Fun, laugher, hugs and then tears filled an exciting non-stop week as eight Israeli teens bonded with a group of local teens in Richmond earlier in July.

The Israeli teens – Lidor, Guy, Shachar G., Alma, Shachar S., Bar, Maaian and Yotam - and their two chaperones – Sigal and Michal - were warmly welcomed from our Partnership2Gether sister city in Hadera, located about 25 miles north of Tel Aviv. 

JCFR CEO Daniel Staffenberg noted, “This week is one of our favorite weeks of the year. It is our opportunity to welcome Israeli teens from our Partnership2Gether community in Hadera to Richmond. We usually send Richmond Teens to Israel as well, which this year is on pause, but we look forward to next year!”

He added, “Thanks to your support, these remarkable young Israeli’s participate in a two-year leadership and learning program focused on Jewish peoplehood, Jewish life in the Diaspora, strengthening connections with one another, and developing their own leadership skills. Out of approximately 200 participants, a select group is chosen to visit communities in the United States.”

Daniel concluded, “This is what we do. We create and sustain meaningful Jewish connections. We create moments of Jewish pride. We create opportunities for connection, understanding, and joy that strengthen our global Jewish family. Thank you for the critical role you play in making these moments possible. They are fuel for generations of leadership and connection!”

During their visit, they toured the Weinstein JCC, visited Congregation Beth Ahabah and connected with Tal, our Community Shlicha, volunteered in our community, explored the Virginia State Capitol and Washington, D.C., and, of course, enjoyed plenty of time shopping, socializing, and building friendships. See several photos.

They were graciously hosted by families throughout our community, and teens from both JSU and BBYO joined in the experience.

We have a 15-year successful relationship with our P2G city with many outstanding programs and educational, cultural and travel initiatives connecting Richmonders to our Israeli brothers and sisters. One of the most powerful ways JAFI integrates Israel into the lives of diaspora Jewry is through P2G. The Federation is a proud member of the P2G Southeast Consortium.

Looking back on the week, several Israeli teens as well as the chaperones offered:

“Everybody here were so nice and polite, When I went the Mall, I got many compliments about my hair and shirt,” said Bar. “The family was so nice and organized. I want to thank them so much.”

“While the culture was different from Israel, I liked Richmond and all I saw and visited,” said Yotam.

“The Capitol was so great --  although a hot day,” said Maaian.

“This was a great experience and I want to thank everyone for the past week.” said Sigal. “The teens quickly became friends. After the first day, they had so much fun. I was here 10 years ago and met some of these friends again this week at the JCC.”

“I know it is not easy hosting us but everything was well organized and I want to thank everyone,” said Michal.

For more photos, visit the Photo Gallery section of our site.