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ALTERNATIVE SPRING BREAK
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HAIFA ALTERNATIVE SPRING BREAK
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April 21, 2020
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"The people we were helping - it was really making a difference in people's lives.
They really appreciated it. That hit home for me."
Volunteering is in our students' DNA - at home, and across the world!
A BEAUTIFUL EXPERIENCE |
April 5, 2020
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I loved CJP's Alternative Spring Break trip to Israel so much - I met such a beautiful group of people that I feel lucky to call my friends. It was wonderful volunteering because our group was so eager to help and make a difference. I find it amazing how many places we explored, how much I learned, and how much fun I had in just one week! My most impactful experience was going to Beit Hagefen. Beit Hagefen is an organization whose mission is to bring together Arabs and Jews. I love Israel so much, but I struggle with the treatment of Palestinians as well as the ongoing conflict between the two groups. I was touched by the fact that both Israelis and Arabs came to all cultural celebrations, including Hanukkah and Ramadan. This gives me hope for the future. I came back from Israel with a deeper connection to Judaism. I think this may be in large part due to getting to spend Shabbat in Jerusalem. I shared a beautiful Kabbalat shabbat with my new friends. We sang songs together, ate delicious food and took a Shabbat stroll through the deserted, rainy Ben Yehuda Street. Saturday was even more special because I got to go to the Western Wall. I have been going to temple somewhat regularly since I was a child. Praying at the Western Wall on Shabbat made my praying feel “realer” and more spiritual than it ordinarily does. The most fun part of my trip, by far, was staying at KIbbutz Shomrat. We played with the 10+ cats, ate the best Israeli comfort food I have ever had, and spent every night talking, playing games, and laughing late into the night, while swinging on hammocks. The food in Israel, YES. The people in Israel, YES. The trip, absolutely YES. |
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Jordana Meltzer, Emerson College '23, is active with Emerson Hillel and Tufte Tonight, an SNL-like TV show at her school. Her last time in Israel was in 3rd grade!
CJP'S HAIFA TRIP |
March 30, 2020
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I didn’t realize when I initially applied to be a part of CJP's ASB Haifa that it would change my life in the ways that it did. I had been to Israel one time previously and I knew that I loved the country, but it wasn’t the spiritual and enlightening experience I had expected. That part really clicked for me on ASB. Being able to volunteer in a variety of ways, locations and organizations gave me a much wider view of Israel. Even coming back from Israel, I feel as though I have gained a new Jewish community in Boston. Meeting and befriending so many other students from the Boston area really made Boston feel a little smaller and a lot more homey. The value of the program that impressed me the most was the sense of dignity that each organization tried to maintain for the people whom they helped. For example, when we volunteered at Lev Chash, they talked extensively about the many ways that they run the non-profit by organizing the facility to look like a retail store and charging a nominal fee. The recipients are able to feel a sense of dignity by being able to purchase things that they need. The project and place that resonated with me the most was the Yemen Orde youth village. Hearing from Rachelie was a life changing opportunity. Her whole idea of encouraging the teens to understand that they’re not “needy children,” but rather are needed by the world is something I will never forget. Education is a huge part of my major and my life, so hearing that philosophy was very impactful to me and I will be sure to carry that into my professional life. |
ASB was much more than a fun Spring Break. I had an absolutely incredible experience and I highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a deeper connection to Israel, wants to gain more knowledge about Israel and international non-profits, wants to make new Jewish friends, and wants to expand their Jewish community where they study.
Leah Thomas, Emerson College '22, is a Theater Education major and is involved with the Alpha Epsilon Phi sorority.
