Founded in the 1980s, Sar-El has welcomed over 160,000 volunteers from more than 30 countries.
By Hezy Laing
With rising interest in Israel and a desire among many to contribute meaningfully, IDF volunteer programs continue to thrive.
Whether for a week or a year, they offer a rare chance to serve, learn, and grow in one of the world’s most dynamic environments.
Many volunteers often feel they receive more than they give, returning home with a renewed sense of purpose, stronger Jewish identity, and lifelong friendships.
The IDF, in turn, benefits from the logistical support and global goodwill these volunteers bring.
One of the most popular programs is Sar-El, the National Project for Volunteers for Israel.
Founded in the 1980s, Sar-El has welcomed over 160,000 volunteers from more than 30 countries.
Participants typically spend one to three weeks on IDF bases, assisting with non-combat tasks like refurbishing equipment, packing medical kits, and organizing supplies.
For 72-year-old Linda from Toronto, volunteering with Sar-El was a lifelong dream. “I wanted to give back in a tangible way,” she said. “Even though I’m not Israeli, I felt like I was part of something bigger.
The soldiers treated us like family.”
Even after decades of operation, Sar-El’s popularity continues to grow, especially among retirees, students on gap years, and Jewish community members seeking a hands-on way to support Israel.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Mahal program offers non-Israeli Jews the opportunity to serve in the IDF for 14 to 18 months.
Participants can choose combat or support roles, and many go through basic training alongside Israeli recruits.
Daniel, a 20-year-old from New York, joined Mahal Hesder, a track that combines military service with Torah study.
“I wanted to challenge myself physically and spiritually,” he said. “It’s not easy, but it’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.”
Mahal attracts hundreds of young adults each year, many of whom go on to make aliyah or continue supporting Israel in leadership roles back home.
For those not ready to commit long-term, the Marva program offers an eight-week army simulation experience.
Run by the IDF and the Jewish Agency, Marva introduces participants to military discipline, field exercises, and Israeli history.
Participants live on bases, wear uniforms, and engage in structured training.
It’s especially popular among Jewish youth on gap years or post–Birthright trips who want a deeper connection to Israeli society.
IDF volunteer programs have continued during wartime, and in many cases, they’ve become even more vital and emotionally resonant.
In addition to providing critical logistical support to soldiers and reservists, they also provide emotional reinforcement, showing IDF troops they are not alone. Despite safety concerns, many volunteers say the experience is life-changing.
They return home with a deeper understanding of Israel’s challenges and a renewed sense of purpose.
One volunteer, Ginette Weiner, shared her experience of joining Sar-El during the height of the war. She worked alongside people from France, South Africa, and New Zealand, many of whom weren’t Jewish, but felt compelled to help.
“The ache you feel stays with you,” she wrote, “but so does the pride.”
