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Frequently Asked Questions

 

I’ve been to Israel many times. Is this mission a good fit for me? Why?

No matter how many times you’ve been to Israel, you’ll experience something new on this mission. We’ll visit new, cutting-edge programs that help the most vulnerable Israelis, and you’ll have a chance to do hands-on community service. We’ll have encounters with Israelis from all walks of life, people you’d never have a chance to meet otherwise. When we visit traditional sites like Yad Vashem and the Old City, there will be options for veteran travelers to get in-depth, specialized tours.

 

And you will be privileged to witness some of your friends and acquaintances experiencing it all for the first time. Making a Shehechaynu with a first-timer and seeing Israel through their eyes is a special experience.

 

I have never been to Israel. Is this mission a good fit for me? Why?

Your first time in Israel is always special, no matter the circumstances. When you experience Israel surrounded by friends from your community, everyone will share in your excitement. On this mission, you’ll get to hit all the highlights that a typical Israel trip will include—but there’s so much more. You’ll get beneath the surface and really experience Israel, with off-the-beaten-track visits, unique adventures, and a chance to meet Israelis and hear about their lives.

 

What is it like to travel with so many people?

Traveling with a large group is a fun experience—especially when the group consists of members of your own community. You’ll have a chance to make new friends and strengthen your relationships with people you’d like to get to know better.

 

A large mission provides access to high-level speakers and amazing experiences—like a mega event at an IDF base or a reception at the President’s home. At the same time, the itinerary includes some intimate, customized visits as well.

 

Will I have any free time?

Although the mission schedule will be packed with adventures and experiences, there is ample free time built in if you need to catch your breath, do some shopping, or meet up with Israeli friends for a meal.

 

Why would I go on a Federation Community mission as opposed to another trip?

A mission is a trip with a purpose. You won’t just see Israel’s sites, you’ll get to know Israel on a deeper level. You’ll see firsthand the impact of the Federation’s work abroad and meet the people whose lives have been touched by your dollars. You will gain exclusive access to the people, places and experiences that other tourists cannot.

 

I don’t like what the Israeli government is doing.  Why should I support it?

Going to Israel is not an indication that you are in favor of government policies. In fact, one of the most compelling reasons to visit Israel is to participate in open dialogue and hear a broad range of opinions from Israelis. Israel is a country with a free press and its citizens are comfortable disagreeing with their government and with each other.

 

Is it safe?

Safety is our highest priority. In addition to the strict security measures taken by Israeli government to guard public places, we take additional precautions to ensure participant safety. Each bus is accompanied by a security guard. Our itinerary is reviewed by security personnel each day and will be changed if a location is considered unsafe.

                                                                                                

Sherry Rose Memorial Mission Fund of RJF and JCFR are providing a substantial subsidy for the cost of this mission

Community Mission!

85th Anniversary Community Mission Key Facts

 

 

Goal:

To build and inspire community leadership, engagement and giving in the Richmond community.

 

Mission Dates:

April 21-30, 2020 - 10 Days/9 nights

                                                                      

Cost:

The Sherry Rose Memorial Mission Fund of RJF and Federation will make an investment of at least $1,500 per person. We would be clear that everyone would be asked for a gift to the community although no minimum would be set. We would also be open about investment in each participant.

 

Travel:

Suggested flights will be identified, however individuals arrange their own travel with the help of Giant Leaps.

 

Community Engagement:

We will reach out to each Synagogue and community Agency to be a partner with Federation providing professional support, agency branded marketing materials. We will also market the mission in non-traditional ways (Style Weekly/ Billboard/Radio/Community Magazines etc.).

 

Format of Mission:

  • Mega Events provide unique and one of a kind experiences that match fun with mission and connection

  • Each Bus guides itinerary from available options and itinerary will be appropriate for varied groups

  • Multi tracks will be available at various stops to allow meaningful visits for first timers and veterans, i.e. Yad Vashem - Regular tour and a behind the scenes archives tour

  • Meetings with government officials and leading Israelis will allow for the opportunity to learn and advocate on behalf of Diaspora community

  • We will spend time in and with our partnership area of Hadera, Israel focused on creating meaningful people to people connections in interactive and fun ways

  • We will do things connected to our mission and limit the number of “frontal presentations” about our work

  • Rabbis would have opportunity to handle certain mission moments. Shabbat, Bar/Bat Mitzvot/ services at Yad Vashem and elsewhere

 

Engagement and Follow Up:

  • On the last day of the mission a sharing session would be organized to allow for final thoughts and to solidify connections

  • Individual conversations would be had by leadership and professionals throughout mission about giving and would include annual and endowment asks

  • Each participant and bus will be followed up with, reunion meetings will be held and plans will be put in place for each participant to get more involved

Sherry Rose Memorial Mission Fund of RJF is providing a substantial subsidy for the cost of this mission