Milwaukee Jewish Federation
The George Weinstein Fellowship
Leadership Mission to Israel

Nov 2, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025

  • DESTINATION Israel
  • Who's Going Our Community
  • Trip Type Mission
  • Duration 11 DAYS
  • Group Size 16+
Program is tentative and subject to change. Connect with our Customer Care Team by calling: (888) 230-6008 Mon.-Thur. from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET).

YOUR journey

J² crafts journeys of inspiration, education, and Jewish connections to Israel and worldwide. We are guided by a simple but powerful concept: No two trips are the same; each experience should be personal, meaningful, and backed by superb service. Travel is not just about the places you visit, but the connections you make along the way.

Coming to Israel today is a special act of solidarity and of Jewish peoplehood. Israel has never faced more challenging times. We hope that your solidarity mission is about encountering and understanding where the people of Israel stand – in our hurt, in our healing, and in our hope. The mission is about bringing comfort and being comforted. It is an act of empathy and a confirmation of shared memory and destiny. Above all, the solidarity mission is about what each one of us chooses to do to make a difference on the day that we return to our communities from Israel.

  •   Active
  •   Art & Culture
  •   Current Affairs
  •   Home Hospitality
  •   Food & Wine
  •   Heritage
  •   Local Specialists
  •   Social Justice
  •   Urban Graffiti Tour

