Resources & Blog

While handing food to soldiers near the Gaza border, he realized it wasn’t about what was given, but the connection—especially when they asked how he was doing. He came to give, but left with far more than he expected.

By Jonathan, 29, Sweden Last fall, I spent ten days traveling in Israel, followed by a few months volunteering at Kibbutz Ein Gev in the north. The experience changed me. After the horrific Hamas attacks on October 7, my commitment to Israel deepened. It was the largest pogrom since the Holocaust, nothing more, nothing less. Watching Israel suffer and seeing antisemitism rise across Europe made me sick. I knew I had to act. During my time at the kibbutz, I met people from all backgrounds,...

Every strong initiative is powered by people who go above and beyond—and for Sword of Iron Israel Volunteer, Ariel Boverman is one of those people. What started as her own journey to volunteer in Israel after October 7 quickly turned into a deeper commitment, as she became an integral part of the SOI IVC family, helping others access meaningful opportunities just like she did.

What began as one man handing out warm pitot to soldiers on October 8 has grown into a powerful grassroots effort serving thousands each week. Behind every sandwich is a story of resilience, community, and a simple mission: to bring comfort to those on the frontlines.

Three weeks in the Galilee turned into something far deeper as our small volunteer group immersed ourselves in communities rebuilding their lives in Israel’s north. What we found wasn’t just work to be done, but people determined to return, rebuild, and remind the world they haven’t been forgotten.

What began as a personal mission to stand beside loved ones during wartime evolved into a powerful journey of hands-on impact—from comforting grieving communities to rehabilitating a wounded street dog who became a symbol of resilience. This moving story reveals how small acts of compassion can ripple outward, healing others while transforming your own life in ways you never expect.

From a lone soldier’s first night sleeping in a market with just $20 to a thriving community serving thousands, this story reveals how one act of resilience sparked a movement that now supports hundreds every week. Dive in to see how friendship, volunteer passion, and unwavering commitment are transforming the lives of lone soldiers—both in their toughest moments and their proudest ones.

Hashomer HaChadash began when Yoel Zilberman set out to protect his family’s land, growing into a nationwide volunteer movement. After the October 7th war, it quickly connected thousands of volunteers to farms in need, building strong human connections alongside practical help. Today, it continues to expand, strengthening farmers and fostering a sense of purpose.

She came to Israel to volunteer in 1976 and met the man she would marry on her very first day — nearly 50 years later, they’re still returning together to volunteer in the country that brought them together. ❤️

From volunteering on farms near Gaza to hearing powerful October 7 testimonies and sharing homemade meals with locals, this trip reminded me why volunteering in Israel changes you forever. 🇮🇱

The Shabbat Fairy connects international volunteers in Israel with local hosts for meaningful Shabbat meals, ensuring no volunteer spends Shabbat alone! Read all about it!

This post answers the most common questions volunteers ask before and during their time in Israel.

Trusted Tour Guides and Contacts

What we accomplished in our first year of being a non-profit!

A practical, volunteer-friendly Hebrew sheet with everyday words, slang, and cultural context written in simple transliteration so you can use it immediately.

Prepare for your volunteer trip to Israel with a clear checklist of essential steps. Includes hotel and car rental recommendations with discount codes, required app downloads, Shabbat planning tips, and key logistics. A must-read before arriving.

As you plan to adventure and embark on this journey of coming to Israel during the war, we encourage you to take time to reflect and document your experience.