Volunteering in the West Bank is an excellent way to make a meaningful contribution to Palestinian society and positively impact the lives of others. For anyone considering volunteering in Palestine, it is important to understand that there are two main approaches to volunteering, which are informal volunteering and structured volunteer programs. There are advantages and disadvantages to each approach, making it important to consider your goals, interests, preferences, and individual circumstances to decide which option is the best to pursue.

Who Offers Structured Volunteer Programs?

Usually, prospective volunteers can find structured volunteer programs offered by government agencies, non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, or other community-based organizations. Generally speaking, these programs will have a specific mission and goals, making it easier for volunteers to understand what they are expected to achieve and the impact they can make. They also generally have specific volunteer requirements, which let volunteers know if the program is the right match for them, as well as a predetermined schedule or program duration and location where the volunteer program takes place. 

Structured Programs Provide More Support

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a structured volunteer program in Palestine is that they provide volunteers with a much higher level of organization, structure as well as support than informal volunteering opportunities. Volunteers will be able to receive guidance, supervision, and support from others, which can be especially beneficial for anyone who is new to volunteering or is interested in learning specific skills.

And Offer Better Opportunities To Socialize

Structured volunteer programs also generally provide volunteers with many opportunities to meet other volunteers, which can help ease any feelings of culture shock, homesickness, and loneliness while also helping to create a sense of community and shared purpose. If you undertake an informal volunteering opportunity, it’s possible that you are the only volunteer or that there are not many other volunteers.

Structured Volunteer Programs Are More Accessible

Another advantage that structured volunteer programs have over informal volunteer opportunities is that they are usually more accessible. It is generally much easier to apply for structured volunteer programs and there is usually a lot of information available about the program so prospective volunteers know what is included and what to expect therefore providing volunteers with more security and peace of mind. Whereas informal volunteering generally requires a lot more legwork to find available opportunities, then to make contact with the organization with an inquiry, and then to find out what the specific volunteer work entails.

Volunteering Costs 

While structured volunteer programs generally come with more upfront costs than informal volunteering, they also generally have a lot more inclusions. Such as accommodation, meals, pre-departure support, ongoing in-country support, language lessons, and other events or activities to socialize, have fun, or learn more about their new environment. Structured volunteer programs also provide more stability and more of a safety net in case unexpected problems arise. Whereas informal volunteer opportunities may be riskier, offer less support, and have more hidden costs (such as if you have to pay for your accommodation).

Choosing Between The Two

As you can see, structured volunteer programs and informal volunteering both have their pros and cons. The choice you make between the two approaches to volunteering will ultimately depend on what your personal goals, availability, and preferences are. If you are new to volunteering, traveling, or are searching for an organized and supported volunteer experience, a structured volunteer program may be the best choice. Alternatively, if your preference is for a more flexible and informal approach, you may wish to choose an informal volunteering opportunity. Irrespective of which choice you make, volunteering is still an excellent way to spend your time giving back to a community in Palestine and positively impacting the lives of Palestinians and you.

Tips On Choosing The Best Volunteer Programs In Palestine 

When looking for the best volunteer opportunities in Palestine, it’s important to choose between a structured or informal volunteer program. It’s also important to consider what skills you have to offer and what skills you wish to learn, so you can make your search more targeted. We also advise you to make a list of several goals you wish to achieve through your volunteer effort, so then you can try to match your goals with the best volunteer program for you.

Similarly, if you get clear on your ethics and principles, it is easier to determine if an organization or program you are interested in, is a good match. Additionally, decide on the length of time you are available to volunteer and which time of the year, so you can eliminate any unsuitable volunteering options. Finally, it’s important to make sure it is a volunteer program that fits within your budget, also considering the cost of flights or other transportation, travel insurance, and any other costs you will encounter. 

Volunteer Programs By Engage In Palestine

Engage in Palestine is a local Palestinian organization offering a variety of different short-term volunteer programs, internships, and intensive Arabic courses. With all of our various programs, we aim to foster cultural connections and exchanges, promote language learning, and develop individuals and communities. Engage in Palestine has over 11 years of experience running volunteer programs, bringing internationals and Palestinians together. This makes Engage in Palestine an excellent choice for anyone looking for volunteer opportunities in the areas of Palestine, the West Bank, Israel, or the Middle East.

Why Are Volunteer Programs With Engage In Palestine The Best?

We believe the volunteer programs offered by Engage in Palestine are the best in Palestine for several reasons. Firstly, we design all of our short-term volunteer programs to be incredibly flexible, allowing volunteers to have a lot of control over the length and timing of their volunteer program as well as the kinds of activities they wish to do. We also offer a wide variety of volunteer programs, catering to a diverse range of volunteers with varying interests, skills, expertise, and passions.

Engage in Palestine also has ties to the local community and has a strong commitment to community development. Additionally, we provide a very supportive and welcoming environment for our volunteers both before their arrival as well as throughout their stay with us. We are always here to help you. Finally, Engage in Palestine is very highly reviewed and well-regarded by our former participants and we have also received several Community Choice Awards from 2019-2022 from Go Overseas in recognition of our contributions and achievements.  

Where In The West Bank Is Engage In Palestine?

Engage in Palestine is located in Hebron – one of the most culturally rich and ancient cities in Palestine. Hebron is located in the south of the West Bank, approximately 30km south of Jerusalem, and Hebron governorate (which includes the city and surrounding villages) has a population of over 700,000 people. Today Hebron is known as the commercial capital of the West Bank while Hebron is also known for its religious significance and historical importance. 

Hebron, which has a vibrant market and a variety of small businesses, is a significant hub for trade and industry in Palestine. The city is famous for its rich cultural past, which is evident in its traditional arts and crafts, cuisine, and architecture. The Ibrahimi Mosque, a significant place of pilgrimage for both Muslims and Jews, is one of several historical and religious landmarks in Hebron’s old city, which itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

It is important to add that Hebron is also a city on the frontline of the Israeli occupation and is the only city in the West Bank with Israeli settlers living inside part of the city itself. This makes Hebron a very important city, not only historically and economically, but also to see and understand the effects of the occupation.

Summer Volunteer Programs

Engage in Palestine offers excellent summer volunteer opportunities from June through September for anyone who is searching for summer volunteer programs in the West Bank, Palestine, Israel, or the Middle East more broadly. For students, graduates, professionals, those taking a gap year or sabbatical, or anyone else with a summer break, our volunteer programs are a perfect choice. Summer is when we are at our busiest, so you will get to meet many different people from Palestine and all over the world, giving you the chance to make professional connections as well as lifelong friends.  

Our volunteer summer programs in the West Bank, Palestine combine a focus on learning the Arabic language with an immersion in Palestinian culture, history, and politics. You will also get to work on a range of different volunteer projects and initiatives in your chosen areas of interest, allowing you to develop your skills, obtain real-world experience, and positively impact Palestine and Palestinians. You can join us to volunteer in the summer from 1-13 weeks and start at any time throughout the summer months. The incredible flexibility, inclusions, and experiences we can offer you, make our programs the best summer volunteer programs in Palestine.

Our Range Of Best Volunteer Programs In The West Bank

Engage in Palestine offers an excellent range of short-term volunteer programs, providing interested volunteers with the chance to gain valuable experience and develop their skills while also making a contribution to the local Palestinian community in Hebron. Our volunteer programs which range in length from one week to three months, are made to be adaptable and customized to the needs and interests of the individual.

You may learn more about each of the specific programs we provide by clicking the links in the table below.

Quick Facts About Our Short-Term Internships And Volunteer Programs  

Below you may find a quick informative snapshot of our short-term volunteer and internship opportunities.

Volunteer Programs And Internships With Impact

With all of the various short-term volunteer programs that we operate from our center in Hebron, we aim to make a long-term difference for both the local Palestinian community and you through the exchange of ideas and “walking in each other’s shoes”. We ensure that all of our programs are well-researched and targeted so that they have a genuine and positive impact, while also effectively fostering shared learning. Volunteering with us in the West Bank allows you to contribute some of your valuable time to have a meaningful impact on the lives of those in our local Palestinian community as well as on your own life.  

Who Are Our Volunteer Programs In Palestine For?

Volunteer programs with Engage in Palestine are suitable for people from all walks of life who are interested in supporting the Palestinian cause and contributing to making Palestine and the world at large a better place. These programs are particularly ideal for individuals who want to learn about and experience Palestinian culture and customs as well as learn about the challenges that Palestinians face. Participants in our volunteer programs can be from any country, culture, ethnicity, or religion, just as long as they are open-minded as well as willing to learn and put in some hard work.

If you are passionate about social justice, human rights, community development, teaching English, or other similar fields, then volunteer programs in Palestine are wonderful opportunities for you. Volunteer opportunities in Palestine are ideal for students, graduates, professionals, retirees, or anyone else passionate about dedicating some of their time to make a positive impact on the lives of Palestinians. Additionally, if you are interested in traveling around Palestine, Israel, or the Middle East, then volunteering is a great way to get to know these areas better than you would as just a regular tourist.

Highlights During Your Volunteer Program With Engage In Palestine

• Building new friendships with other volunteers, interns, and students, as well as visitors, and local Palestinian residents and Engage in Palestine’s staff.
• Gaining valuable real-life work experience in your chosen field and developing a wide range of personal and professional skills. 
• Living in the fascinating city of Hebron and getting to experience it on a more intimate level than most tourists do.
• Immersing yourself in Palestinian culture, Palestinian Arabic, and daily life. 
• Experiencing the hospitality of Palestine by participating in Engage in Palestine’s activities during your free time. 
• Sharing a traditional Palestinian breakfast at our center with your fellow volunteers, interns, and our staff each day (except Fridays), which is included in all our programs.
• Learning Arabic for the first time or continuing your Arabic learning journey with us with Arabic lessons in Modern Standard Arabic or the local dialect included as part of your program.
• Having many opportunities to practice your Arabic and have conversations with local Palestinians. 
• Engage in Palestine’s center is staffed by highly qualified and attentive Arabic and English teachers with excellent educational backgrounds, who are eager and enthusiastic to assist you.
• Gaining firsthand experience of one of the most politically complex and dynamic regions in the Middle East.
• Learning about the situation of internally displaced Palestinian refugees in the West Bank.  
• Participating in a range of educational, social, and community activities organized by us to provide a space for locals, Palestinian refugees, volunteers, and interns to meet, socialize, and learn. 
• Joining group trips and visits arranged by us to a range of different culturally, politically, or historically important sites such as the old city in Hebron, Al-Shuhada Street, the keffiyeh factory, a glass and ceramics factory, refugee camps, human rights organizations, local artists and much more. 
• Having free time to plan weekend trips with your fellow volunteers or interns to exciting nearby destinations such as Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Ramallah, Nablus, Hebron, Tulkarem, Qalqilyah, Jenin, the Dead Sea, Jericho, Akko, Herzliya, Beersheva, Eilat, Tiberias, Netanya, Safed, Haifa, Nazareth, Tel Aviv, Masada, Amman, Aqaba and Wadi Rum.
• Program fees cover guided tours and activities, Arabic language tuition, accommodation, breakfast, and 24/7 program assistance from pre-departure to the end of your program.
• Obtaining academic or internship credit towards your studies (upon request).
• Upon completion of your short-term volunteer program, Engage in Palestine will provide you with a certificate.

Volunteer With Palestinian Children During Your Program

While Engage in Palestine has a dedicated volunteer program to work with Palestinian children, there are other opportunities for volunteers and interns to work with Palestinian children in any of our programs. 

Volunteer With Palestinian Refugees During Your Program

While Engage in Palestine offers a specific volunteer program for anyone with an interest or passion for working with refugees and making a meaningful impact, all of our programs offer the chance to work with Palestinian refugees and learn more about their situation. 

Participants will get to visit a refugee camp such as Al-Fawwar or Al-Aroub and have the chance to work on projects and initiatives to positively impact the Palestinian refugees living there. This might include volunteer work such as teaching English to refugee children running workshops to enhance the employability of refugee youth and students or meeting with the local community to learn about their situation and ways in which you can help. 

If you have specific initiatives or activities you wish to implement during your program, we are always open to your ideas.

Benefits You Can Expect When Volunteering With Us

• We arrange and provide accommodation for you in Hebron (in either a homestay or shared apartment).
• We provide a Palestinian breakfast every day (except Fridays) at our center, shared with other participants and our staff.
• All of our volunteers receive three hours of Arabic lessons per week (more can be added for an additional fee) in your choice of Levantine Arabic, Modern Standard Arabic, or Colloquial Palestinian Arabic.
• Our Arabic classes are taught one-on-one or in small groups (2-5 students), allowing for personalized instruction and an immersive environment.
• The chance to learn Palestinian-spoken Arabic from native speakers and embrace the opportunity to communicate with locals
• Gain a better understanding of Palestinian politics and experience the Israeli occupation in the West Bank
• Get to know the human rights situation and support Palestinian refugees, children, and women
• Opportunity to travel to historical locations and nearby cities including Jerusalem, Jericho, Ramallah, Nablus, and Bethlehem in your free time
• You will have days off so you can visit other nearby cities such as Akko, Herzliya, Beersheva, Eilat, Tiberias, Netanya, Safed, Haifa, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Masada, Amman, Aqaba, Wadi Rum, and Nazareth
• Visits arranged by us to Palestinian universities, local institutions, and organizations specializing in culture and education
• Having lots of chances to eat local Palestinian foods and delicacies
• You can obtain academic credit towards your degree for currently enrolled university or college students

What Do You Need To Volunteer With Us?

