The Jewish Innovation
Habonim Dror has seven camps throughout North America and several branches worldwide, making it difficult for campers to reunite from across the globe. At age sixteen all of the campers, or chanichim, from the Habonim Dror movement are presented with the opportunity to go to Israel– where they have the opportunity to explore their Jewish heritage and fulfill life-time experiences. This five-week program is called MBI, which stands for Macheneh Bonim Israel. It differs from various other tours of Israel as MBI is experienced with other campers that have become like family. On other programs connections are formed strictly on tour, but on MBI it’s as though campers are reuniting with their friends and also making new connections from around the world. The campaign goal for Building Camp in Israel is to be able to send as many teenagers as we possibly can from Camp Gesher to participate in such an incredible program!
The Impact
While there are many of us that live in Jewish communities, there are still a lot of people in our group that live in places that are not. As a whole, no matter where we live, MBI is a great way to gain perspective and knowledge about Judaism. There is always more to know and understand which is why this trip is good for Jewish people. Those of us that are in a Jewish community can take the knowledge we learned and apply it to our everyday lives. Those of us who live in places where Judaism isn’t as prevalent can take what we learned and share our experiences with those around us who maybe don’t understand what it is like to be surrounded by Judaism. No matter how connected you are to the Jewish world, there is always more to learn and share!
What Will You Do with the Money?
Campers from Machaneh Gesher have collaborated to start this initiative on Jewcer which will help subsidize the cost of the program. Despite the hefty fee of over $7000 per person, the MBI leadership oppurtunity is truly unique and has been viewed as a turning point for many young people in regard to their connection with Israel and Jewish culture. Our kvutzah is looking for $36,000 which would allow at least 15 more people to participate in this amazing experience! By supporting our campaign you will be providing the opportunity for more young adults to explore their heritage and support the Jewish community in North America and worldwide!!
