About the Program

• The Gift of Israel is a program in which children upon becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah are presented with a certificate voucher to help subsidize organized trips to Israel.

• Trips are self-selective.

• Launched in the fall of 1994, the program has helped nearly 300 participants experience Israel.

• The program is funded by the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville’s annual campaign.

• Children are automatically enrolled and will receive a voucher from the Federation on or immediately following their Bar/Bat Mitzvah.

Vouchers/Funding

• The voucher is worth up to $700.

• The voucher has a SIX YEAR window, beginning at age 16 and ending at 22, which is to be redeemed for funds to travel to Israel.

• Funds to be distributed must be used towards a recognized program or Federation mission, and are subject to Federation approval.

• It is the participant’s responsibility to contact Federation about the use or redemption of the Gift of Israel voucher.

• Payment is made directly to the organization running the program, unless the trip has been paid in full and the payee can provide a statement from the program proving there is no outstanding balance.

• Receipts must be submitted to the Federation in order to obtain reimbursement.

• FOR BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL PARTICIPANTS ONLY - Voucher may be used toward air travel to and from the domestic departure city and a one night hotel stay (if necessary).  Any additional expenses incurred are the responsibility of the trip participant.  Meals are not reimbursable. ALL REIMBURSEMENT REQUESTS ARE AT THE DISCRETION OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF JACKSONVILLE. 

Additional Information

• Students who attend school or college outside of Jacksonville are still able to use their voucher as long as their family remains in Jacksonville.

• We ask all participants returning from a trip to:

• Write an article for the Jacksonville Jewish News
• Talk with a youth group or Board of Directors
• Speak at a synagogue about the program