A Community Rebuilding Together
Kibbutz Nahal Oz was one of the communities most deeply impacted by the tragic events of October 7th. Like many areas along the Gaza Envelope, Nahal Oz faced unimaginable loss, destruction, and heartbreak. Today, as the kibbutz prepares for the emotional and physical return of its residents, a new spirit of hope and resilience is taking root – thanks in part to the presence of Elul’s Shnat Sherut 50 Plus volunteers.
Four of our liveliest volunteers, part of the Shnat Sherut 50 Plus Eshkol group, now live inside the kibbutz, working closely with the remaining residents and local teams. Their role goes far beyond daily tasks: they are helping to restore not just physical spaces, but a sense of normalcy, security, and community spirit. Their work reflects the heart of Shnat Sherut 50 Plus – experienced, skilled adults who choose to leave their homes for a full year, living alongside the communities they serve, offering their professional expertise, energy, and compassion where it is most needed.
Arieh Yifrach, a long-standing member of Kibbutz Nahal Oz, recently shared a deeply moving message about the impact of our volunteers:
“Hi, my name is Arieh Yifrach, and I am a member of Kibbutz Nahal Oz. I would like to share with you how I and the community of Nahal Oz feel about the amazing volunteers living among us.
Since the volunteers arrived, they have become an inseparable part of the community. They work tirelessly, leading every project, every idea, and every action that helps bring the residents back home quickly.
These incredible people give their all, from sunrise to sunset, for us. I have no words to describe what I feel toward the angels you sent us – I simply love them deeply, and they are a part of me until my last day. Thank you from the depths of my soul.”
Arieh’s words capture what we see every day: how connection, presence, and commitment can rebuild trust and strength even after the darkest times.
At Shnat Sherut 50 Plus, we believe that rebuilding communities is not only about providing services – it is about living alongside, listening deeply, and sharing in the everyday work of healing and renewal. Our volunteers in Nahal Oz are a living example of this spirit.
Their journey, and the journeys of those they support, continue — hand in hand, heart to heart.
