Since its founding in 2000, the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) has become a cornerstone of Atlanta’s vibrant cultural scene, celebrated for fostering diversity, sparking dialogue, and connecting communities through the power of film. Today, AJFF is recognized globally as the world’s largest Jewish film festival, with a mission to entertain, educate, and bridge divides.

To commemorate its 25th anniversary, AJFF is honoring Executive and Artistic Director Kenny Blank with the launch of the Kenny Blank Vision Initiative, a $2.5 million growth campaign designed to expand AJFF’s impact as a yearround hub for cultural engagement, education, and storytelling.

“This 25th milestone is a springboard for growth, expanding education, investing in filmmakers, enhancing access, and driving innovation to deepen community impact,” said Kenny Blank, Executive & Artistic Director.

“Kenny’s vision is about more than amplifying the flagship annual festival—it’s about creating a year-round, alwayson platform that sparks conversation, drives innovation, and builds bridges of cross-cultural understanding,” remarked AJFF Board President, Dina Gerson. “The Kenny Blank Vision Initiative transcends the festival, ensuring that this storied organization is positioned as a perennial engine for cultural growth, audience engagement, and global impact.”

The initiative will advance AJFF’s strategic priorities across five key pillars, in addition to its flagship annual festival:

● Education: Expanding classroom programming, curriculum development, and student filmmaking opportunities.

● Community Relations: Strengthening intergroup partnerships and fostering dialogue through dynamic intergroup conversations and community-focused events.

● Filmmaker Fund: Supporting the next generation of Jewish storytellers with direct investment and mentorship.

● Access: Breaking barriers to participation through expanded streaming offerings, free screening events, and ADA-compliant programming.

● Innovation: Leveraging cutting-edge technology and world-class platforms to enhance audience engagement.

A Call to Action from Atlanta’s Business Leaders

The Kenny Blank Vision Initiative is led by Honorary Chairs Sheri and Steve Labovitz and Ingrid Saunders Jones, who call on Atlanta’s business community to join them in supporting this transformative campaign. “Throughout his 20 years of service, Kenny Blank has elevated AJFF to global prominence, uniting communities and thought leaders through the power of film,” said the Honorary Chairs. “This initiative is a testament to his vision and AJFF’s impact as a platform for dialogue, innovation, and cultural connection. We’re honored to support this milestone and invite others to join us in shaping the organization’s expanded future.”

A Year of Celebration

The 25th-anniversary celebration will launch with the annual AJFF Festival, running February 19–March 16, 2025. Featuring screenings, panels, and special events, the festival will embody the organization’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections through the arts.

Invest in the Future of Atlanta’s Cultural Landscape For more information on supporting the Kenny Blank Vision Initiative or attending the 25th Annual Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, visit AJFF.org/vision or contact Amy Arno, Development Director, at [email protected] or 404-528- 2614, ext. 103.