By 
Jewish Federation of San Diego is proud to introduce Israel Unfiltered, a new annual trip offering San Diego Jewish teens an unforgettable opportunity to deepen their connections to Israel, their Jewish identity, and their peers. Thanks to the visionary support and generosity of local leaders Dana and Julie Zeff, this initiative underscores Federation’s commitment to strengthening the next generation’s relationship with Israel and the global Jewish community.
Scheduled for June 16 to July 7, 2025, Israel Unfiltered invites rising high school juniors and seniors to embark on a journey through Israel’s vibrant culture and complex realities. Guided by the tagline “Step into the Story,” the program offers activities such as floating in the Dead Sea, sandboarding in the Negev Desert, exploring ancient landmarks, and connecting with local communities.
“This trip is about more than sightseeing,” said Heidi Gantwerk, Federation President & CEO. “We want these teens to experience Israel through a diversity of perspectives, build lifelong friendships, and develop the confidence to engage in meaningful conversations about their identity and Israel when they return home. This is a step toward becoming thoughtful leaders and advocates.”
One highlight of the trip is the participation of teens from San Diego’s sister region, Sha’ar HaNegev. The experience will foster lasting bonds, uniting participants through shared history and culture. San Diego and Sha’ar HaNegev teens will engage in fun activities, meaningful conversations, and opportunities to learn from one another.
Israel Unfiltered also equips participants with knowledge and skills to navigate challenges they may face as Jewish young adults, particularly on college campuses. From confronting antisemitism to advocating for Israel, they will gain a deeper understanding of the modern Jewish experience and return home confident in their ability to articulate their perspectives and share their stories.
Federation prioritizes participant safety. While the trip’s goal is to explore Israel, a backup plan is in place to pivot to European destinations with rich Jewish histories, such as Prague or Krakow, if safety concerns arise. This ensures participants will still engage with meaningful Jewish narratives.
Inclusivity is also central to Israel Unfiltered. The program welcomes all Jewish teens, regardless of how they identify, their beliefs, or their personal abilities. Federation’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment ensures that participants can explore their connection to their Jewish roots authentically and without political agendas.
Generous subsidies from Federation and the Zeff family make this experience accessible to more teens, particularly those who might not have other opportunities to travel to Israel. “This trip is an investment in our community’s future,” added Gantwerk. “By fostering a deep connection to their heritage, we hope these young travelers return inspired to share their experiences and strengthen our local Jewish community.”
Whether standing at the Western Wall, exploring the Jewish history of Europe, or building relationships with peers, Israel Unfiltered offers teens a profound way to explore their heritage. The program builds lifelong bonds, cultivates a nuanced understanding of Israel, and fosters a sense of belonging within the Jewish community.
Don’t let your teen miss this chance to “Step into the Story.” For more information and to join the interest list, visit israelunfiltered.org.
Comments