Healing and Unity: The Impact of ORT's Respite Program on Israeli Teens in Detroit

ORT Michigan, in collaboration with World ORT, organized a two-week respite trip for twelve Israeli teenagers alongside three chaperones in Detroit last month. This trip, part of World ORT's Journey to Renewal initiative, was designed to provide young individuals grappling with the trauma stemming from the October 7 conflict an invaluable opportunity to step away from their habitual reality and embark on a path toward healing.

The selected students, aged between 14 and 18, arrived in Detroit weighed down by the mental burdens typical of their situation — post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the grief of loss, and the relentless stress of ongoing war. However, what they encountered in Detroit was far beyond just a change of scenery; it became a metaphorical lifeline for them.

Host families in Detroit warmly embraced the delegation, opening their homes and hearts to these teens. The carefully curated itinerary struck a harmonious balance between fun and reflection, featuring exhilarating ziplining at TreeRunner, attending a Detroit Tigers baseball game, and exploring historical sites like the Motown Museum and the Henry Ford Museum. Their experience was further enriched by shopping trips at Somerset and Great Lakes Crossing, alongside guided tours of downtown Detroit led by local guide Linda Yellin. Among the many highlights was a three-day stay at Tamarack Camps where the students engaged in team-building exercises, embraced waterfront activities, and enjoyed communal meals during a camp cookout.

The impact of hosting these teenagers was profound and transformative not only for the guests but also for their hosts. Jeff Friedman, who welcomed two boys into his home, remarked, "It’s been such a pleasure having Amit and Liav with us and seeing the impact we’ve had on each other. Giving them an opportunity to enjoy a little of what Michigan offers is really special."

Robbie Sherman, another host, echoed this sentiment by sharing, "Hosting these girls has totally changed my life and increased my passion to continue providing ORT students with incredible opportunities." The ripple effects of these shared experiences reached back to Israel, where parents expressed their heartfelt gratitude. Ann and Lior Rettig, parents of one of the participants, highlighted how their son, Amit, was positively affected by the kindness and acceptance he received while in Detroit. They said, “It was an extraordinary experience that will remain with him for a long time. Our deepest thanks go to the wonderful host families and the Detroit community for the love you showered upon the children during this time.”

Dr. Moshe Leiba, Chief Pedagogy Officer of World ORT Kadima Mada, reflected on the experience, stating, "The Detroit community exceeded my expectations. The love and support given to the kids created a sense of unity. They now understand what it means to belong to the greater Jewish nation. We are one."

This initiative marks just one of several delegations facilitated by ORT. Previous trips have taken groups of young Israeli students to cities like Los Angeles, Mexico City, and New York. Looking ahead, ORT plans to broaden the scope of these respite trips, with the next delegation scheduled to visit Phoenix in late 2025.

About ORT America

ORT America stands as the foremost fundraising entity supporting World ORT, which is the world's largest Jewish education network. ORT successfully empowers students through its extensive programs across over 30 countries, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to thrive in a dynamic global landscape.