Length: 7 Days
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Why an Extension?

All core Israel programs are based on a three-week model. Participants can get more out of their time in Israel by choosing one of three optional week-long Israel extension experiences. Each extension program is campus-based and provides a wonderful alternative to the traditional touring format. The extension experience is designed to open a window on a unique aspect of Israeli society that you may otherwise not fully experience.

The Gadna Basic Training Experience (Part 1)

The first three and a half days of this extension are spent participating in Gadna. Organized by the Israel Defense Forces and located on a specialized army educational base, Gadna is a basic training style experience for high school teens from abroad. Since every Israeli teen is required to serve in the Israeli army, Gadna offers a window for Jewish teens from around the world to see what this uniquely Israeli experience is like. To be clear, the Gadna program is not political or militaristic in nature. The experience is about learning new skills, hiking in the outdoors, and simulating what life is like on a real Israeli army base. Gadna is a challenging and character building life experience that you can look back on with a definite sense of accomplishment.

The Kibbutz Mifgash Experience (Part 2)

The last three and a half days of the extension are spent living on an authentic kibbutz in Israel's countryside. We will be dividing into small groups of 15-20 teens at each partnering kibbutz, and nearly all BBYO Passport teens are paired with a local Israeli teen on the kibbutz. This is why we refer to the experience as a "mifgash" – Hebrew for an encounter. A typical day includes volunteering, touring in the region, and building bonds of friendship between you and your Israeli peers. Of course, there will also be plenty of free time for sports, swimming, and relaxation under Israel's warm sun. This is a very special opportunity to experience Israeli society on a very close level and to develop friendships with Israelis your age. It is a perfect way to close out you summer experience in Israel.

How the Extension Works

The Kibbutz Mifgash & Gadna Basic Training program is considered a "post-extension". This means that the extension experience begins immediately following the end of the core trip. On a typical core trip, about a quarter of the participants will choose an extension option. In some cases, teens from multiple core trips will converge to form a new extension group – which is an opportunity for additional friendships. Each extension program is supervised by North American chaperon staff as well as Israeli professional staff.

Alternate Extension Programs:

• Kibbutz Mifgash / Community Service (Post)
• Ulpan Hebrew Immersion (Pre)

Sample Itinerary

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