Magazine
With a commitment to the principles of “Youth, Leadership, and Zionism,” more than 75,000 young people to date have built their self-confidence through Jewish National Fund-USA-supported outdoor education programs. They have developed a profound sense of social responsibility, refined their leadership skills, and established a deep connection with the natural beauty of their homeland, Israel.
Jewish National Fund-USA has supported these outdoor youth groups in the Israel Envelope (formerly known as the Gaza Envelope) for many years, both in times of peace and strife. Thanks to this long-term investment and connection, we were able to swiftly implement these programs for evacuees following October 7.
Guided by the professional support of a social worker, the counselors lead the children through hikes, hands-on activities, inspiring and motivational lectures, and outdoor challenges. Each smile, each burst of laughter, and the newfound sense of self-worth and belonging bear witness to the impact these activities have on children who have seen horrors.
These daily afternoon outdoor activities have proven to be a lifeline. The transformative power of nature becomes evident as the children engage with their environment, learn to appreciate the natural beauty of the world around them, and, in the process, discover their own inner strength.
“When I realized that I was going to be with children who survived from Kibbutz Be’eri and other kibbutzim, I was nervous,” said counselor Carmel Gross. “I had seen the terrible things these kids had suffered. When I arrived here, I unfortunately met frightened children, and the trauma was visible in their eyes. However, very quickly after we started working, we began to see smiles. I always believed in the power of the outdoors, but I couldn’t have imagined how effective it is as the best medicine for almost everything.”
Through the power of nature, these children are finding hope and healing in the great outdoors.
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