Livnot U'lehibanot - Volunteer Programs in Israel

I had always heard about Livnot, but was not very keen on the idea of working and hiking, but I went for the experience to experience Tzfat and the north. Although the Volunteering was hard at times, it gave me a sense of community, that I was a part of something and I helped for the building of the future.

I was also lucky to go on a 2/3 day hike. Although I did not want to go, and I was struggling and in pain during the hike. Reaching the end, and the experience that you accomplish something that you never thought you would have done was amazing. When on a hike there is not much to do, so you talk, and on this hike I got to practice my Hebrew, and I got to know many conversations with the people on the programme.

Amazing experience for young Jewish adults who want to explore their Jewish heritage. Stimulating, envigorating, very challenging both mentally and physically (not hard, but challenging work). Lifelong friends and a home forever in Israel (can stay on the campus whenever in the area)

Livnot is a great place aiming to rebuild the historical city of Tzvat. I would recommend this program to anyone trying to really make an impact in rebuilding Israel.

The title of this review is not a hyperbole. Tzfat is a truly magical place that just came alive with the positively amazing group of people that I encountered at Livnot. As soon as I arrived, I felt completely welcome and never once felt alienated or "not religious enough" or anything like that. My whole life I've always lived in the extreme Jewish minority, so being in a place where everyone else was Jewish was a very powerful experience for me. For once, I was asking the questions instead of answering them. I learned so much about myself and my faith during my trip at Livnot. The hikes were unreal in their beauty, and I even jumped off a small waterfall! (it was terrifying). Our guide, Michael, was marvelous - he is one of the best storytellers I've ever met. Alon, our program coordinator, is also amazing storyteller and held us captivated on countless occasions. The community service component of the program was enjoyable as well, even though it often included a decent amount of manual labor (weeding, etc.). The best community service trip was to the Ethiopian absorption center, where we got to play with maybe fifty kids (they kicked our butts at soccer). The most amazing experience I had at Livnot was the overnight desert hike - I've never seen so many stars in my entire life. I can't even articulate how much this trip resonated with me. I hope you all go there and experience it yourself!!!

Livnot is a wonderful organization which thought me a lot about my Jewish heritage. The program has an amazing staff who are always willing to help and teach. Not only did I get to learn about the beautiful landscape of Israel and Judaism, but also got practical experience by doing community service. The food was also amazing!

At first I was very hesitant about going to this program. I thought it would be something that I wouldn't have a lot of freedom, it would be religion based, and it would be the worst experience of my life. (I just wanted a place to stay in Israel at the time) After about 30 minutes I felt at home. I immediately began to realize that everything I thought this program consisted of was completely wrong. The week that I spent at Livnot was the most memorable week of my entire life. I am not saying this to hype up the program. I am absolutely sincere with this review and I hope that you take the time to read this because I wish someone would have told me a little more about their experience with this program. I am not an outdoors person at all but I found myself pining to get a chance to go hiking and learn all about the landscapes of this region.I even had the chance to jump off a cliff into a fresh water pond. It was so awesome! To sum this up I don't think I will ever do anything as wonderful and life changing as I did when I was at Livnot that one week in June. I strongly recommend this program to anyone who loves adventure, culture, friendship, and wants to have the time of their life.

Livnot is a wonderful organization filled with amazing teachers and mentors. I learned practical things like tiling and grouting as well as more beautiful ideas about Judaism. The hikes were also wonderful and so pretty.

I had a lot of fun it was great! I would recommend it to all my friends, it is affordable with a great living space! The staff are very friendly and helpful and over all it was very enjoyable! Keep it up!