VOLUNTEER IN
ISRAEL
 

We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and most allergy-based dietary needs. Food arrangements provide flexibility to find suitable options, and our staff can provide recommendations for specific requirements.

Selected trips are designed as "Remote Work Friendly" with evening flexibility, workspace access, and reliable WiFi. These programs allow you to balance professional commitments with meaningful volunteer experiences.

You'll stay in comfortable, clean apartments or hotels depending on location. Rooms are typically shared with 2-3 other participants of the same gender, with private options available for an additional fee.

Volunteer activities vary in physical intensity, and we offer options suitable for different ability levels. Most trips include moderate walking, but we're committed to making reasonable accommodations for all physical abilities.

No Hebrew knowledge is required. All program activities are conducted in English, and our staff and volunteer placements are prepared to work with English speakers.

Yes! Your fee covers round-trip flights, accommodations, ground transportation, program activities, health insurance, and food arrangements. The actual cost is substantially subsidized by Birthright Israel and partner organizations.

Safety is our absolute priority. We continuously monitor security situations and only operate in areas deemed safe by security experts. Our staff is trained in emergency protocols with 24/7 support throughout your journey.

You'll have substantial free time every day. Mornings typically include structured volunteering, while afternoons and evenings are mostly yours to explore independently.

Jewish adults ages 18-51. You must have at least one Jewish parent or completed a recognized conversion. Prior program experience in Israel does not exclude you from participating and receiving full funding. Volunteering does not affect eligibility for other Birthright or Onward Israel programs

Volunteer opportunities vary by trip but may include community gardens, schools, elderly care, environmental conservation, or community renovation projects. All placements are carefully selected to provide meaningful impact for both you and the communities served.

Explore Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Dead Sea, local spots, & more! Enjoy the beach, friends, leisure, & personal time.

Our fellowship programs allow you to pick up new skills, make connections, and have free time to experience Israel as more than a tourist.

Make a meaningful impact in Israel on our 8-day volunteer programs. You'll meet like-minded people and create lasting connections while giving back to communities that need it most.

Discover Israel with friends from your college campus! Explore Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Dead Sea, local spots, & more! Enjoy the beach, friends, leisure, & personal time. For more information, e-mail Tatiana at tatiana@israeltm.com.

Our special needs trips provide participants with an exceptional Birthright Israel educational experience tailored to accommodate their social, emotional, and physical needs. For more information, e-mail Tatiana at tatiana@israeltm.com.

Twenty years ago, when Birthright Israel was launched, there was a crisis in the Jewish world – Jews in the diaspora were steadily drifting away from their heritage, their traditions and their community. The program that began as an experiment has been extraordinarily successful; it is enhancing the vibrancy of Jewish life in countries around the globe. ​ Since its inception in December 1999, over 800,000 participants took part in Birthright Israel, more than 115,000 of which are Israelis. They come from 68 countries including all 50 U.S states, Canadian provinces, and nearly 1,000 North American colleges and universities. 80% Of participants consider Birthright Israel a life-changing experience – an approval rate any brand would envy. Birthright Israel programs have contributed $1.5 billion to the Israeli economy. Since Birthright Israel’s inception, the Maurice and Marilyn Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies (CMJS) at Brandeis University has conducted rigorous research to evaluate the program and learn about its impact on the current generation of Jewish young adults. The evidence from the Brandeis studies indicates that participation in Birthright Israel positively alters participants’ trajectory of Jewish engagement and connection to Israel. ​ To learn more about the research >

Founded in 1999 by a remarkable group of committed Jewish philanthropists led by Charles Bronfman and Michael Steinhardt, Birthright Israel aims to give every young Jewish person equal opportunity to explore life’s most important questions. About identity, community, connection to a homeland. ​ The gift of a Birthright Israel trip is made possible thanks to the generous support of many sources, including the State of Israel, the program’s founders and other philanthropists, the Jewish Federation system and Keren Hayesod, the Jewish Agency for Israel, parents of trip participants, alumni of the program, and thousands of individuals donors from around the world who believe in our mission. In North America, Birthright Israel Foundation raises the necessary funds thanks to 30,000+ donors each year, to ensure that Birthright Israel remains a gift to young Jewish adults for years to come. Learn more at BirthrightIsrael.Foundation >

Round-trip flights to Israel, comfortable accommodations throughout your stay, all ground transportation, and entry to all scheduled sites and activities. Birthright's special subsidies make this extraordinary experience accessible at a fraction of its actual cost.

Enjoy Israel's incredible cuisine with a weekly food stipend included in your program fee. Experience local restaurants, markets, and cafés throughout your journey, giving you authentic taste experiences beyond standard group meals.

Comprehensive travel health insurance covering medical emergencies and treatment while in Israel (excluding pre-existing conditions), ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.

Your entire 8-14 day journey is covered—from volunteer placements with community organizations to suggested cultural activities and group discussions, giving you the perfect blend of structured volunteering and independent exploration throughout Israel.

In the US, Birthright Israel is funded by over 40,000 Jewish and non-Jewish donors worldwide each year, to ensure that the experience remains a gift to young Jewish adults for years to come. We are also funded through partnerships with the Government of Israel, the Jewish Federations of North America, the Jewish Agency for Israel and Keren Hayesod.

The deposit is refundable at any time until you join a trip, however it can stay in your application so you do not have to re-deposit in the future.

Waiting lists work based on the cancellations. If someone switches out of a trip the next applicant will be contacted for a trip offer. However, there are many factors affecting who gets offered a trip - not only the time applied, but age, dates, etc. There is no way to predict cancellations as they can occur any day and time. We do not have access to where exactly on the waiting list participant is located.

