Dear Aardvark Israel Family,
While the semester has come to an end, the next part of the journey for Summer Plus students was just beginning.
Over the past year they grew as participants, built lifelong friendships, and discovered Israel together. Now they are taking the next step by becoming counselors and role models at Jewish summer camps in the United States.
Preparing for the Summer Ahead
Before stepping into their roles as camp counselors, our Summer Plus students spent time preparing for the experience in Israel.
Through leadership workshops, practical training, and group discussions, they built the confidence and skills they would need for the summer ahead. They also made the most of their final weeks together by exploring more of Israel, enjoying Tel Aviv, and creating even more memories with the friends who had become family throughout the year.
Summer Plus is designed to bridge the gap between a life-changing year in Israel and a meaningful summer of leadership at Jewish camps in North America.
First Stop . . . Exploring the U.S. Capital
Washington, D.C. gave our students the opportunity to experience another side of American history and culture. From visiting iconic memorials and exploring the Smithsonian museums to cheering together at their very first baseball game, every day offered something new to discover. More importantly, it was another chance to share new experiences, strengthen friendships, and create memories that will last long after the trip has ended.
“It was an unforgettable experience, and I made memories that I’ll always cherish. I had the chance to travel to the U.S. with my friends, which was truly a dream come true. The madrichim were amazing. They were always there for us, supported us throughout the trip, and made the whole experience even more special. One of my favorite moments was going to the baseball game and seeing a Broadway show. I’m really thankful for this opportunity and for everyone who made it such an incredible experience.” – Joaquin, Reim Community.
The Final Stop Before Camp - New York City
Before heading off to North American camps, our students shared one final adventure together in New York City. From Broadway and Times Square to quiet moments walking through the city’s neighborhoods, every experience became another memory shared with friends who had become family throughout the year.
“Traveling around the U.S. was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. My favorite day in New York was walking down Fifth Avenue, having lunch in Central Park, and getting to see friends I met through Aardvark who live there. In Washington, D.C., I loved exploring the Smithsonian museums and going to my first baseball game. But if I had to choose one favorite memory, it would be seeing Times Square for the first time at midnight with my friends. It was a surreal moment that I’ll never forget.” – Tamara, Barak Community.
Want to see more from our Summer Plus adventure?
“On the 5th floor of a theatre on Broadway in New York City I was transported into the story of “The Lost Boys”. I could taste the emotions of the characters and the passion of the crowd. I’ve never cared for musicals. And when I entered I wasn’t expecting much. I was wrong. The set was incredible and there wasn’t a second where I wasn’t in awe. The moving parts, the organization, the lighting, everything. New York City. A close second to Tel Aviv.” – Yoshi, Reim Community.
From Adventure to Impact
As incredible as Washington, D.C. and New York City were, what made this journey unforgettable wasn’t the places the students visited, it was sharing those moments with friends who have become family throughout the year. For our students, this is where everything they experienced over the course of the year comes together.
While this part of the adventure has ended, the Summer Plus impact has only just begun, as students begin their journey as counselors at North American summer camps.
“I’m so glad I chose to work at camp. Aardvark Israel prepared me in so many ways – I can connect with the Israeli counselors because I understand the culture, the references, and even the jokes. Meeting people from around the world during the program also made it much easier to break the ice and build real friendships here. The trip across the U.S. before camp helped me connect with students from other communities and made the transition into camp feel even more natural.” – Mika, Ofek Community
In just a few months, Aardvark Israel students have gone from strangers representing countries across the globe to a family exploring two continents together. Israel brought them together. America gave them another chapter to write.
Wherever life takes them next, they will always carry a piece of Israel,
and each other, with them.
The Aardvark Israel Team