Living and Working Conditions

  The work week: The volunteer period is usually 3 weeks long. The volunteer works 8 hours per day, 5 days per week, Sunday through Thursday (the Israeli work week). In the evenings, there are various activities and educational presentations on such topics as the Hebrew language, Israel's history, Jewish holidays and traditions, and social and political issues in Israel. In addition, Sar-El will host up to two site-seeing trips (per 3-week program) which often includes Jerusalem. A liaison or guide (madricha) who is fluent in the volunteer group's language always accompanies the volunteers and typically lives with the volunteers on the premises.

     The weekends: On weekends, a number of options are usually available. Many of our participants choose to travel the country together. Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are common weekend spots, but the whole country is accessible. Accommodation in Sar-El-sponsored soldiers' hostels is a possibility (depending on available space), or volunteers can opt to stay at other locations at their own expense. Volunteers who are interested in staying with an Israeli host family on the weekend may seek assistance through the madricha who will be happy to arrange the   experience (as opportunities are available).