Will Jegher (left) and his family on a visit to Israel.

One heartfelt message from a Birthright Israel (BRI) alumnus, a BRI Foundation Canada board member and, most important, a father!

June 16, 2024 –

This Father’s Day, I’ve been reflecting on the incredible impact Birthright Israel has had on my life. As a proud board member of Birthright Israel Foundation of Canada — which raises the necessary funds to subsidize Canadian participation — and a Birthright Israel alumnus myself, I wanted to share my story with you.

Picture this: It’s the summer of 2000 and I’m on one of the first Birthright Israel buses ever. Even though I had a strong Jewish identity and had been to Israel before, nothing prepared me for the transformation I witnessed in my fellow participants. Seeing their eyes light up as they discovered the diversity and richness of Israeli society and Jewish life was simply incredible. And it also re-ignited something in me.

Fast forward to today and I’ve come full circle — I’m now a dad with a son almost old enough to go on his own journey. In a world where our kids are glued to their screens, Birthright Israel is a chance for them to unplug, to connect with their heritage and to see for themselves what it means to be Jewish today.

Especially in light of the horrific October 7th terrorist attack and its aftermath, it’s crucial that we continue to support programs like Birthright Israel that foster understanding, unity and resilience in the face of adversity. Now more than ever, we need to show our unwavering support for Israel and the Jewish people.

That’s why I hope you’ll join me in making a gift to Birthright Israel Foundation of Canada as the next generation of eligible participants are emerging.

Your generosity today will ensure that more Jewish young adults get to experience those unforgettable moments — like touching the Western Wall, the most sacred religious site in Judaism — or bonding with new Israeli friends as well as those from their home community. It really is a gift that lasts a lifetime.

Sincerely,

Will Jegher

P.S. As a father, I can’t think of a better way to honour the legacy of parenthood than by investing in the future of our children and community. Please give this Father’s Day!