Past Study Tour Participant Testimonials
It is odd to be back home and harder to explain what we experienced. I too need to really dig deep to find the right words and translate all the impressions, harsh and simple; but none of it is really simple.
~ Sonia Simon Cummings, Los Angeles.
We saw many examples of individuals who cared about their communities, had a vision, started projects on a small scale with a small amount of seed money, and over time improved the lives of hundreds or thousands of people. We saw people who have suffered in their communities improve their lives and gain hope when they have previously had none. We saw women transformed because they now have power over their destiny. Here we have so many gifts that we often take for granted. We get caught up in the minutiae of life and tend to lose the big picture.
~ Ruth Donig White, San Francisco
I cannot yet tell people about the trip in a way that translates the emotional impact it had on me, and perhaps I never will. But I will continue to find ways to articulate our journey. To all of you- -deep thanks for each person's trust and contributions. What an incredible group.
~ Barbara Dobkin, New York
Has the trip influenced you in your personal and/or professional life? Yes. In today’s world, I feel that issues relating to us as Jews used to be black and white, and now frequently appear gray. It makes me very proud to have Jews out in the world concretely living our value system.
~ Lynda Goldstein, Denver
What was one of the highlights of the trip? The profound experience of being exposed to the despair and hope and inspiration in such a different part of the world from what I am used to. To witness the concrete examples of the amazing work being done by such bright, devoted NGO leaders. Realizing the power of grass-roots organization in a different culture. My experiences continue to influence my thinking and my interests. I want very much to find ways to integrate the work of AJWS into my work life and synagogue life.
~ Harriet Shugarman, Washington DC
Were your expectations and goals met? …And then some. I wanted to have a multi dimensional experience including the travel, the culture and the group interaction, and also to see and feel the country in a way that was not touristy and in which I had touch with the "real people". I was proud to be there with AJWS and be part of a group that is really making a positive difference for the people we saw.
~ Karen Robbins, San Francisco
