JCC Maccabi Israel. Participants Manual your guide to the ultimate Israel teen experience

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JCC Maccabi Israel

Participants Manual

your guide to the ultimate

Israel teen experience

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jccmaccabiisrael.org JMI Participants Manual 1

You are about to have the experience of a lifetime!

The better prepared you are, the more fun you’ll have, so we’ve gathered all the information you’ll need in one place. Read this booklet carefully and keep it as a reference for later. Sit back and get ready for the greatest experience of your life!

About JCC Maccabi Israel

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JCC Maccabi Israel is a thrilling Israel adventure. Participants will meet peers from around the world, explore Jewish heritage together, and tour amazing and beautiful Israel.

JCC Maccabi Israel provides the same professional expertise found in all of our JCCs and camps. Safety, security, and a quality experience are the highest priorities of our program.

JCC Maccabi Israel is a project of two partners; JCC Association and Maccabi World Union. JCC Association is the continental umbrella organization for the Jewish Community Center Movement, which was started in 1854 and includes almost 350 JCC, YM-YWHA, and camp sites in the U.S. and Canada. Building on the 100 years of experience and the success of programs across North America, with JCC Maccabi Israel, we know you will have an unforgettable journey.

Our six educational themes

The six educational themes of JCC Maccabi Israel programs underlie any Israel program you are

staffing. These six major themes are woven throughout the programs, through interactive workshops, group discussion, outdoor activities, sights, and experiences:

L’dor v’dor (from generation to generation): Understanding our

past in order to build our future

Kehillah (community): The

importance of strengthening our Jewish community and making connections

Mifgashim (connections):

Creating meaningful dialogue between North American, Israeli and Polish teenagers

Manhigut (leadership): Learning

values and gaining skills that will help our teens become future leaders in our communities

Ruach (spirit): Judaism and

spirituality – a pluralistic approach toward our culture

Gvanim (diversity): Explore

the diversity and complexity of Israeli society and

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Getting ready

Passports

In order to travel to and from Israel, you must have a passport that is valid for an additional six months after your date of return to America. You are responsible for getting or renewing your passport. You can pick up a passport application at any of the following locations: Any regional office of the U.S. State Department’s Passport Division (they are located in most major US cities); your local U.S. Post Office, or any U.S. District or State Court having naturalization authority.

For more information, call the toll-free federal information number 1-800-688-9889 or visit: http://travel.state.gov/passport.

Please keep a photocopy of your passport with you at all times.

Visas

Passports of American citizens will be stamped with a permit upon arrival in Israel. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may need a visa to enter Israel. Consult with the Israeli consulate to see what additional documents, if any, are required. To locate the consulate nearest you, visit http://mfa.gov.il/mfa/

consularServices/Pages/MissionAbroad.aspx?continent=America&CountryId=15&isEmbassyInWorld=True. If you are an Israeli citizen, please contact your local Israeli consulate to coordinate your visit and ensure painless arrival and departure from Israel.

Travel insurance

JMI provides health insurance for the duration of your program, but not travel insurance. We

recommend you purchase travel insurance in the event you need to cancel the trip for some reason. There is an option of using Travel Insurance Israel. You can contact them at 1-888-747-3773 or by e-mail at: info@travelinsuranceisrael.com. Some JCCs may coordinate a travel insurance plan with another provider, so we recommend being in touch with them before signing up.

Packing List

Israel is hot and dry in the summer. Lightweight, easily laundered, drip-dry, cotton or cotton-blend, casual clothing is recommended for most touring days. JCC Maccabi Israel is not responsible for items lost, stolen or damaged, so leave your really good stuff at home.

A backpack is a MUST so you can carry whatever items you will need for the day’s activities—a change of clothes, camera, a towel, etc.

Summer Trips

The following items are essential

If you don’t bring these things with you, you’ll have to buy them in Israel, at your expense. q Backpack (for hiking and touring)

q Hiking shoes or sneakers with good support

q A comfortable closed hat (must be worn for all hikes and outdoor activities—visors are not acceptable)

q 10-12 short-sleeved shirts or T-shirts (A T-shirt with sleeves must be worn for hiking. Tank tops are allowed only at night.)

