Message from CEO

Dear Friends,

As we reflect on the adversities and achievements of the past year, there is no doubt that 2023 stands as one of the most difficult and challenging years we have encountered on our journey to inspire Jewish identity and connection to Israel among young adults worldwide.

As 2023 began, we reached a major milestone following the successful merger between Taglit Birthright Israel and Onward Israel. This union has allowed us to greatly expand our reach and engage even more young Jews worldwide, fostering a profound connection with Israel and the global Jewish community, even amidst these challenging times.

During the first half of 2023, Taglit Birthright Israel welcomed over 23,000 participants on our flagship 10-day trip before the unfortunate necessity to postpone November and December trips arose. Meanwhile, Onward hosted over 3,600 participants in internships and fellowships, introducing the inaugural Onward Hebrew ulpan experience. Additionally, Birthright Israel Excel welcomed 128 new members, enriching our growing Excel community.

However, together with all of Israel and the worldwide Jewish community, our organization faced its greatest test in October, when the devastating attack on Israel and the aftermath felt by Jewish communities worldwide could have brought everything to a halt.

Instead, our recently merged capabilities allowed us to swiftly mobilize our alumni virtually and in person, including establishing a new significant volunteer program. Leveraging our collective strengths, we engaged diaspora Jews eager to support Israel and the global Jewish community in the wake of this tragedy.

Unlike the challenges we faced during the prolonged COVID-19 crisis, our newly integrated approach enabled us to pivot our offerings with greater agility. By November 2023, hundreds of volunteers were already on the ground in Israel as part of the new Volunteer Program and we resumed our classic 10-day trips in January 2024, with adapted educational messaging to reflect the current reality. The support of our unified structure and stakeholders was instrumental in navigating through this crisis effectively.

Looking ahead, we are committed to enhancing our programming to strengthen the bond between global Jewry and Israel during crucial times. By providing young Jews with firsthand experiences in Israel, we are shaping a brighter future for the Jewish community worldwide. The impact of our volunteers and new educational pedagogy is just beginning, and I invite you to join us in securing the resilience of our younger generation and the future of a united Jewish peoplehood.

Now, more than ever, our programs are essential amidst rising antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiments. By immersing young Jews in Israel, we cultivate within them a deep sense of pride and confidence, empowering them to confront and combat these challenges. The more participants we engage, the more resilient our future will be. Therefore we must work hard to increase the number of young Jewish adults who come to Israel each year.

However, we cannot fulfill our promise to young Jews without your support. This incredible challenge presents an opportunity to expand our donor base and ensure the sustainability of our programs for generations to come.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support.

Sincerely,

GIDI MARK
International CEO of Taglit Birthright Israel