In the summer of 2024, Mayanot's Birthright Israel
department achieved remarkable success against a backdrop of regional
tensions, made worse by their coverage on USA news-media
channels. As Israel continues its campaign of self-defense against Hamas and
other terrorist organizations, Mayanot Israel demonstrated resilience and
dedication in connecting young Jews with their land, their people and their
heritage. Now more than ever, this mission is critical.
Despite the challenges facing Israel travel, Mayanot successfully brought 516
participants to the country from May to July for their flagship 10-day
Birthright Israel trip. This achievement did not come easily, but the
department's dedicated team and partners worked 'round the clock to ensure
that anyone that was committed enough - and brave enough - to come to Israel at
this time was afforded the opportunity.
Complementing the flagship program was Mayanot's innovative "Volunteer in
Israel" initiative, which saw 332 participants who contributed
to various causes across the country. This program, a collaboration between
Mayanot Israel, Birthright Israel, and Birthright Israel Onward, enabled young
Jews to give back during a critical period. Volunteers worked on farms, in
fields, at hospitals, and on Army bases, providing much-needed support to those
who needed it most.
Mayanot's success was bolstered by key partnerships. Collaborations with Chabad
Youth Melbourne, Chabad on Campus International, and World Bnei
Akiva brought unprecedented diversity to the programs, including
first-ever groups from Mexico and Argentina. Rabbi
Dov Oliver of Rockland Hillel played a crucial role
in recruiting participants for the July volunteer program.
The largest student contingents came from two steadfast partners at major US
universities. Rabbi Dovid Tiechtel led our largest flagship
ten-day journey of the summer, with 45 students traveling from the University
of Illinois, while Rabbi Mendel Matusof guided the University
of Wisconsin's 32 strong contingent. Their leadership, and that of all the
other US and Israel staff, was instrumental in navigating the complexities
of a Birthright Israel trip at this time.
A poignant moment that encapsulated the spirit of the program occurred in
Sderot in May. When air raid sirens gave only 12 seconds warning, a Mayanot
group calmly entered a shelter. There, American and Israeli participants united
in song, their voices a testament to resilience and hope in the face of
adversity.
Despite the war, threats, and challenging situations on campuses, Mayanot
Israel executed these trips seamlessly. More importantly, they continue to succeed
in their mission to instill Jewish pride and commitment among participants,
strengthening their connection to Israel and to their heritage. This summer's
programs stand as a powerful example of how travel to Israel can thrive and
inspire, even in challenging circumstances.
