Authentic Israel

This trip was so important in order to bear witness to the unimaginable events of October 7. It was an honor and a privilege to be able to give back to our homeland. Thank you to Authentic Israel for making this happen.

I recently returned from Authentic Israel’s volunteer for Israel trip. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who wants to support Israel since the Oct 7th attacks. This trip was such a meaningful experience. Everyday we helped with food packaging or cooking for people in need. These were jobs that actually needed to be done, not busy work manufactured for tourists, and we were able to work along side those living in the region. The educational parts of the trip were also excellent. Seeing the Nova Music Festival sight and talking with a survivor of the massacre, who lost her beloved brother, was powerful and important. As many people as possible should do this to ensure that once again the world never forgets. Lastly, I want to mention our guide, Alon. I have taken several guided trips in Israel in the past and Alon is the best guide by far. Everyone felt safe and happy with Alon as our guide. Alon was also incredible knowledgeable about all things Israel and was able to come up with meaningful experiences for the group when plans had to change suddenly due to timing. If you are considering doing this trip, I encourage you to sign up. I can’t wait to go again!

The experience was more powerful than I could have imagined. We had a small group and an amazing tour guide (Alon Yitzhaki), and we bonded instantly. We could literally see the value we added--packing vegetables on farms and at the Leket food bank warehouse, helping prepare meals for needy families. Israelis we met expressed tremendous gratitude that we came to visit and wanted to help. We also saw the sobering Nova site and heard from a survivor whose brother was murdered. I've been to Israel twice before, but this trip will have a lasting impact.

This is my 2nd time with Authentic Israel, but my 1st time doing a volunteer trip. My 4 days on this trip have been one of the most powerful experiences of my life. Alon is 10/10 - he is such a fantastic tour guide, filled with so much knowledge, compassion, and humor. I haven’t even touched down yet on US soil and I’m ready to book my next trip. I can’t thank you enough for this unbelievable, life changing trip.

The program was outstanding- very varied, great combination of volunteering and touring. Our work was appreciated, The guide was excellent. Really this was perfect and I can't make any suggestions to improve.