Volunteer Summer
Serve. Learn. Build. Connect.
AJWS Volunteer Summer is a program of service, study and personal growth for Jewish young adults between the ages of 16 and 24. Participants pursue justice in solidarity with AJWS partner non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the developing world, promote social change in their home communities and explore the relationship between social justice, service and Judaism.
The program begins with a seven-week summer experience in a rural area of Africa, Asia or the Americas. In collaboration with local grassroots NGOs, participants work side-by-side with community members on projects that help build infrastructure and sustainability, like laying irrigation systems, building schools and community centers and planting trees or crops. As part of this service-learning experience, the group gathers each day to study social justice and international development-related topics through a Jewish lens. At the end of each week, the group plans and celebrates a pluralistic Shabbat together, creating additional time for growth and reflection.
After the summer overseas, participants return to their communities inspired by what they have seen and accomplished, and prepared to advocate for social change at home. The program continues throughout the year with retreats and opportunities for public speaking, writing, advocacy and volunteer service to keep activism alive at home and on campus.
Volunteer Testimonial
Rebecca Parad volunteered in India and shares how her experience influenced her career aspirations and changed her perspective on health care.
How to Apply
The application for Volunteer Summer 2011 will be posted in late autumn 2010. Learn more about the application process.
Information Sessions
A schedule of information sessions for 2011 will be available in late 2010.
For more information about volunteering through AJWS, please contact us at volunteer@ajws.org or 212.792.2888.
AJWS Volunteer Summer is generously supported by Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, The Jacob and Hilda Blaustein Foundation, Dorot Foundation, Joyce and Irving Goldman Family Foundation, Gottesman Fund, Morningstar Foundation, Repair the World, and Sarlo Foundation.