Program Itinerary

DAY 1
ON OUR WAY
Sun. Nov 2, 2025
  • Begin your adventure of discovery and leadership as you board your flight to Israel, filled with anticipation for the journey ahead.
Overnight: Flight
DAY 2
WELCOME TO ISRAEL
Mon. Nov 3, 2025
  • Arrive at Ben-Gurion International Airport.
  • Group transfer to Tel Aviv and check into your hotel in this dynamic city known for its vibrant energy and creative spirit.
  • 17:45 PM Meet your J² Expert Educator, who will set the stage for this transformative journey, blending Jewish values, leadership lessons, and the rich history of Israel.
  • Welcome Dinner & Dialogue: Enjoy an inspiring evening with Haviv Rettig Gur, senior analyst at The Times of Israel, as he discusses the dynamics of Israeli politics, society, and its relationship with the global Jewish community.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Dinner
DAY 3
ISRAEL IN DIALOGUE: STORIES, POLITICS, AND HERITAGE
Tue. Nov 4, 2025
  • 8:15 AM Meet at the lobby and depart hotel
  • Stop at Yitzchak Rabin Square, marking the site where Prime Minster Rabin was assassinated by a Jewish terrorist following a peace demonstration at the city hall.
  • Visit Hostages Square – a major site of public activism about the struggle for the Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and the trauma of the October 7th War. Today, the square honors the return home of the last living captives while calling for the sacred task of bringing home the bodies of those murdered for proper burial.
  • Follow the Independence Trail for a captivating journey from Tel Aviv’s founding in 1909 to the bold declaration of Israel’s independence in 1948, connecting to stories of vision, struggle, and triumph.
  • 12:30 PM Savor lunch with a Yamishuk voucher at the iconic Sarona Market, where history meets the best of Tel Aviv’s culinary scene.
  • Roll up your sleeves at MOLET for a hands-on carpentry workshop where you’ll create furniture to support underprivileged communities, embodying the spirit of tikkun olam.
  • Wander through the vibrant streets of Florentine and marvel at the powerful "Walls of Hope" murals, a moving tribute to resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
  • Relish a free evening to explore Tel Aviv's dynamic nightlife, bustling cafes, or serene beachfront.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 4
REDEMPTION AND RESILIENCE
Wed. Nov 5, 2025
  • 7:45 AM Check out of the hotel.
  • Stop at Sderot for a Security briefing and overlook
  • Step into the inspiring story of Yad Mordechai Kibbutz, where courage and determination have defined its legacy. Discover how this community embodies the resilience of Israel and its people. Followed by a special cooking workshop and lunch, led by chef and social worker Paz Raiael.
  • Continue your journey to the site of the Nova Music Festival, which has transformed into a poignant living memorial for those who lost their lives on October 7. As you walk through the grounds, you will witness the heartfelt tributes and commemorative displays that honor the victims. The memorial stands as a place for reflection, mourning, and remembrance, ensuring that the legacy of those affected endures.
  • Meet Israeli Bedouin activists and leaders at Rahat; and hear the stories of this unique community, their losses, and their participation in the ongoing struggle against the Hamas.
  • Arrive in Jerusalem, the eternal city, and recite the shehehiyanu blessing of gratitude and new beginnings.
  • 19:30 PM Reflect on the day’s experiences over a delicious group dinner.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5
MEMORY NEAR AND FAR
Thu. Nov 6, 2025
  • 8:15 AM Meet at the lobby and depart hotel
  • Visit Hackaveret, the Beehive of Innovation, a cutting-edge initiative of the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). Meet visionary entrepreneurs and social leaders who are developing groundbreaking solutions to some of Israel’s most pressing challenges. Explore how creativity, technology, and Jewish values intersect to drive impactful social change while witnessing the JDC’s commitment to fostering innovation for the betterment of Israeli society.
  • Meet Esty Shushan, a Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) activist, filmmaker, and media creator. She is the founder and CEO of “Nivcharot – Haredi Women for Equality and Representation”, promoting women’s leadership, rights, and representation in the Haredi community.
  • 12:00 PM Dive into Jerusalem’s bustling vibe with a Yamishuk voucher lunch along lively Ben Yehuda Street, where music, aromas, and local crafts abound.
  • Visit the Jewish Agency’s historic headquarters and meet influential leaders like Adv. Yaron Shavit and Danyelle Neuman, who will share their insights on Zionist leadership and global Jewish connections.
  • Volunteer at Pantry Packers, where you’ll pack essential food supplies for Israel’s most vulnerable families, making a tangible impact through service.
  • 19:30 PM Cap off the day with a meaningful dinner alongside the Weinstein family, deepening your connections and reflecting on the Fellowship’s shared mission.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6
PEOPLE AND STONES
Fri. Nov 7, 2025
  • 8:00 AM Start the day with Professor Reuven Hazan, who will provide an engaging introduction to Israel’s complex and ever-evolving political landscape.
