SERVING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Since December 2003, Hillel has brought over 700 students to Israel for a winter experience. From December 27th, 2007 through January 4th, 2008, 129 students from across North America, South America, and the Former Soviet Union, participated in Hillel's Alternative Break in Israel 2007-2008.

Students participated in hands-on service, experiential learning, and Jewish exploration in Israel, a country many had previously seen only as tourists. The first few days were spent exploring Israel's socio-economic issues. The group then joined participants from the Charles Schusterman International Leaders Assembly for a joyous pluralistic Shabbat on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.

Students then divided into six groups and spent four days volunteering in communities in need. They painted low-income apartments, schools in disadvantaged areas, an Ethiopian immigrant absorption center, and a shelter for African refugees. They also played with children, created incredible murals, and interacted with and learned from the community.

Evening reflections, discussions and text studies helped students explore the connections between their volunteering, individual Jewish journeys, and social justice. Topics ranged from the meaning of Tzedek to exploring personal connections and responsibilities to Israel. At the end of the week, the group came together in Jerusalem to share their experiences and celebrate their hard work.

Read about One Week in Afula
Read about the experiences in the other five cities
Read Reflections
Registration Information


Alternative Break in Israel: Serving to Make a Difference has been generously supported by a grant from the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation.