July 15, 2014

How is BJE Connecting Teens to Israel?

Epic Israel
 
On July 10, 20 Los Angeles teens who had never participated in an Israel program returned from Epic Israel, an extraordinary 25-day summer experience in Israel operated by BJE in partnership with the Jewish Federation and the Jewish Agency.   
 
During the last days of the trip, Israel launched Operation Protective Edge as a defense against rocket fire from Gaza. BJE staff and Epic Israel Program Leader Justin Sadle said that, "being here, during the time Israel has mourned for Eyal Yifrach, Gilad Shaar and Naftali Frenkel and experiencing rocket fire has given the teens a greater appreciation for the sacrifices and difficulties Israelis face on a daily basis."
 
Over the course of the trip, participants explored historical sites beginning with Jerusalem.  After experiencing the Kotel, Julien Mascarade shared, "This was the first time in religion where I really felt something.  The experience was something I've never seen before. Participants also visited the Dead Sea, Kibbutz Gonen, Tzfat and many other places experiencing an archaeological dig, an "IDF day" and more.
 
A special component of Epic Israel was the tracked opportunities. While some teens engaged in 30 hours of hands-on community service, others learned the art of digital storytelling and photography.  
 
Carol Callaway Kleinman, the grandmother of an Epic participant who followed the trip diligently on social media said, "Don't think it could get better for our 15 year old granddaughter then this. She's photographing Jerusalem on this Epic trip. Thank you, BJE.
 
For a full account of participants' travels and more pictures from Epic Israel, click here.

 

Pictured below: 
Social Action track at Project Ayalim & Digital Storytelling track at Metullah Outlook  
 
  
BJE programming transforms the Jewish educational landscape of Los Angeles. Through your generosity, BJE makes a difference every day in nurturing and connecting children and families to Jewish learning and community. You are investing in the Jewish future!
Please consider making a gift to BJE today
 
For more information about this program, please contact Justin Sadle, Program Leader, Teen Experiential Programs.  For information about other BJE programs please contact Monise Neumann, Director, Teen Experiential  Programs.  

  

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