Finding Strength Together: Israeli Scouts in Austin Celebrate Growth and Community
By Devorah Fuchs
The Israeli Scouts (Tzofim) in Austin are wrapping up a remarkable first year. They’ve not only established a strong presence but also fostered a vital sense of community and unity. Starting with a few passionate parents in 2022, they’ve grown into a thriving unit of 140 enthusiastic scouts, guided by a team of dedicated high school counselors.
Dali Litinski and Yaron Kovatch, who lead the Austin chapter, said while beaming with pride, “The scouts’ enthusiasm and the warm welcome from Austin’s Jewish community are key to our success.”
Every Sunday, they gather at the Dell JCC for fun activities and lessons about Israel and Jewish identity. Their impact, however, extends beyond their meetings. Throughout the year, the Tzofim organized events for the entire Jewish community, hosting holiday celebrations and engaging the younger generation. One of these events was the Purim Carnival at the Dell JCC, a collaborative event with the Israeli American Council (IAC), where the Scouts demonstrated their commitment to community service by managing several children’s activity stations and operating an impressive baked goods sales booth. All proceeds were directed towards preparing Passover food baskets for underprivileged members of the Jewish community, a beautiful Shalom Austin Jewish Family Service project.
Recently, they have partnered with Shalom Austin to organize the beautiful Yom Hazikaron Community Ceremony and Yom HaAtzmaut celebration, assuming significant roles on stage and behind the scenes, showcasing their dedication and leadership.
“The Scouts feel like family,” shared one of the young counselors. “We come here to feel a sense of community, connect with each other, and with our Jewish and Israeli identity.”
Parents and community members have witnessed the remarkable power of the Israeli Scouts. “The unit’s growth and their positive impact are truly inspiring,” remarks a parent. “It’s important now more than ever to cultivate a strong and united younger Jewish generation here in Austin, and we are proud that we and our children have the opportunity to be part of something so meaningful.”
Especially in these challenging times, they find comfort and strength in the community. The Tzofim play a valuable role in bringing people together and raising the next generation of strong young Jews leaders in Austin, Texas. They do this working together with the strong network of local Jewish organizations and are proud to be part of this vibrant and supportive community.
Latest Posts
JNF-USA to Celebrate Women for Israel at Annual Luncheon
OJNF-USAWomen for Israel Luncehon featured Speaker, lga Meshoe Washington. Courtesy: Olga Meshoe Washington By Jennifer Milton In 1898, the World Zionist Congress included the right for women to vote, a visionary step forward long before most nations even considered...
Rocking the Kab-Shab with Dave Kaplan
AJA students locking arms and swaying to Shalom Aleichem in the Worub Rock Garden. Courtesy: Austin Jewish Academy By: Melissa Rabeaux-Rosen Every Friday at 8:00 a.m., Austin Jewish Academy (AJA) starts its day with Kabbalat Shabbat, complete with singing and Shabbat...
2023 Off to a Busy Start for the Austin Jewish Film Festival
Director, producer, and film subject of We Left the Camp Singing Sofia Tapinassi in conversation with AJFF Director David Finkel during their live-over-Zoom Q&A. Courtesy: AJFF By: David Finkel, AJFF Director The Austin Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) director David...
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Fitness
Swimming
Tennis & Pickleball
More Sports
EDUCATION
Jewish Culture & Education
Early Childhood Program Preschool
After School & Childcare
Camps
ARTS & CULTURE
Literary Arts
Visual Arts
Theatre & Film
Dance
COUNSELING & SUPPORT
Jewish Family Service
Counseling & Groups
Case Management
References & Resources
Copyright Shalom Austin 2023. Privacy Policy.