Israel
All ages
Mission
Mid-Atlantic Regional Mission
Overview
February 14-18, 2027
Mission Chairs
Josh & Suzanne Schonfeld
Experience Israel through the people, communities, and initiatives shaping its future. Connect with the partners and pioneers advancing Jewish National Fund-USA’s work, gain behind-the-scenes insight into its impact, and experience the resilience and spirit driving communities forward. Alongside fellow travelers from across the Mid-Atlantic community, discover meaningful opportunities for deeper involvement, leadership, and lasting impact.
WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE
- Explore the beauty, history & resilience of Israel’s North
- Meet the people rebuilding communities & creating a thriving future in the region
- Experience the innovation, agriculture & community spirit shaping northern Israel
- Connect with local families, young leaders & the people who call the North home
- Take in the breathtaking landscapes of the Galilee & Hula Valley
- ARRIVE IN ISRAEL
- GROUP TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL
- WELCOME DINNER
- OVERNIGHT: Ritz Carlton Hotel, Herzliya
- BREAKFAST AT THE HOTEL & CHECKOUT
- ATLIT DETENTION CAMP: Atlit tells the dramatic story of immigrants who risked everything to get to Israel. Tour the original barracks, step aboard a ship replica that defied the British blockade and see an undercover rescue mission brought to life through interactive exhibits. The experience will leave you with a sense of awe and empathy.
- LOTEM - TRAUMA SOLDIERS PROGRAM: Lotem proves that nature is for everyone. This inspiring organization creates accessible outdoor adventures such as hikes, heritage sites, and field trips so people of all abilities can enjoy Israel's landscapes. Today, LOTEM offers specialized programs for evacuees and victims of terrorism, as well as nature retreat program tailored to wounded soldiers experiencing PTSD.
- LUNCH AT TULIP WINERY
- COOK FOR SOLDIERS & DINNER AT NOOR WITH BASMA HINO: Noor is where Druze flavors and warm hospitality come together for an unforgettable meal. Basma Hino's kitchen is kosher, and she's been cooking for soldiers since the war began; her story is as inspiring as her food. Enjoy an authentic meal and support a network that's revitalizing the Western Galilee.
- OVERNIGHT: Canaan Hotel, Tzfat
- BREAKFAST AT THE HOTEL
- SECURITY BRIEFING AT MISGAV AM: Go behind the scenes for a firsthand look at the realities facing communities along Israel’s northern frontier. Gain a deeper understanding of the region’s strategic importance, current security environment, and the resilience of those who call the Upper Galilee home.
- MISGAV AM HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT SITE: Across the Galilee, new housing developments are helping communities grow, welcome new residents, and build a stronger future. These projects support the region’s renewal while creating new opportunities for families seeking a high quality of life in northern Israel’s beautiful, close-knit communities.
- MARGALIT STARTUP CITY: Step into the place where the future of food is being invented. Margalit Startup City brings together entrepreneurs, scientists, and innovators working on everything from agricultural technology to healthier, more sustainable foods for a growing world. See groundbreaking ideas taking shape before your eyes.
- LUNCH
- KIRYAT SHMONA MEDICAL CENTER: Get an inside look at a project transforming healthcare in Israel’s North. Jewish National Fund-USA’s medical center in Kiryat Shmona is expanding access to high-quality care throughout the region, offering a powerful example of impact that reaches far beyond tourism.
- WORKSHOP, TOUR & DINNER AT THE GALILEE CULINARY INSTITUTE BY JEWISH NATIONAL FUND-USA (GCI BY JNF-USA): Discover where food, innovation, and tourism come together in the Galilee. Through professional culinary training, entrepreneurship, and hospitality, GCI by JNF-USA is helping transform Kiryat Shmona into Israel’s next culinary destination. Come for the vision and stay for the inspiration—and the food.
- OVERNIGHT: Canaan Hotel, Tzfat
- BREAKFAST AT THE HOTEL
- WORK WITH STUDENTS AT ADAM V’ADAMA (LEADERS OF THE LAND): Adam V’Adama is shaping the next generation of changemakers—boots in the soil included. With locations throughout Israel’s North and South, this unique boarding school combines hands-on agriculture with leadership development and values rooted in the land.
- LUNCH
- HUBAYTA WITH NISAN ZE’EVI: Meet Nisan Ze’evi, co-founder of HUBayta, a grassroots movement dedicated to reimagining Israel’s northern frontier. Based in the Eastern Galilee, HUBayta works to drive economic growth, advance innovative regional education, strengthen community resilience, and revive the Galilee’s pioneering spirit.
- HULA VALLEY SUNSET TOUR: See nature at its most magical. The Hula Valley is world-famous for birdwatching, especially during migration season, when the skies fill with color and movement. Even if you are not a birding expert, the peaceful scenery and breathtaking sunset are sure to impress.
- HOME HOSPITALITY DINNER IN YESOD HAMA’ALA
- OVERNIGHT: Canaan Hotel, Tzfat
- BREAKFAST AT THE HOTEL & CHECKOUT
- DEPART FOR JERUSALEM
- NEFESH B’NEFESH: Learn how Nefesh B’Nefesh helps turn the dream of moving to Israel into a manageable journey. From employment and housing to community connections and ongoing support, the organization guides new immigrants through every step of building a life in Israel.
- MACHANE YEHUDA MARKET & LUNCH ON YOUR OWN: Dive into the sights, sounds, and flavors of Jerusalem’s legendary shuk. Machane Yehuda is a bustling market where you can eat, shop, and soak up local life. Come hungry and ready to explore—there is something delicious around every corner.
- WESTERN WALL: Visit Jerusalem’s spiritual heart, where ancient stones meet modern hopes. People from around the world come to the Western Wall to pray, reflect, and experience its powerful atmosphere and unforgettable sense of connection.
- FAREWELL DINNER AT A RESTAURANT
- BUS TRANSFER TO BEN GURION AIRPORT FOR RETURN FLIGHTS