During the next few months, Taglit-Birthright Israel will bring more than 14,000 young Jews between the ages of 18 and 26 from around the world to visit Israel as part of the 10-day project.

The past summer proved to be one of the most dynamic seasons for Birthright. More than 27,700 young Jews from over 42 countries came to Israel, 8,400 of them during Operation Protective Edge. Taglit-Birthright Israel has passed a significant milestone this past season with the designation of the program’s 400,000th participant as well as the program’s 70,000th Israeli participant.

Gidi Mark, CEO of Taglit-Birthright Israel, said, “We remain dedicated to the ideology that bringing the next generation of Diaspora Jews to Israel is a must, not a choice. It is crucial for the survival of the Jewish people as well as for the bond between Israel and the Diaspora.”

More than 400,000 participants arrived and toured Israel since the establishment of Birthright in 1999. In addition to the regular 10-day tour, each season Taglit-Birthright Israel invests in special niche groups bringing together participants with common interests such as cooking, music, athletics, and fashion, as well as groups of doctors, and those with special needs. Over the years, several studies have been conducted at Brandies University, located in the USA, demonstrating the lasting effect of Birthright on Diaspora Jews when focusing on their Jewish identity, their connection to Israel, and their ability to promote the country. Visit www.BirthrightIsrael.com.