Serving a Complex Israel: A report on Israel-based Immersive Jewish Service-learning
Repair the World, in conjunction with the Jewish Agency for Israel, is pleased to announce the release of a new study, “Serving a Complex Israel: A report on Israel-based Immersive Jewish Service-learning.” The study shows that contrary to common assumptions held in the Jewish world, exposing young Jews to the complex issues underlying Israeli society increases their commitment to the country and motivates them to want to work towards social change in Israel.
“When it comes to developing service programs, authenticity is key,” said David Eisner, CEO of Repair the World. “The more people understand about their service, the more committed they will be to it. What’s more, we know that young people—particularly those from affiliated households—become more passionate when their service brings a connection to their own personal heritage. We hope these insights will spur collaboration among providers and funders in Israel to build content and positive experiences for those motivated to volunteer.”
In particular the study shows that as a result of participating in IJSL programs:
- 96% of respondents gained a more nuanced understanding of Israel;
- 79% felt more connected to their Jewish heritage and identity;
- 78% more connected to global Jewry;
- 85% want to learn more about Israel; and
- 85% of respondents reported that their conversations about social justice have increased.
The study, conducted by Rosov Consulting, LLC and funded in part by the Jim Joseph Foundation and The Morningstar Foundation, surveyed 332 young Jewish adults who participated in at least one of 12 different IJSL programs in Israel from August 2009 to June 2012. Responses showed that there is a widespread desire among millennial Jewish adults to create change in the world, while simultaneously growing as leaders and connecting to Jewish life. IJSL programs in Israel provide young adults with that opportunity.
Click here for the executive summary and click here to access the full report.
About the author
Amy Goldsmith
Program Assistant at Repair the World. Prior to joining Repair the World, Amy was a founding coordinator for Climate Summer, a program of Better Future Project. There she worked to establish an internship program that sends young adults into New England communities, exclusively on bicycle, to address climate change through local solutions. Upon graduating from Brandeis University with a B.A. in sociology and Middle Eastern studies, Amy spent a year in Jaffa, Israel with the program Tikkun Olam Tel Aviv- Jaffa. Through her volunteer work in mixed Arab-Jewish schools, she helped bring experiential-education opportunities to hundreds of under-served youth. Amy’s journey into service work began at a young age, as she spent many childhood weekends and vacations, volunteering alongside family members, building and rebuilding affordable housing. Originally from Boston, Amy is excited to return to the East Coast and looks forward to exploring all the gluten-free eateries New York City has to offer.
