Kira

Kira grew up in a single-parent household. Her mother was widowed and had gone back to school herself, so she worked hard to help pay for college.

An active leader of the UCLA Jewish Student Union and Hillel, Kira was encouraged to attend an Israel summer educational program at the Hebrew University to sharpen her knowledge about Israel, as well as an Israel-based leadership program to further develop advocacy skills.

While UCLA Hillel contributed a scholarship and Kira had saved funds for the trip, this simply was not enough. The Los Angeles Jewish Federation directed her to apply for a $1,000 Jewish Experience loan from Jewish Free loan, which made all the difference.

The trip was an invaluable hands-on, Israel-based Jewish learning experience. Not only did my Israel summer experience strengthen my ability to defend Israel and the Jewish community on campus; it completely enriched my own personal and spiritual connection with Israel and the Jewish people.Kira