A Movement Growing Thoughtfully, One Community at a Time
As Shnat Sherut 50 Plus enters its second year of implementation, and its third calendar year since the programme first came into being, a new horizon is emerging. What began as a bold idea after October 7 has grown into a proven model of service, healing, and human connection. The early years have shown not only the need for skilled adult volunteers, but also their extraordinary potential to strengthen the social fabric of communities navigating long-term recovery.
From One Region to Many: Expansion with Purpose
Our first operational year focused on three southern councils: Eshkol, Sha’ar HaNegev, and Merhavim. Ofakim began as part of the Merhavim group, with several volunteers contributing there throughout the year. We are hoping that in 2026, Ofakim will launch as a fully independent group with roles shaped directly by the city’s leadership. This marks a key transition from shared placement to formal partnership.
At the same time, the success of the southern model has paved the way for thoughtful expansion northward. This year, we launched our first northern cohort in Mateh Asher, where volunteers have already become woven into schools, informal education settings, elder services, and community initiatives. Their presence is both stabilising and energising, demonstrating the adaptability and relevance of the model across diverse regions.
Building the Infrastructure for a National Movement
As interest from councils and volunteers grows, we are committed to expanding at a pace that ensures quality. The next three years will focus on strengthening the infrastructure essential for excellence in volunteer placement: training, supervision, evaluation, impact measurement, and a robust national headquarters capable of scaling responsibly.
A New Pathway for Global Engagement: The One-Month Overseas Volunteer Track
Alongside the year-long programme, we are introducing a one-month service track for adults from Jewish communities abroad, beginning in spring 2026. Designed to reinforce the work of our Israeli volunteers, this initiative will provide:
- Additional skilled manpower at times of high need
- Opportunities for global Jews to engage meaningfully with Israel
- A growing international network of ambassadors for the programme
By 2028: A National Network of Service
By 2028, we would like to envision:
- 8–10 volunteer groups operating across Israel’s North and South
- Multi-year partnerships with regional councils
- A strong, diverse pipeline of volunteers aged 50+
- A vibrant alumni network
- Integrated tracks for Israelis and overseas volunteers
Together, these steps illuminate a path toward stronger, more connected, more resilient communities across Israel.
Your kind donations make all of this possible and we thank you for your generosity.
