The Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford (JCF) is now accepting applications for its Israel Experience Scholarship Program, aimed at helping Jewish high school students participate in an immersive Israel travel experience. 

A limited number of scholarships valued up to $6,000 per student are being offered. First priority will be given to students with a demonstrated financial need and who are first-time travelers to Israel. The program includes both a pre- and post-educational component as well as requisite volunteer service hours at local Jewish organizations. 

In 2017, JCF’s Innovative Grants Subcommittee recommended launching an Israel Experience Scholarship Program to encourage immersive Israel travel for Jewish high school students, after research revealed that traveling to Israel is one of the most impactful Jewish educational experiences teens can have in developing and solidifying their Jewish identity.

Participation in the scholarship program will not exclude students from eligibility in traveling with Birthright Israel in the future. 

Initial funding for this program was provided by the estate of Louis and Virginia Cohen. 

For information, visit the GRANT section at www.jcfhartford.org.