Nativ
Jewish Zionist Idenitity Program for Immigrant Soldiers
Being in Israel is everything to me. The Nativ program helped to reinforce my Jewish identity and connection to Judaism. I am more confident than ever that Israel is where I want to be. (Blanka Edelman, new immigrant)
Nativ (Jewish Zionist Identity Program for Immigrant Soldiers) is a revolutionary program that reaches out to new immigrants from the Former Soviet Union and other countries and draws them closer to Israeli society. Developed in conjunction with the Israel Defence Force (IDF), Nativ was established in order to ensure the full integration of these young newcomers- both in the army and society in general. Nativ targets immigrant soldiers who have been in Israel for 10 years or less who are performing their compulsory service. Nativ addresses major unresolved societal issues confronting the future of the Jewish people in Israel.
The program has been a turning point for the thousands of soldiers who have participated in the program; strengthening their understanding and connection to Judaism and Israel. It consists of an intensive 7 weeks study course in five major subjects, combining practical studies in class experiential activities, weekly tours, a week long study trip in Jerusalem, Sabbath seminars and individual projects.
85% of the soldiers who are not halachically Jewish continue to pursue full conversion through the military chaplaincy upon completion of Nativ. The majority of the soldiers who participate in the program attest to its effectiveness in paving the way for their successful absorption into Israeli society.