The Jewish National Fund is seeking active retirees or semi-retirees for the 19th annual CAARI (Canadian American Active Retirees in Israel) mission to Israel. The work-study program not only allows individuals to see and tour the country but also enables them to contribute and give back to the Jewish homeland.
The CAARI mission to Israel can range from two to eight weeks. A full trip includes a month in Tel Aviv, seven days in the Galilee, nine days in Jerusalem, four days in the Negev, and an optional stay in Eilat. In all of these different locations, participants take day trips, visit museums and archaeological sites, and tour historical and modern neighborhoods. In addition, numerous lectures and discussions that take place throughout the trip.
“We danced on the Tayelet, sang Yiddish songs with our CAARI family, planted trees and met people from all walks of life as we traveled throughout the country,” said Frank and Sylvia Kerman, who traveled to Israel in January. “I know that even though Israel appears as a tiny speck on the map of the world, the beauty and the majesty of Eretz Israel — the fields, the orchards, the hills, the cities and the people — shine far brighter here than in any other place on this earth.”
A major part of the CAARI program is aimed at bringing the participants together with the people of Israel, enabling them to help one another. This includes volunteering in schools, community agencies and hospitals and working outdoors at JNF forests. In working with the residents and the land of Israel, the participants can experience Israeli culture and history, seeing it through the eyes of the people who live it on a daily basis.
The touring portion of the trip includes visiting the Western Wall and the Old City of Jerusalem; visiting ancient and modern sites throughout the country; meeting with early pioneers of Israel and the new pioneers of the Negev; and learning firsthand — through lectures and guided tours — about the history of the land and its current situation.
The CAARI mission runs from Jan. 11 until March 4. Hotels, health insurance, tips, air and bus transportation are included
in the cost of the program. At least two kosher meals are provided daily, with a third meal offered on a number of days. Information: (888) 563-0033, ext. 239 or 211, [email protected] or www.jnf.org/CAARI.