finishing high school, I went on a pre-army service year through the movement.
In my military service, I served as a simulator instructor in the "Sky Rider" elite unit. After my discharge, I moved to Tel Aviv and started working as a training manager at a startup company, where I worked for three years.
I am filled with excitement and anticipation about beginning to work with the Baltimore Jewish community, sharing my story, and strengthening the community's connection with Israel!