Connect. Support. Engage. The Jewish Agency's mission is never more fully realized than in the works of their esteemed Shlichim. Every year, over 10,000 Israelis apply for the honor but only a select group of outstanding emissaries are chosen. They are widely considered to be the best of Israel and The Jewish Agency helps them share their light with the world.

After extensive training at The Shlichut Institute, these role models are placed in schools, synagogues, JCCs, camps, universities, youth movements, and Federations all over the globe. There, they engage with Jewish and non-Jewish people about Israel, teach Jewish heritage, and speak about issues of national and religious identity. After having this transformative professional and personal experience, Shlichim return to Israel motivated in new ways to effect positive change in their lives and for all of Israel.

“Houston has a very inclusive Jewish community,” says Herut Gez, a shlicha who served in Houston, Texas. “For me, to see all the young professionals sitting together and thinking about the community, or a Chabad rabbi sitting together with a female rabbi discussing the community’s challenges, it’s something you don’t see in Israel. You can’t even imagine it in Israel.”