"It seems like the last 15 years have flown by so fast since the summer when we all first met in Israel.  It was a summer of good times and personal discovery, full of experiences that challenged our physical limits and exposed us to all that is inspiring about Israel and its people. I can’t believe that the summer of 2004 marked 15 years since I experienced Tzofim Chetz V'Keshet – a program that left me with extraordinary memories and forever changed the way that I view Israel."
Gil Lahav, NY. (Tzofim CVK 1989)

Tzofim Chetz V'Keshet is a joint summer teen program of the Tzofim (Israel Scouts) and Gadna, the Educational Division of the Israel Defense Forces in cooperation with the Ministry of Absorption and the Jewish Agency for Israel. On Tzofim Chetz V’Keshet, participants explore their Jewish heritage and strengthen their connection to Israel by seeing the state through the eyes of Israeli youth. They get to know Israel on foot, exploring unique neighborhoods and magical landscapes and seeing the state from north to south, east to west.

Through Gadna, participants experience the army training process including: learning navigation skills, visiting battlefields and exploring military history up-close. Other Tzofim Chetz V’Keshet activities include a two-night camping excursion and sports activities such as rafting and bicycling. Participants also have a chance to experience life on kibbutzim and moshavim, exposing them to a broad range of Israeli society and culture. The Tzofim Chetz V'Keshet program provides teens with a unique opportunity to strengthen their Jewish identity and to connect to the unique Israeli environment. Although each group combines Israeli youth and those from abroad, participants have the opportunity to choose either an English or Hebrew speaking track. This “melting pot” of cultures creates a warm connection that allows participants to meet new friends, learn and improve their Hebrew and get to know Israeli culture and society first hand.