ALTERNATIVE TRIP TO HAIFA |
March 29, 2020
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The Alternative Spring Break trip to Haifa was undoubtably one of the best experiences of my life. It was an incredible mix of meaningful volunteering and fun excursions. The volunteering itself exceeded my expectations – although I should note that based on the packing list of work gloves and dirty clothes, my expectations were along the lines of lifting heavy objects and becoming a temporary unqualified construction worker. This fortunately was not the case. One of the first volunteering opportunities we had was at a place that received donations of clothes, furniture, books, toys, and more. Our task was to reorganize a room filled with clothes, folding them and sorting them by size until it looked like a clothing store. Of course, it was nice to help the organization, but the impact of what we did wasn’t totally realized until our amazing guide, Lior, pointed it out. He said that most people who come to the store spend a shekel or two on each item – and in severe cases things are given for free. When they come in and shop, it now looks like a clothing store, rather than forcing them to dig through a giant pile of men’s, women’s, and children’s clothes of all sizes. He said this gives dignity, and helps maintain the pride of those in need, which is something truly special to give and meant so much to know was part of our contribution. Also, at the facility was a community center for Holocaust survivors. During the initial tour they were so lively and friendly – offering us wine and snacks, hugging us and taking pictures together. After we said goodbye, the supervisor informed us that usually they mostly sit around sad and quiet, and that we had no idea the joy we brought visiting and spending that short amount of time with them. Every volunteering activity we did was similarly impactful. One of the other ones was at Beit Magentza – a youth village where disadvantaged children can be taken in and educated, as well as taught that they’re wanted, and learn the valuable contribution each of them can give to the world. Hearing about the work done there, and the story of one of the women who worked there, nearly brought us to tears. It was so impactful that a couple of people on the trip got her contact information to potentially return there and volunteer for an extended period of time in the future. Earlier that day we’d painted some of the buildings on their grounds. This was a perfect example of how being with such an amazing and fun group made every activity the best time. As we painted, we played tons of music and actually finished early – which gave us time to buy Bamba down the street. ASB Haifa allowed us to see a different side of Israel, not often observed on other trips we’d taken. Learning more about different facets of the community and giving back to help truly made me feel more connected with Israel than I ever have before. |
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Rebecca Templeton, Northeastern University '23, is a Biology major and previously visited Israel with her Hillel's Birthright Israel trip.
TWO RIVERS |
April 6, 2019
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In Israel, there are two bodies of water connected by the Jordan River; the Sea of Galilee in the North and the Dead Sea in the South. The former is plentifully filled with fresh water which it receives from the Jordan and then distributes on its journey flowing southward, while the latter welcomes the water onto its salty shores. The Sea of Galilee is home to many species of fish and other creatures, whereas the Dead Sea is too salty to sustain almost any form of life. These bodies of water contribute to the beautiful and diverse geography of the Holy Land, and they can also offer us a thoughtful metaphor to guide our approach to service to others and the idea Tikkun Olam; in order thrive we must appreciate the blessings we receive and ensure that we give out positivity and humanity in return. On the CJP Alternative Spring Break service trip this March, I was given the opportunity to put these ideas into practice. Over the course of a week, several other trip participants from various New England universities and I visited multiple sites in Haifa and Jerusalem where we contributed to Israel’s network of Tikkun Olam. Some of the first sites we visited were the Nirim School, Beit HaGefen, and Moshav Nahalal. Each had their own purpose in aiding Israelis, be it by providing a tight-knight school community for children, fostering an environment for Haifa’s diverse population to co-exist through art and dialogue, or nurturing Israel’s land in order to produce fruits and vegetables to feed those who need it the most. For me, the most impressionable visit of the trip was to the Bustan Hamaayan community garden in Jerusalem’s Ein Karem neighborhood. When we arrived on site, our volunteering lead told us that this garden was once an unkept piece of land that was overgrown and not viable as a public space. In an effort to restore access to the land to prevent it from being bought by developers, a few neighbors came together to trim back the extensive overgrowth and make the space suitable for the community to utilize for social gatherings and nature exploration. I was really impressed with the passion and sense of the initiative these neighbors fostered just among themselves. As I helped clear a pathway to expand a walking trail, I felt that I was taking part in a collaborative effort to improve a public good in a very small yet very tangible way. On our way out of the park we encountered a group of young children and their families enjoying the area, and our volunteering lead told us that the these students attended a shared Jewish-Arab school. To see these students enjoying the park together perfectly rounded out the experience at the community garden because it exemplified the value and necessity of investing in preserving these communal spaces. Through the experiences of this trip, I have deepened my connection to Israel and its complexities. Moreover, I have put into practice the idea that caring for your community will yield prosperous results. Many of us have the privilege to travel to Israel to experience the vibrant culture and community. Just as the Sea of Galilee gives and receives its lifeline through the Jordan river, we must also be sure to remember to give back the fortunes which we receive. |
Lauren Rothschild, Northeastern University '20, participated on her Hillel's Volunteers for Israel program and CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa. She is involved with College Democrats of Northeastern University and College Democrats of Massachusetts.
VOLUNTEERING AT A SCHOOL |
April 1, 2019
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The CJP and Hillel Council of New England spring break was an eye opening experience to me and many other people on the trip. I was able to immerse myself into a part of Israel that I had never felt a connection to. From the moment we landed and said the shehecheyanu, I knew that this trip would be different. At the Nasim school, we got to meet children who were underprivileged, and many looked forward to meeting the group of Americans who volunteered there each day. From the moment we stepped foot into the school, each person in the group immediately bonded with a student, even with the language barrier. This was impactful because we were able to brighten the day of a child that does not get all the attention that they deserve at home. One of the best highlights of the trip was Harvesting kohlrabi. We picked a few tons of Kohlrabi, it ended up being enough to feed 400 families, which is amazing! I had never even heard of the vegetable before and now I know that it is something to be appreciated and can be used for many things. I enjoyed this trip so much, and I also loved the staff; they were super chill and funny, and kept great care of us. |
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Hannah Cooper, Clark University '20, participated on the Boston Onward Israel professional internship program and then returned to volunteer with the CJP ASB Haifa program.
