A group of Masa's volunteer program landed in Israel just days before the Israeli military operation against Iran began. They arrived fully aware that they were entering a war zone, intending to volunteer and support Israel, but they didn't expect to find themselves in the midst of such an intense conflict. However, they intend to stay.
"As a Masa volunteer, I'm incredibly proud to be in Israel and to contribute in any way I can," 19-year-old Natalia from Florida said. "Despite the challenges and uncertainty, I feel safer here than I would back in the States, and there's truly nowhere else I'd rather be. I'm proud to be Jewish, and even if my role is small, I'm honored to serve my country. I have full confidence in the strength and resilience of our people and our army. I'm deeply grateful to our soldiers and keep them in my thoughts and prayers every day. I'm praying for calmer days soon. Am Israel Chai."
Masa, a joint initiative of the Jewish Agency and the Government of Israel, brings thousands of young Jews from around the world to Israel each year for long-term programs. The Masa-Volunteers program was launched immediately after October 7th, in response to thousands of inquiries from Jewish young adults around the world eager to come and support Israeli society.
The current group includes fellows from the US, Canada, and Australia, who are volunteering in various areas, including with Magen David Adom and preparing meals for soldiers. Despite being based in central Israel, they are undeterred and continue their work in Israel.
