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Livnot is the premiere experience
geared towards Jews 21-30+ with little or no background
in Judaism. The program facilitates an exploration
of Israel and Jewish heritage through the medium of
fascinating seminars, challenging hikes and rewarding
community service projects.
The name Livnot U'Lehibanot, which in Hebrew
means To Build and To Be Built, refers to the physical
contribution the participants make to the building
of the Land of Israel, and to the knowledge and experiences
gained during the program.
Livnot is a community experience. Participants learn,
hike, work, live and explore Judaism together.
Livnot's two campuses are situated in the golden
city of Jerusalem and the ancient city of Tzfat and
students are given the opportunity to explore both
of these mystical and magical cities.
Programs are offered throughout the year, ranging
in length from 1 week to Go Galilees. The program is
run in English and no prior knowledge of Hebrew or
Judaism is required.
An Exploration of Judaism
Classes and workshops are held on topics of interest
and relevance to the modern Jew.
Subjects generally covered include:
- Jewish Ethics
- Zionism
- Nature and Judaism
- Mysticism
- Interpersonal Relationships
- Jewish Intimacy and Family
- Shabbat and the Jewish Calendar
- History
- Current Events
In addition, participants celebrate Shabbat in a
traditional manner as a group and with host families.
Livnot is non-denominational and non-coercive. Classes
are held in a dynamic forum where questions are encouraged.
Community Service Projects
Each group spends a portion of the program working
on community service projects. No previous work experience
is required. Past projects have included the construction
of parks and playgrounds, the painting of murals and
apartments of the elderly and immigrants, summer camps
with Ethiopian immigrants, renovation of ancient buildings
in Tzfat and digging in the tunnels below the Western
Wall.
Livnot also offers a Community Service Volunteer
program open to Jews from all backgrounds. This program
is geared at helping the less fortunate here in Israel
through physical repairs to homes, parks, working
with new immigrants and building up the Old City of
Tzfat.
Hikes
The numerous challenging and scenic hikes are enhanced
by the stimulating input by the Livnot educational
staff. Participants experience the thrill of retracing
the steps of their ancestors. Hiking is often "off-the-beaten-track"
and include the hills of the Galilee, the Golan Heights,
the Judean Desert and the secret tunnels of the Bar
Kochba revolt. Longer programs enjoy an overnight
desert experience and a 3-day hike culminating at
the Mediterranean Sea.
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