FAQs

What will we be doing? 

Volunteering options and programs are still being solidified and will change depending on the needs on the ground in Israel. We are working with incredible tour planners who work with similar groups and will prioritize opportunities aligned with JWI’s mission of helping women and girls thrive as much as possible. Examples of past volunteer opportunities and programs include: 

• Take part in food rescue operations to prevent shortages in the Israeli market.

• Sort, pack, and distribute goods for civil and military personnel.

• Meet with local women’s organizations advocating for women’s issues.

• Go to hostage square in Tel Aviv and meet with family members of victims of 10/7.

Please note that all volunteer options are subject to change due to changing civil, social & security needs, regulations, and restrictions.

Safety:

Our top priority is safety, and our trip organizers work closely with local authorities to ensure your safety.  Birthright Israel has provided safe, meaningful, educational travel experiences since 1999 and continues to do so now. All hotels will have safe rooms. 

What is included:

• Accommodation

• $700 flight reimbursement 

• $100 food subsidy

• Transportation from and to the airport

• Volunteer placement

• Organized transportation to volunteer sites

• Health insurance

This experience is nearly free:

• Participants will have access to exclusive discounts on El Al. 

• Once your trip is completed, Birthright Israel Onward will reimburse up to $700 for your flights.

• You will be required to cover the cost of most of your meals. 

Eligibility Criteria:

• Identify as Jewish;

• Female-identifying or non-binary;

• In your 20s or 30s;

• Preference for those already involved with JWI;

• Agree to Israel Engagement Project* post-trip;

Israel Engagement Project*:

JWI requires participants to complete an Israel Engagement Project to facilitate sharing personal insights and on-the-ground realities post-trip. These projects are customized for each participant and agreed upon beforehand with JWI staff. Options include:

• Crafting an op-ed.

• Creating a video series during your trip.

• Contributing a blog post for JWI, among others.

There is a diverse range of options for your project, and we will work closely with you to find a comfortable fit.

Application Process:

• Submit your JWI application 

• Selected participants will move on to the Birthright Onward application 

• Birthright Onward interview

• If accepted, receive an official acceptance email and pay a $50 registration fee

• Upload additional documents (e.g., passport, medical form)

• Book your flight & purchase travel insurance

• Pack your bags to come volunteer in Israel!

Flight stipends:

• The program organizer will provide flight reimbursement to participants who have completed their volunteer program.

• Arrange your flight and get reimbursed up to $700 

• The level of the reimbursement cannot surpass the ticket cost.

• You will need to present plane tickets and proof of purchase to the program organizer to receive your refund.

• Refunds will be carried out approximately six weeks following program completion.

• An additional EL AL exclusive offer for volunteers can be used in parallel, although the availability of the EL AL offer is limited. (code is available after you complete your application)

If you have additional questions, reach out to Rachel Levin, Senior Director of Women’s Impact.

About JWI and the Young Women’s Impact Network

What’s JWI? Jewish Women International (JWI) is the leading Jewish organization championing women and girls by preventing domestic violence and sexual abuse; addressing the intersection of domestic violence and gun violence; building pathways to long-term economic security, and strengthening access to every level of leadership in our communities, workplaces, and country.

What’s the Young Women’s Impact Network? The network connects and supports local Jewish women and non-binary people in their 20s and 30s with empowering programs and leadership development. Learn more.

What kind of programming does JWI offer? Our programs connect young Jewish women and non-binary people and provide them with opportunities to grow together, thrive independently, and create a lasting impact on the world around them. Many of our programs focus on financial empowerment, healthy relationships, personal and professional development, and more!

What if I don’t know anyone and have never been to a YWIN event before? Join us! We are a welcoming, friendly group, and we can’t wait to get to know you.

How can I get more involved? If you are interested in getting more involved, email us for more information.

Note: When we say “women,” we refer to anyone who experiences the world as female.