Special Ops is the most intense trip we offer among all our summer volunteer programs in Israel. Intended for young adults, this trip ignites a passion for restoration like no other. A relatively new addition to our roster, this summer volunteer program makes a massive impact on both you and the farmers we serve.
Summer Volunteer Programs in Israel That Are Intense!
When we say intense, we mean it — but in the best way possible. Your mornings will start early, awakening with purpose and anticipation for the day ahead. We kick off each morning with worship and prayer to set the tone for the day. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading straight to the field, ready to make a real impact.
Days in the field are long and often challenging. Our work varies but typically involves planting trees, driving posts for new vineyards, and laying the foundations for future harvests.
Though the work is demanding, we strive to keep it enjoyable for our dedicated team. Just when the heat starts to feel unbearable, we take a short break for a snack and some refreshing watermelon. One of the most spirited debates during these breaks is whether watermelon tastes better with or without salt. Before a consensus can be reached, it’s back to work. After two years, the debate remains unresolved.
The energy from the break — or maybe the debate — gives the team the boost they need to push through until lunch. Lunch is a hearty spread, offering plenty of food to both fill you up and cool you down.
This Trip is Not For Your Average Tourist
This trip isn’t for just anyone — it’s for those ready to go the extra mile. Once we return to base, the work doesn’t stop. We dive into projects that keep everything running strong, which might include:
- Repotting plants
- Cleaning water boxes
- Tackling construction projects
- Preparing for upcoming trips
— and countless other tasks that make a real difference.
This may sound like a lot, but we live by the motto: ‘work hard, play hard.’ We’ve found that the harder you work, the stronger the camaraderie with your peers. Not only that, but we also make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for fun!
After a long day’s work in the sun, we often cool off by swimming in ancient cisterns. Some nights, we host ‘worship game night.’ If you’ve never heard of it, that’s because we invented it! During these nights, we blast worship music, enjoy snacks, and play whatever game comes to mind.
The 13-Mile Hike (Most People’s Favorite Part)
For many, the highlight of this summer volunteer trip in Israel is the overnight hike — a true grand finale for the Special Ops experience. The journey begins after sundown in the Judean desert, with a backpack full of water and a sky full of stars. As you trek through the night, the desert landscape transforms into the dark silhouettes of mountains. Eventually, you’ll witness the sun rising over the Dead Sea — a breathtaking moment you won’t soon forget.
During the hike, there’s a chance to rest for a few hours, wrapped in your sleeping bag beneath the stunning Judean night sky.
But the adventure doesn’t end with the sunrise. After taking in the golden horizon, you’ll begin your descent into Ein Gedi along an ancient Roman road, thousands of years old. The path is steep and rugged, but the reward is sweet — a crystal-clear spring waiting to cool you off. From there, the rest of the hike feels easy in comparison, with plenty of stops along the way to swim in more hidden springs.
Once the hike is complete, the group takes a short drive to the lowest point on Earth — the Dead Sea. Here, you’ll get to experience the surreal sensation of floating effortlessly on the water’s surface, without even needing to swim.
You’ll Grow Both Spiritually and Intellectually
There’s a lot more to this summer volunteer trip in Israel than pushing yourself to the physical limit. Every evening we make time for things like:
- Worship
- Discipleship
- Insightful classes
- Prayer
— and so much more!
This gives time for everyone to learn, speak life into each other, and grow as a group and as individuals both spiritually and intellectually.
Be an Active Player in the “War of the Tractors”
Arguably the most impactful part of this volunteer trip — for both you and the people you’re helping — is your active involvement in what we call the ‘war of the tractors.’ Many who take part in this trip come to realize that there’s a real battle unfolding in Israel. The biblical heartland of Israel is under threat from hostile forces, and the land you are helping tend sits right on the frontlines. Without these farms, this region would quickly become an Arab state, so your efforts directly contribute to helping the Jewish people reside in their rightful home.
Come Join Us for One of Our Summer Volunteer Programs in Israel
If this trip sounds like something you or someone you know would enjoy, be sure to apply for our upcoming Special Ops trip.
There’s plenty more to experience while you’re on this summer volunteer program, but in order to find out more, you’ll have to join us and see for yourself!
We hope to see you this summer!