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jccmaccabiisrael.org Summer Participants Manual 3 q A water canteen or water bottle (We provide a thermal water-bottle cover that holds 1.5 liter

bottles, which are easily found in Israel.) q Sun block (spf 30 or higher)

q Small gifts for host families—one for Mifgash (weekend with Partnership 2Gether) and one for the family during visitation weekend (if applicable)

General items

q 10-12 pairs of socks q 10-12 sets of underwear q 2 light sweatshirts q 2 cotton pajamas q 2 bathing suits

q 2 pairs of jeans or comfortable slacks q 3-4 pairs of shorts

q sneakers or sandals q water shoes

q 1 pair of flip-flops

q a flashlight with extra batteries q camera

q travel alarm clock q laundry bag

q pens and other writing materials (postcards, envelopes, and stamps can be purchased in Israel) q toiletries, including; shampoo, deodorant, hairbrush/comb, moisturizer, facial soap, toothbrush,

toothpaste, razor, shaving gel q Band-aids

q insect repellent q small mirror q sunglasses

q 1-2 towels, for showering and swimming (most hotels provide towels) q feminine hygiene supplies

q waist pack (may be convenient for carrying money, ID, etc.)

Winter Trips

If you are participating on a JMI winter trip here are some additional items you should pack. q 3-4 long sleeve shirts (some thermal)

q 1 sweatshirt for evenings or to add onto existing clothing q 1 jacket/coat – warm and water proof

q umbrella

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jccmaccabiisrael.org JMI Participants Manual 4 q warm gloves

q Ear muffs or similar

q 1 pair of thermal underwear (just in case)

q 1 wind/rain jacket (that folds and can fit into backpack) q 2 cotton pajamas q 1-2 pairs of sweatpants q 1 bathing suit q 1-2 pairs of shorts q 1-2 pairs of boots

Modest dress

While you are in Israel you will be visiting a number of religious sites. While all JMI programs are pluralistic and non-denominational, we do ask that you respect the local norms. Therefore, when packing, girls should bring a long skirt (one that falls below the knees) and a shirt that covers their shoulders. Boys should bring a pair of long pants and a kippah (yarmulke).

Specifically for women

q 2 pairs of lightweight pants

q 2 long-sleeved shirts (for religious sites) q 2 nicer shirts for Shabbat

q 2 skirts comfortable for walking (one must reach below the knee for religious sites)

There is no need to bring expensive jewelry or a lot of make-up; neither is necessary for the activities in which you will participate.

Specifically for men

q kippah (yarmulke) for Shabbat and religious sites q 2 pairs of light cotton slacks for Shabbat

q 2 collared or dress T-shirts for Shabbat

Note: Articles of clothing with pictures, emblems or writing that are lewd, vulgar, racist, obscene, or advertise or depict drugs or drug use are strictly forbidden.

*If you choose to bring a Musical instrument on the trip we recommend that you ensure it

Laundry

Laundry will be done at least once during your program. A service will pick up the group’s laundry in the evening and return it the next evening. JCC Maccabi Israel is not responsible for items lost or damaged during laundering.

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Health insurance & medical information

Health

An Israeli supplementary medical insurance program covers all participants. The JCC Association Israel office has been working with this reliable program for several years. The plan provides coverage on almost everything. Exceptions are pre-existing conditions, mental health problems, eyeglasses, dental work and prescription medication. If you become ill, you will receive free medical assistance, free medication and any additional needed care. Hospitalization is included. The plan provides coverage anywhere in Israel and operates 24 hours a day.

Make sure to bring a copy of your family’s insurance card, including the plan name and policy number. Please include this information in the space provided in the online application site (http:// jccmaccabiisrael.org/jmi-registration/).

An American madrich (staff) will always be with you if you’re sick. This includes doctor visits or being sick in bed. You will never be left alone. If you choose to go home to be treated, you will have to cover the cost.

Eyewear

If you wear contact lenses, bring a pair of glasses for emergencies; the dust of the Israeli desert may present a problem with contacts. Lenses that can be chemically cleaned are most convenient. It’s a good idea to bring your prescription with you in case of loss or damage.

Medication

If you take medication or will be taking medication while in Israel, you MUST provide the following information, as instructed in the application packet.

Prescription medication • Name of medication • Prescription • Explanation of use • Dosage instructions Non-prescription medication • Name of medication • Explanation of use • Dosage instructions

Note: Bring any medication that you take regularly. It is also wise to have a copy of the prescription with you. If you generally carry medication without full packaging, bring the page that explains the exact chemical makeup of the medicine and dosage. Medication from North America often has different names and if lost, can be hard to trace without exact details.

Madrichim will collect all medication at the onset of the program, and hold it for the duration of the program. Madrichim will be responsible for dispensing medication according to the information supplied in the application packet.

