By Denise Jean Wadzinski
Volunteered in the Engliyada projects in the Sovev Kinnere Region in May 2008
In rhe picture abave : Rafi, Amiel, and Yaffa
Do you long to experience Israel first hand? Do you ever wonder what its really like to be in the majority or how it would feel to live and work according to our calendar? Do you want to experience everyday life in Israel? Then Engliyada might be just the program for you. This special program offered only through the auspices of The Jewish Agency exists to give Jewish adults in the Diaspora a meaningful connection to Jews in Israel. You will have the unique opportunity to work/volunteer part-time, live, and play in one of the most beautiful and sought after holiday areas in all of Israel- Tiberius which is also known as T'vereya in Hebrew.
This unique location is situated on the beautiful shores of Lake Kinneret, which is also known as The Sea of Galilee. It is a bustling community with something to offer everyone. The city has several outdoor shops & caf?s, numerous hotels, beautiful weather, and the best falafel in the world. Everyday necessities can be purchased and are easily accessible by foot, taxi, or bus. The Sovev Kinneret area has a rich history, both militarily and religiously. It boasts several religious sites from all three major faiths and is truly a unique and beautiful region.
As a Jew by choice, I never had the opportunity to participate in Birthright or other agency programs. However, as an adult I desperately wanted to forge real and meaningful relationships with Israeli's and make lasting connections with our land, Israel. Determined, with the grit of a former U.S. soldier, I knew that someday I would see Israel. I just thought it would be via Baghdad but as fate would have it, or as some would say it was "Beshert," I was finally able to experience Israel up close and personal and in civilian status.
A teacher and soldier by training, I turned my recent misfortune into a long awaited dream come true. You see, I was slated to deploy to Iraq in support of the Global War on Terror, but due to unforeseen medical problems that I suffered during Officer Training, I became medically disqualified. I returned to my home state of Wisconsin too late during the academic year to take an annual teaching contract. So what is an unemployed and soon to be medically retired soldier to do? I'm not sure, but I decided to go to Israel and volunteer teach, and I'm glad I did. The experience was almost too good to be true.
From the moment I landed at Ben Gurion until the moment I left Israel I felt safe, secure, wanted, and appreciated as a person and moreover as a Jew! Nowhere in the world have I ever felt like this before. My commitment to our People and our Land has never been stronger!
The best part of this is that any adult in our region with native or near native English fluency and a 4-year education can participate. You don't even have to be a Certified Teacher! I met wonderful people from Tulsa and St. Paul, our sister cities within the P2K, and of course, in Israel. I made relationships that I know will last a lifetime. And it all started because I responded to an ad in The Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle.
You, too, can have this unique experience. Engliyada runs every year and you can choose between a two-week or a four-week commitment. Free Engliyada training is provided at convenient times, usually after work or on weekends. I would be more than happy to talk to anyone who is interested in pursuing this unique and special way to experience Israel.
With much shalom,
Denise Jean Wadzinski
Engliyada Volunteer, May 2008