ALTERNATIVE TRIP TO HAIFA |
March 29, 2019
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At the beginning of March, I had the opportunity to participate in CJP’s Alternative Spring Break with 19 other college students. I went on the trip with no real expectations, but left Israel with the desire to return and share the values with my Jewish communities in the Boston area learned throughout the trip. The trip exposed me to some new communities of Israel. As I had not previously visited Haifa, I became fascinated with the history and rich culture. As a first-generation immigrant myself, I understood and related to the struggle of Ethiopian Jews in Haifa. Learning and visiting organizations like the Nirim school gave me hope and happiness. The mission of the school and core values of teaching compassion through the care of animals by the students relate to my own Jewish values. Tikkun Olam, the Jewish value of making the world a better place, is a core value for many young Jews like myself. The opportunity to interact with students and learn about the Nirim school, tour multicultural art tour at the Beit Resler Community center, and pick kohlrabies that feed over 300 families in Nahalai with Leket Israel filled my heart with joy, hope, and inspiration. At times, I am overwhelmed by Anti-sematic events happening on my campus and city, but the Alternative Spring Break trip motivated me to be a catalyst for change and support within my own Jewish communities. I left Israel with new Jewish friends in Boston and Israel and the desire to return soon! |
Veronica Valencia, Wellesley College '19, is a member of the Intercampus Leadership Committee sponsored by Combined Jewish Philanthropies and the Consulate General of Israel to New England. Last year she participated on the Break the Hate Mission to Washington DC, and most recently visited Haifa as part of CJP's ASB program.
RETURN TO HAIFA
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March 23, 2019
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I found the information for the ASB to Israel completely by accident. I happened to check the spam folder in my email and there was an email from CJP all about this amazing opportunity to be in Israel for spring break, volunteering in Haifa and Jerusalem. I immediately applied and was all set to spend my break in Israel. Because I didn’t know very much about the program, I didn’t really know what to expect from the trip. I figured at the very least it would be a way for me to get back to Israel (I spent my spring semester last year studying at the University of Haifa). Ultimately, this trip ended up exceeding any expectation that I previously had, and I feel like I learned so much more about a city I thought I already knew so well. Obviously, I was very excited to go back to Haifa because I had made so many incredible memories there, but I was also excited to explore the organizations there that I never got the chance to learn about as a student there. One of my favorite experiences of the trip was visiting Nirim Elementary school in Haifa. This school is in a neighborhood in Haifa that is not considered to be one of the best and many of the students come from tough situations. I loved having the chance to speak with the principle of the school, Oded. His passion for his school and each of his students was contagious and I think it rubbed off on each and every one of us. As someone studying to become an elementary school teacher myself, I found his insights on the power of active education and believing in the students to be incredibly powerful. The neighborhood that Nirim was in reminded me a lot of the students that I work with in Worcester, and I found it fascinating to see how he dealt with this kind of population. If even half of the teachers, both in America and Israel, put as much passion, love, and dedication into their classrooms as Oded does, education might be more attainable and enjoyable for all kinds of students. Having the opportunity to return to Israel and give back was such a special experience for me. I think we made a connection with each of the organizations that we visited, and will remember these experiences for years to come. |
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Eliza Melzter, Clark University '19, is Captain of the Clark Women's Soccer Team and participated on her Hillel's Birthright Israel trip. She recently returned to volunteer with CJP's Alternative Spring Break mission in Haifa.
