UJA Renews Swerdlov Grant

By COLlive reporter

The Swerdlov Israel Program is once again accredited for the Israel Experience Grant from the UJA-Federation of New York, helping the Chabad girls who join the summer trip.

And COLlive.com was apparently instrumental.

Mrs. Miryam Swerdlov, a veteran educator and lecturer, said Tuesday that it took “a lot of work” to have the grant returned “for this life-changing experience.”

“This is great and exciting news, because now more New York area girls will be able to go and grow from this incredible program,” she said, noting that, “I tried not to turn girls away because of a lack of funds with the help of generous people – among them alumni and parents of alumni.”

The summer trip includes 5 days in Ukraine, visiting the holy gravesites of Chassidic leaders and continues to Israel for 4 weeks, learning and touring the Holy Land. 48 girls are accepted each year.

“Although these are hard times and funding is limited, the kind people at the UJA are giving the grant after reading some of COLlive’s articles about its major positive impact on the participating girls,” Swerdlov said.

“Any girl who has gone has come back a different person,” she added. “It’s frum fun at its best.

“It’s climbing mountains and rising above your own personal development. It’s kayaking down the Jordan, and learning how to navigate the stormy waters of your own life. It’s singing and dancing, and learning about the country in a fun, hands-on way. It’s Shabbas in Chevron, in Meron, in Tzfas and spending the 9 Days in Yerushalayim.”

Funds are still limited – $1000 is given for every need-based applicant and additional funds are given for volunteering in area synagogues. Applications should be in as early as Shevat 5772.

For more info, visit SwerdlovProgram.com.