For Nouri, 14, who lives in Moshav Yated in the south of Israel, the last few years have been tumultuous, and the war with Iran caused even more disruption.
“When we were stuck at home during the war with Iran, sometimes there were missiles every day. We went about two months without school, just being on Zoom, and I couldn’t see my friends and hang out with them. I could text them, but that was it, and texting isn’t the same,” Nouri recalled. “You always had to be home and near a protected space. You couldn’t go anywhere or be with anyone or do anything. It was really hard.”
So when his mom forwarded a WhatsApp message about the Campers2Gether program, Nouri was excited about the opportunity to fulfill his dream of going to the U.S. and having a fun, peaceful summer, and immediately signed up to take part in the program.
Established in 2024, The Jewish Agency’s Campers2Gether program was created to offer Israeli teens most impacted by October 7 and the resulting wars in Israel an opportunity to experience respite, healing and connection at Jewish summer camps predominantly located in North America. For the Israelis, Campers2Gether offers moments of calm and emotional relief during a time of increased instability. For North American teens, they build peer connections that make Israel feel personal and relatable.
During his time at Sababa Beachaway Camp, Nouri fostered relationships with American teens and gotten to share his experience of living in Israel during challenging times.
“The Americans have been really friendly and welcoming; I’ve connected with a lot of people and camp is very fun. We basically do everything together: wake up, eat, surf, play sports, do Shabbat,” explained Nouri. “They also asked about what it’s like to be an Israeli teenager; they would say things like, ‘It must be hard to be in Israel,’ and I give them context and talk with them about it, and they’re really happy to learn. But we’ve also had a lot of just normal conversations, and I’ve really enjoyed that.”
Besides developing his English-language skills during his time at camp, Nouri has made incredible memories.
“I’m taking with me from camp lasting connections with Americans, the experiences with everyone… I’m really 100% a different person because of Campers2Gether,” Nouri shared. “I got to experience things I never have before and try new things and have really enjoyed being here. It’s amazing, truly a life-changing experience. It’s really been an honor to be here and be part of this program.”