HAIFA IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES |
March 13, 2019
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On Birthright, I toured and learned about many aspects of Israel including the history, culture, and society, which included a day visit to a school in Haifa. During Onward Israel, I immersed myself in Haifa for a summer, experiencing independent life while working and exploring the city with great friends. At the conclusion of this action-packed summer, I was glum departing from a city I loved within a country that meant so much to me as I did not know when, or even if I would return. I had no conception I would be returning to my favorite city in the world within a year, nevertheless doing incredible things with a tight-knit group of twenty students (and one Israeli medic, Ori). Hearing about CJP’s Alternate Spring Break program and the engaging volunteering opportunities, coupled with time to explore and learn more about Israel, I knew my next experience in the Holy Land would be sooner than I ever expected. This trip had a variety of volunteering programs. Everything we did was unique and exciting. One day we volunteered on a farm, harvesting thousands of kohlrabies in a community garden which would be packaged and sent out to families in need. Another project involved us volunteering packing candy and snacks for a non-profit, who would sell them to raise money for underprivileged youth. We spent one afternoon painting fences bright colors and interacting with kids at the Beit Resler Community Center. One physical project involved lifting rocks and cutting down vegetation in order to reduce flooding in a nature preserve in Jerusalem. For all these projects it was satisfying observing the differences we were making. The most exciting and fulfilling volunteering we did was at the Nirim school in a disadvantaged neighborhood of Haifa. For four hours we painted colorful animals on the walls of the school, interacted with the birds, bunnies, chinchillas, and turtles at the school, while interacting with the kids. The excitement and enthusiasm of the children was one of the highlights of this trip. We played soccer, basketball, dodgeball, and even frisbee. Though we could not communicate with most of the children through language, we were able to connect with them through these activities, and by the time we had to leave they were giving us fist bumps and hugs. This trip was and IS incredibly special. Concerning volunteering trips like these, I have heard concerns along the lines of “why is money spent bringing you to Israel when it could be used on the organizations themselves.” While there is no denying money is necessary, many people are willing to donate money. Only a few are willing to donate their time. Throughout the ASB Haifa trip, Israelis inquired why we were volunteering in Israel instead of tanning in Miami (specifically Miami, this happened at least three times, they must like Miami. We responded, declaring we are here because we love Israel, and with it, the people. Volunteering our time and experiencing Haifa and Israel with a new perspective was an invaluable experience, and I am grateful we were able to make a positive difference in the lives of others along the way. |
Ariel Tynan, Northeastern University '22, participated on his Hillel's Birthright Israel trip and then the Boston Onward Israel professional internship program where he interned with artificial intelligence startup Augury. He returned to Haifa to volunteer with CJP's Alternative Spring Break mission.
VOLUNTEERING IN HAIFA |
March 20, 2018
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This past spring break I had the opportunity to volunteer in Haifa through CJP. It was an amazing learning experience both personally and professionally. I met so many people and made tons of new friends from the Boston area. I really appreciate that this trip was a good combination of hands-on work, interactions with locals, and learning about historical sites. Because of this, I had great exposure to Israeli culture, food, people, music, and history. This trip strengthened my connection to Israel and Jewish tradition. 
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Tikkun Olam (Reparing of the World) is one of my biggest Jewish values. It felt very good to know that I was making a difference in the Land and in the lives of others. Thank you CJP and donors for this unique experience. Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech haolam, shenatan lanu hizdamnut l'takein et ha olam. Blessed are You Adonai, for giving us the opportunity to repair the world. |
Emanuel Colón, Worcester State University '19, is one of 22 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where he is learning about Israeli culture and helping with community projects.
VOLUNTEERING IN THE HOMELAND 2016 |
March 15, 2016
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This wasn’t my first time in Israel. I had done it all before — hiked Masada, prayed at the Kotel, bargained a 30 shekel necklace down to 15 at the shuk, and taken a picture with the IDF soldier guarding my homeland from aggression. This trip was different. The people I interacted with were inspiring, the work I did was meaningful, and the connections I made to Eretz Israel will forever be engrained into my heart and my mind. |
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The overarching theme of this trip was Tikkun Olam — the Jewish concept of performing acts of random kindness to repair the world. Had I spent this spring break back in Miami, I would have been waking up every morning around 11 a.m. waiting until I gathered the motivation to go to the gym, and then go back home afterwards and slouch for the rest of the afternoon. On CJP’s alternative spring break, I was up every morning by 7 a.m. greeted by Israeli salad, shakshuka, and of course, the hummus. By 8:15 a.m. we were on a bus traveling towards a destination ready to work.
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One group we worked with was HaShomer HaChadash — a volunteer organization established to help farmers in Israel protect the vast amount of land they own from illegal seizure. As volunteers, we worked the land and cleared away any invasive plants and branches that would make it difficult for crops to grow. While we worked the land, Shlomo, a HaShomer HaChadash representative, asked us to think about why the Jews insisted on settling the land of Israel, rather than accept the Uganda plan that was offered to the Zionists in the 1902. As I swung my pickax and pulled away invasive weeds, I continued to think about this question, and the answer was trivial. Israel is our home, our permanent home. This is the land Abraham worked, the land that David and Solomon ruled over, and now, the land that Ben-Gurion proclaimed as the Jewish state. This is what differentiated all of our volunteer experiences from any other volunteerism I have done in the past. This is what motivated me and drove me throughout all of the other projects we participated in, and despite having calluses on my hands and bruises on my knees, I know the work I did was for our homeland.
