March of the Living Leadership Mission

The Associated’s Board Chair Pete Sachs and CEO Andrew Cushnir are anchoring Pete’s term with an extraordinary journey for The Associated and Baltimore Jewish leadership. Please join us for a deeply moving mission as we travel as a community to Poland to take part in March of the Living which brings Holocaust Survivors and thousands of others together for an experience of memory and reflection. 

Together, we will learn about the historical achievements and devastating destruction of the Jewish people in Poland, Europe’s largest pre-war community. On Yom HaShoah, we will march in unity from Auschwitz to Birkenau. Led by Holocaust Survivors, we will join thousands of participants from around the world in memory of the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust. We will bear witness to those atrocities and recommit to “Never Again”. 

As many of you know, March of the Living is built around Survivor participation, and each year there are sadly less Survivors who are still able to travel and share their stories. We want our Baltimore Jewish community leadership to participate in this experience while Survivors are still an integral part. 

Following March of the Living, you will have the opportunity to continue your journey with The Associated to celebrate Shabbat in Israel and experience our Jewish homeland. For both parts of the trip, all dietary laws will be observed. 

Poland: May 2-May 6, 2027 

Optional Israel Extension: May 6-May 12, 2027 (including Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut) 

More details to follow. 

March of the Living 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is the March of the Living Program and who participates? 
The March of the Living is a unique educational experience for teens and adults in which participants travel to Poland and Israel to explore Jewish history, the Holocaust and the rebirth of the Jewish homeland. 
 
The program begins in Poland with visits to significant Holocaust sites and concludes in Israel, where participants experience the country’s history, culture and modern-day society. The journey emphasizes Jewish identity, resilience, remembrance and connection. 

2. What is the itinerary? 
A detailed itinerary will be provided closer to departure. 

3. Is this a physically demanding trip? 
Yes. Expect extensive walking, standing, uneven terrain, stairs and busy days. Participants should be in reasonably good health and discuss any accommodation needs with organizers. 

4. Is security a concern? 
Security is a top priority. March of the Living works closely with local authorities and security professionals throughout the program. 

5. What expenses are not included? 
Flights to Poland and flights from Israel to Baltimore, travel insurance, passport fees, personal spending money, some meals, optional activities, laundry and applicable tips. 

6. Should I purchase travel insurance? 
Yes. Comprehensive coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, medical care, evacuation and baggage is strongly recommended. 

7. Do I need a visa? 
U.S. citizens generally do not need visas for Poland or Israel. Travelers with other passports should verify entry requirements. 

8. What passport requirements apply? 
Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond the return date, be in good condition and contain sufficient blank pages. 

9. What are the approximate costs? 
Please check back soon. Estimated costs will be updated shortly.  

10. What accommodations can I expect? 
Carefully selected hotels offering safety, comfort, cleanliness and convenient locations. Double occupancy is standard unless a single supplement is requested. 

11. What meals are included? 
Most breakfasts, lunches and dinners are included. Final details will be shared with the itinerary. Dietary laws will be followed.