REALITY
About REALITY
REALITY was created in 2009 by Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies (Schusterman) with a vision of expanding opportunities for leaders to learn firsthand about Israel and the region. The program was established to enable leaders from similar fields and industries to engage on a deep level—to learn about Israel’s history, diverse society and role in a complex region of the world. REALITY is a transformative learning journey that has been experienced by more than 3,000 influential leaders who work at the forefront of societal innovation and share a commitment to leading positive change. Following their journey, participants join a strong community of alumni committed to leadership and continuous learning.
In the spring of 2024, Schusterman announced that it will no longer run its REALITY program as part of its shift to fully focus its U.S. resources on existing grantmaking priorities. itrek and Schusterman have had a long-standing partnership and as of July 1, 2024 itrek absorbed REALITY and will continue to bring leaders from diverse backgrounds and sectors on formative learning journeys to Israel. itrek will also build upon the REALITY Alumni community to support alumni in bringing new understanding, leadership skills and collaborations forged in Israel back to their communities.
Our Journey Through Israel
REALITY begins with a weeklong journey in Israel. Participants go beyond the headlines and sound bites to explore Israel firsthand and engage with the diverse people and communities shaping its society and culture today.
Through this experience, participants hear multiple narratives and perspectives on the historical, social and political realities on the ground in Israel. They learn about and engage with the many interwoven stories, successes and challenges facing Israel and the surrounding region. They meet the people who are leading efforts to build a shared society in which diverse communities can live, work and thrive together. And they build knowledge, skills and lasting connections they bring home with them and can tap into to make a deeper impact through their work.
We are planning to run several journeys in 2025. If you’re interested in learning more about these by-invitation Israel experiences, email REALITY@itrek.org.
The REALITY Alumni Experience
As part of the REALITY Community, Alumni have access to exclusive offerings to connect through learning sessions, in-person experiences, regional and affinity communities, and microgrants.
To get involved in the Alumni Community, email REALITY@itrek.org.
REALITY Israel Microgrants
Inspired by the spirit of nuance, curiosity, and innovation embraced by REALITY, we are proud to offer REALITY Israel Microgrants of up to $2,500.
REALITY Israel Microgrants support alumni-led initiatives worldwide that aim to:
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Introduce new people to Israel
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Build partnerships with Israelis, Israeli companies, or Israeli NGOs
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Foster nuanced conversations about Israel