Florida Teens Return From NCSY Summer in Israel

Nearly 100 South Florida Jewish teenagers recently returned from NCSY summer programs in Israel. The youngsters spent time connecting with the land, exploring Jewish topics, and learning how to best prepare themselves for the increasing anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism that await them on college campuses.

The Shuval TJJ pilot program helped 46 NCSY high school students become more informed and articulate on the subject of Israel and its right to exist. Thanks to the generosity of a local anonymous partner, the students spent their summer developing their abilities to argue Israel’s right to exist and how to articulate the facts surrounding Israel’s historical claim to the land.

Shuval TJJ utilizes visits to critical, historical sites in Israel with presentations by noted Israel advocates, helping each teenager develop a personal narrative with the land of Israel. Students were taken to archeological sites, where they learned of their ancestral ties to their homeland. They visited soldiers who explained the need to constantly stand guard to preserve Israel’s security. They began developing relationships with educators who will continue empowering the teens throughout their high school careers and as they enter college.

“Our Shuval TJJ partners have always been ardent Israel supporters and passionately dedicated to putting nearly 150 new ‘boots on the ground’ in the war against delegitimizing Israel,” said Rabbi Ben Gonsher, Southern NCSY’s chief relationships officer. “By next year, Shuval TJJ will expand to three busloads of South Florida teens, ensuring that they are well prepared for what awaits them on the university campus.”

To learn about applying for Shuval TJJ 2016 or any other NCSY Summer Program, or to make a donation and enable local Jewish teens to connect with Israel and their Jewish heritage, contact Todd Cohn at CohnT@ncsy.org.