Hi, I’m Maya, and I’m an 11th grader at The Leffell School in Hartsdale, New York.

Israel has always been a very special place to me. After spending time there this past summer, I came home wanting to go back even more. Every time I’m in Israel, I feel such a strong connection to the country, the people, and the experience of being there.

I first started thinking about doing a semester program in Israel a couple of years ago, and I was encouraged to wait until 11th grade, when it would be the best time academically and personally. Now that I’m finally in 11th grade, I’m hoping to spend January through March in Israel on the Alexander Muss Mini-Mester program.

As part of the Dream Israel Teen Initiative, I chose to raise money specifically for programs that support Israel’s special-needs population and help create greater inclusion and opportunities for people with disabilities.

This is especially meaningful to me because I’m not only working toward an experience I’ve dreamed about for a long time, but I also have the opportunity to help people and communities in Israel along the way.

I’ve been working really hard in school this year, and I’m so excited about the possibility of doing something completely different and meaningful while continuing my education in Israel.

If I reach my fundraising goal, JNF-USA will provide me with a grant toward my Mini-Mester experience.

Any donation, big or small, would mean so much to me and help me get closer to this goal. Thank you so much for supporting me and the important projects this program helps fund. I can’t wait to hopefully be back in Israel again.