Send-a-Kid-to-Israel Partnership (SKIP)

The Send-a-Kid-to-Israel Partnership (SKIP) savings incentive program was created to anticipate and save for our children's Jewish education. SKIP allows families, their congregations and JUF/JF to become partners in planning for a young person's future Israel Experience.

How SKIP Works

Contributions can be made for students whose families belong to participating congregations. Students in 3rd through 9th grade are eligible to enroll in SKIP. Each year that a student is eligible to participate, a total of $255 is added to his or her savings account. This money includes an annual contribution of $85 from JUF/JF and a combined contribution of $170 from the family and participating congregation. The congregation must donate a minimum of $25 per year.

SKIP Benefits

Students enrolled in SKIP can use their SKIP funds toward the Israel Experience of their choice any time between the end of 9th grade and five years after graduation from high school. Full refunds including interest are available upon written request at any time.

Cost of Programs

SKIP savings will not cover the full cost of most Israel Experience programs. SKIP families can also use other Jewish Federation Israel Experience savings, including Gift of Israel funds, Bar/Bat Mitzvah Certificates and Walk with Israel Vouchers. In addition, SKIP families are encouraged to apply for scholarships from other sources, including the program sponsor, congregation, and JUF/JF's Chicago Community Israel Program (CCIP).

Use SKIP Savings

When you are ready to use your Israel Experience savings for an approved program in Israel, please complete the Israel Experience Savings Request form (PDF) and send it at least 30 days before you need your funds to:

Israel Experience Programs
Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago
30 S. Wells St. Room 5031
Chicago, IL 60606-5056

Participating Congregations