Sullam Israel Residency
Today’s Perspectives. Tomorrow’s Possibilities.
Applications for this program have closed
Our Vision
Imagine if every community young professional had the opportunity to supplement their early career with an immersive experience living in Israel and embarking on a journey of learning and growth. This is the vision of the Sullam Israel Residency.
The Pilot Program – January 2024
The Sullam Israel Residency is a transformative month-long program for professionals in the early stage of their career and who work in Jewish community service. Residency participants experience the land of Israel firsthand, connect with Israelis of diverse perspectives, explore their personal and professional paths, and solidify their connections to Israel and the Global Jewish community. The comprehensive curriculum focuses on Jewish and Israel education to equip participants with the skills to become successful professionals in service of the Jewish communities.
The pilot program is managed by Taglit Birthright Israel Onward and will take place in January 2024 in Tel Aviv.
The program will include multi-day opening and closing seminars, day-long thematic courses, and two multi-day intensive electives. Participants will engage in deep learning and exploration with multiple educational and elective choices, while living independently in apartments in Tel Aviv. The program also includes Shabbat retreats, additional work-related commitments, and time to explore Israel independently.
Participant Eligibility
Applicants to the Sullam Israel Residency must have at least 18 months and no more than 5 years of service as a full-time professional (with some exceptions) in a role dedicated to actively engaging with community members. The intent to remain in the field of Jewish communal service is required, and prior Israel experience will be considered. Both Jewish and non-Jewish applicants will be considered. Applicants must be recommended to apply by their respective supervisors. Nominations from supervisors and directors will be subject to a competitive selection process.
Educational Goals & Curriculum
The Sullam Israel Residency offers a comprehensive educational arc designed in partnership with M2: The Institute For Experiential Jewish Education. The curriculum provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the Jewish community and its history, values, and contemporary challenges. We believe that a deep understanding of Jewish history, culture, and traditions is essential for anyone who wishes to serve the community.
Key areas addressed include:
- The state, land, and people of Israel: history, contemporary, geopolitics, social diversity, multifaceted perspectives, and Israel as a center for innovation
- Jewish wisdom: narratives, text study, ritual, experience of the sacred/spirituality
- Dialogue and facilitation skills – hot to create a safe spaces and embrace complexity
- Community: Jewish peoplehood, Jewish life in Israel and at home in America
- Mifgash – Networking with Israeli professionals
- Ethical Living – Tikkun Olam, social action, volunteering
Features of the educational program:
- A faculty of world-class educators and experienced Jewish professionals
- The opportunity to meet with high-level decision-makers and leaders including Members of Knesset, Supreme Court Justices, thought leaders, community activists and cultural icons.
- Deep-dive intensive electives customizable based on personal interest and in partnership with content experts.
Important Information
Pilot Program Dates
Application deadline: September 15th, 2023
Residency: January 8 to February 4, 2024
Decisions will be communicated at the beginning of September, 2023
You MUST be available to participate for the full duration of the program
Program Cost & Logistics
Participants are required to submit $375 participation & security deposit. Deposits will be refunded at the end of the program based on good standing.
This is a highly subsidized pilot program. The program covers essential aspects such as accommodation in comfortable single bedrooms within shared apartments located in Tel Aviv, round-trip airfare from select North American gateway cities, enriching educational programming and seminars throughout the stay, meals during educational sessions, Shabbat retreats, basic medical insurance, and ground transportation within Tel Aviv.
Learn More HERE and For More Information Contact: Sullam@onwardisrael.org
Are you in the early stage of your career as a Jewish community professional? Contact us to learn more about how to apply for Sullam!