Daniel Posner, 53, is the founder of Athletes for Israel, a nonprofit organization that brings high-profile athletes to Israel to help them gain a better understanding of the country and its people. “I founded Athletes for Israel because I was frustrated by the negative coverage in the media and the misunderstanding of Israel and the Jewish people by so many,” the Upper West Sider tells us. “By bringing professional athletes to Israel, they experience the culture and people first hand. They are able to correct prior misconceptions and then explain to others about their experiences.”
For the full list of this year’s 36 to Watch — which honors leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers who are making a difference in New York’s Jewish community — click here.
How does your Jewish identity or experience influence your work?
Combatting antisemitism is something that I’ve been attuned to since I was a child. My mother was a Holocaust survivor and through her many stories, I have learned that, as Jews, we need to take action to have an impact and shine light on the world.
This story is part of JTA's coverage of New York through the New York Jewish Week. To read more stories like this, sign up for our daily New York newsletter here.
Who is your New York Jewish hero?
Mike Bloomberg
How can people follow you online?
@athletes4israel on Instagram
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