I Speak Israel


I Speak Israel: Israel advocacy, public speaking, and peer leadership for a new generation of inspired Jewish teens.

I Speak Israel, a 4-week joint project between two leading educational organizations, The David Project and Young Judaea, is the first-ever Israel advocacy summer program offered to high school students. Participants on ISI have a genuine passion for Israel and the Jewish people, and want to take their Israel advocacy, public speaking, and leadership skills to the next level.

YJ’s top tour guides and The David Project’s top educators will boost the knowledge and sharpen the skills of ISI’s participants, so they leave Israel with a true love for the Jewish state and a sense of collective responsibility for the future of the Jewish people. Additionally, participants will gain a deeper understanding of what Israel is really about – not only by touring, hiking, swimming, etc. – but also by getting to know Israel’s remarkable innovations – those that make Israel a modern day miracle that truly makes the world a better place. In the process, they will meet inspiring people and make friends who share their love and passion for Israel. Anyone can speak for Israel – those on I Speak Israel will learn to do it well.

Our Comprehensive Program also includes:

Tiyulim (hikes): We will take you on many tiyulim in beautiful nature reserves and throughout the different landscapes of Israel, including the rolling hills of the Golan Heights, the awe-inspiring views of theNegev Desert, the Galilee, the coastal plain and the Jerusalem corridor. You’ll explore caves, walk through rivers and waterfalls, cook a delicious Middle Eastern dinner by the campfire, appreciate the beautiful nature under the stars, and enjoy the natural wonders of Israel.

Seminars: Your tsevet (staff) and a number of guest educators will prepare evening workshops on topics, including special seminars on the Peace Process, Israeli politics, Israel-Diaspora relations, Israeli society, and much more.

A Special Focus on Public Speaking: You will participate in unique workshops where you will gain new tools that will improve your confidence while speaking in front of a group.

Fun Activities: Here are only a few examples of the fun we’re going to have: water parks, swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, floating in the Dead Sea, rafting on the Jordan river, parties, camel rides, and more. Take part in Maccabiah!

Israeli Culture: Almost every day, participants will have an activity involving modern Israeli culture. We’ll listen to modern Israeli music, meet with young Israelis, visit army bases, learn some slang, and learn to ask the bus driver to turn up the radio!

Eligibility: Teens completing grades 9-12. Prior basic knowledge about Israel is recommended. All the participants will be interviewed by YJ or The David Project staff.

Dates: July 7 – August 8, 2013

Cost: *Only $6900 * | Program includes round-trip airfare New York-Tel Aviv-New York, all accommodations, three kosher meals a day, medical care (not related to pre-existing conditions), field trips, and seminars.

To learn about the lead educator of the trip check out his bio: Zeev Ben- Shachar

For more information about The David Project, please go to www.davidproject.org

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