Austin chapter ninth graders during their recent training seminar. Courtesy: Gili Meidan

By Deborah Fuchs 

In less than three years, the Israeli Scouts (Tzofim) in Austin have achieved what many might have thought impossible. From a small group of enthusiastic families in 2022, they’ve grown into a thriving community of 170 scouts – a testament to the profound need they’re filling in Austin’s Israeli-American youth community. This rapid growth tells a powerful story: these young people have found something irreplaceable in Tzofim – a place where they can be fully, authentically themselves and instantly belong.  

Tzofim North America is a youth movement for Jewish teens that originated in Israel. Tzofim inspires empowered young individuals to impact their communities and the world positively. The Austin chapter is one of 28 chapters in North America.  

The sense of belonging is evident in the growing engagement of children with their Israeli heritage and the broader Austin Jewish community. Many who initially spoke little Hebrew now converse confidently with their peers, gaining fluency through activities that nurture both their language skills and their pride in Israel.   

This connection deepened during their recent training seminar, where 9th graders from the Austin chapter, currently in their counselor training year, joined nearly 300 peers from Texas, Florida, New Jersey, New York and more. Together, they strengthened their leadership skills, deepened their pride in their heritage, and built lasting friendships.  

As part of their commitment and connection to their community, the scouts organized a post-Halloween candy collection drive for Israeli soldiers, baked and sold cookies to benefit the families of Israeli hostages and, together with the IAC, prepared Rosh Hashanah and Passover food baskets for local families in need. Their participation in community events like Yom Hazikaron (Israeli Memorial Day) demonstrates their role as cultural bridges.  

All of this is made possible by the incredible support of Shalom Austin, which hosts the Tzofim’s activities and provides a welcoming space for the group to flourish. “We are so grateful to be part of this amazing community,” says Yaron Kovatch, co-leader of the chapter. “Shalom Austin enables us to grow, connect, and strengthen our shared values.”  

“What makes the Tzofim special is that it’s the only place where these Israeli-American children can be surrounded by others who share their exact experience,” says Dali Litinski, co-leader of the Austin Chapter. “Here, they’re not different – they’re part of a community that understands them completely. Here, these kids don’t have to explain themselves. Everyone gets it.”  

“The strength of our community lies in our unity,” Litinski added. “Watching these young people support each other and proudly embrace their heritage gives us hope for the future. They’re not just learning about community – they’re building it. For new Israeli families arriving in Austin, the Tzofim is more than an organization – it’s a ready-made home where their children can thrive, connect, and celebrate their identity.”