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General FAQs
Why should I choose Jewish National Fund’s Volunteer Vacation?
Jewish National Fund has been running trips to Israel for over 20 years. We have successfully met the needs of young professionals who want to experience Israel by volunteering. We find a balance on our trips between independent time and group activities. Through JNF’s partnerships across Israel, our participants are given access to different types of volunteerism which may include: community building, helping the environment, working with children, supporting people with special needs, or assisting minority groups.
How much does the trip cost?
A minimum donation of $250 is required to hold your spot on the trip. Additionally, you are responsible for either fundraising or giving a minimum of $1,800 which must be complete by May 22nd, 2022. All money raised and given will go towards JNF’s Go North initiative. Once you reach your fundraising minimum, JNF is committed to sponsoring your trip to Israel, including, accommodations, most meals, and ground transportation in Israel. Participants are responsible for their own flights to and from Israel. Although JNF covers most expenses, we recommend you bring spending money for snacks and activities at your own leisure.
Are donations tax deductible?
All donations made towards an individual’s fundraising goal are tax-deductible (note that this may not include any deposit fees that may be required to hold your spot).
Do you offer scholarships?
We do not offer scholarships for Volunteer Vacation since an important component of this experience is fundraising and learning the importance of philanthropy. See Fundraising Information & Tips
Can I go early or extend my trip?
Yes! You are welcome to come early as long as you meet the group on the first day of the trip at the designated meeting place and time. You are also welcome to extend your trip as well. You will be responsible for getting yourself to and from the airport as well as accommodations prior to or following the trip.
What does a typical day look like? Do you have a sample itinerary?
Volunteering opportunities may include, but are not limited to: building, painting, harvesting, planting, pruning, and/or working with children. A detailed itinerary will be available a couple of months prior to the trip. Our main focus is volunteering, but we do have other activities during the trip. They may include tours relevant to the work of JNF, team building activities, hikes, and Shabbat-friendly activities. There will be free time in the evenings.
Can I go on Volunteer Vacation if I’ve already participated on Birthright Israel?
Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it. Volunteer Vacation is not intended as an introduction to Israel. While you may join us even if you have not previously been to Israel, you need to be aware that this is not a typical touring trip. We concentrate our efforts on one region in Israel and make the most of our volunteer time there. For those who have never been to Israel before we encourage you to extend your trip if possible or participate in Birthright or another more traditional tour at some point. Since Volunteer Vacation is only 6 nights in Israel, you will still be eligible to participate on Birthright Israel if you are under the age of 32.
What are the safety precautions?
We operate under extensive safety precautions and have developed a program that is as safe, secure, meaningful, and fun as possible.
What kind of religious experience will I have on this trip?
Neither Jewish National Fund nor Volunteer Vacation is affiliated with any specific denomination of Judaism. We ask that our participants respect each other and not force their views on other participants during our time together in Israel. All provided meals are certified Kosher. During Shabbat, we respect the day of rest and do not have any mandatory activities that require travel.
Do I need a cell phone? Where can I order one?
A cell phone is not necessary for the week but many participants like to have one. One option is to bring your own and make arrangements ahead of time with your local carrier to be able to use it in Israel. Service can be very expensive if you are using 3G or 4G unless you have activated an international plan through your wireless carrier. Wi-fi access will be limited during the day but will be available in the evenings when we are back at our accommodations. The other option is to rent a sim card or cell phone. If you choose to rent a sim card or cell phone we suggest making arrangements before you leave.
Travel FAQs
What do I need to pack for Volunteer Vacation?
The Necessities: In Israel, constant hydration and protection from the sun is a top priority. Because of this, a water bottle, hat, and sunscreen are important to bring especially as we will be going in the summer. You want to be comfortable: make sure to bring sturdy shoes and clothing that you don’t mind getting dirt, dust, or paint on.
Baggage: Because you will be loading your luggage on and off of the bus and responsible for maneuvering your baggage at the airports, it is essential to pack in something you are comfortable carrying. Baggage limits are usually 50 pounds or under, so we recommend bringing a suitcase or duffel on wheels. Additionally, it is a good idea to pack a backpack to carry around your belongings.
