The Voucher Model: Jumpstarting Teen Engagement
Source: eJewish Philanthropy
If the Birthright-Israel model could be adapted to the realm of teen education and engagement there would be a “change in the rules” and organizations would be incentivized to grow and reach out to new populations. Furthermore, most if not all of the abovementioned advantages would emerge in the teen realm as well.
In calling for a voucher system there are two major challenges which need to be surmounted. The first relates to determining the intensity of programs and their quality requirements for voucher eligibility. With diverse programs being offered by multiple providers locally, nationally, and internationally, the task will certainly prove to be complex. Yet the Jewish Agency has initiated voucher type programs, MASA and Onward Israel, and has demonstrated that this challenge is surmountable.
A second major challenge is the provision of funding. Here too Birthright-Israel, MASA, and Onward Israel have demonstrated that high quality vision driven initiatives are able to draw together coalitions of funders including the Israeli Government, which will support such initiatives.
Read the entire article at eJewish Philanthropy.