In this section of the programme chanichim will live and volunteer their time in different cities in Israel. These are areas where there is a need for volunteers and a huge number of volunteering possibilities exist.
Chanichim volunteer most mornings. The type of volunteering varies tremendously throughout the year and individual chanichim will have the opportunity to volunteer in an area of particular interest to them.
FZY and the Year Course staff in general are always around for support and input for the volunteers who we perceive as our British “ambassadors” to Israel. It is our belief that the special connection between British Jewry and the people of Israel will be continued by these young people.
By volunteering in the Israeli communities chanichim learn about Israeli society by living and working with the community. Through their experience, they will gain insight and appreciation for the challenges facing the people of Israel today as well as gaining maturity, independence and life skills.
Year Course provides a huge number of different options every year for chanichim to choose from, the exact choices will be presented once Year Coursers are in Israel, however the following are just a selection of the options that have been provided in previous years .
Schools
In one section of their year chanichim will often be working in schools. Chanichim teach English and use other skills that they have to volunteer with children and adults in the community. The strong relationships that develop enable chanichim to develop a strong bond with the families of their town.
MADA - Magen David Adom
Magen David Adom provides emergency services throughout Israel and works with its volunteers to provide effective first-aid treatment. This option allows Year Coursers to be part of this mission and gain valuable hands-on experience giving first-aid care, while experiencing “real life” in Israel. After completing a week-long training course, participants spend 2 months volunteering on ambulances at various MADA stations across the country, side by side with Israeli volunteers and professionals. The work that the Year Course participants do with Magen David Adom saves lives and has a tangible effect on Israeli society. It can also be very challenging emotionally for the individual.
Biblical Zoo
Located in the capital of Israel, the Biblical Zoo is an amazing place for Year Course chanichim to volunteer. The zoo is home to animals including lions, tigers, hippos and rhinos, Year Course chanichim feed the animals, clear away their mess and make unforgettable connections with the visitors to the zoo as well as the animals.
Masada
Here, chanichim work in the National Park of Masada, helping clean the site, excavating, renovating and helping the professional staff work in one of the most famous and exciting Jewish historical and archaeological sites.
Special Needs
Year Course chanichim volunteer at these outstanding institutions and make bonds with the children or adults which reside there. Through helping prepare the meals, helping them and volunteering with them, a special connection is made, which impacts the lives of both the residents and the Year Course chanichim.
Other Options
The above is only a short list; there are many other options that Year Coursers have done in the past including: hospital work, working with children through football clubs and even volunteering at Ein Gedi national park! |
