The Trail Ahead  |
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At Teva Adventure we have our vision set on the trail ahead. We have innovative ideas and projects that we believe will strengthen the Jewish world's connection to the natural world. We believe that these ideas and projects hold tremendous potential for "tikun olam" (perfecting the world). As Teva Adventure continues to evolve and grow we aim to further develop and implement these ideas and projects in conjunction with a broad cross-section of the Jewish world, for the benefit of all. We recognize that some of these projects are extensive and therefore we are enthusiastic about working with all who share similar visions and goals. |
Development of Jewish Environmental Education Curriculum
for Schools in Israel & the Diaspora |
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The trail goes on beyond the horizon. In order for the Jewish world to continue to play a positive role in nature and environmental issues, and to continue to promote Jewish connections to nature, we see the need for a Jewish Environmental Education Curriculum to be taught in Israeli and Diaspora schools. Using a combination of field-based activities and multimedia tools, students will both experience and be informed of the issues and challenges facing the natural world and the environment. They will also be helped to understand and potentially even develop solutions. A generation that grows up with a greater understanding of these ideas will be even better-prepared to contribute to positive change in the natural world. |
Promotion of Minimal Impact Outdoor Activities and Practices
Within Israel & the Diaspora |
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Aren't you bothered by garbage on the trail? Within Israel and the Diaspora Jewish community (as is true around the world) there is tremendous interest in outdoor activities include hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, camping and nature walks. In all of these activities and many more, humanity meets nature directly. While these encounters have vast potential for positive results we need to minimize potential negative effects on nature, many of which are clearly evident today. To that end we envision the promotion of recognized minimal impact guidelines and practices for outdoor activities, aimed at the Jewish world. |
Shabbat B'Teva (Shabbat in Nature) |
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Do you know how to put up an eruv in a pinch? Have you ever sung Lecha Dodi in the forest? The Shabbat B'Teva program is an educational and experiential program that provides an opportunity to learn about celebrating Shabbat in the outdoors. It consists of two components: A community-focused series of text-based classes and a Shabbat spent in nature where what has been learned is put into practice. The community-focused and text-based classes emphasize topics such as  Halacha (Jewish law) concerning Shabbat observance
in a wilderness setting
Jewish thought and philosophy regarding nature
and its place in Jewish living Outdoor skills. The program culminates in a Shabbat in nature where the ideas and skills learned during the course are applied and enjoyed, bringing an entirely new perspective to Shabbat observance and an increased appreciation and awareness of nature. |
Creation of an Association of Jewish Outdoor Professionals & Enthusiasts |
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There are many individuals and organizations in the Jewish world who have similar and/or complementary goals regarding the natural world and the environment. We see great synergies resulting from the creation of an Association that would build a more focused, connected and mutually informed community from these currently disparate elements. We envisage bringing together any Jewish individual or organization that wants to promote the connection between Judaism and nature, that believes it's fun and important to be outdoors or that is concerned with the state of the natural world and the environment: educators, outdoors activities organizers, experiential-education proponents, teachers, students, activists and many others. In practical terms, members would be able to easily find each other, leverage resources, meet, build and share experiences, mutual ideas and programs and further develop a critical mass able to effect positive change in the natural world and the environment. In addition to the important ad hoc connections made among members, the Association would bring members together under the auspices of an Association Conference on a regular basis to learn from each other and advance mutual goals. |
Just the Beginning |
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These ideas and projects are but a start. Ultimately, anything that effects the natural world and the environment has a direct impact on everyone, for better or for worse. Therefore, at Teva Adventure we think it's vitally important for you to be involved. We want to hear YOUR concerns regarding the natural world, its connection to Jewish life and your ideas for improving it. And we want you to participate with us, both today and as we make our way along the trail. |
