When Shay and Sigal Levy joined the new Shnat Sherut 50 Plus group in Mateh Asher, they did more than sign up for two volunteer posts. They made a life choice, moving from Mitzpe Aviv to Kibbutz Hanita for a year of service. Their decision is a quiet but powerful declaration of faith: in the North, and in Israel’s future.
A Family Decision
At the very same time, the Levys’ daughter, Shahaf, and son-in-law, Alon, were mapping out their own path. Alon had just been offered an educational leadership role in nearby Shlomi, and the young family, together with little Gomeh (3) and baby Naomi (six months), were house-hunting.
When they learned that Shai and Sigal would be living in Hanita, they came to see the kibbutz. One visit was enough. The view, the pace of life, the warmth of the community, everything felt like home. They made the leap and moved to Hanita, arriving just one day before Shai and Sigal so their children could start the school year on time.
Neighbors, Volunteers, Community Builders
ince then, the Levys’ impact has stretched far beyond their formal assignments. Living in the kibbutz means they are not just volunteers, they are neighbors.
- Opening their home for Shabbat drop-ins
- Joining kindergarten runs
- Helping new and returning families connect to local services
- Pitching in for clean-ups, planting days, and community events
Even in the small things, shopping locally, hiring local trades, lending a hand at short notice, the Levys send a clear message: life here is moving forward.
