The moment their heart finds its home in the Holy Land
From vibrant markets to sacred sites, every part of our teen leadership trip to Israel is an opportunity for discovery and growth. Guided by experienced mentors and surrounded by fellow campers, teens will forge lifelong connections, deepen their understanding of Jewish heritage, and return home with a heart filled with memories and a spirit ignited by the magic of Israel.
Each teen leadership trip to Israel is geared toward campers interested in becoming future leaders in the community and at camp.
Our hearts and thoughts are with Israel, and we remain hopeful for continued peace – until the last hostage. We remain closely connected with our partners on the ground and are following developments with care and attention.
While no final decision has been made regarding the 2026 Sue & Alan Kaufman & Family Teen Mission to Israel, we are hopeful about the path ahead and plan to share a final update by December 1. As always, the safety and well-being of our participants and staff guide every decision we make, and, as we move forward, we will continue to evaluate all factors.
We know how deeply meaningful this experience is for our community, and we are grateful for your patience and understanding as we navigate this evolving situation together. We remain committed to transparency and will continue to keep you informed as information becomes available regarding the trip and registration.
In 2016, we partnered with the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, as well as community congregations, to lead the biennial Sue & Alan Kaufman & Family Teen Mission to Israel. Now, in alternate years, rising teens are eligible for either that or the Joy and Allan Nachman Teen Leadership Trip to Israel (grades nine through 12).
On both trips, former Israeli campers join their American peers and travel together throughout Israel, then return to Tamarack as part of the Teen Leadership Village — further deepening their bonds. As a result, a generation of Tamarack campers and staff have grown up alongside their Israeli counterparts. The relationships developed over the years have impacted the lives of thousands of families here and in Israel, fostering compassion and understanding of challenges faced on both sides. These deep personal connections help fuel our desire to stand together, and we are thrilled that the future of the Elaine and Michael Serling Israeli Camper Program is secure.
Get Dates and RatesOur hearts and thoughts are with Israel, and we remain hopeful for continued peace – until the last hostage. We remain closely connected with our partners on the ground and are following developments with care and attention.
While no final decision has been made regarding the 2026 Sue & Alan Kaufman & Family Teen Mission to Israel, we are hopeful about the path ahead and plan to share a final update by December 1. As always, the safety and well-being of our participants and staff guide every decision we make, and, as we move forward, we will continue to evaluate all factors.
We know how deeply meaningful this experience is for our community, and we are grateful for your patience and understanding as we navigate this evolving situation together. We remain committed to transparency and will continue to keep you informed as information becomes available regarding the trip and registration.
As in past years, for participants who do not wish to attend the Israel portion of the program, we will offer a full summer TLV program at Camp Maas.
Get Dates and Rates