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Another unique aspect of the trip were the many speakers and Israelis that contributed their time to relay their passion for Israel to us. In particular, Kenny Sachs, and our excellent tour guide, Lior. Both were the personification of the ambition, altruism, and chutzpah that is characteristic of the Israeli people. Kenny was a former IDF soldier, who chose to lay his roots in Israel. While serving in a base near Gaza, Kenny was severely injured in his knee and rushed to a hospital in Ashkelon. To this day, Kenny still suffers from this injury, however, he has not let it affect his commitment and passion for Israel. Today, Kenny is a father of 2 and high tech entrepreneur. Lior was our guide whose vast knowledge of Israeli and world history along with his ability to relate to a younger audience made this trip an extremely enjoyable learning experience. More importantly, Lior lead not just by words, but by action. Lior was working along us side by side. He didn’t tell us what Tikkun Olam meant, he showed us and this motivated the group to work harder and better. Lior was our token Israeli, not because he was the only one who held an Israeli passport, but because he personified what Israel is all about.
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Lior’s goodbye emphasized that there is one thing we are not and that is “tourists in Israel” because Israel is and will always be our homeland, therefore us coming to Israel is not tourism, but it is coming back home. My interactions with all of the people and the land that we worked reaffirmed this fact. I take away from this trip a renewed awareness and pride in my country, the only one that will always be welcoming of me and my people and will always be defending us against oppression and aggression. While I didn’t spend this past week lounging under a warm Floridian sun, I did something better and more meaningful — I went back home to help repair the world in the name of Tikkun Olam.
Daniel Croitoru, Northeastern University '17, is one of 22 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where he is learning about Israeli culture and helping with community projects.
A TRANSFORMATION IN ISRAEL |
March 14, 2016
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I just participated on a trip with CJP to Haifa and Jerusalem, volunteering on various farms, schools, and parks.
Throughout my life I have been taught about the importance of Israel and maintaining a Jewish state. I went to a Jewish high school and summer camp, so my life has been surrounded by Jewish people who love Israel. However, I never felt a strong connection. Three months ago I went on Birthright and visited the country for the first time in 12 years. Today, after my second time in Israel in a year, I returned with a different perspective. Working on the land that my ancestors dreamed of and great-grandparents advocated for created a sense of ownership that I have never felt. I am so grateful for CJP and all of the generous donors who made this trip possible. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to fall in love my country. |
Ronit Mandelkern, Northeastern University '19, is one of 22 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where she is learning about Israeli culture and helping with community projects.
IMPROVING LIFE IN HAIFA |
March 10, 2015
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After a four hour bus ride, a ten hour flight, and yet another couple hour bus ride, our group of 22 college Bostonians arrived tired and weary at the quiet oasis of Kibbutz Shomrat. Entering a quaint little room lined with wooden chairs and tables, warm colored table cloths, and poppy flowers, we were greeted with a warm meal of hummus, rice, and schnitzel. Soon after we found our beds in preparation for the full day ahead.
Today was our first full day of service. The first stop was Yemin Orde. Yemin Orde is a youth village that was originally founded for child Holocaust survivors, but now exists as a boarding school for mostly new immigrants who are considered "at risk youth." Many of these children have either left their families behind in their home countries or now live with their parent(s) in Israel, but attend Yemin Orde to get an education while their parents grow accustomed to the new pace of a foreign land and society. The message the school shares with their children is reminiscent of the message of the Jewish community at large. It is okay to be sad, but where do you go from here? You are not just needy, but are needed. And thus there is a brighter future to look towards and to work for. Our Boston group exemplified that message as we toiled and worked the land in order to build Yemin Orde a terrace so that the school will be able to grow its own vegetable garden. Our second service of the day with Shomer Hadash ("New Guardians") contained a similar message. Shomer Hadash helps Israeli famers guard their land and their livestock. There have recently been thefts as well as destruction of the protective fences that keep these livestock contained. We were able to contribute to Shomer Hadash's mission by helping them build a rock wall in place of the wire fence that had been cut. It is now 11:30 and we will soon go to sleep for tomorrow's day of hard work, but first, some bonding time! |
Gabrielle Fischler, Boston University '15, is one of 22 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where she is learning about Israeli culture and helping with community projects.
A REWARDING SPRING BREAK |
March 12, 2014
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When we first arrive in Israel, we hop onto a tour bus resembling the one I was on for Birthright. This was when the flashbacks started to begin. We started driving towards our new home for the next two nights: Kibbutz Shomrat. We arrived just in time for dinner and at this time I realized just how similar this kibbutz was to the other one I stayed at on Birthright. We ate, performed an icebreaker, went over our plans for the next day, and got some much-needed sleep in preparation for what lay ahead.
