San Diego Teen Returns From Chetz v'Keshet Trip to Israel – San Diego Jewish World

By Barrett Holman Leak

SAN DIEGO — There is much turmoil in the world, especially in the Middle East, but youth from San Diego and around North America are not letting it stop them from seeing and experiencing the land of Israel for themselves.

Chetz v’Keshet (Arrow and Bow), by HaTzofim (Scouts) North America is a renowned program for Jewish teens aged 14-18 from the USA and the UK, offering participants a transformative experience filled with exploration, learning, and cultural immersion.

I spoke with Hila Baruch, 15, who relocated to San Diego with her family from Israel when she was six. The Carmel Valley teen recently returned from her Chetz v’Keshet (CVK) experience this summer and shared that it was a life-changing, transformative experience.

Hani Reuveni, HaTzofim CVK National Director, stresses the importance of Jewish teens having this experience: “Now more than ever, it’s crucial to demonstrate our support for Israel. The participants of CVK 2024 are not only having the time of their lives but also learning, exploring, and forging new friendships”

The success of CVK 2024 sets the stage for registration opening for the 2025 program, For more information and to register for the 2025 program, click here.

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Barrett Holman Leak is an author, educator, and community organizer.