Jewish Link
By Susan Eisenstein
November 19, 2020
So you are the parent of a high school student. What an exciting, yet often stressful, time for both of you. Is your child feeling like they need to spread their wings? Do you wonder how to help them grow in a positive way? Do you also wonder how to do this within a Jewish context? If your answers are yes, please see the wonderful opportunities below.
StandWithUs is an international, nonpartisan Israel education organization that inspires and educates people of all ages and backgrounds, challenges misinformation and fights anti-Semitism. In 2012 StandWithUs started its High School Internship, a leadership program that prepares students for the challenges they may face regarding Israel in college and in their communities. Interns in the year-long program attend two conferences including the International “Israel In Focus,” which will be held virtually January 30-31, 2021. Students have ongoing educational online workshops and receive guidance on how to run programs that inspire their peers and educate about Israel.
For parents, an added benefit is that the internship is absolutely 100% free! StandWithUs pays for all of the student’s flights and conference fees, and provides the materials, support and funding in order to plan and implement successful Israel education programs.
The StandWithUs Teen Leadership Council (TLC) may be a good fit for you and your teen to explore if a shorter time period would better fit your teen’s commitment level. It provides opportunities for your teen to further their knowledge and play a vital role in ensuring that other teens in their community are connected to Israel. The four-month program includes individual and group learning about Israel, mentorship in leadership skills and community building, access to StandWithUs speakers and materials and an opportunity to plan innovative Israel programming.
StandWithUs Bar & Bat Mitzvah Project just launched to inspire the newest generation of young adults to build strong Jewish and Zionist identities. SWU offers opportunities for bnai mitzvah to learn so that they can educate their family and community about Israel and anti-Semitism. Bnai mitzvah and their parents can choose from a wide variety of selections that appeal to them, such as sharing educational materials, bringing StandWithUs speakers to their community, and learning through the iLink curriculum. Virtual tours of Jerusalem through StandWithUs Discover are a great way for bnai mitzvah to experience Israel in a meaningful way. They can even place notes in the Kotel!
For more information visit www.standwithus.com.
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