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ShinShinim Program
Introduction
The purpose of this website is to serve as an informational anchor for all stakeholders in the Shinshinim program including: the Shinshinim themselves, supervisors, organizations, host families and others. The guide contains all the information relevant to the program and helps the various stakeholders in performing their roles.
If there is information that does not appear in the guide, please inform the program staff.
About the Shnat Sherut (Year of Service) Program
In 1998, two Israeli high school graduates traveled to volunteer for a year with the Jewish community in Connecticut, USA. What began as a small initiative to strengthen ties between communities quickly grew into one of the Jewish Agency’s flagship programs. Today, the Jewish Agency proudly operates the only Shnat Sherut [Year of Service] program for Jewish communities abroad, recognizing its critical role in shaping the future of Israel and the Jewish people worldwide.
The Shnat Sherut program is part of a broad range of opportunities offered by the Jewish Agency’s Shlichim Unit, which sends thousands of Israeli emissaries to communities across the globe.
During their service, Shinshinim live with host families or in shared accommodations, fully immersing themselves in community life. Their impact is felt around the clock — not just during volunteer hours, but in the relationships they build, the experiences they share, and the personal connections they create. Host families gain an authentic and personal view of Israeli life, while Shinshinim experience firsthand the challenges and hopes shaping Jewish life beyond Israel. Many of these relationships endure long after the year of service ends.
Through their presence, Shinshinim foster deep bonds within the community, strengthening personal connections with Israel and offering a fresh, engaging approach to Israel education for children, families, and institutions. Their involvement often sparks new partnerships between local organizations, breaking barriers and opening new paths for collaboration that previously did not exist.
Designed for 18-year-olds at a pivotal stage of growth, the Shnat Sherut program offers participants an unparalleled opportunity: to learn, to serve, and to grow. The experience leaves a lasting mark — not only on the communities they serve but on the Shinshinim themselves. Upon returning to Israel, many continue their journey by participating in programs that integrate their service experience into Israeli society, in line with the Jewish Agency’s vision of strengthening both Jewish and Israeli identity at home.
What is a Shinshin?
Shinshinim are Israeli high school graduates who postpone their military service in the IDF for up to a year in order to volunteer as young shlichim in Jewish communities abroad. During their time as Shinshinim, these young people leave a significant mark – contributing to a deeper understanding of Israel among community members. The program has been extremely successful and gained a positive reputation, and the number of Shinshinim placed in Jewish communities has increased significantly in the last decade.
Position Description – ShinShin (Jewish Agency Year of Service Young Emissary)
Role Overview:
A ShinShin is a young emissary participating in the Jewish Agency's Year of Service program, serving as a living bridge between the local Jewish community and Israel. During a year-long placement in a Jewish community abroad, the ShinShin is involved in educational, cultural, and communal activities, sharing content related to Israel, Israeli society, and Jewish-Zionist identity.
Key Responsibilities:
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Develop and lead educational and community programs in schools, kindergartens, synagogues, youth movements, campus groups, and informal educational settings.
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Create lesson plans, activities, and engaging content tailored to various age groups and target audiences.
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Foster meaningful personal connections with children, parents, staff members, and community leaders.
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Represent Israel in the community with cultural sensitivity and active engagement.
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Maintain regular communication with the community supervisor and program coordinators.
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Adhere to a structured weekly schedule and engage with up to five different organizations throughout the week.
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Participate in community events, holidays, and ceremonies—both as an active contributor and as a participant.
🗓 Annual Timeline – Shnat Sherut Program
Stay on track with the key milestones throughout the Shnat Sherut year(s):
April–June (Year 1)
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Recruitment and marketing to 11th-grade candidates
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Outreach events and info sessions
May
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Registration opens for interested students (Grade 11)
June–August
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Screening and evaluation of applicants
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Building the placement roster for the upcoming service year
October–November
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Preparing candidates for community interviews
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Signing agreements with partner communities
December–January
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Community interviews and Shinshinim matching process
February
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Parents' orientation: overview, expectations, and contract signing
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Submitting deferral requests to the IDF
March
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Opening training seminar and preparatory sessions in Israel
April-June
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Professional training based on community mapping
July
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Summer training seminar in Israel
August (Year 2)
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Shinshinim begin their year of service and depart for their host communities
September
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Orientations and onboarding seminars
November–January
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Regional conferences and mid-year professional development
January-March
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Israel vacation
June-August (Year 3)
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End of service and return to Israel
September
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Post-service seminar: processing, reflection, and wrap-up
The “3 CS” of a Successful ShinShin Mission
ShinShinim fulfill their mission with the help of three essential pillars: Care, Clarity, and Community. These elements are the foundation for a meaningful, safe, and impactful year of service.
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Care (Supervisor)
Every ShinShin is guided by a dedicated supervisor who provides mentorship, professional direction, and ongoing support throughout the year. The supervisor ensures the emissary is thriving both personally and programmatically. -
Clarity (Clear and Full Schedule)
A detailed and consistent schedule provides the ShinShin with purpose, routine, and clarity. It maximizes their contribution to the community and helps them balance their roles across schools, synagogues, and informal spaces. -
Community (Host/ Families)
Living with host families offers emotional grounding and cultural integration. These families are more than just a place to stay—they are a key part of the ShinShin’s experience, offering care, connection, and a true home away from home.
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