Nov 14, 2024

Israeli Emissaries Make a Difference in Jewish Miami

Two enthusiastic 18-year-old shinshinim (emissaries) are sharing their love for Israel and all things Jewish with Miami’s children and young adults as part of a yearly Federation program. Maya, from Atlit, is forging relationships with South Dade students from preschool through high school at local synagogues, day schools, youth groups and the Alper JCC Miami, while Ron, from Federation’s partner city of Yerucham, is leading programs at other Federation partners in the North Dade and Miami Beach areas, including the Miami Beach JCC. Both shinshinim deferred their IDF service for one year to volunteer abroad after high school graduation and are particularly passionate about Tzofim, the Israel Scouts. Although they have only been here for a few months, they have already created numerous age-appropriate learning opportunities for the students on Israeli culture, Jewish holidays and the impact of the October 7 terrorist attacks. While sharing their personal experiences about life in Israel, they are also learning about Jewish-American life here in Miami.