For 25 years, Birthright Israel has transformed Jewish young adults, strengthening their connection to Jewish identity, community, and Israel. Independent research has consistently proven Birthright Israel’s long-term impact — but now, the latest findings from the 7th study of Brandeis University’s Jewish Futures Project (JFP) reveal new and deeper ways Birthright Israel alumni are shaping the Jewish future.

While previous research confirmed that Birthright Israel alumni feel a stronger connection to Israel and their Jewish identity, the 7th study focuses on the next generation — how Birthright Israel’s impact extends to alumni’s children. For the first time, research shows that Birthright Israel alumni don’t just stay engaged in Jewish life — they are far more likely pass down Jewish values, traditions, and identity to their children.

  • 84% of Birthright Israel alumni are raising their children exclusively Jewish, regardless of whether their spouse is Jewish.
  • They are 122% more likely to celebrate their child’s bar or bat mitzvah.
  • They are 42% more likely to share a Shabbat meal with their children.
  • They are 21% more likely to provide their children formal Jewish education.
  • They are 65% more likely to send their children to Jewish overnight camp.
  • They are 50% more likely to place their children in Jewish day camp.
  • They are 44% more likely to enroll their children in supplementary Jewish education.

The 7th study findings confirm that Birthright Israel participants overwhelmingly choose to raise Jewish families. Beyond family life, it highlights a growing trend in Birthright Israel alumni leadership, activism, and commitment to the Jewish community.

  • They are 100% more likely to feel “very connected” to Israel—even 20+ years later.
  • They are 150% more likely to serve in leadership roles in Jewish organizations.
  • They are 53% more likely to have mostly Jewish friends.
  • 35% have returned to Israel at least once.

In today’s climate, Jewish young adults face increasing challenges — rising antisemitism, hostility on campus, and isolation. The Jewish Futures Project proves that Birthright Israel alumni are better equipped to stand proudly in their Jewish identity.

The Jewish Futures Project’s previous findings showed:

  • In the wake of October 7th, alumni were twice as likely as nonparticipants to grow closer to Jewish friends and community.
  • 54% actively post about Jewish/Israel-related topics on social media—23% more than nonparticipants.
  • From April–December 2023, alumni involvement in Israel activism increased by 77% compared to nonparticipants.

As we celebrate 25 years of Birthright Israel, these findings reinforce what we’ve always known: investing in one Jewish young adult means investing in the entire Jewish future. Birthright Israel doesn’t just change the lives of individual participants — it’s a lifetime connection that shapes Jewish families, builds community leaders, and strengthens Jewish resilience for generations to come.

Help us spread the word and celebrate 25 years of impact — now stronger than ever.

For the full report and more insights, visit the Jewish Futures Project.

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