Packing List: Summers in Israel are extremely hot although up North it can get cooler in the evenings. Be prepared for warm weather during the day and bring layers for nights. You won’t be doing any laundry during the trip.
Before browsing the packing list below, it pays to keep in mind:
• Pack an extra set of clothing and toiletries in your carry on in case your luggage arrives later than you do.
• Bring all your medications with you in your carryon luggage.
• Work gloves are a necessity for the program. We will be working with dirt, paint and tools, so this protection is very important for each participant.
• The recommended clothing amounts here are based on past participants. We encourage you to check the current weather and your itinerary and decide what suits you best.
• Passport + a passport photocopy in a different bag for safekeeping.
Clothing:
• 5 Work shirts
• 3 Pairs of work pants
• 1 Pair closed-toe work shoes
• 1 Pair of sneakers
• 1 Pair of work gloves (lightweight gardening gloves do not have enough protection)
• 1 Long-sleeve shirt
• 10 Pairs of underwear
• 7-10 Pairs of socks
• 1 Nice Shabbat outfit
• 1 Swimsuit
• 1 Sweatshirt
• 1 Fleece/Light Jacket
• Pajamas
Miscellaneous Items
• Money for personal spending
• Camera and accessories
• Day bag (for day trips/hikes)
• Cellphone and accessories
• Headphones
• Hat
• Travel alarm clock
• Sunglasses
• Water bottle
• Extra batteries
• Israel travel adapters and converters for electronics
• Prescription meds/Over the counter meds (advil, antihistamine, tums, dayquil, etc)
• Wet wipes
• Warm hat/gloves/scarf
Toiletries: (Tip: Make sure you pack your toiletries over 3 oz. in your luggage and not your carry-on so they don’t get thrown out on the way!)
• Shampoo + Conditioner
• Body soap
• Toothbrush + Toothpaste
•Deodorant
• Hairbrush
• Sunscreen
• Razor
• Facewash
• Tissues
Airplane Backpack (Carry-on Bag):
• Passport
• Copy of Passport
• Snacks
• Electronics
• Change of clothes (enough for 1 day)
• Basic toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, chapstick)
• Journal
• Airplane Pillow
• Sweatshirt
• Prescription Meds (It’s a great idea to bring these on the plane with you in case any luggage gets lost, you will have these with you)
Extra Ideas:
• Plastic/ziploc Bags: Plastic bags may come in handy.
• Plane Pillow: The flight is around 12 hours so make sure you’re super comfortable! A plane pillow may help you be more comfortable on this long trip and facilitate sleeping, which is something you might lack on the trip.
• Music Speakers: There’s many times where you are getting ready or hanging and you may want to add an element of fun with bringing music speakers to play your favorite songs on.
Baggage: Because you will be loading your luggage on and off of the bus and responsible for maneuvering your baggage at the airports, it is essential to pack in something you are comfortable carrying. Baggage limits are usually 50 pounds or under, so we recommend bringing a suitcase or duffel on wheels. Additionally, it is a good idea to pack a backpack to carry around your belongings.
Packing List: Summers in Israel are extremely hot although up North it can get cooler in the evenings. Be prepared for warm weather during the day and bring layers for nights. You won’t be doing any laundry during the trip.
Before browsing the packing list below, it pays to keep in mind:
• Pack an extra set of clothing and toiletries in your carry on in case your luggage arrives later than you do.
• Bring all your medications with you in your carryon luggage.
• Work gloves are a necessity for the program. We will be working with dirt, paint and tools, so this protection is very important for each participant.
• The recommended clothing amounts here are based on past participants. We encourage you to check the current weather and your itinerary and decide what suits you best.
• Passport + a passport photocopy in a different bag for safekeeping.
