What does it mean to be a part of Am Yisrael?

My interpretation of being a part of Am Yisrael is giving back. I think that giving back to the community is the biggest part of Am Yisrael. I also think that learning the history behind Am Yisrael is important. Being Jewish doesn't exactly classify as following Halacha, I think it is being a part of the Jewish people through the culture. Being in Israel allows me to be surrounded by Jewish culture all of the time. I feel most connected to my Jewish identity here because I am exposed to many different Jewish cultures. At home in Chicago, I do not have a strong Jewish culture. I love being here in Israel because I appreciate the Jewish culture more.