Teenagers are no longer the only Israelis dedicating a year of their lives to volunteering.

“We are harnessing the expertise of the over-50 population and putting them to good use to rebuild Israeli communities and resilience,” said Jane Levy, head of fundraising for Shnat Sherut 50 Plus. Launched last year, the program is modeled after Shnat Sherut, the year of volunteering that many Israeli high school graduates opt to undertake before compulsory military or national service.

Shnat Sherut 50 Plus is the brainchild of retired teacher and librarian Rina Cohen and consists of multiple teams of 22 skilled volunteers who live for a year in Gaza border communities severely affected by the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.

“This isn’t just about supporting others—it’s about redefining what our generation can achieve,” said Cohen, who volunteers with youth near Ofakim.

The program is operated by Elul, an association that facilitates Jewish learning and discourse between observant, traditional and secular Israelis. Since September 2024, the teams have participated in high school tutoring, mentoring at-risk youth, documenting community histories, helping individuals navigate welfare and legal systems, assisting overwhelmed social workers, organizing holiday celebrations and providing physical therapy and mental health support in health care facilities.

“This program allows me to use my skills where they are needed most,” said Dr. Yaron Assaf, a retired family physician who offers elder wellness sessions and cognitive therapy for dementia patients.

One team stationed at hard-hit Kibbutz Kfar Aza began working in February to rehabilitate farms severely damaged by Hamas terrorists. Looking north, a new group is gearing up to work in communities along the Lebanese border, facilitated by a contribution from the Boston-area Combined Jewish Philanthropies.

For now, only Hebrew-speaking Israeli volunteers are accepted. As the project grows in scope, Levy anticipates accommodating the many people from abroad seeking to take part.

Elul CEO Guy Gardi noted that funding for Shnat Sherut 50 Plus comes from more than 10 establishment Jewish organizations. Those donations translate, he said, to volunteers being able “to address the complex challenges faced by the communities we serve. Together, we are making a significant difference, demonstrating the power of collaboration and shared purpose.”

Jordana Benami