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Preparation for your Israel experience

Orientation

Every group receives an in-depth security orientation upon arrival. Security rules and regulations are explained, including those prohibiting hitchhiking and wandering off alone.

Your group may also have an orientation and preparation meeting in the US before leaving. Please contact your group organizer to learn more.

Electrical appliances

Electric current in Israel is 220 volts DC, (In the US and Canada it is 110 volts AC) single phase, 50 hertz. Transformers that convert voltage are available at most electronics stores. Many appliances such as hair dryers, radios, and clocks require special transformers, so be sure to check with a specialist. Some appliances are available with built-in dual or universal voltage and for these appliances, only an adapter to Israel electrical sockets is required.

Gifts

Feel free to bring a couple of small, inexpensive gifts to give your host families during the Mifgash (Israeli encounter) part of the program and/or the home hospitality segment (if applicable). You’ll be able to buy flowers or chocolate once in Israel; however, gifts that are uniquely American, and particularly indigenous to your region of the country, are more appreciated.

Group t-shirts

It is customary on JMI teen trips that your bus group will design and print their own T-shirts (usually towards the end of the program). The teens usually put together a committee that chooses the color of the T-shirt, text and other trip-related remarks that go on.

If your group decides to purchase T-shirts, it will cost an extra $15-20.

Spending money in Israel

You will want to have money for gifts, extra snacks, and miscellaneous items. There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency visitors may bring into Israel. From our experience, participants spend an average of $100/week for gifts, ice cream and drinks etc.

If you choose to use your debit/credit card, make sure your card is accepted at international bank machines. We don’t recommend using a credit card to get cash advances, though you may bring one if you want. Another option is to use a prepaid card, such as from payoneer, which works the same as a credit card and an ATM card. You will be able to add money to your Payoneer account as needed and a replacement card can be issued within 24 hours should the card be stolen or lost.

The shekel (NIS – New Israeli Shekel) is Israel’s legal tender; you can exchange money at the airport. We do not recommend using hotels to change your money because they have a high exchange rate. Using your Payoneer/debit/credit card to withdraw Israeli currency is possible and recommended.

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Tipping your bus driver and tour guide

As it is a large source of their income (and because they are always so great!) it is customary to tip both your tour guide and bus driver. If you are on a community or camp trip your program director will give you more information as to how much you should bring for your tip.

Weather

Average temperatures in major Israeli cities: F= Fahrenheit

Summer

Cities June July August

Jerusalem 63-81 F 66-84 F 66-86 F

Tiberias & Karmiel 68-95 F 73-98 F 75-99 F Tel Aviv, Netanya & Herzliya 67-83 F 70-86 F 72-86 F Eilat & Dead Sea 75-99 F 77-103 F 79-104 F

Winter

Cities Nov Dec Jan

Jerusalem 54-67 F 47-56 F 43-53 F

Tiberias & Karmiel 59-78 F 53-68 F 48-65 F Tel Aviv, Netanya & Herzliya 54-76 F 47-66 F 49-65 F Eilat & Dead Sea 61-83 F 51-74 F 49-70 F

A word about Shabbat

When coming to Israel people bring their own traditions. All JMI programs are pluralistic and non-denominational so there will probably be people on your trip who come from very different backgrounds. We ask that you respect all your friends and learn from one another.

All of our programs are Sabbath observant. Although you are allowed to use electricity in your private rooms, we ask that in public places such as tours, dining rooms, halls and lounges you observe Shabbat. Our programs do not travel or engage in any activities that require the use of electricity, writing or money. Remember even if you are not observant, there may be people on your trip who are, so please be respectful.

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jccmaccabiisrael.org Summer Participants Manual 8

Travel information

International

International flights for JCC Maccabi Israel programs are arranged by group through JCC Maccabi Israel. JCC Maccabi Israel continental programs fly out of the New York area (JFK or Newark airports). Camp or community programs either fly out of New York (JFK or Newark) or an international airport near your community. For more information please contact your camp/community director or JCC. Please read the following instructions to make your flying experience run smoothly:

Luggage

Please check with your group leader about luggage limitation and check in policy—different flights have different regulations. However you should limit yourself to one piece of luggage (for return flight as well) weighing no more than 20kg (50 lb) only.

Type of luggage

Remember, you will be carrying your own luggage in and out of hotels and hostels, and on and off the bus throughout the program. Your bags or suitcases should be made of lightweight but durable material. We suggest a duffel bag on wheels, which has wheels on one end and a pull piece on the other; these can be purchased at most luggage stores.

