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USD/Hagshama is the North American arm of the Hagshama Department of the World Zionist Organization. As an organization, we encourage students and young professionals to form their own personal connection with Israel by introducing them to different aspects of Israeli culture, politics, and society, both on trips such as Taglit-birthright israel and at Israel-related events throughout North America.
Our trips are staffed by USD/Hagshama regional directors who are familiar with and enthusiastic about Israel. Regional directors are recent college graduates who have spent a significant amount of time in Israel and are committed to bringing the beauty and complexity of Israel to campuses and communities in their regions.
USD/Hagshama offers a unique Israel experience. We tour Israel from North to South with Israelis providing both students and young adults with the opportunity to see Israel from more than simply a tourist point of view. In the past, participants have met with top Israeli cultural figures involved in film, art and literature, as well as politicians and activists. Hagshama ensures that its participants will have the opportunity to see Israel in its multi-faceted nature.
During Shabbat we offer a pluralistic environment where we take the time to explore the meanings of Shabbat in Israel. Participants experience the excitement and spirituality of Jerusalem while touring the Jewish quarter in the old city and spending time at the Western Wall.
The Hagshama experience is an exciting and unique one. Through upbeat programs, engaging speakers and an adventure-filled ten days, participants develop their own connection with Israel and each other. The trip does not end when participants leave Israel; USD/Hagshama Regional Directors assist participants in staying connected to Israel long after their trip is over.
OK. So that's the USD . But, what exactly is the Hagshama
Department?
The Hagshama Department of
the World Zionist Organization was created to impart and insure continued
vibrancy and relevance of Zionism to young adults all around the world,
and to encourage and facilitate the efforts of students who wish to experience
all the joys and contradictions of the State of Israel for themselves.
The Hagshama Department offers programming in South and Central
America, Australia, Europe, North America and Israel, working closely
with students, bogrim, youth movements and other like minded Zionists
creating programs to insure that Zionism remains an integral aspect of Jewish
though and action on campus and among young adults. These programs include:
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