israel unfiltered: trip breakdown for parents

Israel Unfiltered comes at a pivotal moment for Jewish teens, offering them the chance to experience Israel as it truly is—authentic, complex, and deeply meaningful. This trip encourages participants to step into the story and experience Israel’s vibrant culture firsthand, all while creating lifelong memories and relationships.

Your teen's safety and well-being are our top priorities. This journey to Israel is designed not only to inspire and engage but also to provide the highest level of care and support every step of the way. From 24/7 safety monitoring and experienced staff to comprehensive medical support, you can rest assured that your teen is in great hands.

Program Package

everything you need to know

We know you have questions, and we’re here to answer them! Explore our detailed FAQs covering everything from supervision and accommodations to meals and more. Let us take care of the details so you can feel confident about this unforgettable adventure.

trip details

Dates: June 16th - July 7th 2025
Age Range: Open to Jewish teens in San Diego who will be high school juniors or seniors in fall 2025
Eligibility: Israel Unfiltered is designed to welcome teens from all backgrounds, embracing diversity in Jewish identity, beliefs, gender identity, physical abilities, and cognitive abilities.

Costs & Inclusions

Program Costs: Valued at $7,999, we have several grants and vouchers available to teens and their families, making the trip possible for as low as $2,999.
Grants/Vouchers Available:
- $1,000 grant from Dana Zeff family
- $1,000 grant from Federation
- $3,000 RootOne voucher

See the bottom of this page for details and eligibility requirements.

payment and Refund Policies

Deposit: A $500 deposit is due at the time of registration and is refundable until March 1, 2025. 
April 1, 2025: $2,999 total balance is due and no longer refundable.
May 1, 2025: Any remaining balance is due if RootOne voucher / other grants are not applicable.

*Payment plans are available for families upon request. Please email odedw@israelunfiltered.org.

Program Package

is this trip right for my teen?

In a time of rising antisemitism, this trip offers incoming Jewish high school juniors and seniors in San Diego a unique opportunity to connect with their Jewish background, build confidence, and foster a sense of belonging. No matter how connected your teen is to their Jewish identity—whether they have one Jewish parent, don’t attend synagogue, or feel a bit disconnected—if they’re curious and looking to explore their roots, this trip is for them. Israel Unfiltered is designed to welcome teens from all social and economic backgrounds, gender identities, physical abilities, and cognitive abilities, offering a safe and supportive environment in which they can discover more about their identity.

Program Package

is it safe to send my child to israel?

The safety and well-being of our participants are a top priority. In light of the ongoing conflict in Israel, we are taking extra precautions with this trip to ensure the safety of all participants, chaperones, and staff. Should we deem it unsafe to proceed with the trip to Israel, we will promptly adjust plans and relocate the program to Europe.

Jewish Federation of San Diego maintains strong connections with Jewish communities across the globe, and this alternative destination will still provide a culturally enriching experience. We will still be able to offer teens a chance to engage with global perspectives and broaden their understanding of the world, while maintaining the core values and purpose of the trip.

Program Package

What is the group size and how are teens grouped?

The trip's group size is kept to 40 participants or fewer to ensure a personalized experience. In addition, we have the opportunity to bring up to 10 teens from Israel with us for a duration of the trip.

IU teens stay in various locations, including hotels, youth hostels, and kibbutzim. Teens will be grouped in quad or triple rooms with individual beds to promote camaraderie and connection. This will allow them to build friendships and engage more deeply with the activities and each other.

Program Package

how do I sign my child up for IU?

Complete the registration form, pay the deposit, and then you will be asked to schedule an interview with Oded Wilson, Teen Immersive Experiences Manager. Afterward, you will need to fill out all other required forms required and waivers. This program is open to rising high school juniors and seniors. No prior travel experience is required, just a willingness to explore, learn, and connect!

Program Package

is there pre-trip programming?

Yes! We host required pre-trip programs for all confirmed registrants. Pre-trip programs build our IU community and are part of the requirement to receive your $3,000 RootOne voucher. To receive the RootOne voucher, teens will need to complete an 18-point program. These points will be gained during the pre-trip sessions. See more details about pre-trip sessions and the RootOne voucher at the bottom of the page.

Program Package

will my IU participant be able to see family while in Israel?

IU teens will have an opportunity to see friends or family in Israel during designated times within our itinerary. We will let families know prior to departure when these times will occur. Friends and family must come to the teens. If you have more questions about this, please email Oded Wilson at odedw@israelunfiltered.org.

Program Package

will teens have free time during the trip?

Yes, structured free time is included for participants to explore local markets or relax in designated areas, always under supervision. No teens will be allowed to take local or public transportation without a staff member.

Program Package

how much money should my teen take to Israel? in what form?

