Experiential Israel Programs (EIPs) are a new, innovative form of Israel education created by StandWithUs. We designed our EIPs using principles from experiential marketing—a technique major companies employ to reach consumers in areas with large amounts of foot traffic. For us, this means creating interactive displays about Israel that are engaging, visually appealing, and relevant to the personal lives of participants. While campuses are a major focus, we have also used these programs effectively in high schools and communities, engaging nearly 75,000 people thus far. StandWithUs EIPs include our Squeeze the Challenge Lemonade Stand, Gratitude Days, Israel Loves 4/20, and Our Voices for Peace.
“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Through 1,900 years of expulsion, oppression, and genocide, the Jewish people have still managed to keep their spirit alive and eventually overcome all odds to liberate themselves in their ancestral homeland. Now, we’re sharing this story as an inspiration for people to overcome a struggle or “squeeze a lemon” of their own. By coming to our lemonade stand on campus, students can grab a free lemonade, share in our story, get inspired, and squeeze out some of their challenges too. This program is about spreading positivity and empowerment, and connecting that to the story of Israel.
This program brings a giant blackboard to campus, inviting students to take a pause from their busy lives and write about what they are grateful for. It was inspired by the “Ten Days of Gratitude” project from Israel, held annually between Holocaust Remembrance Day and Israel’s Independence Day, which encourages Israelis to stop, reflect, and focus on the positive as they transition from darkness to light. The powerful concept of making the world a brighter place through thankfulness truly resonates in Israel, on campus, and beyond.
Sephardic and Mizrahi Jewish communities have made enormous contributions to Israel, our community, and the world. Despite being faced with many challenges throughout Jewish and Israeli history, they have developed a rich culture and traditions that have deeply enhanced the Israeli and Jewish community. “Spill the Tea” with us and learn about the history, stories, and experiences of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews through the exploration of traditional local teas.
Inspire dialogue between students on campus by showcasing Israeli peace initiatives that bring Israelis and Palestinians, Jews and Arabs, to pursue coexistence and peace-building. This program tells the story of real-life figures, and invites participants to write hand-written notes of encouragement to those doing this important work. Our Voices for Peace creates an opportunity to actively support cooperation and coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians on the ground.
Israel Loves 4/20 is a fun, educational campaign about the history and impact of Israeli medical marijuana research. As world leaders in this field, Israelis have developed incredible medical innovations that have helped treat people across the globe coping with Cancer, Parkinson's, PTSD, and many other conditions. By highlighting the experiences of two Israelis who use medical marijuana and diving into the industry in Israel, Israel Loves 4/20 gives students the opportunity to share this story with their peers and engage in a thought-provoking and meaningful program. To gain a deeper understanding of medical marijuana in Israel, click here.
