“I have a dream, that

every Jew will visit

Jerusalem at least once. I

believe we must set a goal

that every young Jew will

live here at least one year

during their lifetime.”

– Former Prime Minister Ariel

MASA
Sharon, May 2005

w w w. j e w i s h a g e n c y. o rg Israel Journey
MASA- Israel Journey
MASA, the Hebrew word for journey, is an
innovative initiative with an extraordinary vision:
to triple the number of young Jews, ages 18-30,
from communities around the world who come
to Israel for semester-to-yearlong programs.
Spearheaded by the Jewish Agency together with
the Government of Israel, MASA’s partners include
the United Jewish Communities, North American
federations and Keren Hayesod.
A first-person experience of Israel is a proven
gateway into Jewish life for many of today’s young
unaffiliated Jews—and for others, a vehicle for
deepening Jewish connection. More specifically,
participation in a long term program in Israel is the
most effective tool for shaping the next generation
of Jewish leadership in Jewish communities, for
cultivating their Jewish awareness and their sense
of shared destiny with the State of Israel, and for
contributing to the creation of a common worldwide
Long-term
Jewish agenda.
MASA programs emphasize study, meaningful
Israel Programs
encounters with Israelis, volunteering and
contributing to Israeli society, together with outdoor
For A Jewish Future
adventures, sightseeing and familiarity with other Building on the success of birthright
young Jews and Israelis. With over 150 programs to
and other short-term experiences,
choose from, MASA also collaborates with program
partners to develop opportunities specific to the
MASA capitalizes on the powerful force
needs and interests of participants. By making these
programs accessible to a much broader number
of a deeper experience of Israel to build
of young adults, through MASA we can bring
20,000 young Jews per year to Israel on long-term leadership-level connections and
programs. After six-months to a year, these young
Jews return to their home communities. Engaged, enduring commitment to Israel and the
inspired and connected.
Jewish people.