‘Undoubtedly worth it': 100 Jewish teens travel to Israel through Tzofim program

Approximately 100 Jewish teenagers from the United States are participating in Tzofim North America’s four-week “Chetz V’Keshet” program in Israel, despite ongoing security concerns. This educational and travel experience, now in its fifth decade, allows participants in grades nine through 12 to explore Israel from the Golan Heights to Eilat, engaging in sightseeing, volunteer work, and educational programming. The program aims to strengthen participants' connection to Israel, its history, culture, and diverse communities, while also fostering relationships with Israeli peers. Yaniv Biran, CEO of Tzofim North America, stated that participants “return home with a stronger sense of who they are, a deeper connection to Israel, and friendships that often last a lifetime.” Orly Zevulun, a parent, noted, “it’s been undoubtedly worth it to see them get the full Israeli experience.”