More than 30 U.S. college student leaders beyond the Jewish faith recently returned from Jewish National Fund-USA’s Caravan for Democracy Student Leadership Mission to Israel, where they gained a greater insight into Israel’s political and security situation while learning about the culture from everyday Israelis.
The fully subsidized 10-day program is geared toward student leaders who have never been to Israel before. The mission provides them with an opportunity to explore the country through meetings with political, cultural and communal leaders from different backgrounds and faiths, which helps participants facilitate constructive dialogue about Israel and the Middle East on college campuses across America.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to experience Israel’s incredible beauty and richness,” said Riley Callahan, a student at Union College. “From connecting with IDF [Israel Defense Forces] soldiers, who I now consider friends, to visiting the spiritual sites I grew up reading about in the Bible, this trip has been nothing short of transformative and far beyond what I ever expected. Despite the immense challenges the country has faced, its people remain some of the most warm, friendly and welcoming individuals I have ever had the privilege of meeting.”
Students immersed themselves in different elements of Israeli society, from learning about the Druze community to visiting Nazareth, the birthplace of Jesus. They toured the four quarters of the Old City of Jerusalem, explored the Machane Yehudah shuk (market) and spoke with Jewish, Christian and Arab journalists who all offered their unique perspectives on the tapestry that makes up the land of Israel.
“This trip has been incredible, exploring stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures and meeting so many incredible people,” said Phil Taylor, a student at Ohio University. “I learned so much about its history and challenges. I was left deeply inspired by this remarkable country and its people.”
Attendees also bore witness to the tragedy and destruction of Oct. 7, 2023, meeting with Israelis, soldiers, survivors and influential figures to hear firsthand experiences from that day and visiting sites that have since become hallowed ground. However, these conversations and visits also showcased the unity of everyday Israelis, inspiring the students who were here to help.
“After being welcomed by the people of Israel with smiles and kind words, I was able to come to a fuller understanding of Israeli culture,” said Christian Almestica, who attends Seton Hall University. “We listened to firsthand testimonies of Oct. 7 survivors and walked on the ruins of ancient Jerusalem. Without Caravan for Democracy, I would have never been able to witness the beauty and the resiliency of the Israeli people.”
As the largest provider of Zionist engagement, Jewish National Fund-USA offers a plethora of programming and tools for college students, from educational trips to Israel and bringing speakers to campuses, to the new college campus resources page to help students report antisemitism on their campus.
To learn more or to join a volunteer mission in Israel, visit jnf.org/volunteeril.