La’Aretz Foundation is committed to facing today’s challenges and tomorrow’s uncertainties in Israel by providing direct assistance to those in need.
Since La’Aretz Foundation was founded in 2022, we have been dedicated to serving those in Israel. After October 7th, we completely shifted our cause, determined to help those at moments that matter. We came together after the tragedy and found impactful ways to make a difference. Ever since, La’Aretz Foundation has expanded to provide a plethora of services thanks to our dedicated team, who have united as one to create a meaningful and everlasting impact.
La’Aretz Foundation was founded in 2022 by Shelly and Mike Pitman, an Israeli-American couple who are deeply committed to Israel. Their journey began with a shared vision to transform Israel and the lives of its people for the better. Both Shelly and Mike have long been involved in charitable work, but they felt a more direct approach was needed to address urgent needs and create lasting change. This led them to establish La’Aretz Foundation, which quickly grew into a beacon of hope and support.
Shelly and Mike cultivate close relationships with La’Aretz Foundation’s donors, actively engaging them in specific projects, and ensuring transparency regarding how their support directly impacts individuals and families. Their hands-on approach has fostered a sense of community among donors and beneficiaries alike, making everyone feel like a vital part of the mission.
"Since its inception, the amazing team we have built has created La’Aretz Foundation."
Each and every person who works with La’Aretz Foundation has a personal connection to Israel. We believe everyone has a story, and no person lives life without facing challenges.
When we meet someone in need, we form a real connection with them and their families. This is not only about providing assistance; It is about showing people that we are one big Am Yisrael.
Shelly H. Pitman
Founder & Executive Director
"La’Aretz is who I am. I’m an Israeli and I will always do my best wherever I can to take care of our people."
Master (MA) in Public Policy,
Tel Aviv University
shelly@laaretz.org
Mike Pitman
Founder & President
"It’s our life mission to take care of Israel. La'Aretz is at the core of who we are."
International real estate developer
mike@pitmancapital.us
Sivan Michael
Finance Manager
"I am honored to have the opportunity to be a part of La'Aretz, where I plan to leverage my skills to significantly contribute to our nation."
Degree studies in business management and finance and specializing in accounting - Brooklyn college
sivan@urban-view.com
Nir Sarid
Chief of Staff
"With La'Aretz Foundation, I have an incredible opportunity to make an impact in the place that matters most, La'Aretz!"
Master (MA) in Political Science and International Relations,
The Open University
nir_s@laaretz.org
Gal Nevo
Donor Relations
"La'Aretz for me is channeling my emotions into meaningful actions, being there for other Israelis during challenging times to provide hope and relief."
Master (MBA) of Business Administration,
Harvard University
gal_nevo@laaretz.org
Reut Davidson
Project Manager
"La'Aretz for me is being able to engage in a substantial way with the people in Israel who are experiencing difficult and complex times in their lives."
Bachelor (BA) in Economics and Management,
Tel Aviv University
support_families@laaretz.org
Noa Rabinovich
Creative Director
"It is a privilege to be part of La’Aretz, a team that supports our country from afar during these critical times."
Master (MA) of Arts, Industrial Design,
Istituto Europeo di Design, Milano
Noa@laaretz.org
Sapir Saadon
Development and Community Manager, Florida
“La’Aretz deepens my bond with Israel, empowering me to take impactful steps that uplift and strengthen my homeland and its people, especially in times when unity and support matter most.”
Ph.D(c) Conflict Analysis & Resolution,
Nova Southeastern University
sapir_s@laaretz.org
Neta-li Almagor Friedlander
Coordinator of Aliyah and Return to Israel
"To be part of the Laaretz team means standing by those in need of support, assistance, and a helping hand—whether in the place where my heart belongs or on their journey to the home we share."
Master (MSW) in Social Work,
University of Haifa
support_aliyah@laaretz.org
Nathan Malkoukian
Development Marketing Founder Reavis
Advisory Board Member
Shlomi Turgeman
Business Development at SIBF V.C
Advisory Board Member
Ariel Halevi
CEO at VAYOMAR
Advisory Board Member
Shani Saadia
(Operations)
Volunteer
Carolina Werebe
(Art Exhibitions)
Volunteer
Maya Korogodsky
(Social Media)
Volunteer
Elad Barkay
(Operations)
Volunteer
Ella Bokobza
(Operations)
Volunteer