Global Jewish Dream Lottery Builds Trust Through Transparency

The "Dream Lottery," organized by the 'Am Yisrael Chai' foundation, is holding its ninth annual draw, attracting tens of thousands of participants from 78 countries. The grand prize is a luxury apartment in Jerusalem valued at $1.3 million. Participants consistently cite "trust" as the primary reason for their continued involvement, noting the public display of winners' names and photos as a key factor in its perceived legitimacy.

Participant Shuki from Elad described his initial participation as accidental but has since made it an annual tradition, drawn by the appeal of the Jerusalem apartment and the knowledge that proceeds support good causes. He expressed a common sentiment of hope, stating, "Every year I tell my wife that this year it's us." He added that even if he doesn't win, he feels no loss as his contribution benefits others.

The lottery's "ironclad rule" requires winners to publicly share their names and images, a policy emphasized by organization chairman Shmuel Skett. "Imagine if we announced the winner was 'S.G. from Chicago,'" Skett said, "No one would have believed us." Since its inception in 2018, the lottery has awarded eight apartments in Jerusalem to families from diverse locations, including Hawaii and Beitar Illit. Bonus prize winners are also publicly recognized, with one non-Jewish winner, Mattis Gerrit van Dijk from Bonaire, receiving a prize.

Skett highlighted the organization's commitment to transparency, with all draws and donations fully documented. He stated, "The winner is whoever's number is drawn, and no one else. I don't choose and cannot choose." He also mentioned that accountants, a lawyer, a halachic decisor, and numerous volunteers are involved, ensuring no salaries or office expenses are incurred.

Beyond the chance to win, the lottery's appeal is strengthened by its charitable beneficiaries. Funds support a wide range of causes, including educational institutions for various Jewish communities, Torah scrolls for IDF bases, agricultural aid, a bulletproof ambulance for Sderot, and food packages for needy families. This dual benefit, a chance at a prize and the fulfillment of charity, motivates many participants.

The current grand prize is a stylish apartment in Jerusalem's Givat Mordechai neighborhood, part of the "Lev Ha'ir" project. Alternatively, a winner can opt for a $700,000 cash prize. Bonus draws for $15,000 cash are also held, with the next scheduled for early December. A new "Super Ticket" option offers a furnished apartment and appliances worth $25,000 for an additional fee. The main draw is set for February 27, 2027, and will be broadcast live. Last year, Aryeh Loriya, a 22-year-old from New York, famously reacted to his win by reciting Psalm 100 before moving to Israel.