Frequently Asked Questions

No. You must be present for every part of the program, including the month-long in-country orientation and nine months of service with your NGO.

You will be given the opportunity to select your top choices from a list of potential placement options, but AJWS staff will make the final decision regarding placement.

All fellows are allotted one week of vacation that they may take when the partner NGO is closed for holidays. If your NGO does not close for any holidays during your term of service, you may get approval from AJWS and your supervisor for one week of vacation during the fellowship.

Fellows are discouraged from visiting home during the fellowship, except in the case of an emergency or extenuating family obligation. If you must return home during your term of service for a planned event, you must use your allotted vacation days.

Yes. Fellows coordinate their own travel plans directly with the AJWS travel agent. If you plan to travel after the volunteer placement, you must return to the U.S. for the closing retreat. You are responsible for any extra travel costs incurred due to personal travel.

AJWS staff and consultants will be in constant contact throughout your assignment, and our in-country representative is available for on-the-ground support. Developing a social support network is your responsibility, and your social networks may or may not include other fellows, depending on your location.

You may request housing with a private kitchen so that you can cook your own food. It is difficult to obtain food products that are certified kosher in most locations, but vegetarian ingredients can be obtained easily.

Yes. AJWS informs NGOs that volunteers are not required to work on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.

AJWS works hard to ensure the health and safety of our volunteers. Learn more about our safety and security policies.