Authentic Israel

My husband and I feel that our volunteer mission in Israel was most meaningful and rewarding. Our group of twenty plus volunteers experienced a sense of unity in our desire to help our brethren and were moved by the appreciation of those with whom we interacted. We remain in touch several months after our time together, valuing our shared emotions and experiences in our homeland.

Every visit to Israel has been amazing - but this was by far the most meaningful experience of all. Our wonderful guide, Nitsan, added so much warmth, and referred to us as “our little mishpacha” as we all shared experiences as one. The trip was well organized, with someone greeting us at the airport, until we returned home. The volunteering activities were so much more than what we actually did - making schnitzel and serving our wonderful soldiers on the Gaza border; harvesting and packing tomatoes; cooking meals; preparing boxes of food for displaced families and lone soldiers; etc. The connections we made with our Israeli brothers and sisters, the warmth, the spirit and the love we felt, being there at this critical time to support our Jewish nation physically and emotionally, is so impactful. Bearing witness and honoring the precious lives of those we lost on October 7, the fallen soldiers that defend our nation, the hostages and families that continue to suffer - all these give us the determination and strength to make sure that our beloved Israel will remain as our Jewish homeland. Am Yisrael Chai!

It was extremely gratifying to be able to help Israel in this time of need. I felt I was doing something meaningful and it reinforced my bond with the Jewish people.

The trip leader and tour guide were wonderful - knowledgeable and personable. We were there in May 2024, 7 months after the Oct. 7 attacks, but I felt safe (our tour guide was with a army reserves, so that helped). We helped get produce from the farms to the market when most of the immigrant labor was unavailable.

Authentic Israel provided a phenomenal trip to Israel during a very challenging time. I would highly recommend visiting with Authentic Israel. Toby is top notch and structured the program to meet a variety of needs.