The Avi Schaefer Fund is a non-profit based in Santa Barbara that aims to promote understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through various educational programs. It was named after Avi Schaefer, an Israeli army veteran who was killed in 2010 but had worked to bring together students of differing views on the Israel-Palestine conflict. The Fund conducts a Student Leadership Colloquium and educational summer camp programs, and also awards an annual Avi Peace Prize to those making efforts towards its mission of enhancing the conversation.

1. A Look at the Avi Schaefer Fund, by Jeremy Bendat
Based out of Santa Barbara, California, the Avi Schaefer Fund dedicates itself to enhancing the Israel-
Palestine conversation. The group was named after Avi Schaefer, a young man who was killed by a drunk
driver in 2010. Prior to his death, Schaefer served in the Israeli army, attended Brown University, and
became a strong voice for peace. On his college campus, he brought together students with differing
points of view and promoted understanding between both sides.
To achieve its goals, the Avi Schaefer Fund conducts a myriad of programs around the world. The
Student Leadership Colloquium unites students, scholars, and policy makers to civilly discuss the issues
affecting the Middle East. Educational Programs run by this group feature individuals who speak to
youth at summer camps and day schools. Additionally, the fund awards an Avi Peace Prize to those who
have made strides relating to its mission. To learn more about this organization, log onto
www.avischaeferfund.org.
About the Author:
A graduate of Tulane University with a degree in Law, Economics, and Policy, Jeremy Bandat acts as
Director of Marketing for CorpInfo Services and supports the Avi Schaefer Fund.