Israel Now: Inspiring Jewish Connection and Heritage for Charlotte's Eighth Graders

The Charlotte Jewish News, August 2023

By Shira Firestone

Immersing eighth graders in an unforgettable, hands-on experience, IsraelNow, a program available through the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s (JFGC) Outshine Hate initiative, aims to ignite a deep and lasting connection to Israel and Jewish heritage. By fostering a strong commitment to Jewish life among our community’s youth, IsraelNow endeavors to strengthen and nurture the ties that bind us.

As an organization committed to creating, sustaining, and safeguarding a flourishing and vibrant Jewish community, Federation witnesses firsthand how the uptick in antisemitism and anti-Israel bias impacts our community. Through its Outshine Hate initiative, JFGC is determined to combat these negative forces by educating, empowering, and uniting the local community. Strengthening our local relationship with Israel is a vital part of this mission, and JFGC’s support in sending teens on this transformative trip is an important part of this commitment.

Chad Schaeffer, JFGC’s director of education and engagement, shared his reflections on last year’s IsraelNow trip, offering a glimpse into the exciting opportunities awaiting this year’s participants. “Our days were packed with visits to sites of immense significance to Jewish history and identity, where we interacted with Israelis of all ages,” he said. “We explored Masada, a symbol of Jewish resistance overlooking the Dead Sea, and walked the ancient streets of Jerusalem, Israel’s capital. In Tel Aviv, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant energy of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. But our experience went beyond sightseeing. We engaged with Israeli eighth graders, learning about their lives and perspectives. We met members of the IDF and lone soldiers who shared their motivations for protecting Israel. Each had their unique reasons, but all shared the common goal of safeguarding the Jewish homeland. We also had the privilege of speaking with a Holocaust survivor who fought in Israel’s Independence War, leaving a profound impact on students and adults alike.”

One of the participating teens recalled, “IsraelNow opened my eyes to the deep connection I have with my Jewish heritage. Meeting Israeli peers, learning from IDF soldiers, and hearing the stories of Holocaust survivors made me realize the importance of cherishing our traditions and standing up for our community. It was a life-changing experience that I will carry with me forever.”

IsraelNow’s ultimate goal is to inspire participants to deepen their Jewish involvement within the community, engaging in ongoing Jewish learning experiences and activities. Through the Outshine Hate initiative, JFGC is committed to making this transformative trip accessible to our local teens, fostering a vibrant Jewish future.

Registration for the Feb. 1220, 2024 IsraelNow trip is now open. For more details, visit www.jewishcharlotte.org or contact Noah Goldman, Israel & Global Jewry Associate at noahgoldman@jewishcharlotte.org. Send your teen on an extraordinary journey that will ignite their Jewish spirit and leave an indelible mark on their connection to Israel and our rich heritage.