Dear Aardvark Israel Family,
These are challenging days for all of us. Thanks to our dedicated team, Masa, and the security authorities, we are prepared and ready for any scenario.
We are in continuous daily contact with Masa’s security teams, the Home Front Command, and local authorities to ensure that the most important thing – the safety of our students – always remains our top priority.
Week One: Routine, Community, and Purim
During the first week of Operation Roaring Lion, we maintained our routine as much as possible, in accordance with safety guidelines.
Classes and mini-courses were moved to Zoom, and activities took place in smaller groups.
We did not miss celebrating Purim – including parties, megillah readings, and a costume contest. Despite the war, the special spirit of Purim was an integral part of this week. Of course, all events were held in protected spaces.
At first I was really disappointed because for two weeks half of my conversations with friends were about Purim – what costumes we would wear and how we would celebrate Purim in Israel. But we went to a party on level minus 4, we danced, ate, had fun, and at a certain point I almost forgot that there was a war.” Abby, Ofek Community.
We were happy to see our students demonstrating exceptional resilience, volunteering and taking an active role in supporting Israel’s home front. You are invited to read more about it in the attached article.
Week Two: Recharging Together in Eilat
We spent the second week in the southern city of Eilat. There we enjoyed the quiet and sunshine of Eilat, as well as the hotel’s wide range of activities, including the pool and recreation areas, alongside activities such as meditation, watercolor painting, an IDF panel with members of our staff, a sculpting workshop, a creative writing workshop, and more.
Even while in Eilat, our students who were able continued their internships remotely, and those who did not participated in meaningful activities and volunteer work
“It was amazing to meet all the friends from Tel Aviv that I hadn’t seen since the last all-communities trip. I really missed them. Eilat is amazing! I discovered that I am much more productive in my internship at the Jerusalem Post when I’m writing from a sunbed with a glass of pomegranate juice.” Tami, Eitan Community.
During the week we also held many processing sessions led by our team. We supported one another, talked about the situation, and had the opportunity to bring our four communities together. Our social work staff was present and took part in the activities as well as in individual conversations when needed. Thank you to Masa for this meaningful initiative.
What’s Next?
This week we returned to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, and we are continuing our routine with some modifications for student safety. Classes, mini-courses, and activities are continuing in accordance with the guidelines near protected spaces.
Students are continuing their internships – either remotely or in person, when a protected space is available.
Our team is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to keep you updated on any developments.
The most important thing we have learned during these past two weeks is that we are not only surviving this situation – we are growing through it together as one community, as one people.
