VFI’S YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS AGES 17–28

Experience life in Israel as no tourist can! Only Volunteers for Israel offers a program where you can volunteer on an active IDF base. Sign up for this one-of-a-kind VFI program and learn firsthand what the army experience means to your Israeli peers and to Israel. You’ll work alongside soldiers and volunteers of all ages and from many countries, sleep in the barracks, have three kosher meals a day in the mess hall, and wear IDF work clothes—all free of charge while you are on the base. Feel the pride, knowing your hands-on work supports Israel and makes a real difference. And you’ll have memories and friendships for a lifetime!

Here are some program options to consider:

ADD A VFI PROGRAM FOLLOWING YOUR BIRTHRIGHT OR OTHER ISRAEL EXPERIENCE TOUR

  You can extend your trip and see more of Israel — from the inside — by volunteering on an IDF base.

• This adventure-filled, economical add-on to scheduled programs costs only $55 for the application fee.
• Sign up for a 1- 2- or 3- week program.
• Birthright extensions start on Sundays when programs are scheduled, after the Birthright trip ends.
• Be sure to arrange your return flight to include time for the program.

TRAVEL SOLO OR WITH FRIENDS

  Since VFI programs are available throughout the year, this is our most flexible scheduling option. Choose any 1- 2- or 3- week program. that fits your schedule. As with all VFI programs, you are responsible for the costs of your airfare and weekend activities. On a multi-week program, on weekends (Thursday afternoon–Sunday morning) you can visit friends and family, travel with your new VFI friends, or follow your own itinerary. Whatever you decide to do, you will be amazed by the awesome, unforgettable sights and sounds that only Israel offers.

Sign on for this life-changing adventure!

Our adult programs, offered year round, give an insider’s view of Israel. You will work alongside soldiers, base employees, and other volunteers on an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) base, performing non-combat civilian support duties such as packing medical supplies; repairing machinery and equipment; building fortifications; and painting and maintaining the base. You will be housed in barracks with fellow volunteers, enjoy 3 kosher meals a day, and wear IDF work clothes. The Sunday to Thursday workweek also includes cultural/educational programs in the evening and tours when possible. Weekends are spent off the base, which gives you many options! Travel in Israel, visit with friends and relatives, or hang out with your new VFI friends. No-cost army hostel accommodations and reduced-price hotel rates may be available. Our IDF base program is well-suited for those traveling solo! Because it is a group experience, you will meet volunteers from diverse backgrounds and locations, so you need not worry about feeling left out. You will develop life-long friendships and travel partners. Learn more by clicking the “request more info” or “apply now” buttons above.

Want to work on an IDF base AND tour Israel with a private guide WITHOUT having to take care of all of the messy logistics? Sign up for an all-inclusive VFI PLUS program! VFI’s PLUS Programs take care of everything! ALL arrangements from your volunteer assignment, hotels, transportation on an air-conditioned bus, airport transfers, private tours, lectures, specialty guides, admission fees, food (except touring lunches), and tips are included. You are responsible only for your round-trip air travel to Tel Aviv. It could not be simpler: just pack your bags and show up. These programs have received rave reviews! And you have two to pick from!

 

VFI PLUS ADVANCED

This 17-day program includes 9 days of volunteering on an IDF base plus 8 days of private, custom touring with a professional Israeli guide in an air-conditioned bus. Our deluxe itinerary features unusual and under-the radar experiences in addition to some hotspots you can’t miss. To learn more, click here

 

VFI PLUS ARCHAEOLOGY

Awaken your inner Indiana Jones and get your hands dirty in ancient soil on an active archaeological site guided by professionals from Tel Aviv University and the IAA(Israel Antiquities Authority). This 14-day, ALL-Inclusive program is for both first-timers and repeat volunteers. It combines 5 days of volunteer work on an IDF base, 5 days of work at a professional dig site in the City of David, next to Old City Jerusalem, and 4 days of custom touring to out-of-the-way locations. Ideal for 18-80+, you get to work alongside archaeology professionals and Israeli students. This unique program also offers a rare and memorable experience performing various tasks that directly aid the archaeologists in their important mission. The City of David is a world-class archaeological wonderland with rich ancient connections. It is the most ancient part of the Canaanite and Israelite City of Jerusalem. The site includes findings from myriad layers of civilization. To learn more, click here.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES

VFI Plus Archaeology (14 Days)

Sunday, March 12 to Saturday, March 25, 2023 (March 12-16 on IDF base; March 19-23 on dig site)
Sunday, October 15 to Saturday, October 28, 2023 (October 15 -19 on IDF base; October 22-26 on dig site)

VFI Plus Advanced (17 Days)

Friday, May 5 to Sunday, May 21, 2023 (2 weeks on IDF base)
Friday, November 10 to Sunday, November 26, 2023 (2 weeks on IDF base)

Contact: Ilana Blumenthal at ilanavfi@gmail.com for more information.