United Synagogue’s Tribe unveils new 11-month gap year programme

United Synagogue is hoping to attract around 20 teenagers for its new 11-month gap year in Israel starting in September of next year.

The programme, called Gallim (Hebrew for ‘waves’), will be based in Tel Aviv and surrounding areas, with work placements with hospitals, nursery and museums four days a week.

When they are not volunteering, participants can expect to hike to the Kinneret and in Eilat, ski in Mount Hermon, stay on a Kibbutz or join shabbat programmes in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Sderot.

Volunteers will live independently in an apartment, cooking for themselves, under the guidance of group mentors, in what organisers said is a chance to learn Hebrew, experience daily-life in the Jewish state, and contribute to Israeli society.

The programme, which costs £9,999 including flights, accommodation, travel and insurance, is being run with the Israeli Volunteer Association – the largest of its kind in Israel.

Tribe’s Tamara Jacobson, head of operations at United Synagogue’s youth division, said the group was “thrilled” to be launching the programme.

“We cannot wait for this new programme to begin as we engage, educate and inspire the next generation with a love of Judaism and Israel,” she added.