Clothing:
• 5 Work shirts
• 3 Pairs of work pants
• 1 Pair closed-toe work shoes
• 1 Pair of sneakers
• 1 Pair of work gloves (lightweight gardening gloves do not have enough protection)
• 1 Long-sleeve shirt
• 10 Pairs of underwear
• 7-10 Pairs of socks
• 1 Nice Shabbat outfit
• 1 Swimsuit
• 1 Sweatshirt
• 1 Fleece/Light Jacket
• Pajamas
Miscellaneous Items
• Money for personal spending
• Camera and accessories
• Day bag (for day trips/hikes)
• Cellphone and accessories
• Headphones
• Hat
• Travel alarm clock
• Sunglasses
• Water bottle
• Extra batteries
• Israel travel adapters and converters for electronics
• Prescription meds/Over the counter meds (advil, antihistamine, tums, dayquil, etc)
• Wet wipes
• Warm hat/gloves/scarf
Toiletries: (Tip: Make sure you pack your toiletries over 3 oz. in your luggage and not your carry-on so they don’t get thrown out on the way!)
• Shampoo + Conditioner
• Body soap
• Toothbrush + Toothpaste
•Deodorant
• Hairbrush
• Sunscreen
• Razor
• Facewash
• Tissues
Airplane Backpack (Carry-on Bag):
• Passport
• Copy of Passport
• Snacks
• Electronics
• Change of clothes (enough for 1 day)
• Basic toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, chapstick)
• Journal
• Airplane Pillow
• Sweatshirt
• Prescription Meds (It’s a great idea to bring these on the plane with you in case any luggage gets lost, you will have these with you)
Extra Ideas:
• Plastic/ziploc Bags: Plastic bags may come in handy.
• Plane Pillow: The flight is around 12 hours so make sure you’re super comfortable! A plane pillow may help you be more comfortable on this long trip and facilitate sleeping, which is something you might lack on the trip.
• Music Speakers: There’s many times where you are getting ready or hanging and you may want to add an element of fun with bringing music speakers to play your favorite songs on.
What else do I need to know?
• Make Sure to Bring Enough Clothing: You will not be able to do any laundry on the trip so make sure you bring enough clothing, especially undergarments and socks.
• Do Not Bring Anything Valuable: We suggest you do not bring any valuables on the trip with you. The trip is constantly on the move throughout Israel so it is easy for items to get lost or forgotten.
• Have a Safe Spot for your Passport: It is important you know where your passport is at all times. Make sure you put your passport in a safe spot within your luggage and do not move it. This will ensure you do not lose it on the trip.
• Power Adapters: Don’t forget power adapters otherwise you won’t be able to use anything you bring that’s electronic. Israel has different outlets than America so it’s important to get the adapters so your electronics work!
• Power Converters: If you have things such as blow dryers, hair straighteners, electric razors, etc. a power converter will be necessary in order to use these items! The electrical current in Israel differs from America; you will want a converter that will change the electric current from 110 volts to 220 volts.
• Do Not Bring Anything Valuable: We suggest you do not bring any valuables on the trip with you. The trip is constantly on the move throughout Israel so it is easy for items to get lost or forgotten.
• Have a Safe Spot for your Passport: It is important you know where your passport is at all times. Make sure you put your passport in a safe spot within your luggage and do not move it. This will ensure you do not lose it on the trip.
• Power Adapters: Don’t forget power adapters otherwise you won’t be able to use anything you bring that’s electronic. Israel has different outlets than America so it’s important to get the adapters so your electronics work!
• Power Converters: If you have things such as blow dryers, hair straighteners, electric razors, etc. a power converter will be necessary in order to use these items! The electrical current in Israel differs from America; you will want a converter that will change the electric current from 110 volts to 220 volts.
Covid Safety FAQs
Group Size
We will adhere to the health and safety guidelines set by the Government of Israel.
Vaccination
Be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before departure and provide a copy of your CDC card.
Pre-Flight Test
Clear a PCR Covid-19 test within 72 hours of departure. You'll need it to board the flight.
Arrival Tests
You will need to take and pass another PCR test as well as an anti-body test. You will be responsible for any incurred costs.