It is not possible to be in the system with more than one trip organizer. Once you have selected your trip organizer, all of your data will be in your current trip organizers system.

Birthright Israel participants may extend their stay if they wish. Keep in mind that if you are not planning to return with your group on the same flight you must make your changes before the conclusion of the trip and before the group return date. Extend Your Stay

No. Trips for 27-32 year-olds were offered as a pilot program that will end in October 2022. As of November 2022, Birthright Israel trips will once again be offered for ages 18-26.

Birthright Israel is a not-for-profit organization providing the gift of a 10 day educational group trip to Israel for Jewish young adults between the ages of 18 to 26. Today, Birthright Israel is the largest educational tourism organization in the world that has given over 800,000 journeys to the magical state of Israel. When you go on a Birthright Israel trip, you’ll travel throughout the country. Explore historic, cultural, and religious sites. Hike, raft, and take in Israel’s varied landscape and nature. Israeli peers will also join you for a significant portion of the trip and introduce you to the local culture, music, and food—giving you a glimpse of what it’s like to live in Israel. You might even become lifelong friends.

Plan to volunteer 4-6 hours each day, apart from Shabbat. Much of our volunteering will involve light manual work, including agricultural work outdoors, and you should plan to participate in this program if you feel physically capable.

Absolutely! To make a donation in support of Birthright Israel, please click here.

Over 800,000 young adults from all over the world have been to Israel on Birthright Israel trips. Our participants hail from 68 countries and every continent in the world (except Antarctica). They come from all Jewish religious backgrounds and degrees of travel experience. All participants return home with a new understanding and appreciation for the people of Israel and the country, as well as new friends and incredible memories.

80% of our alumni called their Birthright Israel trip a “life-changing experience”- an approval rate every brand would envy. They have so many incredible things to say about how our trips impacted them in a variety of ways. In addition, independent research conducted by Brandeis University confirms this. For more information, see our Research page.

There’s no catch! It is given freely, with no expectation of anything in return. You are only responsible for a 360 USD (450 Canadian dollar) deposit — which is refundable upon your return home after successfully completing the program (a 10 USD non-refundable processing fee will apply). Birthright-Israel was founded in 1999 by a remarkable group of committed Jewish philanthropists led by Charles Bronfman and Michael Steinhardt. The gift of a Birthright Israel trip is made possible thanks to the generous support of many sources and aims to give every young Jewish person equal opportunity to explore life’s most important questions about identity, community and connection to a homeland. Many of our participants return from their trip with a desire to get more involved in the Jewish community, go back to Israel, or explore other aspects of Jewish life. Of course, that’s up to you! We encourage you to check out the rest of our website as well as social media for resources and more information. For full details about expectations from our participants, please see the Participant Waiver.

What’s included: Round trip airfare (from designated cities) Accommodations 3 and 4-star hotels Group transportation in Israel At least two meals per day All organized activities and touring What’s not included: Most lunch meals Personal purchases (like souvenirs) Travel/health insurance Refundable $360 USD deposit

Best and quickest way to reach us would be emailing our office on info@israeltm.com. We should respond within 24 hours. Our off days are Fridays and Saturdays as we do not work during Shabbat. For the quickest response, please send us your inquiry together with the email you have used to sign up with your full name as it shows on your application.

You must be between 18 to 26 years old. Also, it’s okay to apply for Tailor Made Birthright Israel while you’re still a high school student as long as you graduate before the start date of your trip.

While DNA testing kits are a cool way to learn about your ancestry, we don’t accept them as proof for eligibility. You must have at least one Jewish birth parent or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination.

It depends. If you’ve been to Israel before, but only with your family or for personal business, you’re still eligible as long as you were there for under 3 months. For more details on specific kinds of trips, see below. Personal Trips Applicants who traveled to Israel since turning 18 on a family trip, a multi-generational trip, or some interfaith/secular experiences are eligible. High School Trips Applicants who traveled to Israel prior to turning 18, on a program designed for high school teens, for a period shorter than three months in length are eligible. Even if you were 18 at the time of the trip, you are eligible, as long as the trip was designed for high school students. Applicants who participated in most “High School in Israel” programs for up to a semester are eligible. University Trips Applicants who traveled to Israel after turning 18 on programs including gap year programs, to attend University or study abroad semesters/programs, yeshiva & seminary, as well as any program under the umbrella of Onward Israel or Masa are not eligible. Volunteer Programs/Other Trips Applicants who volunteered on programs such as Magen David Adom, participated in the Maccabiah games and/or traveled on family Federation missions are eligible as long as the programs were for a period shorter than 3 months. Applicants who participated in Young Professional Federation missions are not eligible. Unsure about your eligibility? Please contact us at info@israeltm.com.

Not at all! We don’t ask applicants to share their political views. The Tailor Made Birthright Israel trip is for all Jewish young adults from around the globe. That being said, while on the trip, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss historical and current events in an organized and educational setting.

You must have at least one Jewish birth parent or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. If you’ve converted, we may ask you to provide conversion documentation during the application process. If you’re applying for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union, you are eligible if you have at least one Jewish birth parent or grandparent. Your heritage will need to be verified by a local Consul before being deemed eligible.

Yes! But your 18th birthday must fall before or on the first day of your trip.

Tailor Made Birthright Israel recognizes the following denominations: Reform Reconstructionist Conservative Orthodox Sephardic

How you choose to define your Jewishness is up to you. This trip is a chance to discover Israel and explore your Jewish identity, whether it be cultural or spiritual. We welcome participants from diverse backgrounds so you’ll fit right in.

Not while you’re still enrolled in the program. Students in exclusively Jewish Studies programs in any institute of higher learning, including Jewish teacher training programs, Jewish Studies Programs (not including Jewish Studies major or minor candidates at secular institutions), rabbinical programs, yeshivot/seminaries, Jewish communal service programs and the like are not eligible for a Birthright Israel trip while they are still in the study program.

We take adoption cases very seriously and prefer to talk to you about your situation 1 on 1. Please contact us at info@israeltm.com.

If your eligibility is in question our team may ask for you to provide identification recognized by your local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism

Tailor Made Birthright Israel trips are open to all Jewish young adults, ages 18 to 26 years old who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 and/or lived in Israel past the age of 12.

If you served in the Israeli Army or volunteered on an Israel Army base after the age of 18, or participated on an army program you are not eligible.

It depends - If you are an Israeli citizen, you are only eligible if you never lived in Israel or left before the age of 12 (official documentation will be required). If you are accepted to the program, you will need to obtain army exemption papers from your local Israeli consulate.

All of our trips include the must-see sites around Israel, like Tel-Aviv and Jerusalem— so don’t worry about missing out! Your trip itinerary will depend on your dates, interests, and other factors, however, our trips are well-rounded and focused on key landmarks of historical and nationals sites, contemporary arts, culture, technology and environmental initiatives and Jewish values such as social justice, community, and Shabbat.

We’ll do our absolute best to put you on the next available flight departing from the original gateway city of departure and on the same airline, provided that it will arrive in Israel no more than 24 hours after the original missed flight. But we can’t guarantee it. Rebooking a flight is based entirely on airline availability and departure schedule. If you miss your connecting flight due to a delay, send an email to info@israeltm.com

Classic trips are the quintessential Birthright Israel trip. We recommend this option for those who want a taste of everything the country has to offer, from historic sites and outdoor hikes to local culture and mouth-watering cuisine.

Meeting and connecting with your peers is a big part of the Tailor Made Birthright Israel experience. As such, you will be living in a communal environment. We understand that you might want to room with your significant other of the opposite sex, however, single-sex rooms are the standard across Birthright Israel trips. This is to ensure a comfortable night’s stay for all our participants. You’ll sleep in a dormitory or share living quarters with many other people and eat in communal dining facilities. You’ll also share transportation (a tour bus) with up to 50* other people. *Subject to change due to COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines.

As long as your significant other is also eligible to participate in a Tailor Made Birthright Israel trip, you can travel together. Keep in mind that spots are very limited, so sign up today to reserve space for both of you on the same trip.

Under special circumstances, it is possible to make such a request. In case this is something that would be required, and we are able to accommodate it, it is important to underline the conditions of it; -Participants would need to let us know at least 70 days before the departure date. -Participants would need to meet the group at Ben Gurion exactly when they land, and be in touch with their staff team members from the moment they depart, and upon landing. -You would be responsible for both flights to AND from Israel.

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment of any kind and promote a communal space of physical and emotional safety.

In case you didn't get on a trip, you will be notified when registration opens for the next season but there is no priority for waitlisted participants from previous seasons. We try to make room for everyone!

Onward Israel is a framework for immersive and resume building experiences in Israel for students and recent graduates from all over the world. Many Onward Israel programs are specifically constructed through a partnership between Onward Israel and a Jewish community or organization. For those that are not eligible through a partner program, Onward Israel offers Theme Based programs based on applicants’ desired field of work. Our programs are intended as a more meaningful and immersive follow-up to an initial, short-term experience in Israel. You can find out more on the Onward Israel website.

Yes, however your application will show up as incomplete. Applicants who have made their deposit have a higher chance of getting on a trip

Tailor Made Birthright Israel believes that every eligible young adult should be able to travel to Israel to experience their Birthright. Guided by our Jewish values, we aim to be inclusive of all individuals with disabilities, special requirements, limitations or challenges. We offer opportunities to include young adults with special requirements on our classic trips accompanied by an aide or shadow if needed. Additionally, we offer accessible programs for those who prefer to travel with others from their community.

Being prepared is key! Trips are jam-packed with exciting, physically-demanding activities, including walking long distances, climbing, hiking, and swimming. Temperatures in Israel can vary depending on the season and even the city! Check out a sample packing here.

Campus trips allow you to travel with other Jewish students from your university or college campus. These trips are usually timed to coincide with your school’s winter or summer break. Don’t be surprised if a lot of you arrive at the airport wearing the same school hoodie!

You don’t need alcohol to have a good time! Drinking alcohol is allowed only under certain conditions. In order to keep all of our participants and staff safe, we strictly enforce our alcohol policy.

Your health is our top priority! A fully-trained paramedic will be with your group throughout the length of your trip. An on-call doctor and local hospitals are also always available. In extreme situations, participants will be transferred to another city for specialized medical treatment when necessary and, where indicated, will later be returned to the country of origin for further treatment. You’re responsible for having personal medical insurance coverage. It must be valid in Israel throughout the period covered by the trip. (If you don’t have medical insurance and are purchasing travel/medical insurance for the sole purpose of this trip, you might want to consider supplementary coverage for continuation of treatment/care in your home country if required when you return home).

Most U.S. trips depart from New York area airports unless otherwise indicated. Canadian trips depart from Toronto’s Pearson International Airport.

