Want to connect more closely to Israel but don’t know how? Through our Partnership2Gether (P2G) program, Federation brings together Jewish Michigan and our “sister” region in Israel to enrich Jewish identity and cultural understanding between us.
A program of the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) — with 46 partnerships connecting 400 Jewish communities around the world — Michigan was one of the first to join P2G back in 1994. Today, the Federations of Metro Detroit, Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids are partners with three municipalities in Israel: Migdal HaEmek, Nof Hagalil and the Jezreel Valley, a region referred to as the Central Galilee.
Over the years, Michigan and the Central Galilee have become more than partners. We are family. Two communities sharing resources, culture and lifelong friendships to help create one vibrant, sustainable Jewish future.
Making Israel Real.
P2G turns Israel from an abstract concept into a reality by focusing on four primary areas: Jewish identity, leadership development, volunteer engagement and education.
By bringing Israelis and Israeli experiences to our community from the Partnership region, thousands of lives have been touched by P2G programs like Shinshinim, School Twinning, the Lester Young Adult Ambassador program and the Israeli Camper Program. In addition, Federation missions to Israel include visits to the region where Michiganders experience Israeli hospitality in a uniquely warm and personal way.
Welcome to your home away from home.
The Galilee is one of the most beautiful regions of Israel. Situated in the north of the country, it is characterized by its picturesque, lush landscape with agriculture, amazing natural landforms, historic sites, and quaint rural villages. This is a place where Detroit Tiger baseball hats and Tamarack sweatshirts are commonplace. This is your home away from home. Where Detroiters are always welcome and treated like family. Next time you are in Israel, let us plan a visit for you. You won’t be disappointed!
Migdal Ha’emek
Translated as “Tower of the Valley”, this town that sits 4 miles S.W. of Nazareth, was founded in 1952 with the goal of absorbing inhabitants of transitory Jewish immigrant camps in the vicinity. To this day, the city is comprised largely of immigrants from Morocco and other North African countries, Romania and Iraq. More recently, the city has expanded its industry to include several hi-tech firms, most notably, Tower Semi-Conductor.
Nof Hagalil
About an hour and a half north of Tel Aviv, Nof Hagalil (literally the Galilee view) is surrounded by mountains and nature. Founded in 1957 as Nazareth Illit, it was planned as a Jewish town overlooking the Arab city of Nazareth and the Jezreel Valley. Its name was changed in 2019 to “Nof HaGalil” and today, it is home to residents of all backgrounds and cultures, secular and religious, including a 25% Arab Israeli population
The Jezreel Valley
A green fertile plain known as the “agricultural cradle’ of Israel, the Jezreel Valley is truly a sight to behold. The Valley is home to many kibbutzim and moshavim enjoyed by an increasing number of young families. The natural beauty, wineries, significant biblical history and archeological sites make it a great place to visit.
Be Part of the Partnership.
Partnership2Gether programming provides opportunities for in the Jewish communities of Michigan to form a relationship to Israel and Israelis in ways that are meaningful and memorable.
There are many ways to get involved. From volunteering and committee membership with the I&O department, to being a host family, visiting the region and more.
To find out more about Federation’s unique relationship with Israel’s Central Galilee and how you can get involved, please contact Dona Stillman at stillman@jewishdetroit.org or 248-943-1553.
Want to experience the Central Galilee now?
Visit the Israeli Central Galilee – Michigan Facebook page here.
Watch our virtual tour workout videos (workouts optional): Migdal HaEmek, Nof HaGalil, The Jezreel Valley
