Birthright
​William and Mary Hillel sponsors a wide variety of Israel programming from brunch discussions on current events to Israeli themed food events, movie nights, lectures, and more. Birthright Israel trips are also very important and we offer two trips a year - once in the Winter and once in the Summer.
Taglit-Birthright Israel
Taglit-Birthright Israel is a 10 day free trip to Israel, sponsored by the state of Israel and Jewish philanthropists from all over the world. Any Jewish student between the ages of 18-26 that has not been to Israel on a peer group trip after the age of 18 is eligible for this free gift. Since its inception in December 1999, Taglit-Birthright Israel has sent over 750,000 Jewish young adults to Israel. They come from 64 countries, all 50 U.S. States and Canadian provinces, and from nearly 1,000 North American colleges and universities.
​
Taglit is the Hebrew name for Birthright Israel and means discovery. During their trip, participants, most of whom are visiting Israel for the first time, are encouraged to discover new meaning in their personal Jewish identity and connection to Jewish history and culture. W&M Hillel uses Israel Free Spirit as its trip provider. Using a company like IFS ensures that participants have an open and accepting environment to explore the land of Israel, their Jewish identity and their heritage during the trip. Rabbi Litt is the trip leader. With other William and Mary students as peers this trip is personal and meaningful. W&M Hillel runs Birthright Israel trips in both the summer and winter. The winter trip takes place during Winter Break, and the summer trip can take place anytime between late May to early August. W&M Hillel holds Birthright info sessions each semester. Make sure to check the calendar and Hillel emails for updates! Students from all schools in Virginia are welcome to join us for this trip of a lifetime.
Trip Highlights
