Am Yisroel Chai! by Rebecca Young
As a Richmonder and co-Southern Seaboard Region President, I had the incredible honor of joining 24 of my fellow Hadassah Region Presidents on a week-long mission to Israel. In the photo, Rebecca Young picks olives in Israel
It was a chance not only to witness the challenges Israel faces but to feel the heartbeat of its people, to serve, and to connect in ways that left me profoundly moved.
Hadassah Region Presidents from across the U.S. gathered in Israel
A Powerful Beginning
Our first day was a whirlwind, but every moment was meaningful. Visiting one of Hadassah’s Youth Villages, Hadassah Neurim, I was struck by the hope and potential of the teens there. At-risk teenagers, both those from Israel and those who have come to Israel from countries such as Ukraine or Russia, are supported, empowered, and loved here. I was immediately reminded why the work I do with Hadassah is is so essential.
Rebecca Young with Diane Bisgaier, Southern Region Co-Presidents in Israel
Joining Leket Israel to pick sweet potatoes the next day was not only fun, but also empowering. I dug into the soil alongside my fellow presidents to support Israel’s National Food Bank and the 20% of Israel’s population that faces food insecurity. The laughter and stories we exchanged reminded me of the joy of being part of this incredible community.
Bearing Witness and Finding Hope
One day, we visited Hostage Square, and although overwhelmed with sadness and grief, I was invigorated by the overwhelming support and community enveloping the families of those kidnapped or lost during the recent attacks.
Later, exploring the vibrant graffiti of South Tel Aviv, I was struck by the creativity and resilience expressed through art. These walls tell stories of struggle, hope, and renewal. What an amazing way to be reminded that Israel’s strength is not only in its history, but in its living, breathing culture!
From the Gaza Envelope to Jerusalem: Shabbat of the Heart
Friday brought us to Moshav Netiv HaAsara in the Gaza Envelope. From the streets of the Moshav, we could see straight into Gaza,and heard about what the residents witnessed and heard in the months and days leading up to October 7. Each day, they deal with the struggles of trauma and the heartache of loss, yet they are determined to carry on.
Visiting the shelter where Hersh Goldberg-Polin spent his last free moments was a surreal moment for many of us, as his family touched the communities of many Hadassah women. Saying Kaddish for him while bearing witness to the site served as a healing moment.
The most emotionally difficult part of the trip for me, however, was visiting the Nova Festival site. Not only do I still go to music festivals, but I am the mother of two teenagers. My daughter is seventeen and she or her friends could have easily been there. Standing in that field, imagining the joy that once filled it versus the destruction left behind, left me with a deep pang of fear, sadness, and gratitude all at once. I found myself fighting back tears, but also marveling at the resilience and determination of the Israeli people to heal and move forward. It was a moment I will never forget.
Healing and Innovation at Hadassah
No Hadassah trip would be complete without a visit to the grave of Henrietta Szold on the Mount of Olives. We could almost hear her words in our head, “Make my eyes look to the future,” when we visited the Gandel Rehabilitation Center.
At Hadassah Ein Kerem, I was moved by the dedication of the women leading its medical programs. These women embody Henrietta Szold’s words: “Dare to dream… and when you dream, dream big.” Witnessing their commitment reminded me that courage and vision can change lives in profound ways.
Culture, Community, and Service
Visiting Daliyat al-Karmel, the Druze village near Haifa, was a sensory delight! The sweet treats and strong coffee made us feel welcome and eager to learn more. Sowing wheat, planting pansies, painting pots, and creating fragrant tea gifts for homebound seniors reminded us all how small acts of service can create ripples of joy and connection.
A Farewell Filled with Meaning
Our final day began with a Jeep tour along Israel’s northern border with Golani reservist Gadi Elias. Seeing the burned forests, damaged homes, and memorials firsthand made the realities of security challenges profoundly real.
And then later, in Safed, shopping took on a new significance. I realized that our simple purchases were not just souvenirs but were also signs of solidarity, support, and hope for Israelis after hearing from many shopkeepers that we were the first large group of visitors since October 7. First COVID devastated many businesses and then tourism all but vanished overnight after the attacks,
Our last stop, Meir Shfeyah Youth Aliyah Village, was a joyful celebration. Students greeted us with music and smiles, and I felt the full weight of Hadassah’s impact. Their pride, optimism, and resilience brought the Harmony of Healing campaign to life in a way I will never forget.
Visiting https://bit.ly/SuperSouthHarmonyofHealing will give everyone more information.
Final Thoughts
This week was a tapestry of emotions: heartbreak at Nova, awe at Gandel, joy in the kitchens of Machane Yehuda, and inspiration in the fields, markets, and villages of Israel. I return home motivated to continue Hadassah’s vital work, knowing that we can support healing, foster innovation, and stand proudly alongside the people of Israel.
Am Yisroel Chai!