Send A Kid To Israel Partnership

SKIP is a cooperative program in which families, congregations, and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago each contribute funds toward an Israel Experience program for participating students. The SKIP goal is for each student to travel to Israel as part of their Jewish education. Enrollment begins during a student’s 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th grade and continues through 9th grade. Both public school and day school students are eligible. The combined annual contribution for our children at Beth Shalom is $255 ($70 from each family, matched by $100 from our congregation thanks to the support from the David Zemsky Memorial Skip Fund and $85 from Federation). Although the SKIP program may not cover the entire cost of a trip to Israel, the funds make a considerable reduction in the expense. Remember that the funds are in an interest-bearing account. Furthermore, families in financial need can apply for scholarships from other sources.

Enrollment is arranged through our synagogue. After the initial enrollment form is completed, we are responsible for the rest – submitting the partnership agreements, transferring the funds and reporting our children’s names to the Federation. Enrollment information will arrive in late October/early November, with a deadline of November 15th for the submission of forms and checks.

There are many wonderful Israel Experience programs out there – everything from internship programs in various fields to volunteer programs to sports-based programs to study programs of almost any length. Your child’s SKIP funds (as well as Gift of Israel funds) can provide the opportunity of a lifetime. Birthright Israel is a wonderful program but not everyone is guaranteed a spot on a Birthright trip. Your child’s SKIP funds ensure that they will be able to go to Israel at least once, if not more than once, even if Birthright Israel is not an option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register my child?

When you receive the enrollment information, you need to complete the forms and send a $70 check, made payable to Congregation Beth Shalom, by November 15th .

What if I forget to sign up in 3rd grade? May I start my child at a later date?

Yes, you may begin participating when your child is in 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th grade.

If I want to enroll my child who is currently in 4th grade, may I pay past 9th grade and make up a missing year?

You may begin contributions in grades 3, 4, 5, or 6 but you may only contribute through 9th grade.

If my child would like to go to Israel before the completion of 9th grade, may I use his/her funds one year earlier?

S.K.I.P. ‘s goal is for funds to be used for a high school or college Israel Experience program and is designed for sophomore high school students or older. Under certain circumstances, families may be able to use a portion of their SKIP funds for 8th grade Israel Experience programs, such as Israel Now or day school trips. Please contact israelexperience@juf.org to make sure that your trip is eligible and then use the 8th grade Israel Experience Savings Request form to redeem your funds.

If you have any questions on registering your child, please contact Pamela Connell at PConnell@BethShalomNB.org or 847-498-5352.