(Bridges of Hope) is an outgrowth of the journeys to Israel and Palestine. We hope to build a bridge between the two (countries) for future generations. |
It's a big highlight for them. The kids interact with different communities of homeless people (there). It's very meaningful for the kids. It's good for them to see that these are real people. |
It's gotten easier over time. It was a lot of work than I expected at first. I like to think (now) we've almost got it down to a science. |
Last year, some wanted to go to Block Island and the Statue of Liberty. |
Nothing is wasted. Everything is used and given away. |
Our youth group at the high school level (Pilgrim Fellowship) went over (to Israel and Palestine). With Bridges of Hope, we bring kids from Palestine over here. |
Palestinians are more excited to visit the United States (because) they are not allowed outside the country. When kids are leaving (the country), everything is documented. |
There's almost all exclusively men. In four years (I've been doing this), I've only seen two women. |
We prepare for 125 people. We do it (Midnight Run) one night per year. |
We see how America is stereotyped (over there) because America helps Israel (funding their military) and not Palestine. Palestinians here (in the United States) are portrayed as terrorists. We compare (the two) and see how they're similar on a friendship level. |