Livnot U'lehibanot - Volunteer Programs in Israel

This might be the cheesiest thing to say ever, but I'm going to say it anyway with the utmost sincerity: Livnot U'Lehibanot is a once in a lifetime experience that lasts for a lifetime. 

I cannot find enough words to describe the positive impact Livnot has made on my life. The volunteer experiences leave you feeling like you are a part of the history of an already ancient city whether it is building a park, hanging out with new Ethiopian immigrants, or doing arts and crafts with enigmatic people older than the state of Israel herself! The integration with locals makes you feel at home and the staff right on campus truly becomes your family. The Livnot experience doesn't have off hours when you arrive back to campus from a day of hiking or volunteering, it goes with you to lunch where the local Yemenite pizza maker gives you a discount because "Oh! You're with Livnot!!" Let's not forget the great hikes, which leave you with not only a deeper appreciation for the land of Israel, but also for yourself because we never miss an opportunity to learn and grow along the way. 

Livnot won't just follow you to your lunch break in Tzfat, it will follow you back home to your community, and thanks to alumni connecting initiatives, you can be connected to past Livnoters all around the world and maybe even right next door. That is why I like to call this program 'leave-not'...because (and here comes the cheese again) the experience stays with you forever.

My summer at Livnot has forever broadened my definition of Judaism and reshaped the way I identify with the Jewish community. Living in Tzfat, engaging in discussions about kabbalah, and keeping an open mind have all led me to a new understanding of what it means for me to be a Jew. There is no wrong or right way to approach ones spirituality, there's no such thing as a 'good Jew' or a 'bad Jew'. Being Jewish is a personal journey of discovery for each of us to embark upon, allowing for the development of a unique Judaism within each of us. It's your Judaism to explore, and no one can tell you you're doing it wrong, because as long as you're asking questions and seeking answers, you are in search of something bigger than yourself and that exploration is what it means to be Jewish.

I have to say with 100% certainty that this program is one of the best ways to experience Israel for someone who doesn't have much connection to their Jewish roots. The combination of awesome hikes (led by down to earth and extremely knowledgeable guides), meaningful community service, and very open Jewish experiences such as discussions, Shabbat experiences, and workshops was perfect for me. The staff is fun, knowledgeable, and always available to suggest (or join you for) awesome activities and the location is absolutely gorgeous. An off-the-beaten-track, meaningful way to experience Israel that will undoubtably leave you with new friends and insights. I couldn't recommend it more!

At Livnot U'lehibunot you will get a very unique Israel experience. The length of the program is idea, not too short but long enough to give you a sense of what if feels like to live in the land of Israel.
Livnot is a perfect combination of what most young jewish people need to experience in Israel.
Living in one of the most mystic and historic cities of Israel, Zefad, you get to immerse in a unique community while volunteering and learning from the staff and artists of the city. Every week you will get to experience the land through hikes that go beyond expectations. As opposed to many of the programs that take you through Israel, this one focuses on helping you identify with your Judaism and roots. It is not only a journey on the outside, but a learning experience about the self. And every experience is about togetherness, and community. You will sleep, hike, eat, cook, wash, volunteer, dance, sing, study, and learn all together, like a family.

I was looking for a summer experience that would really connect me to Israel, and this program fit perfectly. From rebuilding homes and ancient ruins to hiking to simply watching the inspiring sunset every night, Livnot U'lehibunot was just what I was looking for. The staff was amazing, and I was really able to connect with everyone on a personal and spiritual level. I hope I will be back soon

I spent 4 weeks in Tzfat Israel at the Livnot campus as part of the Galilee Fellowship and had an amazing experience. Through the hiking, cooking, community involvement, spiritual development, and jewish learning I not only grew as a person, but was truly able to have an awesome time with the people around me.

Livnot was an amazing experience that I chose to participate in after my Birthright trip was over. I knew I wanted to extend my stay in Israel, and Livnot was the perfect choice for me. We did volunteer work around the community that was fun and laid-back, and I met great people and learned so much.

We went as part of a group for community service from University of Miami and had a fantastic time. It was a great opportunity for people from diverse backgrounds to find out more about people living in israel and to meet others and to hike the land. It really was the perfect combination. What made the program extra special was the phenomenal staff. Thank you