If required, prior to your return to the United States a PCR test will be organized for you in Israel.
If required, prior to your return to the United States a PCR test will be organized for you in Israel.
Masking
We will adhere to the health and safety guidelines set by the Government of Israel.
Cancellation Policy
Please contact the Jewish National Fund-USA professional of your chosen trip for the cancellation policy.
Please check your airline cancellation policy when booking and monitor prior to your flight
We strongly encourage you to take out travel insurance when booking.
Please check your airline cancellation policy when booking and monitor prior to your flight
We strongly encourage you to take out travel insurance when booking.
Fundraising FAQs
Can I submit a Matching Gift Form for this event?
Many contributions can be doubled if your company has a matching gifts program. Fill out the necessary company paperwork from the organization providing the gift, as well as JNF’s Matching Gifts Form. If your company’s program works through direct deposit, please contact Samantha van Adelberg for further details at svanadelsberg@jnf.org or 212-879-9305 x863.
When is the last day to fundraise?
Volunteer Vacation is filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. To confirm your participation, you must register on our website (Step 1) and then CONFIRM your participation by completing our Fundraising Guarantee Form (FRG) (Step 2). Once you have completed these steps you will guarantee your space on the trip. You will have until May 22nd, 2022, one month prior to the trip, to complete your fundraising. Please contact Samantha van Adelberg at svanadelsberg@jnf.org or 212-879-9305 x863 if you have additional questions.
Where do I send my cash or check donations?
It's never safe to mail cash. Have cash donors transfer the cash into a cashier's check or personal check. Checks should be made payable to Jewish National Fund. Download our offline donation form and email to svanadelsberg@jnf.org or send to:
Jewish National Fund
78 Randall Ave
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Attn: Samantha van Adelsberg
Jewish National Fund
78 Randall Ave
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Attn: Samantha van Adelsberg
About JNFuture
JNFuture Membership
We know that participants that start early raise more! The easiest way is to start right away by making a self-donation. Participants who make a personal contribution of $360 or more toward their own Volunteer Vacation Fundraising campaign (or the campaign of another participant) are eligible to become JNFuture donor members.
JNFuture is a community of young professionals and supporters of Jewish National Fund, ages 22-40, who share a commitment and passion for Israel. It engages and energizes its members through a variety of local social and educational programming as well as additional exciting opportunities to visit Israel. Link for more information & benefits of membership: Click Here.
We know that participants that start early raise more! The easiest way is to start right away by making a self-donation. Participants who make a personal contribution of $360 or more toward their own Volunteer Vacation Fundraising campaign (or the campaign of another participant) are eligible to become JNFuture donor members.
JNFuture is a community of young professionals and supporters of Jewish National Fund, ages 22-40, who share a commitment and passion for Israel. It engages and energizes its members through a variety of local social and educational programming as well as additional exciting opportunities to visit Israel. Link for more information & benefits of membership: Click Here.
Tips For Fundraising
Getting Started
Once you have registered for Volunteer Vacation, we encourage you to use social media to invite your friends to donate to your campaign. Below you will find helpful tips and sample messages that you can to post updates as you progress toward your fundraising goal and to publicly thank your supporters. Every online donation receives an automated email acknowledgment to be used for tax purposes. It is also a good idea to send a personal thank you note to everyone who contributes to your campaign (a template e-mail is available in your Participant Center. When possible, feel free to use the official JNF logo to promote your goals.
Fundraising can be intimidating, but you'd be surprised at how easy - and impactful - it is. Keep in mind that your efforts are helping achieve the vision of building a strong homeland for tomorrow. Even if this is your first-time fundraising, there's no need to worry. We have found that in addition to social media, personal messages either by email, text, Facebook message, etc. really help participants to reach potential donors.
Start early! We know that participants that start early raise more! The easiest way is to start right away by making a self-donation. Then spread the word about your donation and challenge others to match it!
