I first traveled to Israel with Birthright Israel in January of 2014. I had little expectations but in less than two weeks, I understood why Birthright Israel insists on calling the trip a gift. In ten days, I fell in love. I fell in love with people, with places, with Judaism and with Israel. Ten days in Israel taught me what real diversity is, what it truly means to be part of something bigger than myself, to be a more informed global citizen, and most importantly, to be grateful for the life I was born into.

I learned that being Jewish extends far beyond a stereotype. I learned that even in Israel, no two Jews share the same story as Judaism reaches every corner of the globe. I learned that no matter how you define your observance, Judaism is not only a religion, but a culture and a way of life.

Most importantly, I learned that although I was not born in Israel, do not hold an Israeli passport or have any biological family in Israel, it was still my home. Throughout my first trip, I heard this sentiment countless times. It was not until my very last day that I understood the truth of this statement when a stranger told me, “Make sure you come back soon. You know this is your home.” And that was the moment it all clicked for me. I had never thought of Judaism as something intrinsically tied to Israel. Israel had always been an abstract concept in my mind, but Birthright Israel made me realize just how important Israel is to me and Judaism as a whole. Join me today in paying it forward so even more young Jewish adults can experience the magic of Birthright Israel this year."

You have seen the Birthright Israel program in action. You know that all it takes is 10 days in Israel to connect young adults to our heritage and homeland. You have seen the transformation participants go through as they learn about the Jewish people's rich history first-hand. Participants find their place in the Jewish story and our collective Jewish future.

It takes 10 days. And it starts with you.

These life-changing journeys don't happen on their own. It takes the support of donors like you — supporters who see that Birthright Israel is the ultimate builder of Jewish identity.

Each dollar you donate to Birthright Israel Foundation means that more young adults will discover a deep-seeded connection to Israel and their Jewish heritage. Your gift creates an emotional and physical attachment to Israel that will never be broken.

Now more than ever it is  important that we sustain the Birthright Israel program so young Jews, present and future, can experience the same transformational journeys. As the Jewish identity of young adults grows increasingly tenuous, our youth need the global Jewish community to take a historic step to ensure the next generation’s enduring connection to Israel.

Birthright Israel participants return to their campuses and communities forever changed. Together, we can connect the Diaspora youth to Israel and ensure a strong and secure Jewish future.

And, because of a generous matching donation, every single dollar you donate to Birthright Israel Foundation will be doubled. To celebrate Israel's birthday, from May 9 to June 9, every gift will have twice the impact. But you have to act fast. This campaign is ALL OR NOTHING and the clock is ticking.

We need YOUR help to fortify the Jewish future and write the next chapter of the story of Israel and the Jewish people. Please give and give generously.