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Personal volunteering on your Masa Israel journey

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Research has proven that volunteering is good for you.

Volunteering is put in the same boat as physical activity, a balanced diet, and taking your vitamins.

It can reduce stress, keep you mentally stimulated, help combat depression, and provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

The advantages of volunteering are that you can do it on your own terms, during your free time and when an opportunity arises.

As a Masa Israel Teaching Fellow, you work during the day and also get the opportunity to become closer and strengthen your connection to Israeli society by volunteering in almost any way that works for you and that you may be interested in.
Five hours of volunteering a week is a requirement for the Masa Israel journey you are now a part of.

How volunteering is good for you:

    • It’s good for your mind and body

Volunteering makes you happy. Brain activity and hormone measurement research have proven that you derive pleasure when helping others.
The saying “the more you give, the more you get” is 100% accurate here – the more you volunteer the happier you feel.

    • Volunteering connects you to others

Volunteering allows you to connect to your surroundings, in this case, you become closer to Israel through its people and communities.
It creates a sense of community as you make a difference in the lives of people around you. You can even make new friends with common interests and big hearts that are fellow volunteers.

    • Volunteering can help you professionally

You may choose to volunteer somewhere that can advance your career.
You’ll be able to apply the skills needed in your profession during your time volunteering to gain confidence and refine your abilities.

    • Fun and Fulfillment

It’s OK to say the ‘F’ word. Fun! As you volunteer you should undoubtedly find an opportunity that explores your passions and interests and a place where you can energize and escape your day-to-day routine.
Ideally, it will create new motivation and a creative outlet for you.

So, how should you start?

    • Ask questions:

Make sure you know what is involved in the program.

    • Know what is expected:

You should start volunteering after you’ve understood what you should be doing AND what you should expect from your new surroundings.

    • Enjoy yourself!

The best experiences are a win-win for all parties involved.

In summary, volunteering is good for you!
Through our Masa Israel Teaching Fellows program, you’ll really benefit from it all.

You’ll benefit from a new connection to others in an eager student community as well as colleagues with similar interests as you.

Volunteering will give you a sense of purpose and understanding of the impact you are making on the world around you and it will advance your personal and professional interests as you teach, lead, and mentor.
Finally, it will give you a sense of accomplishment, and dare we say…Fun?!

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