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The first day of volunteering involved painting, playing, and doing arts and crafts work with elementary school kids at a local school in Haifa. I found it pretty difficult trying to communicate with these little kids as the only language they were familiar with was Hebrew. However, after some time I realized that verbal language was not required to send a message to these kids. Facial expressions such as smiling and actions such as running around with them can be as powerful if not more so than words. This was especially evident when one of the kids presented me with a bracelet he had made himself. I felt truly gracious to be the recipient of such a gift as I knew how much it meant to the little boy. Our next day involved helping out at an urban community garden in Haifa. The neighborhood was not the greatest and I could sense the garden was an important resource for those who used it. Activities performed here included: tilling dirt in preparation for planting, mulching pathways among the garden, and creating a mosaic on the walls. This being my first real volunteering experience, I was shocked at how much I actually enjoyed putting in the effort to help out. It felt really nice helping out to directly enhance the quality of these Israelis’ lives. It was immediately apparent in their reactions. After this activity, we traveled to Jerusalem. |
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The proceeding day encompassed our final day of community service. We traveled to Beit Yalin, the first house built outside the Old City of Jerusalem. Here we were introduced to several of the people involved with maintaining the house as well as the backyard/activity area. The task I chose to undergo involved chopping down a dead tree with a chainsaw! When I heard of this option, it was hard for me to say no. The other people in the group performed similar landscaping-type jobs including trimming shrubs, clearing sticks from areas, and other gardening tasks.
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The man who assisted me went by the name of Amit. As we were working to cut down the tree, I began questioning Amit about his history; where he lives, what he does now, what unit in the IDF he is in, what his plans to do afterwards are. I found it very interesting learning about his life and what else intrigues him. He mentioned how grateful he is for having all 23 of us there helping him and the others out. He indicated how long it would have taken to achieve what all of us did in a matter of hours. This was very rewarding to hear. After this experience, we had lunch in the “shuk” and prepared for Shabbat later that evening.
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Despite the language and cultural barriers between us, I felt a strong sense of connectedness and unity among everyone that I don’t believe would have existed without the volunteering aspect. This experience in Israel focused a lot more on the people and sub-communities themselves within the bigger community of Israel. I am extremely thankful for being handed this opportunity on such a short notice. This trip has strengthened the connection I have with Israel and has created bonds with its people that I hope to solidify in years to come. I just wish it lasted longer than six days!
Jake Ascher, Northeastern University '16, traveled to Israel with his school's Taglit-Birthright Israel trip and is one of 20 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where he is learning about Israeli culture and helping with community projects in the northern city.
HELPING FOR GOOD |
March 10, 2014
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After a long and bumpy El Al flight, I anxiously awaited to begin my Alternative Spring Break experience in northern Israel. One of the highlights was helping out at a local elementary school in Haifa.
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My job was to help paint games on the ground with the students, such as hopscotch and a game that, when translated into English, means “Land and Sea.” The kids were clearly excited and thankful to have us there, and it was extremely easy to connect with them, even through a language barrier. We played “duck-duck-goose,” football (aka soccer), and other games the kids came up with. In the end, seeing our hard work put to good use as the kids played hopscotch with smiling faces made it an amazing experience.
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The last time I went to Israel, I felt exclusively like a tourist. Coming on this trip, I wanted to feel connected to Israel on a deeper level, not just because I like the stereotypical touristy sites, like Ben Yehuda Pedestrian Mall or Machaneh Yehuda Shuk. The opportunity to volunteer in both Haifa and Jerusalem allowed me to see the real Israel, and feel like a part of the country rather than a tourist.
The fact that those kids will be playing with the hopscotch board we made for years to come is an amazing feeling. I am so thankful for the opportunity to visit and volunteer in Israel, and I can’t wait to go back! |
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Lindsay Evans, Northeastern '17, is one of 20 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where she is learning about Israeli culture and helping with community projects in the northern city.
EVERY SECOND COUNTS |
March 25, 2013
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Not a second was wasted during our last day in Israel. We began our day at the Menachem Begin Museum in Jerusalem. Through videos, artifacts, and quotes, the museum gave insight into Prime Minister Begin -- as an influential Zionist and politician, and as a human being who held himself to a high code of ethics. After visiting the museum, I gained a level of admiration for Begin due to his strength in maintaining the integrity of his personal code.
