Jul 9, 2025

Record Number of Shlichim Arrive at Jewish Summer Camps

Despite a war with Iran, ballistic missiles and Israel’s closed airspace, this year’s delegation of summer camp shlichim (emissaries) is the largest ever. Each year, Greater Miami Jewish Federation’s longtime partner, The Jewish Agency for Israel, recruits Israelis to work as counselors, specialists and educators in Jewish summer camps throughout North America. The shlichim participate fully in camp life, sharing Jewish traditions, teaching about Israeli and Jewish culture and serving as role models. Last summer, approximately 1,500 Israelis took part in the program. This year, all 2,050 shlichim who signed up have already arrived or are on en route, demonstrating their resilience and commitment to bringing Israel to the Diaspora camp experience. Maayan, from a moshav in the Golan Heights, participated the past three years. Since October 7, she noted, her role holds even more meaning, affirming, “Sharing my story and supporting Jews, especially now, is vital!”