(Courtesy of AFYBA) On the heels of last year’s moving and highly meaningful day trips to Israel, American Friends of Yeshivot Bnei Akiva (AFYBA) is once again proud to announce its unwavering commitment to the critical initiative “AFYBA Supports War Efforts in Israel.” As part of this endeavor, AFYBA invites Americans visiting Israel in January 2025 to enhance their trip for one day and participate in a special AFYBA mission experience, a guided tour of the Gaza Envelope region, Then and Today. To register and for more information contact Jack Gourdji at [email protected].
Scheduled for Tuesday, January 21 and Wednesday, January 22 (two separate one-day trips), these AFYBA-hosted events will give a glimpse into the events that have transpired over the past year. It will give participants an opportunity to hear from soldiers and survivors and feel the solidarity and deep ahavat Yisrael that permeates the land.
Jack Gourdji, executive director of AFYBA, who joined last year’s mission, explained the expectations of what this year’s mission trips will focus on. “Last year we were all in shock by what we witnessed and what we heard. This year, while we still will visit areas most impacted by the terrorist attacks of October 7, there will also be a larger focus on hearing firsthand stories of survival that took place, and an opportunity to meet some of the heroes of the past year. Additionally, one of the biggest compliments we got last year was regarding AFYBA staff during the bus ride, and the insightful information provided during the trips. We will once again be providing knowledgeable and insightful staff on this year’s trips.”
Another huge benefit and mitzvah of this trip is the appreciation of both Israeli families undergoing immense hardships and Israeli soldiers, who always get so excited and motivated to see Americans coming out just to see them. Knowing they are not alone brings tremendous joy to them!
Some of the activities for the trip include:
Visiting the Sderot police station under attack on October 7.
Meeting IDF wounded combat soldiers in rehab.
Visiting the “burned cars site”—Moshav Tekuma.
Visiting the Nova site.
Hosting a barbecue for the soldiers.
Listening to some amazing stories.
AFYBA’s Initiatives and Adaptations Since October 7, 2023
AFYBA has been at the forefront of assisting both families in need and in assisting the IDF.
Creating Sanctuaries: AFYBA schools were transformed into sanctuaries, offering refuge to displaced families affected by terror attacks. These facilities provided essential support, including food, shelter and daily care to individuals of all ages.
Educational Adaptations: With schools repurposed for relief efforts in the war’s earlier months and then evacuated in the Northern region in later months, AFYBA students transitioned to online learning and were actively involved in agricultural efforts, showcasing their resilience and dedication.
Military Support: A number of schools were repurposed to become military bases to support the IDF. AFYBA invested in advanced military equipment, including ceramic bulletproof vests, helmets and drones, to enhance the military’s capabilities against terrorist threats.
“With the ongoing challenges our students and staff from Yeshivot Bnei Akiva have faced over the past 15 months, from North to South, these remarkable individuals have met each struggle with a new and stronger form of resiliency,” said Gourdji. “Additionally, their love for Am Yisrael and for putting their love of their fellow man before themselves has created an environment where their education works hand in hand with their focus of the betterment of the country. To register and to learn more about the trip go to https://afyba.org/unity-day/
