Israel Travel/Study Grant Application

The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires’ Israel Travel & Study Grants empower young people to deepen their Jewish identity, build lasting connections, and develop a meaningful understanding of Jewish peoplehood. These funds make it possible for teens and young adults to participate in high-quality educational and peer programs in Israel. Grant recipients are selected based on demonstration of community involvement and educational interest.

Grants are made possible by the Michael Nathaniel Shute Endowment Fund of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires.

Eligibility and Requirements:

Application must be completed in full.
Applicant must be a full-time resident of Berkshire County.
Applicant must be a student in grades 7–12, attending college, or taking a gap year to participate in a recognized study/travel program.
Applicant must be planning to participate in a recognized Israel study or travel program.
Applicant must identify as being Jewish.
The applicant’s family must be a donor—or plan to be a donor at any level*—to the Federation’s current Annual Campaign.
Applicants who have previously received an Israel scholarship may be considered again, based on the availability of funds.
Recipients commit to writing a brief article about their Israel experience for the Berkshire Jewish Voice.
Recipients commit to speaking or presenting at a community gathering.
If the program is cancelled or the recipient does not participate after receiving an award, all Federation-issued funds must be returned.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Decisions are made within 45 days of receiving a completed application.

* Donations to Federation's current Annual Campaign can be made here.

Applicant Full Name*

First NameLast Name

Date of Birth*

MonthDayYear

Email*

example@example.com

Cell Phone Number*

Please enter a valid phone number.

Address*

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code

Parent/Guardian 1 Name*

First NameLast Name

Parent 1 Email*

example@example.com

Parent 1 Cell Phone*

Please enter a valid phone number.

Parent 1 Employment*

OccupationEmployer

Parent/Guardian 2 Name

First NameLast Name

Parent 2 Email

example@example.com

Parent 2 Cell Phone

Please enter a valid phone number.

Parent 2 Employment

OccupationEmployer

YesNo

Name of synagogue

Current School/Program and Grade/Year*

Name of Israel School/Program*

Israel school/program's web page showing session date and fees.*

Provide URL

Program Start Date*

MonthDayYear

Program End Date*

MonthDayYear

Essay: Please upload a personal statement (200-300 words) detailing why you want to travel/study in Israel.*

Include your name in the uploaded filename.

Total Cost of Program*

Amount requested from the Grinspoon Foundation (visit hgf.org):*

Amount requested from other sources (e.g., synagogue, other organizations):

Amount contributed by applicant:*

Amount contributed by family (estimated):*

Amount requested from the Jewish Federation:*

You must request a specific amount to receive consideration.

YesNo

So we can understand your request for more than 50% of the program cost, please share a brief explanation of applicant's and family’s current situation.

YesNo

IMPORTANT NOTE: To be eligible for a camp scholarship, families are asked to support the Federation’s Annual Campaign with a contribution of any amount. Your participation helps sustain programs like this one. If you have not yet contributed, you can do so here.

By signing the space below, you are certifying that all information is correct and that you are the person completing this application. When you press the submit button, you will receive an email confirmation that your application was received. Please print for your records and retain as verification of your application.

Applicant Signature*

If applicant is under the age of 18, parent/guardian signature is required.

Please verify that you are human*

Israel Travel/Study (Teen-Young Adult) Grant Application