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Upcoming Missions

February 2012

Women's Philanthropy $10,000 Circle Mission to Cuba
Thursday, February 9 - Monday, February 13, 2012


UJA-Federation's Women's Philanthropy $10,000 Circle recognizes the generosity of women who contribute $10,000 or more to UJA-Federation's annual campaign. Members of the Circle are invited to exclusive events throughout the year.

This mission is for women traveling alone, as well as women with spouses or significant others.

We are thrilled to announce that Betty Heisler, renowned columnist and author of The Last Minyan in Havana, will be traveling with us as we visit her native island. Betty will provide us with a unique perspective on being Jewish in Cuba that can only be understood by someone who was born there and, like so many others, fled to Miami shortly after Castro came to power. She has been back to Cuba several times and has witnessed the many changes to the Jewish community over the years.

Betty will share her personal experiences and memories and be a fabulous addition to our Cuban guide and JDC representatives.

  • Enjoy dinner at the home of Linda and Michael Jesselson in Key Biscayne, Florida before embarking on an exciting and meaningful Mission to Cuba.
  • Discover the rich history of the Jewish community in Cuba.
  • Visit historic sites, including the Jewish cemetery and its new Holocaust memorial, the first built in the Western Hemisphere; the Old Jewish Quarter; and Adath Israel, Havana’s traditional Orthodox synagogue.
  • Tour the Patronato Synagogue, including its community center, Sunday school, and full library, with an impressive collection of Jewish books.
  • Experience life outside of Havana and meet members of the small, but vibrant, Jewish communities of Santa Clara, Cienfuegos, and Sancti Spiritus.
  • See first-hand the humanitarian work of our overseas beneficiary agency, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC).
  • Join special briefings with leaders and young adults of the Jewish community.

Due to space limitations and the licensing procedures, all applications and other required forms must be submitted to UJA-Federation of New York no later than Thursday, December 1, 2011. The mission will be closed at that time and no applications will be accepted after the deadline.

For more information or to register, contact Marilyn Grossman at 1.212.836.1173 or .

Space is limited.


April 2012

Day of Advocacy in Washington, D.C.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Optional Pre-Mission: Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Together, we can make a difference in Washington.

UJA-Federation of New York invites you to participate in a Mission to Washington, D.C.

In this climate of uncertainty, it is more important than ever that we are heard on issues concerning Israel's security and UJA-Federation's network of beneficiary agencies.

The Day of Advocacy will include meetings at the White House and at Capitol Hill, and a closing reception with key leaders of the House and the Senate.

Invitation and online registration to follow.

Optional Pre-Mission: Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Join us for a special half day of exciting cultural opportunities and an exclusive dinner with a special guest speaker.

Pre-Mission Participants: A block of rooms is being reserved for you at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park
2660 Woodley Road NW, Washington, DC


For further information, contact either Judi Stecklow, Women's Philanthropy Campaign Director, at 1.212.836.1533 or , or Cara Berkowitz, Director of City and Federal Affairs, at 1.212.836.1156 or .


April - May 2012

Birthright Israel for Boomers
Saturday, April 28 - Wednesday, May 9, 2012

So you’ve heard of someone, perhaps your child, who had a great experience on a Birthright Israel trip. What about you? When was the last time in your life that you did something for the first time? Don’t wait; make someday today. Join us in Israel for UJA-Federation’s Birthright Israel for Boomers trip. We are creating a unique and intimate experience for Long Islanders, ages 40 to 65, who have not experienced Israel on an intensive 10-day journey in the last 10 years. Explore your heritage, experience your own journey, and be inspired to strengthen the sense of solidarity between Israel and our community.

In addition to Israel’s traditional must-sees, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Visit an Israeli Air Force base and connect with soldiers.
  • Dine with Israeli dignitaries and leading scholars.
  • See the country through an intense lens, from an artists’ colony to the Golan Heights to a nature preserve.
  • Meet with entrepreneurs who are keeping Israel at the cutting edge of business and technology.

This trip will cost approximately $5,000 per person double occupancy. It includes hotels; most meals; meetings with scholars, speakers, and guides; ground transportation; and security. Airfare is not included.  

UJA-Federation has significantly funded Israel experiences for thousands of young adults through the Birthright Israel Foundation. Take part in a similar experience with UJA-Federation. Explore your Jewish identity, discover the dynamic side of Israel, and ensure that Israel is a part of your modern Jewish experience.

For more information, please contact Nancy Leipzig Powers at 1.516.677.1870 or .

Information for all missions is subject to change.