  • Walk the solemn grounds of Mount Herzl, Israel’s military cemetery, and explore the profound sacrifices made by the nation’s heroes, including those lost in recent conflicts.
  • 12:30 PM Immerse yourself in the lively Mahane Yehuda Market, where the sights, sounds, and flavors of Jerusalem come alive. Enjoy free time to explore its hidden treasures and sample its delicacies.
  • Join a powerful Kabbalat Shabbat service aא Shir Hadash comunity
  • 19:00 PM Celebrate with a festive Shabbat dinner back at the hotel, cherishing the bonds of community and the day’s reflections.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7
SHABBAT IN JERUSALEM
Sat. Nov 8, 2025
  • Take the morning at your own pace, with the option to attend Shabbat services or relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
  • Visit the newly-renovated Tower of David Museum for a vivid exploration of Jerusalem’s layered history, where the stories of Jews, Christians, and Muslims intertwine.
  • Explore the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City with Hana Bendcowsky, gaining insights into interfaith relations and the complexities of coexistence.
  • 17:00 PM Group session
  • End the day with a touching Havdalah ceremony overlooking the Old City, bidding farewell to Shabbat with a sense of renewal and purpose.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast, Boxed Lunch
DAY 8
THE SPIRIT OF PIONEERS
Sun. Nov 9, 2025
  • 7:45 AM Check out of the hotel and head north.
  • 13:30 PM Lunch on own
  • Drive to Mechinat Harduf a unique pre-army leadership program where Jewish and Arab young adults live, study, and volunteer together. Learn how this transformative initiative fosters personal growth, mutual understanding, and cooperation through hands-on community service and shared experiences. Engage with participants and hear firsthand about their journeys, challenges, and hopes for a more inclusive and peaceful future in Israel.
  • Visit the Poriya Medical Center, a cutting-edge facility responding to evolving healthcare needs. Learn how recent conflicts have shaped medical infrastructure and patient care in northern Israel.
  • Continue your journey to Degania one of Israel's most iconic kibbutzim, a symbol of pioneering spirit. Learn about its historical significance, its role in Israeli agriculture, and the challenges faced when it was evacuated and partially destroyed during recent northern military conflicts.
  • Check into your Rooms
  • 19:00 PM Participate in a group bonding session with Yaad the young leaders development program in our P2G region (Sovev Kinneret) and cap off the day with a festive BBQ together.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 9
OUR PARTNERSHIP
Mon. Nov 10, 2025
  • 8:15 AM Meet at the lobby and depart hotel
  • Meet with the Mayor of Jordan Valley regional council
  • A lookout point from Mitzpe HaShalom – Hear about the Geopolitical and Security Reality in the Region, Then and Now
  • Discover how Kinneret Innovation Center (KIC) and Kinneret College are driving technological and social breakthroughs in response to wartime challenges.
  • Gain insight into the journey of Ethiopian immigrants as they transition into Israeli society through the support of the Absorption Center.
  • 13:30 PM Stop for a Falafel\Shawarma Lunch.
  • Join the Yaad fellows for an activity and tour of the Sea Sports Center located on the shores of the Kinneret.
  • Share an inspiring afternoon at HaZore’im Winery with the Yaad group and female reservists, blending rich conversation with local wine tasting in a scenic setting. Hear firsthand stories of resilience and service while enjoying the flavors of the region
  • 19:30 PM Home hospitality Dinner at local home of Yaad Fellowes.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10
THE POWER OF COMMUNITY
Tue. Nov 11, 2025
  • 8:00 AM Check out of the hotel.
  • Engage in hands-on work at Kaima Farm, a youth-led agricultural initiative that empowers at-risk teens through sustainable farming. Experience the transformative power of education, nature, and community as you contribute to meaningful social impact.
  • Visit to Yigal Alon House & Introduction to the educational program of the Beit Yigal Allon Center for connecting Arabs and Jews.
  • 13:30 PM Immerse yourself in the culture of the Israeli Druze community with a visit to a Druze village nestled in the Carmel Mountains. Enjoy an authentic home-hospitality lunch and discover the Druze’s rich traditions, values, and their distinctive role in Israeli society.
  • Meet with the staff and grantees of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Israeli-Arab Issues, where you’ll hear first-hand from minority communities about the realities they face living in Israeli society. Gain valuable perspectives on the complex dynamics of integration and coexistence.
  • 18;30 PM Cap off your journey with a private farewell dinner, where you’ll reflect on the transformative experiences of the past ten days and discuss your leadership potential moving forward.
  • Transfer to Ben-Gurion International Airport for your flight back to the US.
Overnight: Flight Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11
HOME AGAIN
Wed. Nov 12, 2025
  • Arrive back in the US.