If you choose to bring a musical instrument that does not fit in your luggage, you may not be able to bring it on the plane as carry-on and may need to have it checked. Please check with the airline for rules about carry-on luggage. If your instrument needs to be checked, you will be responsible for any incurred cost.

The 3-day bag

Most participants bring one suitcase/duffel bag on wheels. In addition, many bring a foldable/

collapsible nylon type bag, which can be used as a second suitcase—handy for portions of the program when you may need to bring only enough belongings for a two or three day period.

Carry-on luggage

On most airlines you will be allowed one piece of carry-on luggage with a maximum total dimension of 35 inches. You must be able to fit it in the overhead compartment or under the plane seat in front of you. A purse or waist-pack does not count as a carry-on.

We strongly suggest that you put one change of clothes, toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap in your carry-on so that you will be prepared to freshen up quickly upon arrival. Since 2006, the Transportation Security Administration has required that all liquids and gels (for example toothpaste, shampoo, or deodorant) be in containers no larger than 3 ounces, and stored together in a quart sized Ziploc plastic bag for security screening.

Carry-on luggage policy varies depending on the airline, so check with your group leader before you begin packing.

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Lost luggage

Our experience has been that misplaced luggage (meaning that it does not arrive on the same flight as the group) usually arrives on the next flight. If your luggage is indeed lost, the group leaders will help you buy whatever items you need. The cost of these purchases is the sole responsibility of you and your family. However, the airlines will most likely reimburse you up to a certain amount. If your luggage does not arrive with the group’s, a JCC Maccabi Israel representative will assist you in locating your luggage.

Flight deviations

Flight deviations are defined as coming onto a program late, leaving the program early, or staying in Israel after the program is finished. Deviations tend to be very complicated, so we advise you to avoid them at all costs. Should a layover be absolutely necessary, it must be cleared by your community contact and you must have a signed waiver prior to booking the flight. Deviations tend to incur extra cost, which is your responsibility.

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While in Israel

Safety and security

Our activities are carried out in compliance with the strictest possible safety guidelines, in accordance with standards established by the Ministry of Education, the Jewish Agency Security Department, the Israeli Defense Forces and SPNI (Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel). All JCC Maccabi Israel groups consult a 24 hour communication room operated by the SPNI to ensure that daily programming meets security standards. Routes, tours, and itineraries can and do change, according to security recommendations. Each group is equipped with a cellular phone at all times and is accompanied by a trained, armed chaperone throughout the trip as needed and stipulated by the security guidelines. Participants are not permitted on public transportation. In addition, JCC Maccabi Israel programs are known for close and regular communication with relatives and friends of participants. Our New York and Israel staff is available by telephone 24 hours a day.

Our groups are chaperoned at all times and travel around the country in chartered buses. Even when the group has free time, staff is present and available.

Staff

Our staff are much more than guides; they are important role models, too. Participants give them very high marks in their final evaluation.

Each JCC Maccabi Israel group is staffed by a team comprised of American madrichim, a licensed Israeli tour guide, and an Israeli counselor who is also a certified first aid responder. In addition, JCC Association has an office in Jerusalem with experienced staff to handle any challenges that may occur and offer support and guidance to the groups.

We see our staff as the most important asset of our program and we pay very careful attention to their selection and training. They have a deep understanding of their responsibility for the well-being of the teenagers in their care, and of adolescent issues and needs.

In addition, both Israel Experience Inc. of the Jewish Agency for Israel and JCC Maccabi Israel

coordinators will spend quality time with the group and are on call for any problem or emergency that might arise.

Accommodations and food

You will be staying in modest and comfortable accommodations, typically three star hotels and youth hostels, with the exception of camping out or sleeping in the Bedouin tents or home hospitality (if applicable). All hotels/hostels and kibbutz guesthouses provide kosher meals. The food in Israel will be a little different from what you are used to, from the Middle Eastern falafel and shawarma to buffet style breakfasts. The principle meal of the day is lunch. Different foods are part of your Israel experience, so take this opportunity to explore a new cuisine. The Mediterranean diet has been proven to be one of the healthiest in the world. And if you’re desperate for pizza or a burger, there are plenty of places in Israel today that serve these, and from time to time we may visit these places as well.

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Communication

Because we believe staying in touch is critical, we maintain a sophisticated system of communication with the group and their families. Each group carries a cell phone at all times. Each bus is equipped with a closed circuit radio, which keeps the group in contact with the bus headquarters at all times. All the group coordinators have cell phones so they can be reached 24 hours a day. Full time New York staff stays in touch with each group on a regular basis. Additionally, verification of arrival in Israel can be done through the airline office or the JCC Maccabi Israel New York office.

