For years, Dovita Lerner heard her daughter, Megan, rave about Israel.

Having traveled and worked there, Megan loved everything about the country from its culture to its people.

So when Lerner heard from friends about The Associated Women’s Israel Mission, and the chance to travel to the country for its 70th anniversary, she signed up for her first trip to Israel.

“I watched what my daughter got out of it and what Israel means to her. I knew I had to see what the country was all about.”

For seven days, Lerner, along with 70 other women, traveled throughout the country, visiting historical sites and spending time in Ashkelon, Baltimore’s sister city, learning where our community’s dollars are allocated. They read letters from family members at the Western Wall, and celebrated Yom Ha’Atzmaut in Tel Aviv.

“It’s hard to put into words how meaningful the experience was. I particularly remember the joy on the Israeli’s faces as they celebrated the country’s birthday. It was truly transformational.” Not only did the trip leave Lerner with a better understanding of Israel and its people, but it inspired her to get more involved with The Associated.

“I met such amazing women who want to do amazing things with our Jewish community and I want to be a part of that.”