Birthright Israel Foundation Blog

Dating in New York City in your mid-twenties is no easy task. People are looking for different things. It’s difficult to make a meaningful connection last longer than a few dates. We—Dana and Zach—both wanted to find someone who felt a strong connection to Israel and wanted to pass it on to their future family. We've loved Israel deeply throughout… Read More 

October 7th happened and honestly, what else could I do but help? I mean, really. I tried the whole tech company thing first. Remote support, helping companies whose employees got called up. It made sense on paper. I have the skills, they needed the help. But it felt... distant. Theoretical. Like I was playing at helping instead of actually helping.… Read More 

On December 12, 2024, Birthright Israel Foundation and its friends and supporters gathered at the Harmonie Club in New York City to honor Dr. Jeffrey R. Solomon, beloved Jewish communal leader and Senior Advisor to Chasbro Investments, the family office of Charles Bronfman. It was a special evening filled with heartfelt tributes, inspiring testimonies, and a shared commitment to empowering… Read More 

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… Read More 

“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.… Read More 

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… Read More 

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 Chair Phil de Toledo, LA… Read More 

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.… Read More 

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… Read More 

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… Read More 

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… Read More