The Friendship Caravan visits New Jersey

The Tzofim Friendship Caravan brought its energy, song, and spirit to Jewish communities across New Jersey this August. It offered performances at many Jewish organizations, including the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades in Tenafly; Kimama Bereisheet in Alpine; Temple Beth Shalom in Livingston; Shevet Lehava, the local Tzofim chapter in Fair Lawn; and the JCC MetroWest.

The group of 10 Israeli teens entertained with music, Israeli dance, and personal stories. Each evening was a celebration of Jewish identity and the enduring relationship between North American Jewry and Israel.

“After more than a year of war in Israel and just following the recent war with Iran, while we still await the safe return of our hostages, the Friendship Caravan serves as a vital link between the next generation of Israelis and the Jewish community in the United States,” Yaniv Biran, Tzofim North America’s CEO, said. “The Caravan members are the beautiful face of Israel, proud to represent their country and eager to build lasting bonds of friendship and solidarity.”

“Preparing for this summer’s tour was unlike anything we’ve experienced before,” Eran Tzivon, the Caravan’s director, said. “Rehearsing while sirens sounded and uncertainty filled the air was incredibly challenging for both our teens and staff. But through it all, their determination never wavered. We understood how important it was to bring the spirit of Israel to Jewish communities in North America, especially at a time like this. I am immensely proud of this remarkable group for standing tall and offering hope, strength, and connection when it’s needed most.”

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During their visit, the Caravan met with Ben Carasso, 10, aka the “Spokeskid of Israel.” He is on his second advocacy tour in the United States and is the youngest person ever to light a torch at Israel’s national Independence Day ceremony. In his free time, Ben is also a member of the Israeli Scouts in Tel Aviv. In a conversation with Ben, the Caravan members talked about what it means to grow up as Israeli children during wartime and the responsibility of representing Israel abroad, especially in difficult times. The meeting ended with Ben playing guitar while the Caravan joined him in singing “Ani Ve’Ata,” a classic by Israeli icon Arik Einstein.

The Caravan partners with Jewish National Fund-USA and Alexander Muss High School in Israel, strengthening the connection between Israel and Jewish communities across North America.