Taglit Birthright Israel Birthright Israel Onward Birthright Israel Volunteer Birthright Israel Excel Birthright Israel Beyond
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the accommodations like on Birthright Israel Volunteer programs?

The standard accommodation for volunteer programs, provided at no additional cost, is triple occupancy in hotel rooms.

If you’d prefer upgraded accommodations, you have the following options:

  • Double Room – Upgrade to a double occupancy room for an additional $25USD per night per person.
  • Single Room – Upgrade to a private single room for an additional $100USD per night per person.

Can I still come volunteer if there is not room for me on one of the tracks of this program?

We hope to provide additional volunteer opportunities in Israel in the coming weeks.

If we can’t accommodate you on one of these tracks, we will reach out with additional opportunities once they are available.

Where can I learn more details about the specific volunteer placements?

Although placements may change- here are some examples of the types of placements we hope to provide:

  • Logistical Centers: Package food and clothing which are sent out to displaced families, Israel security service and other civil needs. Potential Partners: Pitchon Lev, Latet and Leket Yisrael.
  • Agriculture: Assisting farmers in harvesting their produce so it doesn’t go to waste and can be donated to those who are in need now more than ever. Potential Partners: Hashomer Hachadash, Leket Yisrael.

What will happen if the security situation on the ground in Israel worsens during my stay?

In the event that the situation in Israel worsens, we will make adjustments to the program including relocation of the group if warranted.

Can I stay in Israel after the program is over?

Yes. You will be responsible for your own accommodations, health insurance, and general safety once the program has ended.

I have friends or family in Israel, can I stay with them?

During the dates of the program, all participants are required to stay in the Volunteer accommodations.

If you are in Israel before or after the program begins and ends, you are responsible for your own accommodations and can choose to stay with friends or family.

Will the housing accommodations have a safe room?

Yes, all accommodations will have a safe room or a shelter within the building.

What happens if I need to leave the program before it ends?

Participation in the entirety of the program, from the first official day until the final day is mandatory. Orientation and closing program activities are included in the program dates. Participants are required to be in Israel for all portions of the program.

In the event of a personal emergency, costs associated with leaving early (flight changes, transportation etc) are the responsibility of the participant.

Will there be access to WIFI?

Yes, there will be WIFI access in all housing accommodations. There may not be WIFI access at the volunteer sites, therefore a mobile phone with data is required.

What are the accommodations like, will I share space, etc.?

Accommodations will be shared apartments. More details will be provided during the registration process.

Can I take public transportation?

You are not required to take public transportation for volunteering. However, you may use public transportation in your free time.

What transportation will be provided once I arrive in Israel?

Transportation to the volunteer placements will be provided. Travel to volunteer placements may take up to an hour in each direction.

Will I be able to observe Shabbat and Kashrut on the program?

Yes, there are no volunteer assignments on Shabbat and you will be able to observe Shabbat and Kashrut according to your practice.

There are synagogues in the area of the housing.

Please note we can't guarantee that your roommates will share the same level of observance, however we will do our best to match you accordingly.

Will there be free time when I'm not volunteering?

Yes, when you aren't volunteering or participating in other programming there will be free time.

Are there staff on the program?

Yes, there will be a community manager and a staff person focusing on logistical issues.

Will there be an opportunity to meet Israelis?

Yes, the program will foster opportunities to make social connections with Israelis who are also volunteering in similar enterprises

What kind of volunteer work will I be doing? When will I receive information about my placement?

Volunteer placements take place in groups and will be assigned upon arrival in Israel. Placements are approximately 4-6 hours a day and can include agricultural work such as picking fruit and vegetables on farms and sorting and packaging supplies for displaced families, individuals and soldiers.

What type of insurance policy is provided? What additional insurance do I need to provide?

Basic health insurance is included in the program fee. You will need to show proof of additional health insurance for pre-existing conditions not covered by the health policy.

Basic health insurance will not cover injuries directly connected to the war, however the State of Israel by law does cover such damages for anyone legally in the country.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to Israel.

What is the cost of the program? What is covered? What is not covered?

Beginning summer 2025 the Volunteer program costs $300USD (based on departures from European gateway airports) or $600USD from other gateway cities of departure. This includes a $50USD non-refundable registration fee.

Round-trip airfare (from designated cities), housing, transportation to and from volunteer placements, health insurance and organized activities are all included in the cost of the program.

The program will provide a modest stipend of $100USD per week for food.

*If you cancel your trip within 65 days of your confirmed flight departure, you'll forfeit payment.

*Should you choose to fly to Israel at your own expense, there is no flight reimbursement from Birthright Israel. The participant will pay a non-refundable $50USD fee to join the program.

 

For the remainder of Winter (January to April 2025):

Participation requires a non-refundable $50USD registration fee and a $250USD security deposit, which is refundable if you are in good standing at the end of the program.

 

Housing, transportation to and from the volunteer placements, health insurance and organized activities are all included in the cost of the program.

You are responsible for your flight to and from Israel and your living expenses. The program will provide a modest stipend of $100USD per week for food.

Do I need to speak Hebrew?

No, you don't need to speak Hebrew but it's always a plus!

Can I participate if I've never been to Israel before?

Yes. However, preference will be given to those who have prior Israel experience.

Will I still be eligible for a Birthright Israel trip or another Onward program?

Yes! Participating in this volunteer program will not disqualify you from a future Birthright Israel trip or Onward program, provided that all other eligibility requirements are met.

What are the steps to get accepted?

After filling in the application you will be interviewed. If accepted, you will be notified and asked to pay a non-refundable program registration fee.

Will there be an orientation?

Yes, there will be a virtual orientation prior to your arrival in Israel as well as an in person orientation on the first day of the program.

Who can attend the program?

The volunteer program is open to all Jewish young adults, ages 18 to 50 years old. Preference will be given to ages 25-50.

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