April 2025
Suzy Polgar
On May 27, 2025, the Hamilton community will gather at LiUNA Station for an unforgettable evening celebrating leadership, advocacy, and impact. This year, JNF Hamilton along with the Israel Magen Adom Fund of Canada proudly honours Victoria Mancinelli at the Negev Dinner, continuing a distinguished family legacy — her father and grandfather were recognized as Negev honourees for their contributions 25 years ago.
Mancinelli’s remarkable career and dedication to community building have made her a powerful force for change. As director of public relations, marketing, and strategic partnerships for the Labourers International Union of North America (LiUNA), she has dedicated herself to championing marginalized communities, advocating for women and girls, and fostering economic development. Her efforts have earned her numerous accolades, including the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, the CIBPA Woman of the Year Award, and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
Among her many initiatives, Manicinelli has been a relentless advocate against gender-based violence. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Victoria and Friends Emergency Shelter in partnership with Interval House of Hamilton, offering refuge to women and children fleeing abuse and human trafficking. She continues to make a profound impact through her work with the Ontario Task Force for Women and the Economy, the LiUNA Women in Trades Department, and the United Way Women’s Committee.
Mancinelli’s unwavering commitment to Israel and the Jewish community is another defining aspect of her leadership. She has courageously spoken out against antisemitism and hate, earning the Hamilton Jewish Federation President’s Award and the Spirit of Hope Award from the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Centre. A passionate advocate, she has raised her voice at significant events, including the JNF Hamilton 2024 Negev Dinner, UJA Believe All Women Event, and the Lion of Judah Conference in Atlanta. Since Oct. 7, 2023, Mancinelli’s advocacy has been more overt than ever. She has personally connected with friends and relatives of hostages and victims, offering support and amplifying their voices. A proud Zionist, she has marched alongside the Jewish community in solidarity and has continued to speak out against hate and terrorism with unwavering strength and conviction.
In keeping with her commitment to uplifting communities, Mancinelli has chosen to direct proceeds from this year’s Negev Dinner to an urgent and vital cause — the dedication ofman innovative rehabilitation centre in Ashdod.
This facility will provide a full spectrum of essential rehabilitation services, including physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, psychological support, and specialized education programs. By establishing this comprehensive centre, we will help bridge a critical gap in care for those in need.
Southern Israel has long struggled with a shortage of rehabilitation services, a crisis that was tragically worsened by the war that began on Oct.7, 2023. The healthcare system is overwhelmed, leaving hundreds of thousands of wounded and traumatized individuals without adequate care. For many in Southern Israel, access to rehabilitation services is severely limited, putting them at risk of long-term disability and diminished quality of life.
This new rehabilitation centre will be a beacon of hope for trauma victims, injured civilians, and children facing severe medical conditions. The facility will offer essential treatments to help patients regain independence, improve mobility, and adapt to life’s challenges. For many, this centre will mean the difference between hardship and recovery — providing life-changing care close to home, without the burden of traveling long distances.
By supporting the 2025 Hamilton Negev Dinner, you will play a vital role in dedicating this life-changing facility and honouring Victoria Mancinelli’s steadfast commitment to advocacy and humanitarian efforts.
Join us as we celebrate an extraordinary leader and help build a stronger future for those in need. Your support will make a lasting impact — both in Israel and within our community. We look forward to seeing you on May 27 at LiUNA Station for this special evening of unity, purpose, and generosity. For more information please contact our office at hamilton@jnf.ca, or 905-527-5516.