• To be aged 18-70 years old (although exceptions can be made if approved by our director)
• The ability to communicate in English
• The ability to work with an international team
•  Patience and enthusiasm
•  Eagerness to learn

What Don’t You Need?

• The ability to speak Arabic
• Travel or work experience
• To be a native speaker of English
• Experience in teaching English as a foreign language

Duration And Timing Of Our Volunteer Programs And Internships

All of our short-term volunteer programs and internships are very flexible. We give you the freedom to choose how long you wish to volunteer or intern for, from 1 to 13 weeks. In regards to the timing of our internship and volunteer programs, you are free to choose your own start and end dates at any time throughout the year when you submit your application.

We Offer Flexible Booking 

We understand that whether due to a change of heart, unforeseen circumstances, or last-minute emergencies, plans can change. Therefore, we make all of our volunteer programs, internships, and Arabic courses flexible so that you can change or delay your plans. 

All of our programs have flexible start and end dates and during the application process, you can choose when to begin and end anytime throughout the year for 1-13 weeks. 

In Case You Need To Make Date Changes

If you need to make any date changes to your program, you can do this for free two weeks or more before your original start date. However, if you wish to make changes or cancelation within two weeks of your original start date, any payments you have made will be converted to a credit for you to use towards any of our other programs in the future either in Palestine or with our sister location in Germany.

Reviews and Awards

Volunteer in Palestine has been offering Arabic courses for non-native speakers since 2011. We have developed many Arabic immersion programs and online courses over the years. We use the most advanced teaching methods, which we develop and enhance year after year. Education is an active process always advancing, and you will be part of the development. 

Despite continuous program improvements to ensure the best learning experience, our core goal remains connecting, teaching, and developing individuals. Additionally, we aim to promote and encourage exchange in the local and international communities. 

We continue to strive towards excellence:

In 2022, we ranked as “one of the top three organizations worldwide in offering volunteer opportunities”. We also ranked as “one of the top three language schools worldwide” by Go Overseas. We also received a total of five Go Overseas Community Choice Awards. Among others, Volunteer in Palestine earned recognition as one of the top Teach Abroad Providers for the category of “benefits”. Besides that, we were also one of the Top Internship Abroad Providers for the categories of “growth” and “support”. 

In 2021, we were one of the top three volunteer programs in the world. Go Overseas awarded us the community choice awards in the categories of “best language school”, “fun”, and “teaching”.

In 2019, we received our inaugural “Go Overseas Community Choice Awards.” This award recognized Volunteer in Palestine’s positive effect on the global travel community.

Overall, Volunteer in Palestine is a highly-rated travel company.

• +800 Reviews and ratings (96.8%) on gooverseas.com
• +160 Reviews and ratings on goabroad.com
• Participants’ video testimonials

Summary

In conclusion, Engage in Palestine offers top-notch structured volunteer programs for interested international volunteers. We offer a wide range of volunteer programs from teaching English, women’s rights, community development, medical, and healthcare to technology volunteer programs. Our volunteer programs are the best in Palestine for the flexibility, diversity, support, safety cultural exchange, and experiences we provide. Engage in Palestine is very highly reviewed by former participants, indicating our firm commitment to both our international volunteers and our Palestinian community. 

Our short-term volunteer programs are ideal for students, graduates, professionals, those on a gap year or sabbatical, and anyone else who wants to go beyond the typical tourist experience in Palestine, Israel, or the Middle East. We have created such a diverse set of programs so that you can apply your skills, knowledge, and passions in a variety of ways to impact our local Palestinian community. Our programs allow you to grow personally and professionally, build your resume, and help others by participating in volunteer projects and initiatives while having a fun and unforgettable experience.

We hope to receive your application for one of our volunteer programs soon and look forward to welcoming you to Hebron, Palestine. Good luck!

Find Out More

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us: Info@ecpalestine.org and on Whatsapp:+972 599 479 880

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