By our Chalutzim Segel:  Rabbi Ilana Baden, incoming Senior Associate Rabbi at Temple Chai in Buffalo Grove, IL; Rabbi Carmit Harari of  B’nai Yehuda Beth Sholom in Homewood, IL; and Lori Sagarin, Director of Congregational Learning at Temple Beth Israel in Skokie, IL. 

How does one communicate with 87 teens exclusively in Hebrew?  Very slowly, with a lot of patience, and using a ton of pantomime!

As many of you know, Chalutzim is OSRUI’s Hebrew immersion unit for high school students.  For generations, campers have looked forward to being part of this elite program – and for good reason.  This year is no exception.

On Monday, the campers arrived and were greeted by their enthusiastic madrichim (counselors)—many of whom came from Israel to help our kids learn and love Hebrew. Already on this first day, we saw great successes.  Campers quickly embraced the concept of “Rak Ivrit” (only Hebrew).  It was wonderful to see them interact with the madrichim and with each other as they began this journey together.

In addition to learning Hebrew, Chalutzim also provides the chanichim with an opportunity to learn more about Israel.  Our opening tochnit erev (evening program) asked the campers to begin thinking about their personal relationships with Israel.  It was a fascinating start to a conversation that will last all summer, if not beyond.

It is a joy and an honor to serve as faculty for this very special unit.  Even though the experience has just begun, we know it will be a great summer of learning, growth, and fun.