Tavor academy for Zionist Leadership

The Tavor Leadership Academy was established in 2010 to counter the detached connection that is emerging among the secular youth towards Jewish tradition and the history of the Jewish people, While Instead, individualism and Universalism outweigh the quest for a Jewish-Israeli-Zionist identity. Currently we have in Israel two rival identities the Israeli non particular, postmodern identity counter the Jewish-Zionist identity, only the last one can justify the very existence of a Jewish state in Israel, only the last one can build a bridge that will unite seculars with Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox Jews, with settlers and with the Jewish diaspora abroad, we have no other common ground. At Tavor we target high quality participants who have a clear potential to make a difference. Through their experience at Tavor, we strengthen their Jewish and Zionist values, alongside humanistic values, while building the youth's sense of dedication and commitment towards their country and community. Our programs develop their capacity to fulfill a meaningful service in commanding ranks of the IDF, cultivate their leadership skills and social awareness, and enhance their curiosity, intellectual depth and critical thought. This is how we believe that we can produce an outstanding Jewish society and realize the development of Israel as a cultural and spiritual center for the Jewish nation. Our main programs include the following: Tavor Leadership pre military program (Mechinat Tavor) - one of the most popular pre-army programs among the 40 registered programs in the country targeting secular elite youth aged 18, mostly from the central parts of the country, as well as Kibbutzim and Moshavim. Participants study about Israel hands on - in the classroom, through trips and by volunteering and learning about the "social periphery" - in addition to physical training for meaningful military service. Some 55 participants are chosen for their potential and passion for activism each year through a rigorous selection process that begins with a pool of 800 potential candidates. The program combines intensive volunteering in the city of Nazareth Illit together with an extensive and rich learning process. Students enjoy a fascinating curriculum focusing on topics such as Judaism, Zionism, the current challenges facing Israel and general western civilization studies, including philosophy, psychology and communication. Concurrently, each week, students run various social activities in Nazareth Illit encompassing 300 children and youth. This past year, Mechina participants took part in 15 different volunteer programs in the city and are strengthening its social fabric. Thus far, the Mechina has seen 170 alumni; most of them still incorporated in military service in high grade positions in combat, intelligence and education units. In fact, 68% of our alumni serve as commanders, and 40% as officers. Likewise, at the 67th Independence Day ceremony, 3 graduates of Tavor Mechina received the President's Award for Outstanding Soldiers. Keshet - this program, similar to the Mechina in educational content and vision, is designed for a young audience of outstanding secular 11th-12th graders. The program includes weekend seminars and single day enrichment activities, engaging participants in field trips and learning tours combined with a rich study curriculum encompassing topics corresponding with Jewish studies, Zionism, Society and State. Targeting a group of 150 participants in each cycle who explore Israel's history and landscape, the program develops youth's Jewish-Zionist consciousness and identity, builds leadership qualities and motivation for social commitment and full citizenship, with an emphasis on bringing together pre-army programs and conducting meaningful service in the IDF. Olim LaTavor - a unique program for 25-30 lone soldiers who come from abroad to serve in the IDF. Operating in cooperation with The Ministry of Defense and The Ministry of Aliyah and Immigrant Absorption, it is a one-month pre-military preparation course designed to strengthen the bond between young volunteers from abroad, the Jewish people and the land of Israel. Additionally, it introduces them to the IDF towards their integration in the system, where they will serve in combat units. This past summer, 120 olim participated in the program, which was replicated in other Mechinot.