Aviv Alofer

From Participant to Community Leader

Aviv Alofer's Birthright Israel experience marked an important step in his Jewish journey. Growing up in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood in Montreal, Aviv felt oddly disconnected from organized Jewish life, he attended public school, participated minimally in synagogue, and rarely engaged with structured community activities.

His July 2024 Birthright trip became a turning point. In just ten days, Aviv gained lifelong friendships, discovered his voice in the Jewish community, and found the confidence to step into leadership. What he gained wasn't just memories, it was access to a network of opportunities that continue to shape his path.

Today, Aviv is living what he calls "one mitzvah at a time," organizing community events, deepening his knowledge of Israel and Judaism, and building a future rooted in Jewish values. His story is a powerful reminder that Birthright Israel doesn't just change individuals, it creates community leaders who give back.

Aviv's Story

In His Own Words

How did the actual experience in Israel differ from what you anticipated before going? Was this your first time in Israel?

Birthright Israel was not my first time in Israel. However, it was my first time visiting without staying with family. I expected icebreakers and visits to landmarks. That did happen, but everything else was unimaginable. I gained friendships that are still strong today, skills that benefit me in my everyday life, and access to a growing network of opportunities through deeper involvement in the Jewish community.

Where did you grow up that you felt so removed from the Jewish community?

I grew up in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood in Montreal. That sounds contradictory, but I did not attend Jewish day school, only went to synagogue on the High Holidays, played sports that were not common among other Jewish kids, and did not participate in community events.

Did you know that Birthright Israel is a fully subsidized gift made possible by donors?

Yes. The word gift is very important. Birthright Israel is given to Jewish young adults not only to explore their Jewish identity and deepen their connection to Israel, but also to kick-start their careers by placing them among like-minded and talented people.

What's next in your Jewish journey?

Living life one mitzvah at a time. That means organizing and participating in community events, continuously educating myself about Israel and Judaism, finding a Jewish wife, and building a Jewish family.