We then left Jerusalem, driving up north to a farm owned by a patent lawyer who grows produce to be given to the poor for free. At the farm, members of Leket, an organization which harvests crops to distribute to soup kitchens around the country, told us we would be picking radishes. After a quick radish-picking tutorial, we went to the fields. There was something satisfying about the physical labor, harvesting fresh food which would wind up on the seder tables of those in need. From Leket, we traveled to Neot Kdumim, a park up further north. Here we met with David Kramer, director of the NU Campaign, which educates about Israel through t-shirts inspired by real people and events. David gave us the opportunity to create a t-shirt design. The t-shirts will be produced and distributed to Boston area campuses, so stay tuned to get a shirt! We had a few minutes to walk around the park and enjoy the wondrous views and beautiful foliage. As the sun set, we went to the park’s dining hall to eat dinner. After our final meal with the staples of humus and Israeli salad, we hopped on the bus and drove to the airport. After checking in, security, and lounging around the airport, it was time to get on the plane. With each step that brought me closer to the plane, my stomach sank closer to the floor. I did not want to leave. As much as each step hurt, I made my way to my seat. I knew, I know, that this was not my last trip to Israel. This was not goodbye, only until next time. |
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Avram Ellner, Tufts '16, is one of 20 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where he is learning about Israeli culture and helping to build up the Carmel forest.
SHABBAT IN JERUSALEM |
March 24, 2013
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We began Friday with a trip to Beit Yalin, the first plot of land bought by Jews outside the Old City of Jerusalem. After learning about the history of the plot (at various points it was used for farming, an inn, and a house), we set to work. Our job was to maintain the gardens that now exist on the land, which was designated a national historic site in the early 2000s. Groups took on tasks like weeding, mulching, and cleaning a path to a stream that is still used as a mikveh. We never actually found the mikveh, but hopefully the next ASB group can take over where we left off.
Our next stop was Machane Yehuda, the shuk. The shuk was packed with Israelis buying last minute groceries before Shabbat. In addition to treating ourselves to falafel, rugelach, schwarma, traditional Iraqi cuisine, and much more, we each picked up a small snack for the group that we would share that night. The group returned to the hotel and everyone had time to get ready for Shabbat. We lit candles and then split up between two shuls for Kabbalat Shabbat. The melodies and atmosphere were beautiful at both synagogues. There were also multiple chance encounters with friends from home -- only in Jerusalem! We returned to Agron for a kosher for Passover dinner (preview for next week!), during which we ate our snacks from the shuk: strawberries, candy, pastries, passion fruit, halva, candied nuts, and more. We learned a niggun and played a few funny games. We slept in a bit the next morning, then talked about the meaning of Shabbat. We then had free time till 4:00. Part of the group used this time to walk through the Old City to the Kotel. |
Before the end of Shabbat, Kenny Sachs spoke to us about his experiences making Aliya from New Jersey, serving in the IDF, and being severely injured in a terrorist attack on his army base in Gaza in 2001. His story was extremely moving, and at the end of the talk we had the chance to ask Kenny questions about his experiences. After a windy Havdalah in the Agron courtyard, we walked to Emek Refaim and had a free evening to eat, hang out, and explore the area. It was a fun and relaxing day!
Jacqueline Shechter, Harvard '14, is one of 20 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where she is learning about Israeli culture and helping to build up the Carmel forest.
GLORIOUS HAIFA |
March 23, 2013
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Our final day in Haifa was glorious! After loading the bus and offering a teary goodbye to home sweet Kibbutz Shomrat, we headed to nearby Haifa. We went to a community garden. At the garden, located in urban Bat Galim, we met Erez. Erez works with local children in after school programs in the garden.
We split up into several groups to help beautify the garden. One group worked on setting up an irrigation system. They dug small areas to hold the pipes and then connected them to a central irrigation system. Another group built wire structures to hold compost from the garden. Our work on the garden concluded with communal brick making. Two members of our trip mixed the brick materials with their bare feet! We then all prepared the bricks for the children to build a wall around the garden next week. After a delicious falafel feast, we boarded the bus to Jerusalem. Most of the group took naps on the drive south and awoke to the iconic Jerusalem stone off in the distance. The roads into the city were lined with American flags to greet us...or maybe Obama. After situating in our hostel, we had an informative lecture about the Arab-Israeli conflict from Iftach Burman, the founder of Middle Eastern Learning Academy. He outlined a brief history of the conflict and his interpretation of both sides' narratives. He helped to clarify many questions the group had. Our days ended with a free night on Ben Yehuda Street. We indulged in all of our Israeli food cravings for dinner and experienced a true Jerusalem night on the town! |
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Emma Goldstein, Tufts '14, is one of 20 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where she is learning about Israeli culture and helping to build up the Carmel forest.
A FULL DAY IN HAIFA |
March 21, 2013
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On the bus ride to our first stop of our second full day in Israel, we were encouraged to sit with a new friend and learn about each other's respective universities and connections to Israel. We soon arrived at Yemin Orde, a boarding house for at-risk youth from different immigrant populations in Israel.