Please check this link to contact your travel agent

One of the highlights of the trip is the multi-day Mifgash (encounter) with your Israeli peers. What better way to experience Israel than through the eyes of its locals? You’ll have an incredible opportunity to meet and travel with Israelis of the same age, many of whom are serving in the Israel Defense Forces. Together, you and your new Israeli friends will explore your views about personal, religious, and political identities and ideologies.

You’ll be exploring Israel with 40* other Jewish participants. Of course, your trip wouldn’t be complete without the two staff members (called madrichim) who fly with the group, one Israeli tour educator, an Israeli medic/security guard, and the bus driver, who will help you make the most of your adventure. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet Israeli locals who will join you for a portion of the trip. We like to bring a range of participants from different places across the country, so you can make new friends you wouldn’t have otherwise had the chance to meet. And after 10 full days of bonding in Israel, you’ll feel more like one big family than friends. Many of our participants stay in touch long after the trip ends. If you prefer not to go solo, you can request to travel with friends and family members. *Subject to change due to COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines.

Pack your hiking boots and swimsuit! Our trip itineraries are jam-packed with exciting, physically-demanding activities, including walking long distances, climbing, hiking, and swimming. The average day includes about 15 hours of activities, which means early wake-ups and late nights.

Absolutely, Tailor Made Birthright Israel is a supervised program where you travel in a group setting. Each group is led by a Tour Educator and accompanied by two staff members from the group’s country of origin. Additionally, the group is accompanied by a security guard (who is also a medic) and a bus driver.

Yes. Trip itineraries are approved daily with the “Situation Monitoring Room” administered by the Society for the Protection of Nature. The Situation Monitoring Room works closely with Israel’s security forces including the IDF, Israel Policy, and local security and reservation authorities.

Throughout the trip, you will be traveling in a group setting. At times, groups are provided with independent time to explore the area on their own. This usually takes place during scheduled lunch times, scheduled self exploration segments (exploring a central area within city limits on own) and scheduled night outs. All scheduled independent times are set to take place on foot. During scheduled night out, you will also be invited to use taxis if needed within predetermined city limits. During the above independent times, the Tour Educator, staff from country of origin and security guard will be available for all your needs, but they won’t necessarily be with you physically.

No. The best way to be safe while on your Tailor Made Birthright Israel trip is to stay with your group and follow directions at all times. Tailor Made Birthright Israel has vast experience running trips, keeping participants safe, and making changes to the itinerary if necessary.

No. The safety and well-being of our Tailor Made Birthright Israel participants is our primary operating principle and our foremost concern. We have a well-deserved reputation for being exceedingly cautious and conservative.

Yes! Tailor Made Birthright Israel works with several international airlines in order to safely bring you to Israel. The airlines we work with are all accredited members of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and operate within the guidelines of their Operational Safety Audit.

You will travel together as a group by bus. All trips, tour bus companies, and drivers are subject to Tailor Made Birthright Israel’s strict standards.

Yes. While trips are running, Birthright Israel operates an information line that is available weekdays, 9am to 5 pm EST. After office hours, we have an emergency answering service to ensure that you can be reached if needed. Read More >

Generally no. You will have a bus dedicated for your group’s travel. At times, during scheduled night outs, you will be invited to use taxis if needed within predetermined city limits. Throughout the trip, you will be traveling in a group setting.

Yes. You will be accompanied by a trained security guard (who is also a medic). If needed, additional security will be provided.

You can apply to a new season of Tailor Made Birthright Israel trips as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. Please note: Applications don’t carry over from season to season. If you wish to apply again, you’ll need to submit a new application when registration for that round opens.

Submitting an application does not instantly mean you have secured a spot on the trip, unfortunately. Once you have received a trip offer, and have accepted it, one of our team members will reach out in order to schedule a 1on1 phone call.

The seasons have become more demanding with more interest and less spots available. In case you didn't get a trip offer you can reach out to our office on info@israeltm.com in order to find out the status of your application. In case there are no spots available we will place you on the waiting list.

Once you’ve filled out all the sections of the application, if there is any information that you wish to update or change, you may access your application until the registration deadline for that season. Keep in mind that any changes you make will be what Tailor Made Birthright Israel considers your final application. Now sit back, relax, and be patient. Tailor Made will contact you as soon as we have an available trip to offer you.

If you’re not traveling on a U.S. or Canadian passport, you may need a visa to travel to Israel. Connecting flights and flights with short stopovers sometimes require visas. It’s your responsibility to check if you’ll need a visa before traveling.

If you cancel your trip within 65 days of your confirmed flight departure, you’ll forfeit the security deposit.

Yes! We need your passport a month before your trip to make sure you are ticketed properly. No one can travel to Israel without a valid passport. If you don’t hold a U.S. or Canadian passport, you may need a visa or face other restrictions. Please contact your closest Israeli consulate for more information.

Yes, you are able to submit your application without inputting your passport details, however please keep in mind that once you get on a trip, we need to receive your passport at least 30 days before in order to complete the bookings.

If you don’t already have a passport, we recommend that you begin the process to obtain one as soon as possible. You’ll be required to provide us with your passport number and a photocopy of your passport before Tailor Made Birthright Israel issues your flight ticket. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your last day in Israel. If you realize after the cancellation deadline and after being assigned to a flight that this is not the case, Tailor Made Birthright Israel may cancel your trip without refunding your deposit if you’re unable to obtain a new passport in a designated amount of time before the trip.