We will contact you with your group’s contact information closer to departure date.

Please refer questions and comments to your group organizer. Should you need to contact our New York office, Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. EST you may call:

Tel: 1-800-732-1266 Fax: 1-212 481-4174 Email: ido@jcca.org

Time zones (during the summer)

Eastern Time Zone to Israel, add 7 hours Central Time Zone to Israel, add 8 hours Mountain Time Zone to Israel, add 9 hours Pacific Time Zone to Israel, add 10 hours

Emergencies

In the event of an emergency, please contact your group organizer, who will then be in contact with the JMI staff. We are available 24 hours a day at a number that will be provided closer to departure date.

Additional communication information

You and your parents will receive a list of useful telephone numbers. There will never be a

problem reaching the group in the event of an emergency. As for regular calls, although all of our accommodations have telephones and faxes, participants may not be accessible at all times. We know you need to keep in touch with your family back home. Each community will decide on a certain procedure for maintaining contact with their families.

Purchase a calling card to use to call home. All major companies operate in Israel. In addition, you can buy calling cards at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel.

Cell phones

While cell phones are extremely popular and allow a level of comfort, they are also very distracting when the group is traveling. If you would like to rent a cell phone, please understand that cell phones will not be allowed during program time and participants may use their cell phone during non-program times only. If you are interested in renting a cell phone, please be in touch with Talk n Save –

http://talknsave.net/LinkPage.aspx?plink=jmi. Information is on our website at jccmaccabiisrael.org and in the “valuable information for your trip” section of the online registration.

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Keeping in touch

Mail

We encourage you to write letters and postcards to your family and friends while in Israel, but keep in mind that the mail system overseas is often slow. Mail to and from Israel can take significantly longer than mail within the U.S.

All packages are subject to customs and import charges that can be as high as 100% of the item’s real value. In addition, Israel customs require a special trip to Tel Aviv to claim a package.

We do not recommend sending mail from the US to Israel. We suggest that you rely on fax and e-mailing.

E-mail and faxes

You may receive e-mail at this address: israel@jcca.org or fax to: (972) 2 624-7767. E-mails and faxes will be delivered to your group as often as possible. Senders should be sure to include your name and group name (Joe Smith-JMI Camp Chi) in the subject of the e-mail or fax.

Phone calls

If you will not be traveling with a cell phone, you will have limited access to telephones in order to make calls home. It’s not a good idea to set up specific times for making or receiving phone calls because of the busy schedule and limited access to public phones.

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JMI Participants Manual • 14

jccmaccabiisrael.org

JCC Maccabi Israel conditions and regulations

Each participant must follow our regulations and general code of behavior. A copy of the JCC Maccabi Israel Conditions and Regulations is in your online registration area. This document is for your records, though we do need a signed copy in our office prior to the trip’s departure.

1. General Code of Behavior: As a participant in JCC Maccabi Israel Programs, you are expected to

behave in an appropriate manner at all times. Participants may not fight, steal or engage in any kind of antisocial or disruptive behavior. Participants will be held responsible for the cost of any property damage they cause.

2. Illegal Drugs: The purchase, use or sale of drugs is illegal in Israel and may carry personal and legal

consequences far more stringent than the laws of your home community. In addition, any purchase or use of illegal drugs is grounds for immediate expulsion from the program without refund and at your expense.

3. Alcoholic Beverages: Possession, consumption or distribution of alcohol is strictly prohibited.

Violation will result in expulsion from the program without refund and at the participant’s expense. 4. Smoking will not be permitted by JCC Maccabi Israel at any time during the program. The purchase

and or use of any and all smoking paraphernalia, including but not limited to hookahs and/or nargilas, is also prohibited.

5. Piercing and Tattoos: Participants in JCC Maccabi Israel programs are not permitted to engage in

either ear or body piercing, nor are they permitted to get a tattoo throughout the duration of the program. Insurance does not cover medical issues related to body piercing or tattoos.

6. Social behavior: We anticipate that participants in JCC Maccabi Israel Programs will behave

appropriately in the presence of members of the opposite sex or with members of the same sex. Participants shall not be permitted in the rooms or living areas of members of the opposite sex except at times stipulated by the program staff.

7. The program is a group experience. Participants must adhere to the itinerary and activities of the group.

8. JCC Association and its partners do not use public transportation for our groups. All transportation provided for our groups is arranged through a private chartered bus service.

