NEW YORK—Birthright Israel, the largest provider of cultural trips in the world, today announces a decision to introduce a new age category for the first time since the organization’s founding in 1999. A limited number of Birthright Israel trip options for 27 to 32-year-olds will be introduced this summer in addition to the standard programming available for 18 to 26-year-olds.

The increase in Birthright Israel’s maximum eligible age reflects changing societal trends with young adults making life decisions – such as getting married and having children – later in life. Building off of Birthright Israel’s most successful year in history with nearly 48,000 participants in 2017, this change will enable more Jewish young adults to develop connections with their heritage, the larger diaspora community and the State of Israel.

After 18 years in operation and after having sent over 600,000 Jewish young adults on trips, this change reflects Birthright Israel’s commitment to constantly evaluating programming to match the needs of its participants. Birthright Israel has grown exponentially over the years in terms of total overseas participants.

Summer registration will officially open on Jan. 30 with an early bird option for pre-registered applicants on Jan. 29, 10 a.m. EST. Additional information is available at: https://birthrightisrael.com.