If you decide to forfeit your return ticket, and you know this before you leave please contact info@israeltm.com - you must contact the airline before your scheduled return date. If you fail to do so and are a no-show for the scheduled departure, you’ll forfeit the deposit held for your trip. If you want to cancel and you're already in Israel then you need to contact your travel agent See the exact details here : https://www.birthrightisrael.com/extend/returnticket

The only way for friends/family (or groups of people) to be on the same program is to apply for the same trip. You can invite friends to join you on your trip by using your personal “Bring a Friend” referral link and sharing it with them by email or on social media. Find your link in the My Trip section of your application. Tailor Made Birthright Israel cannot guarantee that any one person or group of individuals will be selected. But, applying for the same trip can ensure that you and your friends get to travel together if all of you are selected.

Airline tickets are issued based on the first, middle, and last name that you put on your application, which must match the full name on your passport. If there’s a discrepancy, the airline has the right to deny you passage or charge to reissue the ticket (in which case you may need to forfeit your deposit). If you entered your name incorrectly or changed your name, send us an email at info@israeltm.com.

Upon returning home from your trip, you can either claim or donate your refundable 360 USD (450 CAD) deposit. Many participants choose to donate their deposit to help others experience this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. If you do choose to donate, we have an anonymous donor that will match every trip deposit donation dollar for dollar. This covers two full days of the trip for a new participant!

Deposits are paid, handled, and refunded through the secure online payment system. If you’re having trouble making your deposit, send an e-mail to info@israeltm.com with the word DEPOSIT in the subject line and explain what the issue is.

If you weren’t offered a trip this round, you’re automatically placed on a waitlist until the end of the season. If you’d like to be taken off the waitlist and get your deposit back, please send a refund request IN WRITING via email directly to info@israeltm.com. It will take between 7 and 10 days for the refund to appear via your original method of payment.

Absolutely. All deposits are paid, handled, and refunded via PayPal which is completely secure.

Deposits are paid and handled through a secure online payment system (PayPal). We accept international credit cards and debit cards. There is no option to use wire transfer, cash or checks.

Due to the limited number of spots on each trip, we need to ensure that all chosen participants will show up. When an applicant pays the 360 USD (450 CAD) deposit, this lets us know that you’re serious about traveling with Tailor Made Birthright Israel and covers any fees that we might incur in the event of a late cancellation. It also helps guarantee that you follow Birthright Israel safety and behavior standards. In extreme cases in which participants violate these guidelines, their deposit may be confiscated.

Tailor Made Birthright Israel believes that every eligible young adult should be able to travel to Israel to experience their Birthright. Guided by our Jewish values, we aim to be inclusive of all individuals with disabilities, special requirements, limitations or challenges. We offer opportunities to include young adults with special requirements on our classic trips accompanied by an aide or shadow if needed.

The responsibilities of staffing a Birthright Israel trip include preparing participants before their trip, meeting and leading the group at the airport, supporting the Israeli tour educator throughout the trip, serving as a role model for participants, and leading activities and discussions.

While the position is unpaid, all expenses are covered for the whole duration of the trip including your flights. Additionally, in most cases, staff members are able to extend once the trip is over. Tailor Made does not cover staff travel costs to the departure airport within the United States.

Our trips are on average 10 days long. The trip consists of 40 participants, 1 Female staff, 1 Male staff, 1 tour educator, and 1 medic/security guard.

We will review your application and be in touch shortly! Due to limited trip availability, we cannot absolutely guarantee you a staffing position, even if you meet all the requirements. We ask for your patience in advance and promise to be fully open and fair with you at every stage. Once you have been officially selected to staff a trip, we will guide you through all the requirements entailed of being a Birthright Israel staffer.

To staff a trip you must be at least 21 years of age, have leadership qualities, as well as enthusiasm and a passion for Israel. Our most competitive applicants have additional Israel experience on a formal program beyond their Birthright trip.

We can make arrangements for individuals who live in Israel and would like to staff a trip. If you'd still like to apply, but at a later time, feel free to reach out to us in the future and apply then!

Please go to giltravel-br.com

See FAQ on Gil Travel’s extension page for specific instructions at giltravel-br.com

In order to receive extension confirmation prior to Birthright trip departure, requests must be received at least 7-10 business days prior to US departure (depending on airline). Applying later than that date, may result in receiving your confirmation only AFTER you arrive in Israel.

First ensure that you are entering your name and email EXACTLY as you did when signing up for Birthright. If you still get an error and you have received a confirmation email please email info@israeltm.com so we can confirm you have entered the correct details and information.

Correct. Do NOT call the airline. For extensions, or other changes to your return ticket, contact Gil travel via their online contact form: giltravel-br.com If you are already in Israel follow these instructions (do not call the airline) please click on the link below:

It depends on the airline. You can check your airline’s details here: giltravel-br.com

You cannot call. They do not have phone support for extension matters. All extension communication is done via their website. Contact their staff with their online form at giltravel-br.com

They are NOT free. Prices are determined by Taglit and the airlines, and high demand periods may cause increased prices. See prices for each airline on the extension request form, giltravel-br.com

Extension link should only be sent out 60 days prior to the participants trip date! NOT before!

A participant may extend their flight back up to 3 months (this is how long they have the visa for)

If you use your personal health insurance, it needs to be valid international, in Israel.

We work with a international health insurance plan that will cover the participant throughout the entire 10 day trip for only 50$

-Medical insurance in Israel, with coverage for pre-existing conditions. -Insurance in case your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen (up to $800). -Cancellation insurance for domestic flight costs (coverage up to $200, and an additional $10 add-on fee applies). You can see more details here: https://www.ctas.co.il/Tailor-Made.asp

https://www.ctas.co.il/Tailor-Made.asp

Health Insurance is MANDATORY while participating on a Taglit-Birthright Israel Trip

Your ticket can be extended, but some airlines limit how many tickets can be extended in a group. Please understand availability for date changes can become very limited or even nonexistent during peak summer. You can generally extend your ticket up to 2-3 months from the date you depart depending on the rules of the airlines. You will be on an organized group flight, which means you can only change the date of the return. You can not change the route on the ticket to include another destination. You will not be allowed to extend your ticket on the front end and meet the group in Israel.

In most cases, you can extend your ticket either before you depart or after you arrive in Israel. ​ If you would like to extend once you are in Israel, you must contact Gil Travel, Birthright Israel’s official travel agency, and not the airline you traveled to Israel with. ​ Gil Travel: https://www.giltravel-br.com/ Be sure to allow plenty of time for your extension request to be arranged by Gil Travel. Most extension requests must be submitted at least 7-10 business days before departure. ​ Although some airlines permit flight extensions to be made in Israel, it can be a time consuming process, and seats are limited. Some airlines DO NOT permit extensions once in Israel at all. ​ Please note: If you have confirmed an extension and then cancel or change your trip, you will be forfeiting your extension, including all fees paid to Gil Travel and the airline. Birthright Israel is not responsible for extensions processed with Gil Travel or with the airlines. Extensions are the individual’s responsibility.

If you will not be using your return ticket at all, you should formally forfeit your return ticket. To do so, you must notify us in advance or you may lose your deposit. Forfeiting your return flight is different from extending your return flight. By forfeiting your return ticket you will be canceling your return flight altogether and will be responsible for arranging your own flight home from Israel. To forfeit the return flight before the trip, email info@israeltm with the subject “Return Flight Forfeit.” If you decide to forfeit your return flight during the trip, notify the airline at least 24 hours in advance to avoid losing your deposit.

You are between the ages of 18-26 You have not participated in any educational trip or program in Israel after the age of 18 You have not lived in Israel past the age of 12 You identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by your local community and/or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism ​ Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination.

If you will not be using your return ticket at all, you should formally forfeit your return ticket. To do so, you must notify us in advance or you may lose your deposit. Forfeiting your return flight is different from extending your return flight. By forfeiting your return ticket you will be canceling your return flight altogether and will be responsible for arranging your own flight home from Israel. To forfeit the return flight before the trip, email info@israeltm with the subject “Return Flight Forfeit.” If you decide to forfeit your return flight during the trip, notify the airline at least 24 hours in advance to avoid losing your deposit.

In most cases, you can extend your ticket either before you depart or after you arrive in Israel. ​ If you would like to extend once you are in Israel, you must contact Gil Travel, Birthright Israel’s official travel agency, and not the airline you traveled to Israel with. ​ Gil Travel: https://www.giltravel-br.com/ Be sure to allow plenty of time for your extension request to be arranged by Gil Travel. Most extension requests must be submitted at least 7-10 business days before departure. ​ Although some airlines permit flight extensions to be made in Israel, it can be a time consuming process, and seats are limited. Some airlines DO NOT permit extensions once in Israel at all. ​ Please note: If you have confirmed an extension and then cancel or change your trip, you will be forfeiting your extension, including all fees paid to Gil Travel and the airline. Birthright Israel is not responsible for extensions processed with Gil Travel or with the airlines. Extensions are the individual’s responsibility.

Your ticket can be extended, but some airlines limit how many tickets can be extended in a group. Please understand availability for date changes can become very limited or even nonexistent during peak summer. You can generally extend your ticket up to 2-3 months from the date you depart depending on the rules of the airlines. You will be on an organized group flight, which means you can only change the date of the return. You can not change the route on the ticket to include another destination. You will not be allowed to extend your ticket on the front end and meet the group in Israel.

https://www.charges.co.il/groups/tailor-made

If you are an Israeli citizen, you are only eligible if you never lived in Israel or left before the age of 12 (official documentation will be required). If you are accepted to the program, you will need to obtain army exemption papers from your local Israeli consulate.​

If you have been to Israel before with your family, for leisure or business purposes, you are still eligible, as long as the duration of your trip was under 3 months. Applicants who traveled to Israel prior to turning 18, on a program designed for high school teens, for a period shorter than three months in length are eligible. Even if you were 18 at the time of the trip, you are eligible, as long as the trip was designed for high school students. Applicants who participated in most “High School in Israel” programs for up to a semester are eligible. Applicants who traveled to Israel since turning 18 on a family trip, a multi-generational trip, or some interfaith/secular experiences are eligible. Applicants who traveled to Israel after turning 18 on programs designed for college students or young adults are not eligible. Programs include University, study abroad, gap year, yeshiva/seminary, internship and any other experience under the umbrella of Onward Israel or Masa Israel.​ Volunteering on programs such as Magen David Adom, participating in the Maccabiah games and/or traveling with multi-generational and family Federation missions will not affect your eligibility as long as you were in Israel with these programs for under 3 months.

All participants must be between 18 and 26 and have finished high school or have obtained a GED by the time their trip departs.

You are between the ages of 18-26 You have not participated in any educational trip or program in Israel after the age of 18 You have not lived in Israel past the age of 12 You identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by your local community and/or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism ​ Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination.

Dates: June 4 - July 30, 2026 Immerse in Israeli Culture Daily Activities: From hands-on workshops in anatomy, physiology, functional training, HIIT, TRX, and CrossFit to specialized sessions in nutrition, core work, gymnastics, and strength training, you'll have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in fitness, movement, and coaching Professional Enrichment Hands-On Fitness Training: Participate in daily practical workshops learning specialized workouts. Applied Coaching Development: Gain practical coaching experience through workshops focused on guiding clients of all ages and abilities. Nutrition and Performance Education: Learn to design nutrition plans and integrate them into training programs Movement Mastery: Develop expertise in mobility, stretching, core stability, and strength techniques to enhance both personal and client performance. Networking and Mentorship: Connect with experienced trainers, coaches, and peers to gain guidance, expand your professional network, and explore career opportunities in the fitness industry. Live in Israel Like a Local Accommodation: Enjoy apartment-style accommodations in central Tel Aviv. Local Interactions: Authentic local interactions and trips throughout Israel. Practical Skills and Insights: Gain practical skills and cultural insights while living like a local. Program Cost: $499 USD Includes housing, educational programs, program staff, medical insurance, and ground transportation within Tel Aviv.

Dates: June 22 - July 19, 2026 Capture Israel’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture through your camera lens! Join us for a photography-focused fellowship, where you'll explore Israel’s most iconic locations, learn from professional photographers, and enhance your skills through hands-on experience. This unique program combines technical photography training with the beauty and history of Israel. Immerse in Israeli Culture Daily Activities: From outings around Tel Aviv to weekend activities with local Israelis, you'll have the opportunity to explore all that Israeli culture has to offer. Culinary Tours: Enjoy a culinary tour and neighborhood exploration. Cultural Trips: Visit Israel's beautiful sites, enjoy Shabbat experiences, and more. Professional Enrichment Hands-On Photography Training: Learn from experienced photographers and gain practical experience shooting diverse landscapes and urban scenes. Creative Portfolio Development: Build a professional portfolio by capturing the essence of Israel’s culture, landscapes, and people. Technical Skill Enhancement: Master key photography techniques, from composition to editing, using professional equipment and software. Exposure to Iconic Locations: Shoot in some of Israel’s most photogenic settings, including historical landmarks, nature reserves, and vibrant cityscapes. Networking and Mentorship: Connect with industry professionals, photographers, and creatives to expand your network and career opportunities. Live in Israel Like a Local Accommodation: Enjoy apartment-style accommodations in central Tel Aviv. Local Interactions: Authentic local interactions and trips throughout Israel. Practical Skills and Insights: Gain practical skills and cultural insights while living like a local. Program Cost: $499 USD Includes housing, educational programs, program staff, medical insurance, and ground transportation within Tel Aviv.

Dates: June 4 - June 30, 2026 Immerse in Israeli Culture Daily Activities: From outings around Tel Aviv to weekend activities with local Israelis, you'll have the opportunity to explore all that Israeli culture has to offer. Culinary Tours: Enjoy a culinary tour and neighborhood exploration. Cultural Trips: Visit Israel's beautiful sites, enjoy Shabbat experiences, and more. Professional Enrichment AI-Driven Digital Marketing Expertise: Learn to harness cutting-edge AI tools like ChatGPT, Canva, and MidJourney for impactful marketing strategies. Advanced Campaign Management: Master data-driven techniques for optimizing campaigns on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Creative Content Development: Gain practical skills in AI-powered copywriting and visual design for marketing materials. Analytics and Optimization: Explore tools like Facebook Insights and Ads Manager to analyze campaign performance and refine strategies. Strategic Advertising Skills: Develop expertise in audience segmentation, retargeting, and creating tailored campaigns across diverse platforms. Hands-On Experience: Work on real-world projects that blend creativity with cutting-edge technology. Live in Israel Like a Local Accommodation: Enjoy apartment-style accommodations in central Tel Aviv. Local Interactions: Authentic local interactions and trips throughout Israel. Practical Skills and Insights: Gain practical skills and cultural insights while living like a local. Program Cost: $499 USD Includes housing, educational programs, program staff, medical insurance, and ground transportation within Tel Aviv.

Dates: June 22 - July 19, 2026 Experience Israel’s authentic culture and communal living! Join us for a 4-week fellowship at Mishmar Hasharon Kibbutz, where you’ll immerse yourself in the kibbutz lifestyle, learn Hebrew through an Ulpan program, and contribute to the community through volunteering. This unique experience blends language learning with the opportunity to live and work in a traditional Israeli setting. Immerse in Israeli Culture Daily Activities: From outings around Tel Aviv to weekend activities with local Israelis, you'll have the opportunity to explore all that Israeli culture has to offer. Culinary Tours: Enjoy a culinary tour and neighborhood exploration. Cultural Trips: Visit Israel's beautiful sites, enjoy Shabbat experiences, and more. Professional Enrichment Immersive Hebrew Learning: Enhance your language skills through an intensive Ulpan program, designed for beginner-level learners. Cultural Integration: Live alongside kibbutz residents, gaining firsthand experience of Israeli community life. Volunteering Experience: Contribute to the kibbutz’s day-to-day operations, developing teamwork, leadership, and community involvement skills. Cross-Cultural Communication: Build your ability to work and interact in diverse, multilingual environments. Unique Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow participants and local residents, expanding your global network and cultural understanding. Live in Israel Like a Local Accommodation: Enjoy apartment-style accommodations on Mishmar Hasharon Kibbutz (central Israel) Local Interactions: Authentic local interactions and trips throughout Israel. Practical Skills and Insights: Gain practical skills and cultural insights while living like a local. Program Cost: $499 USD Includes housing, educational programs, program staff, medical insurance, and ground transportation within Tel Aviv.

Applicants between 18 - 35 years old Identify as Jewish and have NOT spent 3 or more consecutive months in Israel as part of an educational or peer-program Fluent in English Have a valid Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months after the program end date)

Participants MUST be available for the entire length of the program. Participants are responsible for their own spending money and must purchase flights with a good refund policy or flight insurance.

During the dates of the trip, volunteers are required to stay in the official program accommodations. If you are in Israel before or after the program begins and ends, you are responsible for your accommodations and can choose to stay with friends or family.

ontact us ASAP and we will work with you to find a solution. We do recommend flying with EL AL Airlines for maximum reliability during this time.

Participation requires a non-refundable $50 USD registration fee and a $250 USD security deposit, which is refundable if you are in good standing at the end of the program. Housing, transportation to and from volunteer placements, health insurance, and organized activities are all included in the cost of the program. A modest stipend of $100 USD per week for food is also provided. Housing may take the form of a furnished apartment or conventional hotel accommodations. You are responsible for travel to and from Israel as well as to/from the airport in Israel. A flight reimbursement is available – read on for details.

Yes, but keep in mind that you will be responsible for your own accommodations, health insurance, and general welfare once our program has ended.

If the security situation in Israel worsens, we will adjust the program as needed, and we will cancel the program if we are not confident in being able to provide a safe and meaningful volunteer experience in Israel.

We provide transportation to the volunteer placements and any additional touring or programming activities included. Please note that travel to volunteer placements may take up to an hour in each direction. You are responsible for your travel to/from the airport.

Participation in all organized programming is mandatory, from the arrival day (plan to land in Tel Aviv by 5:00pm) – through the closing session on the final night. In the event of a personal emergeny, costs associated with leaving early (flight changes, transportation, etc) are the responsibility of the participant.

Travelers are briefed ahead of arrival on the standard security protocols we follow. Although very rare at this point, travelers should be aware that there is a possibility they will be present for a rocket alert siren during our travels. Fortunately, Israel has sophisticated anti-rocket protections, and we will only travel in parts of the country that are away from the border areas where there is reasonable time to seek protection in the event a siren sounds.

Yes, you can extend your group flight return date beyond the 10-day Birthright Israel tour dates and attend this volunteer experience. You will be responsible for making the flight extension arrangements and making arrangements between the two programs if there is a gap.

You can particpate in one volunteer program per season. You may partipcate in more volunteer programs, just note that flights are only covered in the program cost the first time.

Yes, prior program experience in Israel does not exclude you from participating and receiving full funding.

Basic health insurance is included in the program fee. You will need to show proof of additional health insurance for pre-existing conditions not covered by the health policy. Basic health insurance will not cover injuries directly connected to the war, however the State of Israel by law does cover such damages for anyone legally in the country. NOTE: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your Israel travel costs.

Yes, there is no volunteer work on Shabbat, and you will be able to observe Shabbat and kashrut according to your practice. There are synagogues in the area of the housing. NOTE: We can't guarantee that your roommates will share the same level of observance, however, we will do our best to match you accordingly.

Yes, when you aren't volunteering (4-6 hours a day, Sunday-Thursday) or participating in other program activities, there will be free time for you to explore Israel on your own. Note that Fridays are programmed with non-volunteering activities, and Saturday is a non-programmed day for you to do as you wish.

While volunteering is the core of the trip, we make space for other experiences along the way. Programming varies according to the length of your Trip. Example activities may include: Social meet-ups with Israeli peers Visiting the Hostage Family Plaza Exploring post-October 7th street art Meeting with a geo-political expert Half-day visit to Jerusalem (for Tel Aviv-based trips) Group social get-togethers

Volunteers can arrive any time by 5:00pm at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport on the first program day.

Volunteers arrange their own flight to Tel Aviv and receive a fight reimbursement as follows: N. America, Asia, FSU: $700 USD Latin America, South America, Central America, Australia, South Africa: $900 USD Europe & rest of world: $500 USD Travelers fly on the airline of their choice (we recommend EL AL Airlines for reliable non-stop trans-Atlantic flights) and can arrive early or extend their stay as desired. Reimbursements are issued following completion of the program with receipt documentation. The reimbursement cannot surpass the cost of the ticket. EL AL Airlines 15% Discount Code An additional discount code is available for volunteers flying non-stop roundtrip with EL AL Airlines. The discount and flight reimbursement can be combined. The discount code is provided after you accept your trip and submit the $50 USD registration fee.

There will be a community manager and a staff person focusing on logistical support.

Yes, all accommodations will have a safe room or a shelter within the building.

Volunteers can depart anytime after 12:01am on the final program day (i.e. travelers do not need to stay with the program on the final posted date).

Yes! Participating in this volunteer program will not disqualify you from a future Birthright Israel trip or Onward program, provided that all other eligibility requirements are met.

Housing, transportation to and from volunteer placements, health insurance, and organized activities are all included in the cost of the program. A modest stipend of $100 USD per week for food is also provided. You are responsible for travel to and from Israel as well as to/from the airport in Israel. A flight reimbursement is available – read on for details. Housing may take the form of a shared furnished apartment or a conventional shared hotel room. All programs are based in Tel Aviv unless otherwise noted.

To assist with our planning and because we have limited capacity per trip, we ask that you register as far in advance as possible. Your space is secured with payment of the registration fee and refundable trip deposit.

Yes, there will be a virtual orientation prior to your arrival in Israel as well as an in person orientation on the first evening of the program.