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Birthright Israel Foundation Blog

Trip Highlights

December 17, 2024

Highlights from Our Inspiring Winter Season

by Birthright Israel Foundation

The winter season has begun, and we’re thrilled to share the exciting journeys of our classic 10-day trip participants and volunteers who are already making memories and meaningful contributions in Israel. Classic 10-Day Trip: Participants hiked Masada at sunrise and toured Sderot, a community healing and rebuilding after October 7th. They visited the holy site of the Kotel, the Mount...

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December 11, 2024

Rising from the Ashes

by Birthright Israel Foundation

Itay Mevorach loved growing up in Jerusalem in the late nineties. His childhood was one of simple joys like playing soccer in the streets, and walking freely through neighborhoods shared by Jews, Christians, and Muslims. To Itay, Jerusalem felt like a little kibbutz—comfortable and safe. “It was a place where everyone knew everyone,” he said. “You felt at home wherever...

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Alums Trip Highlights

December 9, 2024

Reclaiming My Path Back to Judaism

by Michele Abraham , 2024 Birthright Israel Alumna

“Purpose of visit?” the Israeli customs agent asked. “Taglit,” I said, smiling. I was the last person from my UJA Birthright Israel group to head to baggage claim. As I stared at the young thirtysomething, his eyes lit up with pride, beaming that I was heading into the Holy Land. “Welcome home,” he said. Upon hearing this, I almost cried....

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Alums Food Holidays

November 24, 2024

Delicious Thanksgiving Recipes Courtesy of Birthright Israel Alumni

by Birthright Israel Foundation

When it comes to Thanksgiving, many people have a different idea of what they want to see on the table. Some have waited all year for traditional turkey with all the fixings. Others want something more inspired. And there are always one or two vegetarians who appreciate a meatless dish that they can dig into. With these fast, easy and...

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Events Leadership & Supporters

November 23, 2024

Jewish Resilience Shines Bright at the Los Angeles Annual Event

by Birthright Israel Foundation

Our annual Los Angeles event on Tuesday, November 14, 2024, underscored the importance of our mission: strengthening Jewish identity and deepening connections to Israel among young people. In light of the challenges since October 7, passing the torch of Jewish pride, education, and resilience has never been more critical — especially on college campuses. Among our speakers were National Board...

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Events Leadership & Supporters

November 22, 2024

Miami Community Celebrates Sharon & Howard Socol's Decade of Leadership

by Birthright Israel Foundation

On November 17, 2024, the Miami Jewish philanthropic community gathered at the Rubell Museum for a special evening honoring Sharon and Howard Socol for their extraordinary decade of leadership as Miami Ambassador Council Co-Chairs of Birthright Israel. The event was an exciting celebration of Sharon and Howard’s dedication to ensuring a vibrant Jewish future by supporting Birthright Israel’s transformational programs....

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Leadership & Supporters

November 19, 2024

Securing the Future of the Jewish People: Sharon & Howard Socol Make a Legacy Gift

by Birthright Israel Foundation

Longtime philanthropists Howard and Sharon Socol are all about the continuity of the Jewish people. Fundamental to that continuity, they say, is a connection to the land of Israel. Every summer for more than a decade, they've spent a month there. But, Howard said, "if you've never been to Israel, you can't understand it." Hence the Socols' commitment to sending...

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Atlanta's Philanthropists Gather at Birthright Israel Foundation’s Annual Event
Events

November 14, 2024

Atlanta's Philanthropists Gather at Birthright Israel Foundation’s Annual Event

by Birthright Israel Foundation

On November 4, 2024, Atlanta's most generous supporters of Birthright Israel gathered to celebrate our extraordinary mission and strengthen their commitment to Jewish continuity. Hosted by longtime leaders and supporters Lesley and Gary Glazer, the evening was filled with stories of transformation and unity. The Glazers opened by sharing how Birthright Israel profoundly impacted their children’s lives and reinforced their...

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Embracing Israel as My Own
Alums Trip Highlights

November 12, 2024

Embracing Israel as My Own

by Amanda Doss , 2024 Birthright Israel Alumna

Though I was raised in a Christian household, I always felt a pull toward Judaism. From childhood Shabbat dinners at my best friend Sigal’s house, to my admiration for Barbra Streisand, Judaism always felt familiar, even comforting. But it wasn’t until I met my boyfriend, David, that my connection to Judaism truly deepened. At the time, I was at a...

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Leadership & Supporters

November 11, 2024

Sustaining Jewish Continuity Through Planned Giving: Corie & Michael Koss

by Birthright Israel Foundation

California-based real estate developer and investor Michael Koss has dedicated much of his life to supporting Jewish organizations and causes, with a clear, foundational philosophy guiding his leadership and charitable giving along the way. "My primary interest is in supporting efforts that sustain Jewish continuity," he said. As the principal and founder of Koss Real Estate Investments, Michael has served...

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