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After a tour of their facilities, we began our first community service component of the day at the school's goat farm. Like the early Halutzim we were working the land of Israel, only instead of planting trees we were pulling them up! As it turns out, the pine trees often planted in Israel are quite invasive, so we spent an hour or so pulling up young pine saplings around the farm to make room for more indigenous species like almond and olive. We then planted lettuce in the farm's greenhouse, which we found out was first built by the students in last year's alternative spring break trip. It was really rewarding to think we were continuing their work at Yemin Orde.
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After a quick lunch that proved there's no such thing as too much schnitzel, we met with firemen from a Haifa fire department who told us about their experience during the Carmel forest fire in 2010. After an enlightening discussion, the firemen showed off their equipment and trucks, and sprayed us with their fire hose. Take that, dry clothing!
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We then piled back onto the bus, a bit moist but no worse for wear, and headed to the University of Haifa. After a brief survey of Haifa atop the 30th floor viewing room and taking a picture overlooking the beautiful city, we headed back to our kibbutz. We had dinner, and then a group discussion about various "dilemmas" relating to the often difficult balance between Israel's democratic Jewish nature. We then sat underneath the stars and sang Jewish folk songs, and we're actually not joking there at all.
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Itai Thaler and Matt Haimowitz, both Tufts '14, are two of 20 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where they are learning about Israeli culture and helping to build up the Carmel forest.
ISRAELI BREAKFAST & THE BAHA'I GARDENS |
March 20, 2013
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It's only the second day and I already am having such a fun and equally fulfilling experience! We started off with a lovely Israeli breakfast (I absolutely LOVE cottage cheese and salad in the morning) and then headed off to the first volunteer site.
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The Kindergarten school of Leo Baeck provides schooling for children of low economic neighborhoods between the ages of six months to 5 years old.
Our project was to design and paint a mural on the wall of the younger children's playground. This project was super fun for many reasons. It allowed us volunteers to be creative and artistic, while getting to make meaningful connections with the children. The kids were eager to help and their enthusiasm could only be matched by the mess they left behind (I left covered in paint!). |
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They made us sandwiches, gave us chocolate and played games with us for a bit after the mural was finished. As a parting gift, the Haifa/Boston representative Jenny, gave every volunteer a keychain with a Star of David (to represent the Haifa/Boston connection), a heart (we all share one heart), and a Hamsa (to watch over us).
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We then traveled to Ramat Yochanan to volunteer with Shomer Hadash. The guards of Shomer Hadash do extraordinary work for farmers. They volunteer to help guard and secure farmlands that have problems in the past with local thieves trying to steal their livestock and damage property. As soon as we got there they put us to work! All of us assisted in clearing the pastures of prickly weeds so the cows would have more room to roam around and eat. To be completely honest I'm not sure if I would be very good hired help on a farm but the guards were extremely nice and thankful for help even from the likes of a city girl.
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On a side note, at the end of our day, we had five minutes to say goodbye to the guards we met, and get ready to board the bus. I took advantage of this time to do something I wanted to do as soon as I stepped for in the kibbutz: PET A BABY GOAT (also known as a "kid"). With a little teamwork from Amit - one of the guards - I was able to catch the cutest one! It definitely the highlight of my day! :)
Talia Holzman Castellands, UMass-Amherst '15, is one of 20 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where she is learning about Israeli culture and helping to build up the Carmel forest.
ALTERNATIVE SPRING BREAK IN HAIFA |
March 19, 2013
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We arrived in Israel after a ten hour flight, which we slept for most of because we began a full day of exploring Israel as soon as we got off the plane. When the plane landed everyone cheered and clapped. We were all so excited to have arrived in Israel!
First we traveled to the kibbutz were we will stay during our time in Haifa. We had some time to change out of the clothes we wore on the plane, which I took advantage of to explore the kibbutz. |
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Next was a hike in the Carmel mountains. It was beautiful and sunny outside and the mountains were unbelievably gorgeous. Hiking is one of my favorite activities in Israel and was such a great way to start the trip. We got to appreciate the natural beauty of the area we are going to work to restore.
After the hike, we toured the Intel office in Haifa and learned about Israel's tech scene and startup culture. They showed us how Intel chips - essentially the brain of computers and smartphones - are created and tested, and told us about research into making computer chips run faster. It was incredibly interesting and exciting to tour such a crucial part of the Haifa tech scene. |
We ended the day with dinner back at the kibbutz - schnitzel and pita and hummus and fresh vegetables and Israeli salad - the food in Israel is consistently amazing! Then we had some down time where we relaxed and got ready for the rest of the week here.
Shana Friedman, Tufts '15, is one of 20 participants on CJP's Alternative Spring Break in Haifa, where she is learning about Israeli culture and helping to build up the Carmel forest.