Frequently Asked Questions

At what age can my child join the tzofim? 

​

The 2025–2026 program year is open to children in 5th through 12th grades.  9th graders participate in a counselor training year, while 10th–12th graders serve as counselors and lead the chapter.

When and where do activities take place?

​

Activities are held every Sunday from 4:00–6:00 PM.
A chapter calendar will be sent to registered families.
For safety reasons, the location will be shared privately.

What is the cost and what does it include?

​

The annual membership fee is $900 for the program year (September through May). A 10% discount is available for registrations completed by August 15.

​

The fee covers all regular activities throughout the year, security, venue costs, uniforms (khaki), activity supplies and guidance, and the salary of our adult coordinator. Except for one adult coordinator, the entire organization is volunteer-based.

​

Special events and trips may involve an additional fee, which will always be communicated in advance. We strive to keep costs accessible for all families.

What is your refund policy? 

​

The annual membership fee is non-refundable. However, ⁠in case of need, kids may try and attend the first two Peulot (September 14th and September 21st), after which they can make a go/no go decision. In any case, the parents will need to complete the full Tzofirm registration, if only to have their child covered by insurance.

Are the activities conducted in Hebrew?
 

Yes, activities are held in Hebrew, but support is provided for participants who are not fluent.

Is it suitable if my child doesn’t speak Hebrew?

 

Absolutely! Anyone open to learning Hebrew is welcome to join.

What does the regular program include?
 

Weekly meetings with each group’s counselor (the counselors are the older teens in grades 10–12), trips, winter and spring camps, special holiday events, community projects, volunteering, ceremonies, and for certain age groups, joint activities with other chapters.

What can parents do while their kids are at activities? Can parents stay?

 

Yes! We encourage parents to stay on site.
Just note that parents do not enter the activity rooms or observe the meetings themselves.

​

While the kids are with the scouts, there are also other activities for parents and younger siblings, like Mamanet, Keshet, coffee & pastries, and an area to meet other parents.

What values are taught? Are there political messages?

​

The Israeli Scouts is a non-partisan organization not affiliated with any political group.
We aim to create an educational, values-based, and enjoyable space for all children, regardless of political views.

​

Our activities focus on positive leadership, responsibility, teamwork, Israeli identity, and community connection.
As part of connecting to Israel, we explore Jewish culture and holidays in a unifying, non-coercive way.

What does the registration process include?

​

Please log in to the registration portal for the chapter and program year.

​

Registration is done under one family account — parents create a single account for the family and then add a “profile” for each child registering.

Medical insurance is required to complete registration.

After entering personal and payment details, you’ll reach a summary page. Only after reviewing and confirming your details will the payment be processed.

​

Charges will appear as Friend of Israel Scouts (FOIS) — please be aware so you don’t mistakenly dispute the transaction.

How does the chapter ensure the children’s safety?
 

All activities are supervised by counselors, adult staff, and at least one committee member or chapter head, following strict safety protocols from the Jewish Agency, and with a security guard present.

Is there insurance for the activities?
 

All participants must provide family insurance information during registration.

We live in Boulder — is there organized transportation to activities in Denver?
 

There is no organized transportation, but we’re happy to help connect families from the same area to coordinate carpools.

Will the food provided be kosher?
 

Food served is not under formal kosher supervision, but we do our best to be mindful of various needs.

We also take allergies and sensitivities seriously — please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.

​

Note: During regular activity days, full meals are not provided, though there may be snacks as part of games or events. Meals are mainly relevant for trips, long activity days, etc.

How can parents help or volunteer?
 

Parental involvement is a huge part of strengthening the chapter’s community core. If you have time, skills, or connections, we invite you to fill out the volunteer form.

We especially appreciate help during special events and ceremonies, preparing or donating food, donating equipment or funds, building community ties, and anything else you can offer.
 

Does participation count toward community service hours?
 

Yes, time spent in the scouts counts toward the community service hours required for high school completion (grades 9–12).