Tzlil Bandy McDonald has over a decade of experience in program management, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement. She has held leadership roles at organizations such as the Jewish Federation of Central Alabama, the Israeli American Council, and the Jewish Agency for Israel where she managed educational programs, fundraising initiatives, and strategic partnerships in both North America and Israel.
She holds an MA in Jewish Experiential Education from The George Washington University, a BA in Politics and Government and Middle Eastern Studies from Ben Gurion University in Israel, and a certificate in Conflict of Interest from the i-Center. Fluent in Hebrew and English, Tzlil is passionate about Jewish and Israel education, as well as building bridges with diverse faith communities to combat all forms of hate and discrimination. Originally from Israel, she currently lives in Alabama with her husband and three sons.
Why do I care about combating antisemitism? Why is NECHAMA’s approach to combating antisemitism unique and impactful?
“Antisemitism is surging across the country, threatening not just the Jewish community but the very fabric of American values such as freedom, equality, and justice. As Rabbi Jonathan Sacks said, “The hate that begins with Jews never ends with Jews.” Left unchecked, antisemitism fuels division at a time when unity is most needed. My commitment to combating antisemitism is deeply personal, shaped by my experience as an Israeli, with family and friends affected by the events of October 7th, and as a granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, a community leader and a Jewish Educator. I’ve seen firsthand how hate can isolate communities, and I’ve also witnessed how empathy, education, and collaboration can build bridges and create lasting change.
NECHAMA’s approach is uniquely powerful because it transforms Jewish values like Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and Gemilut Chasadim (acts of kindness) into direct action. By mobilizing diverse volunteers to support communities in crisis, NECHAMA fosters shared experiences that break down prejudice and nurture authentic human connection. This service- driven model goes beyond disaster recovery — it builds bridges between communities and strengthens social bonds. When people from different backgrounds work side by side with a common purpose, empathy replaces ignorance, unity overcomes division, and the seeds of hate struggle to take root. I am excited to work with the NECHAMA team and advance the important work they are doing in both disaster response and the fight against antisemitism.”