Elizabeth—Opportunities for student growth are part of the fabric of RTMA. Kol hakavod to students Gabriel Altaras (Passaic), Ezra Blau (Highland Park), Natan Pittinsky (Passaic), and Jonathan Silber (Highland Park) who gave up their free time on February 1 to attend a training session at YU, and then went, on the 4th, to Washington, D.C.

The day was filled with moments for the students to learn about leadership and Israel advocacy. Upon arrival in Washington, D.C. the students were briefed by members of AIPAC on the Nuclear Free Iran Act. From there they met with a staffer from the office of Congressman Rodney Frelighuysen of the 11th district of New Jersey.

Junior Natan Pittinsky said, “I received a much greater appreciation for how the political system works.”

Their day continued at the Israeli Embassy where they were briefed by the Head of Cultural Diplomacy. They discussed the importance of Israel Advocacy and demonstrated methods that the students can use immediately on behalf of Israel. Jonathan Silber summed up the day by saying, “I felt privileged that JEC allowed me to attend this mission and was proud to have the opportunity to help our homeland.”