The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Israel @ 60 Mission Co-Chair Dale Filhaber (l), Honorary Chair Jerry Wolens (center) and Co-Chair April Leavy (r).

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of Israel’s statehood, the Federation of South Palm Beach County has pulled out all of the stops with what promises to be its largest and most anticipated community-wide mission to Israel in 17 years.

Set for November 15-23, 2008, Federation’s Israel @ 60 Mission is planned to take place during a time of excitement and celebration as thousands of Jews across the United States and Canada will be gathered for the United Jewish Communities’ (UJC) General Assembly meeting and the International Lion of Judah Conference.

Honorary Israel @ 60 Mission Chair Jerry Wolens, who served as the chair of Federation’s Mission 500 in 1991, was instrumental in rallying 500 community members to sign up back then. He says he’s thrilled to be part of another historic milestone and is ready to get back into recruitment mode. “The timing for this mission could not be more meaningful,” says Wolens. “We must show that we stand behind Israel with our physical presence and come together to celebrate her achievements.”

The mission’s tagline is “Celebrate the New Israel,” explained Co-Chair Dale Filhaber, “because Israel has developed significantly in recent years and there is so much more to experience and enjoy. If you haven’t visited Israel lately,” she added, “you will be amazed at the growth and changes you’ll find.”

Co-Chair April Leavy says she hopes people from all aspects of the community will join this special anniversary trip. “We really want this mission to reflect our whole Jewish community — our neighbors in the synagogues, those affiliated with different Jewish agencies— and all residents who support Israel.”

Featuring five itineraries tailored to different interests, this mission promises to have something for everyone, said Leavy. Tracks include: ‘First timers;’ ‘Business and Technology;’ ‘Arts and Culture;’ ‘Adventure Seekers;’ and a special ‘UJC General Assembly’ track for those interested in attending the GA’s business meetings.

“So whether you want to pray at the Western Wall, meet Israeli venture capitalists, go white water rafting down the Jordan River, or talk with some of Israel’s top artists, this mission allows you to experience Israel like you’ve always wanted, “ Leavy said.

Federation’s Israel @ 60 Mission is limited to150 community members, with reservations made on a first-come, first-served basis. The first 60 people who confirm their reservation with a deposit, will receive a $200 discount on the total cost of the trip.

For more information, or to confirm your place, visit jewishboca.org/israel60 or call the Israel @ 60 Hotline at (561) 852-3112.

The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County serves the cities of Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach raising funds to help Jews locally, in Israel and in more than 60 countries. These funds enable the Federation to plan for, and address, the philanthropic, cultural, educational and social-service needs of the south county Jewish community.