Israel Bound
The first trip since 2023, Israel Bound is back June 15-July 6, 2026
Israel Bound: A Transformative Three-Week Summer Experience
Open to St. Louis Jewish teens and Camp Sabra participants, currently in grades 10–12, Israel Bound is our flagship summer experience designed to deepen Jewish identity, strengthen personal connections to Israel, and create lifelong friendships.
Over three unforgettable weeks, teens travel the country and experience Israel’s history, culture, and natural beauty firsthand. From floating in the Dead Sea to climbing Masada at sunrise, the itinerary is filled with iconic adventures plus meaningful, one-of-a-kind opportunities.
Israel Bound is more than a trip—it’s a chance for teens to discover who they are, build community, and form memories that last a lifetime.
TRIP COST
Participant Fee: $8,395.
The trip is all-inclusive including flights departing from and arriving in St. Louis.
All participants are eligible for a $3,000 RootOne Voucher through the Federation.
Additional subsides for St. Louis teens are available. See below for more information.
A $500 Deposit is due upon submitting application. Fully refundable through January 30, 2026.
TRIP DETAILS
Israel Bound will depart St. Louis on Monday, June 15, 2026
And return from an adventure of a lifetime Monday, July 6, 2026
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Interact and connect with Israeli teens from the Jewish Federation of St. Louis Partner Region of Yokneam and Megiddo.
- Geo-political briefings to understand Israel’s complexities and current events
- A night under the stars in the Negev Desert
- Time in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Eilat and more
Financial Aid & Funding
We’re committed to making Israel Bound accessible to as many teens as possible. A variety of grants and scholarships are available to help reduce the cost of the trip
RootOne Voucher
All participants are eligible to receive a $3,000 RootOne Voucher to significantly offset program costs. The Federation will provide participants on information on how they can apply their RootOne Voucher.
Funding for St. Louis Teens
St. Louis participants receive a $750 Travel Grant from the Federation.
Individuals are also invited to apply for the Stuart I. Pessin Merit Based Scholarship.
Passport to Israel funds, if applicable, can be used.
Need-based financial aid may be available. Please contact Dodi Taylor for more information.
Funding for Teens Outside St. Louis
Participants living outside the St. Louis area should contact their local Jewish Federation and/or synagogue to explore additional financial support options
