Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Israel for Youth chosen to focus on Year 10/11 Israel programs?
International research shows that participating in these programs give Jewish youth closer connections to the Jewish community, and to Israel.
Rising out of findings from the Gen08 survey, Youth 2 Israel (Y2i) was established in Sydney in 2014 to serve NSW, ACT & QLD. Ten years later, the Gen17 Survey specifically identified the need for a similar organisation in Melbourne and so Israel for Youth was created not just for the Melbourne community but also for the rest of Australia (not covered by Y2i).
Israel for Youth strongly believes that increased participation in Year 10 Israel programs will have a profound impact on shaping, building and ensuring a strong Jewish identity for our future community.
What are the eligibility requirements of the charitable support?
Our charitable support is for families who would otherwise be unable to send their children due to financial constraints. We are a charity, and to ensure our long-term financial sustainability and viability for future eligible students, we need to use donor funds wisely and ensure they are allocated to those that need it, to support the maximum number of students participating. In order to make this happen, there is an application process which asks the applicant to disclose some basic financial information.
What if additional assistance is required for the cost of the program?
Families whose students attend non-Jewish day schools and cannot afford some, or all of the remaining costs of the UJEB's Ketsev program, can apply for further means-tested support. Applicants must demonstrate significant financial hardship through an additional application form, which includes an in-person interview.
Has this been done before?
Youth 2 Israel (Y2i) was established to support students in NSW, QLD & ACT. Israel for Youth recognised the outstanding success of Y2i and the need for a similar organisation covering other states and territories in Australia.
What support has been provided to date for the UJEB's Ketsev Experience?
Prior to the establishment of the Israel for Youth Foundation, UJEB received ad hoc donations from year to year, to support students who required help to participate in Israel experiences.
Where does Israel for Youth Foundation get funds from?
A number of Australian donors - families and philanthropic groups - are supporting this endowment fund.
What level of observance do you have to have to attend the program?
Ketsev is for all Jewish students who attend non-Jewish schools and regardless of their religious background. The program offers services for religious (including Kosher food) and non-religious students according to each student’s requirements.
Please speak to UJEB for more information.
What is a typical timeline for the program?
March: Information session for parents and students
April: Program registration forms are emailed out to families
May - June: Interviews take place
July - August: Applications are assessed and final decisions are made by UJEB
September: Final balances to be paid
September - November: Pre-program activities commence
Early December: Students depart
