Leaders from New York’s real estate community joined forces to support American Friends of NATAL (AFN) at its annual “Voices of Resilience” gala, raising critical funds for trauma recovery in Israel. The event celebrated strength, healing, and the transformative power of community.
Held in New York City at The Plaza Hotel, the evening featured compelling stories of resilience from trauma survivors, a panel discussion moderated by NBC News’ Chief Political Analyst Chuck Todd, and the highly anticipated “Helmets for Heroes” live art auction hosted by Emmy-winning actor and filmmaker Yuval David.
Real Estate Leaders Champion NATAL’s Mission
Prominent real estate leaders, including Ran Eliasaf, Founder and Managing Partner of Northwind Group, and Jason Bordainick, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Hudson Valley Property Group, served as key sponsors of the event. Eliasaf, whose firm was the Platinum Sponsor, in his speech honored the late Dr. Itamar Barnea, a symbol of resilience and mental health advocacy, emphasized, “Itamar’s life is the flaming definition of resilience, on how to build your life back after enduring unimaginable trauma. This is exactly what is needed following the aftermath of October 7th and this is exactly what NATAL provides to see many people in need.”
Voices of Resilience: Stories of Healing and Hope
Attendees heard firsthand accounts from individuals who have overcome trauma through NATAL’s innovative programs:
- Ortal Biran Gorfinkel, an IDF Civil Affairs Captain, recounted her experience organizing recovery operations during the October 7th attacks and her journey to healing through NATAL’s support group initiatives.
- Hananel Zilberberg, a former IDF Platoon Commander and PTSD survivor, shared his personal transformation and how NATAL’s care inspired him to write Ma Ha’kesher, exploring the moral complexities faced by soldiers.
- Shiran Israel, a survivor of the Nova Festival attack, revealed how NATAL’s early intervention programs equipped her to cope with trauma and embrace recovery.
NATAL’s Chief Psychologist, Professor Rivka Tuval-Mashiach, brought her expertise to the panel, discussing how trauma impacts identity and the effectiveness of narrative-based therapeutic approaches.
Maayan Aviv, CEO of American Friends of NATAL remarked, “For NATAL, resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the heart of our mission, and it’s about empowering individuals to not just survive but thrive. Our experiences reaffirm a simple truth we witness every day: recovery is multifaceted, and every path to healing is unique.”
Helmets for Heroes: Art as a Catalyst for Healing
The evening also showcased Brush’s “Helmets for Heroes” auction, featuring 17 IDF helmets transformed into one-of-a-kind artworks by renowned Israeli artists such as David Gerstein, Uzi Amrani, and Tomer Peretz. Each helmet symbolized the journey from trauma to resilience, embodying themes of hope, recovery, and transformation.
Yuval David, who hosted the auction, said, “These helmets are not just art—they are stories, conversations, and symbols of courage. Tonight, we show the world that healing is possible, even in the face of unimaginable pain.”
Proceeds from the auction will directly fund NATAL’s trauma recovery programs, which have seen a sharp increase in demand following the events of October 7th.
Expanding Trauma Support Through Community and Philanthropy
With over 60,000 calls to NATAL’s Helpline since October, the organization is scaling its services to meet unprecedented demand. AFN’s Real Estate Network has played a pivotal role in securing the resources necessary to expand clinical services, train volunteers, and provide emergency psychological assistance.
Sponsors such as Northwind Group, Hudson Valley Property Group, Royal Abstract, Polsinelli, and others underscored the critical need for philanthropic partnerships. Generous contributions from FRÉ skincare and Liv Breads added thoughtful touches to the evening, enhancing the sense of community and shared purpose.
About – American Friends of NATAL supports the Israeli-based NATAL, a leading organization in trauma care and resiliency-building for individuals affected by war and terrorism. Through its partnerships and philanthropic initiatives, AFN provides vital assistance to those in need, fostering healing and hope during challenging times.
For more information or to support NATAL’s work, visit NATAL’s Website.