Utilize your Participant Center: Your participant center is your first stop for fundraising success. Don't forget to visit it often. Customize your personal page with a photo and your story. Then, share your page with everyone you know. With a few clicks, your friends, family, and co-workers can give online directly to your fundraising efforts.
Make it Personal: As part of your story on your personal page write about why you want to go on this trip to Israel and what it means for you to have the opportunity to give back. You can also use these personal anecdotes in your one-on-one emails or messages to family and friends.
Get social! Social media provides you with a quick and easy way to broadcast your participation in to your entire network. Use these sample posts, cover photos and profile pics to help make your fundraising even easier!
Use the hash tags #LoveGrowsInIsrael or #PoweredByJNF and always include the URL to your personal page
Tag @JNFUSA and @JNFUTUREUSA in your posts!
Make sure that your tweets don’t exceed 140 characters (use the & sign, use contractions when possible and substitute numbers for words)
Pictures and videos generate more likes and shares on Facebook!
Sample Posts:
I'm going to Israel! So excited to volunteer & build the land with @JNFutureUSA. Help support my efforts & donate today
I'm kicking off my fundraising efforts for @JNFUSA to help continue developing the land of Israel for the next generation. Please support my efforts!
I'm on a mission to make a BIG impact for @JNFUSA! Donate today and help me raise big bucks to bring an enhanced quality of life to all of Israel's residents.
I'm raising funds for @JNFUSA in honor of {insert personal story}. Support me today!
Get creative and plan an event: There is no silver bullet to make fundraising a success. With creativity and passion, anyone can become a fundraising pro. Take advantage of activities you and your network like to do… wine tastings, softball tournaments, yard sales and car washes are just a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing!
If you have any questions on the fundraising process please contact Samantha van Adelberg at svanadelsberg@jnf.org or call 212-879-9305 x863.
Fundraising can be intimidating, but you'd be surprised at how easy - and impactful - it is. Keep in mind that your efforts are helping achieve the vision of building a strong homeland for tomorrow. Even if this is your first-time fundraising, there's no need to worry. We have found that in addition to social media, personal messages either by email, text, Facebook message, etc. really help participants to reach potential donors.
Start early! We know that participants that start early raise more! The easiest way is to start right away by making a self-donation. Then spread the word about your donation and challenge others to match it!
Utilize your Participant Center: Your participant center is your first stop for fundraising success. Don't forget to visit it often. Customize your personal page with a photo and your story. Then, share your page with everyone you know. With a few clicks, your friends, family, and co-workers can give online directly to your fundraising efforts.
Make it Personal: As part of your story on your personal page write about why you want to go on this trip to Israel and what it means for you to have the opportunity to give back. You can also use these personal anecdotes in your one-on-one emails or messages to family and friends.
Get social! Social media provides you with a quick and easy way to broadcast your participation in to your entire network. Use these sample posts, cover photos and profile pics to help make your fundraising even easier!
Use the hash tags #LoveGrowsInIsrael or #PoweredByJNF and always include the URL to your personal page
Tag @JNFUSA and @JNFUTUREUSA in your posts!
Make sure that your tweets don’t exceed 140 characters (use the & sign, use contractions when possible and substitute numbers for words)
Pictures and videos generate more likes and shares on Facebook!
Sample Posts:
I'm going to Israel! So excited to volunteer & build the land with @JNFutureUSA. Help support my efforts & donate today
I'm kicking off my fundraising efforts for @JNFUSA to help continue developing the land of Israel for the next generation. Please support my efforts!
I'm on a mission to make a BIG impact for @JNFUSA! Donate today and help me raise big bucks to bring an enhanced quality of life to all of Israel's residents.
I'm raising funds for @JNFUSA in honor of {insert personal story}. Support me today!
Get creative and plan an event: There is no silver bullet to make fundraising a success. With creativity and passion, anyone can become a fundraising pro. Take advantage of activities you and your network like to do… wine tastings, softball tournaments, yard sales and car washes are just a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing!
If you have any questions on the fundraising process please contact Samantha van Adelberg at svanadelsberg@jnf.org or call 212-879-9305 x863.
