This year marked a first for my husband and me: Chalutzim Visitor’s Day as parents. Having previously been faculty in Chalutzim, I was familiar with the preparation and the purpose – showcasing the Chalutzim experience to those new to it. Frankly, I anticipated being underwhelmed, but I couldn’t have been more mistaken.
Chalutzim stands out as a unique program, a seven-week intensive Hebrew immersion within a Jewish summer camp setting. It guides campers on a journey to discover the significance of Hebrew in their lives and, by extension, their connection to Israel. As fluent Hebrew speakers ourselves, my husband Jim and I deeply value Hebrew education. We both studied Hebrew in college and use it regularly in our professions. Sending our son to Chalutzim was a given, but the depth of its impact was something we were yet to fully grasp.
During the kitat z’evim session, we observed two young Israeli madrichim leading an engaging lesson. They incorporated contemporary Israeli music, prompting both students and parents to reflect on their relationship with Israel and encouraging the children to speak Hebrew. Watching our typically reserved son articulate how Israeli music at home fostered his connection to Israel brought tears to my eyes. This was followed by quality time with our son and concluded with a captivating performance of music, dance, and humor, all presented in Hebrew. The talent, the sophisticated humor, and the sheer joy radiating from these 75 teenagers were truly magical.
From my experience, and as I consistently advise my community members, there are two impactful choices parents can make, beyond synagogue involvement and home-based traditions, to significantly increase the likelihood of their children maintaining a lasting connection with the Jewish community and developing a strong Jewish identity. These are Jewish summer camp and a teen Israel experience. For parents whose children are not yet teens, know that the Chalutzim path is paving the way. Chalutzim is truly the centerpiece of OSRUI. It is and should be an integral part of your family’s future. An Israel experience should also be on your radar. I firmly believe these are the most enduring gifts that keep on giving we can offer our children. These are not fleeting material possessions; they are investments in lifelong growth and a sustainable Jewish identity. I feel incredibly fortunate that my children have benefited from both, and I wish the same enriching experiences for your children.
