Jewish federations of Canada - UIA continuously aims to strengthen the bond between Israeli and Canadian communities. One key way is by organizing and implementing missions to Israel. Over the last 40 years, Jewish federations of Canada - UIA has brought tens of thousands of Canadians on hundreds of missions to Israel, in which participants encounter the country in a personal and meaningful way. Mission participants discover the “real Israel,” and see how their efforts and support impact everyday life throughout the country. Jewish federations of Canada - UIA provides participants with the opportunity to not only visit and support the country, but also appreciate Israeli life and help bolster their identification with the Jewish state.
Jewish federations of Canada - UIA has brought missions from Canada during both good times and bad. In fact, during the five years following the outbreak of the Intifada in 2000, the average number of annual Canadian missions rose from 15 to 23, peaking in 2003 when a record 3,650 Canadians visited Israel under the Canadian Jewish Federation/UIAC umbrella. This unprecedented support during one of Israel’s most difficult times reflects the Canadian Jewry’s unrivaled commitment to the Jewish state, and leaves Israelis with a strong sense of appreciation towards their Canadian peers.
Jewish federations of Canada - UIA runs five types of missions to Israel:
- Adult Missions
These missions bring Canadian Jews on an unforgettable trip in which participants build personal ties with Israelis and gain a unique perspective on what it means to be Israeli today.
- Canada Israel Experience (CIE)
CIE brings pupils, students and young adults to Israel through an array of programs, including Taglit-Birthright Israel and March of the Living.
- Advocacy Groups
Together with CIC, CIJA and CJC, Jewish federations of Canada - UIA brings an annual average of 15 advocacy groups comprised of non-Jewish Canadian leaders and public-opinion makers from government, business, media and academia to acquire an in-depth, unbiased view of Israel.
- Private Trips
Jewish federations of Canada - UIA tailors private trips and mini-missions for leading Canadian supporters of Israel and their families, offering individual care ranging from pre-trip travel arrangements to full availability during their visit.
- Israel and Overseas Committee
Jewish federations of Canada - UIA organizes the annual visit of Canadian members of the Israel and Overseas Committee, which assesses current Partnership 2000 programs, reviews new proposals and creates a working plan for the upcoming year.
By bringing Canadian Jews to Israel, strengthening personal bonds with Israelis, and helping raise funds, Jewish federations of Canada - UIA’s missions play a key role in creating Am Echad – a united Jewish nation.