"My daughter loved every minute of the Israeli people, places, food, information and experiences. She went…
In 2023, Birthright Israel witnessed an extraordinary outpouring of connection and resilience. Over 27,000 young Jewish adults embarked on transformative journeys, immersing themselves in Israel’s vibrant culture and rich history through our programs. These programs, be they the classic 10-day trip, Onward or Excel, were more than just sightseeing; they sparked personal growth and ignited a sense of belonging to a global Jewish community. As the year unfolded, the tragic October 7th attack served as a stark reminder of the challenges Israel and world Jewry faces. Yet, it also ignited an even stronger flame of solidarity between our alums, Israel and the Diaspora.
In the face of adversity on college campuses, social media, or in their communities, Birthright Israel alums rose to the occasion. Witnessing their immediate rallying cry of support for Israel was genuinely inspiring. Birthright Israel Onward swiftly mobilized a volunteer program, and our alums and young Jewish adults showed eagerness to return to Israel and contribute hands-on, which was overwhelming. This outpouring of solidarity, again, showcased the enduring power of Birthright’s connections, proving that the bonds forged in Israel transcend borders and challenges.
The true magic of Birthright is its life-altering transformations that unfold beneath the Israeli sun. In the eyes of our 2023 participants, you’ll see a tapestry of hope, wonder, and a newfound understanding of their Jewish heritage in the video below. Their laughter, tears, and heartfelt stories will leave you with a clear understanding of why you’re not just funding a trip; you’re investing in the dreams of a generation, the future of Jewish unity, and a legacy of love for Israel that will endure for years to come.
Jewish Pride, Strength, and Confidence Starts with Birthright Israel
2023 by the Numbers
A total of 23,386 young Jewish adults participated in the classic 10-day trip in 2023. That means thousands of Jewish adults are empowered to share firsthand accounts of Israel, feel closer to the Jewish people, and are ready to be active members of their local Jewish communities. Birthright Israel is also proud that we hosted four accessibility groups this summer.
2023 Participants in Their Own Words
“After months of being waitlisted for Birthright Israel, I finally received a spot on a trip with my college friends. This would be our final send-off after graduation, and little did I know that the five days the Israeli participants joined us would leave an everlasting impression on me.”
Chloe Bogen
2023 Birthright Israel Participant
Boca Raton, FL
“I think that through the fun of Birthright Israel comes depth and quality discourse. In addition to the fact that I gained lifelong friendships, I got to know the Diaspora Jews and learned that they are an inseparable part of Israel, even those who have never visited here. Now I know another world that I didn’t know before, and I hope that more Israelis will get to know it.”
Yael Fuks
2023 Birthright Israel Participant
Jerusalem, Israel
“I am extremely and eternally grateful to the donors who made this trip a reality for me and my family. I have learned so much from the experiences in Israel and will carry the lessons with me for the rest of my life. New friendships were made, new values instilled, and my identity reinforced. It is an honor to use such a gracious gift to experience the beautiful country of Israel.”
Ben Khavkin
2023 Birthright Israel Participant
Las Vegas, NV
“Birthright Israel has truly been the most amazing trip I’ve had in my life. Not only did I get the chance to experience the gorgeous environment and vibrant culture of Israel, but I was able to share this opportunity with a group of people who truly understand what life is like when you face physical difficulties every day, and that made this trip even more special.”
Alyssa Shangold, 2023 Accessibility Participant, Naples, FL
Birthright Israel Onward
Birthright Israel Onward also welcomed 3,673 young Jewish adults for immersive internships in 2023. The participants of Onward interned, volunteered, and learned all while living like locals in the Jewish homeland. From Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, Onward participants experienced Israel on a new level while advancing their careers. They returned to their college campuses with a newfound appreciation for the Israeli workforce and with unique skill sets.
Birthright Israel Onward Volunteer Program
As mentioned above, Birthright Israel Onward is stepping up to address the immediate needs in Israel following October 7th, offering young Jewish adults (including many of our alums) a powerful way to lend a hand. Their new two-week volunteer program, open to ages 18-40, lets participants get involved in food rescue operations. Volunteers will make a real difference in the lives of Israelis facing hardship by sorting, packing, and distributing supplies through our trusted partners.
The program’s already sparked massive interest, with thousands applying. We aim to welcome 3,000 volunteers by April 2024. And it’s not just about physical help – volunteers will be lodged in Tel Aviv and will experience educational and social activities alongside their Israeli peers, fostering deeper connections and understanding. It’s a unique chance to combine meaningful service with cultural immersion, making a lasting impact both on Israel and on the volunteers themselves.
“Throughout the work of boxing donations for displaced civilians with Pitchon Lev, I made meaningful connections with both volunteers and locals alike. From bearing witness to the pain of those whose families were on the front lines to the levity found in the gallows humor of my friends, this experience added new dimensions to the way I viewed the conflict at hand and the resilience of the people in the direct line of fire.”
“Throughout the work of boxing donations for displaced civilians with Pitchon Lev, I made meaningful connections with both volunteers and locals alike. From bearing witness to the pain of those whose families were on the front lines to the levity found in the gallows humor of my friends, this experience added new dimensions to the way I viewed the conflict at hand and the resilience of the people in the direct line of fire.”
Drea Rice
2023 Birthright Israel Onward Volunteer
Los Angeles, CA
Birthright Israel Excel
The prestigious Birthright Israel Excel program hosted 64 fellows from the Diaspora representing ten countries. 64 Israeli Excel fellows also joined the cohort. These young Jewish adults, who are the leaders of tomorrow, have experienced various sectors of the Israeli economy like never before. Whether they wanted to revolutionize the consulting industry, build the next game-changing start-up, or become a marketing guru, they spent the summer in Israel perfecting their skills.
You Make Birthright Israel a Reality
The gift of Birthright Israel is only made possible because of people like you. Birthright Israel Foundation donors have given the gift of an immersive Israel experience to 850,000 young Jewish adults, including 115,000 Israelis. Together, we have impacted an entire generation—but thousands more are waiting to claim their birthright. The time to invest is now.
