Mystical Roots in Volunteer Experience

The experiences which come from Livnot U'lihibunot are enriching for the soul as well as for the volunteer. Although geared toward young Jews looking for their spiritual identity, there are never any moments where one is felt pressured or pushed into a religious environment. The spiritual aspects to the program include self-introspection and background on different spiritual practices, such as Kabbalah. Tzfar, the city the program takes place in, is the place of origin for Kabbalah and is therefore deeply rooted in the mystical practices, which one can feel from a mile away. The volunteer work I completed while there included working with Ethiopian kids by teaching them English, re-building bomb shelters, incorporating environmental concerns by excavating ancient green spaces which are now being converted into parks, interacting with seniors at an elderly home in Israel, re-constructing a resident's bathroom after an explosion had occurred, hiking into waterfalls, and other wonderful causes.
The program is a wonderful value and should be considered by anyone looking to have a thoughtful, fulfilling experience. Ideal for the adventerous traveler.