From participant to community leader, Aviv Alofer's Birthright Israel experience marked an important step in his Jewish journey.
Aviv grew up in Montreal, in the predominantly Jewish suburb of Dollard-des-Ormeaux. While Jewish life surrounded him, he often felt on the margins of organized community. He attended public school rather than Jewish day school, participated minimally in synagogue life, and did not grow up involved in many structured Jewish activities.
In July 2024, Aviv joined Birthright Israel as a participant. What began as a ten-day trip became a meaningful opening, one that helped him find connection, confidence, and a deeper sense of belonging. Since then, Aviv has continued to grow his involvement in Jewish life, stepping into leadership roles and giving back to the community that once felt distant.
Below, Aviv shares his story in his own words and reflects on how Birthright Israel helped shape the path he is walking today.
How did the actual experience in Israel differ from what you anticipated before going? Was this your first time in Israel?
Birthright Israel was not my first time in Israel. However, it was my first time visiting without staying with family. I expected icebreakers and visits to landmarks. That did happen, but everything else was unimaginable. I gained friendships that are still strong today, skills that benefit me in my everyday life, and access to a growing network of opportunities through deeper involvement in the Jewish community.
Where did you grow up that you felt so removed from the Jewish community?
I grew up in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood in Montreal. That sounds contradictory, but I did not attend Jewish day school, only went to synagogue on the High Holidays, played sports that were not common among other Jewish kids, and did not participate in community events.
Did you know that Birthright Israel is a fully subsidized gift made possible by donors?
Yes. The word gift is very important. Birthright Israel is given to Jewish young adults not only to explore their Jewish identity and deepen their connection to Israel, but also to kick-start their careers by placing them among like-minded and talented people.
What’s next in your Jewish journey?
Living life one mitzvah at a time.
That means organizing and participating in community events, continuously educating myself about Israel and Judaism, finding a Jewish wife, and building a Jewish family.
Why This Impact Matters
Aviv’s journey shows the ripple effect of Birthright Israel. A single experience can ignite lifelong engagement, strengthen Jewish identity, and empower the next generation of community leaders.
Birthright Israel is made possible through the generosity of donors who believe in investing in Jewish continuity.
Support the Birthright Israel Foundation of Canada today and help send the next generation of Jewish young adults on a life-changing journey to Israel.