Israel’s Tzofim Friendship Caravan Returns to Baltimore Area Jewish Camps

July 18, 2023 Staff Report

(Provided Photo)

It was a long three years, but well worth the wait.

Last week, for the first time since the summer of 2019, a group of young Israeli performers brought their special fusion of joy, talent, energy and cultural connection to Baltimore’s Jewish community.

The Tzofim Friendship Caravan visited and performed at four local Jewish camps — Beth Tfiloh Camps, Chizuk Amuno Camps, J Camps at the Owings Mills Jewish Community Center, and Camp Airy & Louise in Western Maryland.

The visit by the caravan — which is part of Friends of Israel Scouts — was sponsored by the Baltimore Zionist District, a Pikesville-based nonprofit. It was the caravan’s first return to the Baltimore area since the start of the pandemic.

“This important program has become a cornerstone of our summer activities,” said BZD executive director Caren Leven.

For a half-century, the caravan has brough a message of hope and peace to North American audiences. Each caravan consists of five girls, an equal number of boys and two leaders who are selected on the basis of their talent in the performing arts, fluency in English and maturity.

While in the Baltimore area, the caravan performers dazzled their audiences of campers, counselors and staff with vibrant and captivating dances, songs and stories.

“Having the Tzofim Friendship Caravan at Camp Louise was a pure joy this summer,” said Jaci Steinhart, Camp Louise’s assistant director. “They can put on a show that allows all of our campers and staff to have a smile on their face. Teaching about Israel while singing and dancing — what more could you ask for! We ended the night with our Israeli staff and the Tzofim singing our goodnight song together. What a magical night!”

Annually, local families open their homes and hearts to host the Tzofim performers, allowing the young Israelis to experience the warmth and generosity of Baltimore’s Jewish community.

“The BZD is immensely grateful for our camp partners’ and host families’ unwavering support and collaboration,” the organization said in a statement. “We commend for their commitment to providing enriching Israeli education to Jewish campers and other Baltimore groups. In a world plagued with division and criticism of the ‘other,’ the Friendship Caravan builds a deeper understanding and appreciation of our shared heritage. We recognize the enduring power of cultural exchange as we witness the smiles on the children’s faces.

“The Friendship Caravan’s recent visit to Baltimore highlighted the importance of fostering the cultural connection between the United States and Israel.”