On a Birthright Israel Volunteer Trip for Participants with Disabilities

My name is Annie Michaels, I’m 32, and I live in Chicago. I was part of a Birthright Israel Volunteer trip in September 2024. This trip was created for individuals with disabilities from the U.S. and Canada who had attended Camp Ramah in the past. The purpose of the trip was to volunteer during a time of war and to show our support in any way we could.

On our first evening, we were all tired and jet lagged from the long flight, but excited to begin the journey. We met in the hotel lobby with our Israeli guide, who gave us an introduction. It was our first time getting to know each other, and we snapped a group picture after arriving in Tel Aviv.

The next day, we explored Tel Aviv by walking the Independence Trail. We took a group photo in front of a sculpture of Meir Dizengoff, the first mayor of the city. Later, we visited the Parasport Center, a training and fitness facility for people with physical disabilities. One of the coolest things we did there was play basketball in wheelchairs. Think about what that would be like!

We also had our first volunteer activity that day: preparing Tzitzit for religious Israeli soldiers. We learned how to tie the knots ourselves.

On Day Two, we volunteered again, this time packing diapers and wipes for families in need. That work felt especially meaningful. Later that day, we visited the ANU Museum, a museum about the history of the Jewish people. It was a really special place to see and learn from.

On Day Three, we had some fun riding EZ Riders — three-wheeled scooters — through a park in Tel Aviv. Afterward, we headed to Jerusalem, where we visited the Jewish Quarter and the Kotel. Each of us wrote personal notes and placed them in the wall. That was a powerful and emotional moment.

We explored Mahane Yehuda, a bustling marketplace in Jerusalem full of food, clothes, and restaurants. We tried different kinds of hummus and halva.

That evening, we welcomed Shabbat. We got ready in the hotel, lit candles, said prayers, and enjoyed a wonderful meal together. On Shabbat itself, we took time to rest and reflect.

The next day, we volunteered again, this time by helping to pick olives that would be turned into olive oil. Because of the war, help was needed with the olive harvest. We wore gloves because the leaves were pretty prickly.

Later that day, we visited Hostage Square in Jerusalem. We saw a model of a tunnel similar to those in Gaza, where hostages are believed to be held. Many people were there demonstrating and calling for the release of the hostages. It was a very emotional and eye-opening visit.

On our last full day, we had some time to relax and went swimming at a beautiful pool in Jerusalem. That evening, we had a farewell party before heading to the airport. It was the perfect way to close the trip.

I loved this trip because of the new friends I made from all over the U.S., Canada, and Israel. I found it meaningful to help others during such a difficult time. I also felt really proud to be traveling on my own, without my family, and I really enjoyed eating falafel and shawarma.

One especially memorable moment was seeing the time clock in Hostage Square that shows how long the hostages have been held. I also loved taking a photo in front of the sculpture that spells out the Hebrew word “Tikvah,” which means hope.

I’ve been to Israel before on a Birthright Israel trip back in 2012, but this trip was different. When I heard about the Ramah Tikvah Service Trip, I felt like it was a chance to do something meaningful and to be more independent. I wanted to step up and help. And I’m really glad I did.

Yes, I was nervous about going during a time of war. But once we arrived, I felt safe. Everyone in Israel seemed to be going about their lives — hanging out at the beach, shopping, going to work. It reminded me how strong and resilient people are.

Would I recommend a trip like this to others? Definitely. I’ve already told my friends they should volunteer too. Some were nervous, and I get that. But I think trips like this are such a meaningful way to connect with Israel and give back. For me, volunteering means much more than simply being a tourist. It’s how I truly understand the culture and the people. I’m so thankful I got to be part of this Birthright Israel trip.