Jillian Spiegel, a senior at Germantown High School, signed up for the relief mission for a number of reasons. She wanted to help the less fortunate, she wanted to do something Jewish, and she was looking for a fun experience with other teens.

While the trip checked off all those boxes, she said the highlight of the trip was its Jewish aspect.

“The trip gave me a new perspective on how our traditions are meaningful,” she says.

Jillian explains that while she grew up following many traditions, she lacked what she calls “a great understanding of why they have meaning.”

The trip changed that, with Jillian finding answers during the Shabbat programming, as well at sessions and discussions on Jewish values led by the trip staff and advisors.

“This trip allowed me to learn so much about my own Judaism,” she says. “Through tikkun olam and wise words from our rabbis, my connection to Judaism has grown.”