The Israel Story
We're excited to invite you to a 5-part online series called The Story of Israel: From the Rise of Zionism Until Today.
Israel comes up a lot - in the news, online, and in conversations - but it's not always easy to make sense of it all. If you've ever had questions, felt confused, or just wanted a clearer picture, this series is for you.
Each session focuses on a different moment in history, and together they help tell the story of Israel, how the modern State of Israel was created, and what Zionism is all about.
You're welcome to join us for as many sessions as you can - no pressure to attend them all. If you can't make it to a live session, you can request a recording. Recordings will be available for one month after each session.
Note: Root One points will only be granted to those that attend live and not for those that watch the recordings.
The Story of Israel Session #1 (January 18): The Dawn of a Movement, Rise of Zionism to 1948 (completed)
The Story of Israel Session #2 (February 8): Mandate to Statehood, 1948 to 6-Day War
The Story of Israel Session #3 (March 8): Sovereignty and Growth, 6-Day War to the 90s
The Story of Israel Session #4 (April 19): A Nation Among Nations, Oslo Accords to 2023
The Story of Israel Session #5 (May 3): A Turning Point, October 7th and Beyond
Tell Us You're Interested Nominate a Teen
There are still a few places open for Fellowship cohorts opening in 2026. If you are interested, please email Kate at kblumenthal@urj.org.
The URJ Teen Israel Organizing Fellowship brings together Jewish teens (ages 14–18) who want to explore, connect with, and organize around Israel—while growing as leaders in their communities. Fellows are empowered to engage in conversations about Israel with complexity and empathy, deepen their understanding, and take meaningful action. They gain the tools, relationships, and guidance to lead with and confidence.
Fellows will:
- Attend the Hineni Seminar at the Collab at URJ Greene Family Camp in Texas, (November 7–10, 2025)
- Meet regularly with a dedicated mentor
- Design and implement a community organizing project
- Participate in online learning sessions
- Lead a Town Hall conversation, engage in small group dialogue, and interview a speaker of your choice
- Build deep relationships with a passionate cohort of teens from across North America
What might an organizing project look like?
Organizing takes many forms—and your creativity is welcome. Past projects include:
- Launching a club, campaign, or conversation circle in your local or virtual community
- Hosting a panel, Shabbat program, or public event
- Creating a zine, podcast, short film, or art exhibit
- Organizing a fundraiser, march, or awareness campaign
- Facilitating 1:1 conversations or house meetings
Whether you're an artist, activist, athlete, or something else entirely, your voice and vision belong here.
Cost & Support
The cost to participate in the Fellowship is $120, which includes:
- Participation in the Hineni Seminar at the Collab (lodging, meals, and programming)
- A travel subsidy of up to $350 to help cover costs to and from URJ Greene Family Camp
- Ongoing mentorship and support
- Virtual sessions and workshops with guest speakers
Who Should Apply?
We're looking for Jewish teens who are:
- Passionate about Israel and curious to learn more about the people, the land, the State
- Open to learning from and engaging with people and perspectives different from their own
- Excited to make a difference in their communities
- Between the ages of 14-18 (Grades 9-12)
No prior experience with Israel or organizing is required. Just bring your curiosity, commitment, and openness to grow.
How to Get Involved
- Teens: Apply now or request additional information.
- Parents & Professionals: Nominate a teen or reach out to learn more.
- Questions? Contact us at kblumenthal@urj.org
The URJ Teen Israel Fellowship (U.S.-Based) is a joint venture between the Union for Reform Judaism and the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs.