What to expect before you go
Pre-Program Paperwork
Following notice of acceptance, volunteers are responsible for completing a number of forms (available at your Hillel or participating organization) and returning them to the participating organization by a set deadline.
Placement
Alternative Breaks groups are placed with AJWS grantees working at the intersection of international development and human rights. AJWS cannot guarantee placement in specific countries or with specific NGOs.
Learn more about AJWS's partner NGOs.
Please note: AJWS does not place volunteers with all of these NGOs, and also places volunteers with other like-minded NGOs that do not receive financial support from AJWS.
Orientation
Before the trip, each group participates in an orientation with staff from Hillel or the participating organization. AJWS provides groups with materials and activities to help prepare for the program and lay the groundwork for the educational curriculum that is studied throughout the experience. A representative of AJWS may attend and participate in one of the sessions. Every orientation includes:
- An introduction to AJWS and the work of our partner NGOs overseas
- Cross-cultural training and country-specific sessions
- A safety and security overview
- A Jewish text study relating to international development
- Time to get to know the rest of the group
