International USY Programs

• Programs
• Far West
• International
• USY Clubs

Summer Programs

International USY offers two different summer programs. Within these two programs, many other types of programs exist. To learn more about these programs read below.

USY on Wheels

USY on Wheels in a multiple weeklong trip in which you travel across the United States in a tour bus with other USYers. You can go on multiple tracks or programs. Go to the USY on Wheels page to learn more.

Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage is a four to six week long program in Israel. Depending on which track you go on you may also go to Poland, Germany, or other European countries. Go to the Pilgrimage page to learn more.

Yearlong Programs

Nativ

Nativ is a challenging academic year program dedicated to creating and inspiring the Conservative Jewish leaders of tomorrow. Nativ, which means “path"in Hebrew, provides a unique opportunity to explore new directions on the journey to becoming a Jewish adult. From September to May, Nativ participants are immersed in the rich and diverse society of Israel, exploring the land and enjoying a fulfilling Conservative Jewish lifestyle. To learn more check out the Nativ website.

School Year Programs

HeChalutzim Seminar

The HeChalutzim Seminar is a 10-day intensive trip in Israel. Each region sends one participant, who then goes back to the region as an Israel advocate, raising awareness of Israel, and encouraging others to go. To learn more check out the HeChalutzim Seminar webpage.

International Convention

There is nothing like the USY International Convention! That is because International Convention brings together more than 1,000 USYers from all across North America for five nonstop days of programs and fun. Whether you are looking for social action, Ruach sessions, or summer program reunions, there is something for everyone at USY International Convention. To learn more check out the International Convention webpage.

USY High

When you go to Israel on USY High, not only will you be with USYers from all over North America, but also you will get to know the Jewish homeland in an exciting and unique way. Israel's 4,000 years of history will come alive as you learn in the classroom and experience it first hand on hikes and tours. To learn more check out the USY High webpage.

Tikkun Olam

Tikkun Olam (תיקון עולם‎), meaning repairing the world, is the official Tzedakah program of USY. The phrase can be found in the second paragraph of the Aleinu: “to repair (perfect) the world to reflect the kingdom of God.” Throughout the years USY has raised millions of dollars for Tikkun Olam. Tikkun Olam funds are allocated as follows:

1. 30% returns to the Region to be distributed as financial aid for USY Israel Pilgrimage;
2. 30% is allocated to Conservative Movement Programs in Israel, as well as operating expenses of the program and educational materials about Tzedakah;
3. The remaining 40% is allocated as authorized by the USYers.

Chapters may allocate part or all of their 40% at their discretion. funds not allocated by the chapters are dispersed through a Tikkun Olam committee at the fall International Board weekend.

In 1956, “Two-O-Nine” was the Tzedakah project of USY. The goal was to have every member contribute $2.09, in order to reach a specified goal. The program later developed into “Building Spiritual Bridges.” The name change signified a new attitude towards strengthening ties with Israel. finally, in 1971, USY adopted its Tzedakah program, now called Tikkun Olam. USY’s efforts to help all segments of the Jewish community are reflected in this Tzedakah program.

Tikkun Olam is not just a fun raising program, but an educational program as well. USYers learn to appreciate that Tikkun Olam – through social action and Tzedakah – are integral to Judaism. Many USYers come to realize the poverty of our fellow Jews, through their own wealth. This is not necessarily monetary wealth, but the wealth of good health, a family that loves one another, and not having to live ashamed of their religion or heritage. These types of wealth are often taken for granted because a dollar amount cannot be affixed to them. However, through exposure to these areas of life, USYers come to respect and understand their heritage, feel a love for their family, and feel a desire to help those who are less fortunate than they are. Since 1987, Far West Region annually awards one USYer who has shown superior dedication to G’milut Chasadim (acts of loving kindness) the “G’milut Chasadim” award. Learn more about the Tikkun Olam Program.