About Us
Iowans Supporting Israel is a nonprofit, bipartisan organization founded in 2013 to build Iowa’s understanding of, and relationship with, the State of Israel.
Our Mission
Israel is America’s closest strategic ally in the Middle East. We stand with Israel’s right to exist, to defend its citizens, and to pursue what is best for its people. We work to help Iowans and their elected officials understand why that support matters.
Our Cause: Why Iowans Supporting Israel is Needed
The state of Israel has been challenged from its founding in 1948. Many Iowans first came to care about Israel through faith, family, or the news. We respect all of those paths and welcome anyone who supports Israel as a state and a people.
Iowa also has an outsized voice in the selection of every U.S. president. Having an active, statewide organization in place before the next election is important, and staying active between elections matters just as much.
Our History
Iowans Supporting Israel was founded in 2013 by Ed Skinner, a former Democratic legislator; Matt Strawn, a former State GOP Chair; Bud Hockenberg; and Mike Schreurs. Ed is considered our Founding Father. The idea and the drive to bring the group together were his.
Our Executive Board
Tom Henderson
Co-Chair
Charles Schneider
Co-Chair
Bud Hockenberg
Secretary, Founding Board Member
Prakash Kopparapu
Treasurer
Jim Aipperspach
Board Member
Denise Bubeck
Board Member
Nick Critelli
Board Member
Debi Durham
Board Member
Geri Huser
Board Member
Tom McGovern
Board Member
Karen Michaeli
Board Member
Kevin Schneider
Board Member
Mike Schreurs
Founding Board Member
Loretta Sieman
Board Member
Tamyra Harrison
Executive Director
Join Our Advisory and Action Council!
There are three committees. Pick the one that fits, or ask us where the help is needed most.
Finance and Development Committee
Manages financial planning, budgeting, financial reporting, fundraising, and donor relations.
Programming and Communications Committee
Plans and executes events and educational programs (e.g., breakfast club presentations). Handles public relations, marketing, and outreach efforts.
Statewide Strategy Committee
Oversees the planning, development, management, and implementation of ISI's statewide outreach, focusing on Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Davenport, Dubuque, and Sioux City.
Membership Form
Download the 2026 ISI Donor and Membership Form to join and support the mission.
ISI Donor and Membership Form 2026 (PDF)Help Our Cause
Your gifts fund our speakers, our events, and our advocacy for the State of Israel and the Jewish community in Iowa.
Mail to:
Iowans Supporting Israel 1165 2nd Ave 8294 Des Moines, IA 50301
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