Make My Dream Come True-Send Taly to Isr...

To my biggest supporter,

My name is Taly Kazimirsky. I was born in Israel to parents who had recently moved from Moldova. Even though I lived in Israel and was surrounded by Jews every day, I was never introduced to or exposed to the beauty of Judaism. When I was in 8^th grade, my mom’s friend told her about this organization called NCSY and my mom signed me up. I did not know what to expect. I was intimidated and was so afraid to go to the convention, but the second I arrived I was taken in like family. I made friends instantly and loved the atmosphere. The advisors and ncsyers were amazing. No person was left out- everyone was singing and dancing. Everyone was united in great harmony.I was intrigued by the dvar torahs and learning sessions; I was pulled into many great discussions that really made me open my eyes and think deeply. On Shabbat, when I was lighting candles, I began to cry. I cried because at that point reality struck me: I’d been missing out on the beauty of Judaism for my entire life. I was so moved by everything that I began to challenge myself and strive to learn more about Judaism. Throughout my high school career, I met so many amazing people and families that greatly supported my decisions to learn more, which propelled me forward.  Although I was the only one in my public high school wearing a skirt and was discouraged by close non-religious family members and friends, I was motivated to continue on my journey. I have come so far as an individual but journey is not over yet. I have not had the privilege of going to a Jewish school all my life and I have so much more to learn. Even though I am not financially capable of entirely paying for myself, I am positive that I will be going to Seminary for a year after this last year of high school. My plan is to go to Tomer Devorah where I will be offered intellectually stimulating and challenging courses to develop my own strengths and interests and will have many opportunities to do chesed. Tomer Devorah is $21,500 and I have applied to many scholarships and have had a job this year so that I could save up money for this amazing opportunity to lay a solid foundation of Torah and self-awareness. Unfortunately I am on my own and will need all the help I can get! I am asking for your help and every penny will get me closer to making my dream come true: going to Seminary in Israel and delving into Judaism.

Thank you,

Taly Kazimirsky