June 10, 2025
Dear JYC Global Family,
Each day with the Jerusalem Youth Chorus fills me with profound love, hope, and a renewed belief in the possibility of a more just and peaceful future.
I’ve just returned home to Boston after two unforgettable weeks traveling alongside a small but incredibly resilient group of JYC high schoolers, alumni, and staff — individuals who are radically committed to the transformative work of using music and honest dialogue to build bridges and foster understanding in a world that often feels so divided.
During our Frontlines of Hope tour to New York, Boulder, Denver, and DC, we had the privilege of singing live for over 1,200 people, many of whom were introduced to JYC for the first time. Beyond the performances, we were welcomed into homes and communities, sharing meals and stories that deepened our connection to the places we visited. We gathered together in moments of fear and solidarity, especially in the wake of the tragic terror attack in Boulder, which reminded us painfully of the urgency of our mission—and how our futures truly are intertwined. And yet, amid the weight of these realities, we found joy and laughter — over homemade maqlubeh, and in the ridiculous, light-hearted moments of an impromptu game of Truth or Dare.
But the moments that always stay with me the most happen in the quiet spaces between songs: during long van rides, in the corners of green rooms, and on walks between group activities.
I was so impressed by our youngest singer on this trip, a 14-year-old Israeli, as she shared how she’s reconsidering her lifelong dream of becoming a combat pilot. The youngest of 4 siblings, none of whom are musicians, she joined JYC so that she could do her own thing and find some independence within her family. What she found instead was a group of people who want to make positive change, and the leadership skills to do so. Even though this was her first JYC tour and she was the youngest of the group, I watched her take such fierce care of our team—bringing tea to a singer who wasn’t feeling well, providing a change of clothes to someone who she felt was underdressed, and making sure I sat down to rest when I looked tired. This singer sent to our group chat “I love you all so much and even though I only met some of you for the first time two weeks ago this tour really made me understand why everyone calls JYC their family”.
On walk in New York City, I spoke to one of our older Palestinian singers who shared with me how close he has become with one of our Israeli singers. This Palestinian singer has truly embraced his role as the big brother of JYC. He told me how, during a difficult dialogue session following October 7, he noticed that his Israeli friend was closed off, fearful, and uncertain about his participation in the choir. He took the initiative to take his friend out for coffee, to continue the conversation and provide support outside of the group dynamic.
And I heard from a Palestinian alum now living in the U.S. who passionately described JYC as his “home away from home.” He grew up in the choir and was so proud to see how the people who sang with him ten years ago are now on staff with JYC and are helping to train the next generation. He shared with me that he initially joined this tour so that he could spend some time with his friends from JYC, but was quickly reminded of how being part of this work and community is not something that can be faked or taken lightly — it’s built on genuine relationships and a shared commitment to working toward justice, peace, and mutual respect, even when the path feels impossible.
“…the work you’re all doing is more important now than ever. It only takes one generation to turn hate into harmony.”
Audience Member, Colorado
Each of these stories — from our youngest singer offering care beyond her years, to lifelong bonds forming across lines of conflict, to alumni returning home to the chorus that shaped them — is a reminder that the Jerusalem Youth Chorus is more than a musical group. We are a community that is building a movement.
This work is not easy. Organizing a tour like this, with its countless logistical challenges and emotional complexities, is a heavy lift — especially at a time when the world around us feels heavier every day. But the honesty of this work, the bravery of these young leaders, and the real, human connections that emerge are exactly why I personally do this job.
And none of this would be possible without the people who choose to believe in us.
Thank you for meeting us on the Frontlines of Hope
While we were on the road, we felt your support behind us — in every full auditorium, every word of encouragement, and every gift that reminded us we’re not doing this work alone. We are overwhelmed with gratitude — and thrilled to share that, thanks to you, we not only met our recent $75,000 match to replace the 2025 funding from USAID… we surpassed it by $11,089!
In a time when despair can feel louder than hope, you chose to amplify the voices of young Palestinians and Israelis who refuse to give up on each other. Your generosity sends a powerful message: that music, dialogue, and courageous connection matter — and that you believe in a future built on justice, inclusion, and shared humanity.
With your support, we can deepen our work in East and West Jerusalem and bring the voices of our young leaders to even more communities around the world. Whether on stage or in dialogue circles, these singers are transforming pain into power — and you’ve made it possible.
From all of us at the Jerusalem Youth Chorus: thank you for walking with us, singing with us, and building this movement for peace, one note, one voice, and one generous act at a time.
“Thank you ALL for changing my life this weekend.”
Audience Member, Colorado
In every note sung and every story shared, our singers reminded me that hope isn’t naïve — it’s a choice. And they are choosing it every single day.
If you joined us along the way, thank you for listening. If you haven’t yet, I hope you will. Because when young voices sing from the frontlines of hope, the world listens.
With gratitude and determination,
Jackie Dentino
Director of Development, JYC