A non-profit organization that was founded in 1959 by Holocaust Survivors who settled in Cleveland, Kol Israel initially functioned as a social community and extended family for the Survivors, many of whom were the sole survivors of their families. Our direction and commitment have evolved since the founding of our organization. Kol Israel now works to honor the lives of Holocaust Survivors and engages their descendants, families, and supporters to preserve the legacy and lessons of the Holocaust.
In the News
WHY TEACH THE HOLOCAUST?
Our stories must be told to young people across Northeast Ohio to keep the Holocaust memory alive and inspire the community to confront hatred in today’s constantly changing world.
To confront the tough questions of how to achieve justice and reconciliation in the aftermath of atrocities—and, using lessons learned, explore how painful memories should be remembered.
To learn how this history informs and educates us about our responsibilities in our communities and the world today.
YOUR TOOL FOR A PROFOUND EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE: FACE TO FACE®
Kol Israel Foundation’s Face to Face® program provides Holocaust education to Northeast Ohio. To learn more about Face to Face® and to explore other educational resources, please click the Face to Face® button below.
Education Program: Face to Face®
In 1961, Kol Israel designed and built one of the first monuments in the United States dedicated to the 6 million Jews who perished in the Holocaust. Ashes of victims of several concentration camps are buried beneath it and the names of deceased family members are engraved on its surrounding walls. The memorial received official historic recognition from the Ohio History Connection in 2016.