The use of public transportation by any participant at any time is strictly prohibited.

9. The weather in Israel is hotter than in most areas in the US. Participants must be prepared to hike and to wake up early during much of the program. Also participants should be prepared to wear hats and drink more liquid then may be necessary in their home environment. T-shirts with sleeves are required for all hikes.

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Focus on security

Safety and security is our number one priority. We want to share with you some of the measures taken by JCC Maccabi Israel in order to ensure the well-being of our participants and staff:

1. For many years, the Jewish Agency has operated a special center that is in contact with the IDF, the Ministry of Education and the Society for Preservation of Nature (three bodies that operate trips, hikes and tours for youth in Israel). The staff of this center update us regularly and very efficiently. All of our hikes and travel routes are approved in advance and modified daily if needed. Our security guidelines are based on the recommendations made by this center.

2. All JMI participants are required to stay with the group at all times except when given permission by their staff. Any family or friends visiting or hosting participants need prior permission and coordination. JMI reserves the right not to grant a participant permission to leave the group. If permission is granted, the host family must pick up the participant and bring the person back to an agreed upon meeting point at a predetermined time.

3. Structured free time is allowed at certain times during the program. Participants are briefed where they can go and need to report back to staff at designated times. Staff members stay on duty during that time. Emergency cards are given to participants on the first day of the program with relevant phone numbers of staff and administration. Participants are strongly advised to carry this card with them at all times.

4. JMI follows the regulations of the SPNI, which are based on IDF and Ministry of Education

regulations to have an armed chaperone during certain segments of the trip. When needed, we will employ additional first aid and guard personnel.

5. Itineraries and programs are reviewed regularly and changes may be made based on security updates we receive.

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Get excited!

Join our Facebook group, JCC Maccabi Israel, to meet people from your trip and get more fun

facts about Israel!

Check out these awesome websites to get yourself in the Israeli state of mind:

goisrael.com

Check out some of the places before you get there. This website gives you info about where you will visit while in Israel.

balkanbeatbox.com

Balkan Beat Box is the latest music sensation in Israel. Check out their website and listen to some of their songs.

Israel21c.com

Learn about all things Israel from pop culture to politics.

awesomeseminars.com

Politics junkie? Check out awesome lecturer Neil Lazarus’s website for all your up-to-date Israeli political info.

greenprophet.com

Are you a tree hugger? So is Israel! Find out more about all things “green” going on in Israel.

Useful words and phrases

Thank you

Please

Hebrew

Good morning

Where is the bathroom?

Yes

No

Money

How much is this?

So-so

I do not speak Hebrew

Do you speak English?

Toda

B’vakesha

Ivrit

Boker tov

Ayfo ha shirutim?

Ken

Lo

Kesef

Kama ze oleh

Kacha-kacha

Ani lo medeber/et Ivrit

Ata/at medeber/et Anglit?

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Advice from past participants...

1 Go with the flow—things in Israel are a lot less structured than in America… learn to love it! 2 Wear sunscreen!!

3 Step outside of your comfort zone. “Get ready for salad for breakfast.” 4 Take a lot of pictures (of people and places)!!!

5 Prepare to be dirty and sweaty for most of the trip, so do not bring any expensive clothing. 6 Drink water!

7 Don’t overpack! (You have to carry your own bags) 8 Keep a journal or start a blog!

9 Prepare yourself and your parents for minimal communication over the course of the trip (that’s

part of the fun!)

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Important numbers for contacting your child in Israel

Jerusalem Office: Ido Medan-David : 011-972-26251265 *2 New York Office: Nicole Risener: 212-786-5093

For the most up-to-date information and to connect with us in preparation for your trip, check out our website at jccmaccabiisrael.org or visit our Facebook page JCC Maccabi Israel

(facebook.com/jccmaccabiisrael)!

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JCC Association is proud to present the JCC Maccabi GamesTM, JCC Maccabi

ArtsFestTM, and JCC Maccabi IsraelTM. Connecting Jewish teens through

sports, the arts, and travel.

JCC Association 520 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018 tel: (212) 532-4949 fax: (212) 481-4174 JCC Israel Center

The Solomon & Mary Litt Building 12 Moshe Hess Street

Jerusalem, 94185, Israel tel: 011-972-2-625-1265 fax: 011-972-2-624-7767 jcca.org jccmaccabiisrael.org JCC Maccabi Israel Stephen P. Seiden Chair

Dr. Stephen Hazan Arnoff President & CEO

Ido Medan-David

JMI Program Director, JCC Israel Center