In classrooms across Israel’s south, some students arrive each day carrying far more than schoolbags. Many have experienced displacement, anxiety, and disruption. Others face long-standing challenges tied to poverty, instability, or trauma.
Into these classrooms have stepped volunteers from Shnat Sherut 50 Plus. They are not there to replace teachers or run the school. They are there to support, encourage, and provide consistent presence in a world that often feels uncertain to the students they meet.
The impact is both academic and emotional. And in many cases, it is transformative.
Walking Into the Classroom, and Into a Relationship
Amnon Garvish, a mathematics reinforcement volunteer at the regional middle and high school in Sha’ar HaNegev, is part of a growing force of professionals offering their experience through the Shnat Sherut 50 Plus program. With a calm presence and sharp skills, Amnon provides hands-on support for both students and teachers during lessons.
Amnon joins classroom sessions, working directly with small groups or individuals who need extra help during practice periods. He also runs afternoon sessions for students who have missed lessons or are struggling to prepare for exams. This flexible, targeted approach allows students to receive personalised attention exactly when and how they need it.
Amnon’s contribution has not gone unnoticed. Teachers value the added support, and students themselves have sent personal messages of thanks. His role helps create a classroom environment where no one is left behind, and every student has a better chance of success.
Many of the volunteers supporting schools come from education, youth work, or community programming backgrounds. Some were teachers, others were principals, others still have simply raised children of their own and understand what young people need.
They are placed where the schools have asked for help. Some are assisting in elementary school classrooms, helping children build confidence in reading or maths. Others are in high schools, helping prepare students for key exams or projects. Still others work in special education settings, supporting students with cognitive or emotional challenges.
But what makes their contribution unique is not just what they teach. It is how they show up.
Presence Over Perfection
Volunteers often describe moments when it is not a lesson plan that matters, but simply being there. A teenager who refuses to speak eventually starts asking questions. A boy who storms out of class every day starts staying five minutes longer. A student who thought she would never pass a subject finally believes she can try.
Volunteers are not measured by grades. They are measured by trust. Their age and life experience often give them a quiet authority. They do not need to be cool. They need to be kind, steady, and willing to listen.
For many students, especially those at risk, this kind of adult presence is rare.
Supporting Teachers, Not Just Students
Educators across the region are working under enormous pressure. Many are still coping with their own post-trauma experiences, while trying to support students who are struggling. Volunteers provide much-needed support. They offer another adult in the room, a sounding board, or simply a moment of relief during the school day.
Some volunteers help run group activities or learning stations. Others assist with attendance, preparation, or transitions between classes. Their flexibility is often one of their greatest strengths.
Teachers consistently say the presence of volunteers improves the learning environment for everyone.
The Small Victories Add Up
Sometimes, the wins are small. A student remembers to bring their notebook. A group finishes an assignment together for the first time. A quiet child speaks in front of the class. These moments matter.
Volunteers reflect on how long it takes to build trust, especially with young people who have been let down before. But when it comes, the connection is real.
Students begin to wave to them in the hall. Teachers ask them to stay longer. Parents quietly say thank you. And volunteers begin to feel, deeply, that they are making a difference.
More Than Teaching. Mentoring for Life.
In the Shnat Sherut 50 Plus program, education is about more than curriculum. It is about offering a different kind of adult role model. It is about being someone who believes in the next generation, even in times of crisis.
These volunteers come not to lecture, but to accompany. They remind students that they matter, that adults care, and that even in a disrupted year, learning and connection are still possible.
This is what teaching with heart looks like.
