Rooted in Israel, Connected for Life

For many Jewish teens, Israel is something they learn about in classrooms or hear discussed at home. For Max Zhiss, Israel became something he experienced—and that experience reshaped how he understands his place in the Jewish world. 

This winter, the Atlanta teen participated in a RootOne-supported senior trip to Israel, made possible locally through Federation. RootOne helps ensure Jewish teens can access immersive Israel experiences during high school, recognizing that adolescence is a critical moment for identity formation, learning, and connection. 

“Experiencing Israel as a teenager—before college and before adulthood—has a profound impact,” said Lior Fridman, Federation’s RootOne Community Shlicha (Emissary). “It allows teens to build their own relationship with Israel and understand themselves as part of the global Jewish people.” 

For Max, that learning happened far beyond textbooks. One of the most powerful moments of the trip was Shabbat in Jerusalem, walking to the Western Wall for the first time. He described being swept into a circle of Jewish men of all ages, singing together late into the night. “I remember writing about it in my journal,” he said. “I couldn’t even speak—it was so much.” 

Throughout the trip, Max encountered Israel in all its complexity. He visited Yad Vashem, learning how memory, history, and responsibility are woven into the Jewish story. He stood at an IDF cemetery and at the Nova Festival site, confronting the realities of modern Jewish life and security. “You can watch videos,” he said, “but being there—it hits you in a completely different way.” 

These experiences reflect Federation’s commitment to strengthening connections between Jews in Atlanta, Israel, and Jewish communities around the world. RootOne-supported trips foster Jewish peoplehood by bringing North American teens together with Israeli peers, helping them see themselves as part of a global Jewish family. During the trip, Max spent time with Israeli teens who joined the group, forming relationships that have continued long after returning home. 

For Max’s mom, Laura, the experience was transformative, and made possible through access. “RootOne’s support was essential,” she said. “Without the subsidy, this experience simply would not have been possible for our family.” She has also noticed a shift since Max returned home. “There is more ease and confidence,” she said. “He’s actively seeking connection.” 

RootOne applications are now open for upcoming trips. With options ranging from cultural exploration to volunteering and special-interest programs, teens can find an experience that fits their interests and goals. Families who aren’t sure where to begin are encouraged to reach out directly to Lior, who works one-on-one with teens and parents to help them find the right fit. “There isn’t one right Israel experience,” she said. “The goal is to help each teen find the one that helps them grow.” 

Through Federation’s investment in Israel experiences and Jewish education, teens like Max are building knowledge, confidence, and lifelong connections to Israel and the Jewish people worldwide. 

Contact Lior at lfridman@jewishatlanta.org or 404-445-3655. 

Learn More and Apply Now: https://jewishatlanta.org/rootone-teens-israel-grant/