Every year, JEWISHcolorado welcomes post-high school teens (Shinshinim) from Israel to spend a gap year in our community before returning to Israel for their mandatory military service. This is the first year we have five Shinshinim, and they work at more than 30 sites in our Colorado community. One of these sites is the new Colorado chapter for the ‘Tzofim,’ which are the Israeli Scouts. Our Shinshin, Yuval Tamir, is playing an important role in creating an authentic and inspiring connection for Israeli youth living in Colorado.
“Yuval is amazing,” says Tuly Segman, one of the founders of the chapter. “He’s kind, intelligent, and responsible—truly the perfect fit. If he inspires even a few kids to be a little more like him, that’s a win.” The Colorado chapter of the Tzofim are led by Tuly Segman, Eyal Lev, and Nofar Abutbul, who ensure the program continues to thrive.
Tzofim, also known as the Israel Scouts, was established in the U.S. as an extension of the Israeli scouting movement, providing Jewish and Israeli-American youth with a space to explore leadership, responsibility, and their own sense of belonging.
“The biggest difference between Tzofim in Israel and in Colorado is the question of identity,” explains Lev. “If I don’t live in Israel, what makes me Israeli? Tzofim helps these kids navigate that question in a way that feels natural and meaningful.”
A critical part of this journey is the mentorship and guidance provided by young Israelis like Yuval. Unlike parents or teachers, Shinshinim are close enough in age to be relatable but mature enough to serve as mentors.
“A Shinshin brings Israel to them in the most authentic way possible,” says Segman. “They admire them in a way that’s not parental.”
For Yuval, leading the Tzofim has been a unique opportunity to contribute.
“It’s my chance to run activities that are not only directly about Israel but also about Israeli identity and values,” he shares. “This is their space to ask questions, feel a sense of belonging, and learn about a nation they either never lived in or are not currently living in.”
The Colorado Tzofim chapter is a testament to the power of collaboration. From the parents and community leaders who made it possible to the Shinshinim who bring it to life, it is a space where Jewish youth develop independence, leadership, and a connection to Israel. The Tzofim movement in Colorado continues to grow, strengthening Jewish identity and community ties. As Segman says, “The word ‘BeYachad’ describes Tzofim best—activities, identity, language, and culture all come together. It is open to everyone, and if you want to join, we want you with us.”