What It’s About

This summer, even amidst a tumultuous backdrop of regional conflicts, a remarkable 13,679 young Jewish adults from across the globe visited Israel through Birthright Israel. The organization offered two unique programs: the traditional 10-day Israel tour and a newly created volunteer program initiated in late 2023.

Why It Matters

This massive participation highlights the enduring global interest and emotional connection that Jewish diaspora youth feel towards Israel. It shows how impactful such initiatives can be in strengthening Jewish identity and fostering confidence among young Jews worldwide, despite external challenges.

Experiencing Israel Firsthand

The volunteer program attracted nearly 5,000 participants, offering hands-on experiences like working on kibbutzim or engaging with survivors and those impacted by recent conflicts. These opportunities are crucial, especially when Israel has faced labor shortages in agriculture due to national safety and defense demands.

Fostering Personal Connections and Resilience

An essential part of the Birthright trip is the “Mifgash” element, where young Jewish adults spend time with Israeli soldiers, providing participants with insight into the soldiers’ lives, especially after the events following October 7. This personal connection offered a poignant, inspirational experience that heightened the emotional impact of the trip.

Impact on Jewish Identity and Advocacy

According to a survey by Brandeis University, a staggering 95% of the summer 2024 participants left feeling more assured in their Jewish identity and better prepared to confront antisemitism in their communities. These experiences empower young adults as advocates for Israel and strengthen their understanding and connection to their heritage.

A Transformative Experience

Birthright CEO Gidi Mark attested to the program’s unique ability to create lasting impact, calling each Birthright encounter “transformative,” especially during these challenging times, providing stories that would resonate with participants’ future generations.

Strengthening Ties to Heritage

A participant, Veronica Benarroch, shared her motivation rooted in the current climate, expressing the program’s role as crucial for deepening her connections with Israel and her Jewish identity amidst ongoing global opportunities. Birthright trips offer a funded avenue where young adults can often explore Israel and build invaluable connections for the first time.

This story was first published on jpost.com.