Gary Bretton-Granatoor, an experienced fundraiser and Jewish community leader, has been named Executive Director of the American Friends of Kidum (AFK). AFK, a newly formed 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is dedicated to building awareness and financial support for the Society for Advancement of Education, Jerusalem (SAE).

“Gary brings a unique set of skills, talents and experiences to the American Friends of Kidum,” said Dr. Joseph Ahram, Secretary of the AFK Board of Directors.  “We look forward to working with him to broaden our base of donors and increase the support we can provide for SAE’s schools, residences and programs throughout Israel.”

Most recently Gary served for seven years as Vice President, Philanthropy, at the World Union for Progressive Judaism. Previously he was with the Anti-Defamation League as Director, Interfaith Affairs and Director, Education Division. He also spent 9 years in a variety of leadership positions at the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, including Director, Department of Interreligious Affairs.

Gary received his rabbinic ordination and Doctor of Divinity degrees from Hebrew Union College. For 8 years he was Senior Rabbi at Stephen Wise Free Synagogue in New York City. He has also served as a Rabbi at Temple Beth Shalom in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Congregation Da’at Elohim – Temple of Universal Judaism, New York City, and currently serves part time as rabbi of Congregation Shirat Hayam in Nantucket, MA.

“I am looking forward to utilizing my experience in Jewish community building, philanthropy and education,” Gary said, “to create excitement throughout the U.S. about SAE’s vital mission. There can be nothing more important than creating a more pluralistic and prosperous Israel by giving talented teens a chance to realize their full academic potential.”

Gary can be reached at gary@kidum-us.org and 917-941-3256.