Kolot Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What kind of time commitment is KOLOT?
A: KOLOT meets on 10 Sunday afternoons for two hours, approximately once per month over the course of the academic year. Because KOLOT only meets monthly, ALL meetings are mandatory. The travel to Israel is approximately eight days over winter break. When the Israelis are in Chicago, extra activities will be scheduled. This program requires a strong individual and group commitment.

Q: What if I can’t go on the Israel portion over winter break?
A: The trip to Israel is one of the most important parts of the program, enabling the Israeli and Americans to form a cohesive unit, and providing the opportunity to see needs in Israel firsthand. Therefore all participants are required to travel.

Q: Will I have to miss any school for KOLOT events?
A: Yes: in the spring, when the Israeli participants visit Chicago, you will be required to miss at least one day of school for a group activity.

Q: Where does KOLOT meet?
A: Meetings take place at student’s homes or a local Jewish community center.

Q: Do I need to know Hebrew?
A: No, the Israeli teens speak fluent English and all meetings are in English.

Q: How much does KOLOT cost?
A: KOLOT is a highly subsidized program. Each participant is asked to pay $2,000, which is approximately 50% of the total cost of travel and other expenses. Financial assistance is available, but every family is required to contribute something toward expenses.

Q: What kind of documents do I need to travel to Israel?
A: You will need a current passport that does not expire before July of 2009. Another form of photo identification is required as well (driver’s license, student ID).

Q: Is there anything else I should know?
A: A few more things to keep in mind:

• The Israel travel is intense and each student must be in good mental and physical health in order to participate.
• Participants contribute to the grant-making pool and the group may undertake some fundraising projects throughout the year.
• This is not a casual program! While you learn about philanthropy and grant making, you will develop life-long friendships and a deep love of Israel. Past participants have called KOLOT a life-changing experience.