Birthright Israel has long been a transformative milestone for young Jewish adults, offering a powerful experience in Israel and a once in a lifetime opportunity to strengthen Jewish identity. Funded in part by Jewish Federations across North America, Birthright makes it possible for thousands of young Jews to visit Israel at no cost. The Jewish Federation of Ottawa is proud to participate in and support this global initiative. Today, a growing number of participants are seeking that same magic in a format that better meets their individual needs.
A specially designed Tailor Made Birthright trip does exactly that, proving that accessibility and authenticity can go hand in hand. As communities mark Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month in February, this program stands as a meaningful example of inclusion in action. JDAIM is a time to reaffirm that Jewish life must be accessible and welcoming to people of all abilities. The Tailor Made experience reflects that commitment, showing how iconic programs such as Birthright Israel can be thoughtfully adapted so that every participant can connect, explore, and belong.
“This trip is intentionally designed to move at a slower, more flexible pace than a traditional Birthright program,” said trip leader Shawn Kendal, Founder of Ausome Karma Services, a social club and coaching services firm for teens and young adults living with autism. “Activities are thoughtfully adapted to meet participants where they are cognitively and socially, while still delivering the magic of a classic Birthright experience.”
The program is designed to meet participants where they are cognitively, socially, and emotionally while still delivering a rich and meaningful experience.
The itinerary is carefully planned to ensure comfort and engagement without sacrificing depth or excitement. Extra support staff accompany the group, and programming is built around inclusion, predictability, and emotional well-being.
Participants can expect all the iconic moments that define Birthright. Highlights include visits to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Masada, and the Dead Sea, alongside hands-on volunteering opportunities that add purpose and connection to the journey.
Logistically, the trip is structured to reduce stress and fatigue. This includes fewer hotel changes and rooming arrangements that prioritize comfort, such as double rooms instead of triples whenever possible.
Accommodations are thoughtfully selected with accessibility and sensory considerations in mind. Hotels and activities are chosen to minimize unnecessary transitions and overstimulation, creating a predictable and supportive environment.
“The trained support team provides individualized assistance throughout the trip, ensuring participants feel safe, empowered, and fully included in every experience,” said Kendal.
The timing of this trip is particularly meaningful. In the wake of October 7, many in the Jewish community are seeking grounding, connection, and shared experiences that reaffirm identity and belonging. Israel has always offered powerful opportunities for growth, but at this moment, that connection feels even more urgent and profound. This program offers a space to process, connect, and build community in a way that is intentional and supportive.
Tailor Made brings years of experience working with this population, allowing the program to be especially thoughtful and responsive. Similar trips have been successfully run each season for several years and have become Tailor Made’s flagship program. The long-term vision is not only to continue offering this experience, but to expand it, including into Canada, so more participants and families can benefit from this proven model.
Beyond the itinerary, the impact of the trip extends well beyond the ten days in Israel. Participants consistently form lasting friendships and develop a strong sense of belonging that continues after they return home. Families regularly report high levels of trust and confidence in the staff, structure, and care provided.
At its core, this program demonstrates that with the right planning, support, and intention, Birthright can truly be for everyone, delivering adventure, meaning, and joy without compromise.
To learn more, you can reach out to Shawn Kendal at [email protected]. To apply, click here.