RATES & LODGING

Protect yourself from fraud by being cautious and vigilant when it comes to online theft. It is crucial to note that J² adventures will never send an email requesting you to transfer funds to a new account or to redirect a payment. We will never alter our account number or issue additional payment requests without first personally speaking to you and properly identifying ourselves. If you feel uncertain about any communication (scammers often impersonate legitimate companies via e-mail or by calling), halt and contact us directly through our toll-free number listed on our website to discuss any necessary payments. Refrain from responding to suspicious emails or clicking on links or attachments unless you are completely certain of their legitimacy. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of fraud.

Tel Aviv: Prima City

Jerusalem: Prima Royale Hotel

Sea of Galilee: Degania Bet

Choose Your Way

VOYAGER
  • Carefully selected accommodations, offering comfort and quality.
  • A seamless, fully curated experience, as outlined below.
  • J² Customer Care available by phone and email.
  • $50 travel credit per person for your next J² journey.

What to expect

  • 8 nights' accommodations.
  • 9 days of touring with a J² Expert Educator (guide) in a luxury, air-conditioned bus.
  • Daily breakfast, 6 lunches & 7 dinners.
  • The J² adventures App available on the App Store & on Google Play (active 30 days before your departure and throughout your trip).
  • Water on the bus.
  • Porterage at the hotels.
  • All site entrance fees & program fees as per your final program.
  • Credit card fees.
  • Flights to & from Israel.
  • COVID related expenses, including tests.
  • Evening transportation when dinner is not included.
  • Late check out on the day of departure is not included.
  • Amendments to the program: In the event that any sites, programs or meals etc. are added to the program, an additional fee may be required.
  • Personal extras: Items of personal nature such as laundry, wines, mineral water, beverages, coffee, tea, food other than the table d’hotel menu, passport and visa fees, insurance, and foreign port taxes, unless otherwise specified.
  • Gratuities: Recommend guidelines for tipping are provided in the terms section.
  • US and foreign airport taxes, Q fuel surcharge and border taxes when applicable.
  • Value Added Tax is currently not applicable to tourists visiting Israel. Should the law change, you will be notified accordingly, and VAT will be added to your final invoice.
  • Please review our terms & conditions (T&C’s) or request that we send you our full T&C’s. Until you do that, here is the small print, and other stuff you may want to know:
  • Validity | All prices quoted are based on exchange rates as of the proposal date and are subject to change without notice. Rates are per person and are based on shared twin room occupancy.
  • How to Make a Reservation | The quickest way to make a reservation is to register online or contact us by email. We accept VISA, MasterCard, and American Express credit cards. A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required in order to complete the registration process.
  • For any assistance with this registration process or other trip-related queries, please email Customer Care: [email protected].
  • Payments | The balance of your payment is due 90 days before your trip begins, or as specified in your invoice. You will receive an email reminder 2 weeks before this date. Various payment options are available as follows:
    • Credit card | We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Please check with your credit card provider regarding international processing fees. We are unable to process payments of over $1,000 over the phone. Please submit payment online via a credit card or by wiring funds via your bank.
    • Domestic bank wire transfer | Payment should be wired in the same currency that is listed on your invoice. Please add the name of your group or invoice number as a reference and forward a copy of the transfer receipt by email. The bank transfer should clearly state the beneficiary’s name on the wire transfer.
  • J² Adventures reserves the right to automatically cancel your reservation on that date and it may be subject to reconfirmation should the final payment not be received.
  • Cancelation Policy | All cancelations need to be made in writing. The cancelation fee depends on the date when we receive written notification of your request to cancel your booking. Please note that the deposit is non-refundable.
  • Cancelation fees | Cancelations made 90 or more days prior to departure incur the loss of the deposit. Cancelations made 89 to 46 days prior to departure incur the loss of 50% of the full trip cost. Cancelations made 45 days or less prior to the departure incur the loss of 100% of the full trip cost.
  • Cancelation fees may also include: Hotel or supplier cancelation fees. J² Adventures reserves the right to adjust its terms of payment, including cancelation policies and initial deposits.
  • Mobility: Solidarity missions are specifically strenuous, and our visits include places that are inaccessible to people who may have mobility challenges. You should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. PLEASE NOTE: In some cases you may need to run to a shelter, if you have questions regarding this matter please speak to a J² representative.
  • Protect yourself from fraud by being cautious and vigilant when it comes to online theft. It is crucial to note that J² adventures will never send an email requesting you to transfer funds to a new account or to redirect a payment. We will never alter our account number or issue additional payment requests without first personally speaking to you and properly identifying ourselves. If you feel uncertain about any communication (scammers often impersonate legitimate companies via e-mail or by calling), halt and contact us directly through our toll-free number listed on our website to discuss any necessary payments. Refrain from responding to suspicious emails or clicking on links or attachments unless you are completely certain of their legitimacy. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of fraud.
  • Please click here to view our full terms (T&C's). These T&C's apply to all reservations created within J2 Adventures.

DISCOVER NEW WORLDS.

JOURNEYS.

A family vacation to Israel. An adventure of a lifetime traveling with friends to Morocco. A  trip to Poland or Portugal with your community. What do these trips have in common? No matter where you go, you will come back with a fresh perspective and appreciation of the place you visited as well as a heightened awareness of your identity as part of the global Jewish community. 

Stuff.

We have everything you need to know before you go. Check out our Instagram my_j2adventures for cool updates and interesting tidbits.