We advise teens to allot $75-$100 for each week of travel for snacks, souvenirs, or personal items. We recommend teens come with debit or credit cards for purchases. Additional cash in shekels can also be used on the trip but is not required.

trip package

what's included

At Israel Unfiltered, we're committed to providing you with a clear understanding of this transformative trip. Below, you'll find a comprehensive breakdown of what's included in our trip package and any additional expenses you may need to cover. This detailed overview ensures that your teen's journey with Israel Unfiltered will be not only seamless but also enriching and unforgettable.

included

International flights and transportation within Israel
VIP greeting at Ben Gurion Airport
Licensed tour educator, guard, and medic with the group daily
Gratuities to guide and driver
All meals
Laundry services 2X on the trip
Accommodations in Israel
Basic travel insurance

not included

Petty cash for and snacks/refreshments purchased during free time
Hotel incidentals
Passport Fees
NOTE: All passports must be valid for at least six months from the arrival date in Israel
Excess luggage and weight penalties
SIM card for your teen's cell phone

safety and security

top notch safety

The safety and security of our participants and staff is our top priority. With our robust safety protocols in place, parents can trust that their children are in capable hands, allowing them to explore and engage with confidence.

24/7 monitoring

We work closely with Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), Secure Community Network (SCN), FBI in Israel, Situation Room, Israel Ministry of Tourism, Authentic Israel, and others to ensure the safety of our participants and staff. In addition, there is always at least one guard/medic with the group.

careful planning

We've assembled a highly qualified team to guide and support your teens throughout the journey. Our staff includes:

A licensed tour educator
An armed escort trained in first aid
An Israeli counselor offering local knowledge and 24/7 support
2-3 counselors from San Diego for familiar guidance

secure logistics

Our team has comprehensive backup plans in place to address any unforeseen circumstances.

We are prepared to secure alternative accommodations should original arrangements become unsuitable and protocols in place should a particular location be deemed unsafe to visit.

safety and security

what happens in case of an emergency?

In the event of an emergency, we have established comprehensive protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. Should a situation arise, our staff is trained to respond swiftly and effectively. We maintain open lines of communication with parents, ensuring they are informed and updated throughout any incident.

safety and security

do i need to purchase travel insurance?

We provide basic travel insurance, covered in the cost of the trip. More information about the policy will be sent to all registrants prior to departure. If you would like to purchase additional travel insurance, you may do so at your own discretion. If you have any questions, feel free to email odedw@israelunfiltered.org.

safety and security

does my teen need cell phone service?

Teens are required to have cell phone service during our time in Israel. We will send information about several ways to purchase a SIM Card prior to departure. For a SIM card to work, your phone must be unlocked by your cell phone provider.

health & wellness

prioritizing your teen's well-being

Your teen's health and wellness are at the heart of everything we do. From comprehensive medical support to thoughtful accommodations for dietary needs, our program is designed to ensure that every participant feels safe, supported, and cared for throughout their journey in Israel. We take a proactive approach to health and wellness, ensuring peace of mind for both teens and parents.

on-call medical support and first aid

Each group is accompanied by a first-aid-trained security guard, and we have immediate access to Israel’s top medical facilities.

Our staff is equipped with essential medical supplies, such as EpiPens, inhalers, and hydration supplies, should a situation arise.

meals & accommodations

Teens are provided with three nutritious, kosher meals daily, including options to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies.

Whether it’s a packed lunch for a day of exploration or a sit-down meal, we prioritize dietary needs and preferences to keep participants energized.

holistic wellness activities

Beyond physical health, we incorporate activities that promote mental and emotional well-being.

From reflection sessions to mindfulness exercises in serene settings, we aim to create a balanced experience that nurtures the whole individual.

health & wellness

what should my teen pack for the trip?

A detailed packing list can be found on our resources page. If you have additional questions, please use our contact page to connect with us.

health & wellness

what is your protocol for handling behavioral issues?

Our experienced staff is trained to handle behavioral issues with care and respect. We have a clear code of conduct that all participants agree to before the trip. If issues arise:

Staff will address the concern privately with the individual(s)
Parents will be notified if the behavior persists
In severe cases, we may arrange for early return home at the family's expense

Our goal is to maintain a positive, respectful environment for all participants while ensuring everyone's safety and well-being.

health & wellness

what if my teen has dietary restrictions or allergies or requires other accommodations?

Israel Unfiltered is committed to inclusivity and accommodating all participants' needs. Here's how we handle dietary restrictions, allergies, and other accommodations:

We collect detailed information about dietary needs and allergies before the trip
Our staff is trained in managing food allergies and dietary restrictions
We ensure that all meals, whether at restaurants or packed, cater to individual needs
For severe allergies, we carry epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens) and have first-aid-trained security guards
We work closely with families to understand and accommodate any other special requirements

health & wellness

what happens if my teen is sick?

Teens may join the group masked, stay at lodgings with a staff member, travel separately on travel days, or visit a doctor with staff if needed, based on the severity of the illness.

health & wellness

how do laundry services work?

We send laundry out two times during the trip. Teens receive a plastic bag for dirty laundry; clothing is returned clean and folded. Items can be shrunk or lost, so we recommend participating teens leave their favorites at home. Jewish Federation of San Diego and its tour provider partners are not responsible for any clothing lost or damaged by the laundry service.

Making the Journey More Attainable than ever

Israel Unfiltered is proud to offer financial assistance through grants and vouchers, making this transformative journey more accessible to teens and their families.

We would like to extend a special thank you to the Zeff family, whose generous donation made this incredible trip possible.

All Teens will receive a $1000 grant from the Zeff family.
Teens may be eligible for an additional $1,000 grant from Jewish Federation of San Diego (unless they received a similar past grant from Federation).
Teens may be eligible for a RootOne voucher of $3,000 upon completing all pre-trip requirements.

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