Related Blog Posts on Israel Programs, teens, Experiencing Israel, URJ Heller High, and Israel Travel

Home Again: Five Tips to Welcome Your Camper Home

Crystal Hill
Camp is generally a great experience for kids. They deepen their Jewish identities, broaden their communities, and learn new life skills. However, these benefits can also mean your camper needs some time to process their experience on their own while readjusting to life at home.

The Top 8 Israeli Summer Treats

Ellie Rudee
It's the height of summer in Israel. On a blistering summer day like today, there's nothing better than enjoying a refreshing treat to cool you down. Here are some of my all-time favorite Israeli popsicles, drinks, and treats.

Seeking Jewish Values Amidst Broken Glass

Kara A. Wilson
Nearly two months ago, our Just Zionism group landed in Israel as the election to cement a far-right government in the Knesset was taking effect. When we landed, I had a surface-level understanding of Israeli politics but was about to get a crash course on the election's implications for the activists who were heartbroken by the results.

Staying Connected After the B’nei Mitzvah: a Teen’s Perspective

Celia Weingart
A common sentiment among Jewish-affiliated teens seems to be, after your b'nei mitzvah, religious school is over, right? Sure, you might come back for confirmation in a few years, but there's no real reason to stay involved. You're Jewish. You know that, your family knows that, and your friends know that. Staying involved is kind of a waste of time. Right? Actually, no. Even if you've had your b'nei mitzvah, there are benefits to staying involved with your Hebrew School and your religious education.

Film Review: Breaking Bread

Wes Hopper
It's rare to find a documentary set in the Middle East that isn't mired in politics and discord. Rarer still is one bathed in the kind of optimism and goodwill found in Beth Elise Hawk's new film, Breaking Bread. An inside look at a three-day food festival in Haifa, Israel, pairing Israeli and Muslim Arab chefs, Breaking Bread pursues peace through the power of creating top-notch cuisine.