Our ShinShinim | federation.jewishva.org

What are ShinShinim?

ShinShinim are a select group of promising Israeli high school graduates who choose to defer their enlistments in the Israel Defense Forces so that they can spend a year as Israeli ambassadors in communities around the world.

This initiative, through the Jewish Agency for Israel, one of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater's Israel & Overseas partners, is made possible in part by your gifts to the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater's annual campaign.

Why ShinShinim?

There's no more effective way to strengthen vital ties between Israel and our Jewish community than through authentic, interpersonal relationships with Israelis themselves.

The ShinShinim initiative enables the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, the Simon Family JCC, synagogues, and other community partners to build relationships with these young Israelis.

During the ShinShinim's year here, community members have the rare chance to connect with Israeli life and build lasting memories while sharing what makes Jewish life in Tidewater meaningful.

Connect. Support. Engage. Get Involved!

Consider

BECOMING A HOST FAMILY

Welcome Danielle and Emily into your home as part of the family! This unique opportunity builds meaningful relationships that will last a lifetime.

Learn More

Visit our "Host a ShinShin" page for more information and to apply.

Invite Danielle and/or Emily to a

WEEKDAY OR SHABBAT MEAL

Sharing traditions and meals with new friends fosters deep connection. Gathering is good for both body and spirit.

Learn More

The best way for our visiting ShinShinim to experience Jewish life and community here in Tidewater is to be invited to a Shabbat (or holiday) dinner.

Whether a smaller family meal or a celebratory event, Maya and/or Naomi will learn so much from conversation and interaction with members of our community.

Request to Host a Meal

Email Nofar with any hosting questions.

Go on a

SHINSHIN ADVENTURE

Help welcome Danielle and Emily by hosting the group for a mid-week dinner or, take excursions around Tidewater, or have a fun day at your home!

Learn More

Maya and Naomi would like to experience the best of what Tidewater has to offer. If you or your family & friends can invite them on a hike, kayak ride, surf day, movie night, dinner at a local restaurant, or even a fun day at home, they would welcome the opportunity.

Request a Date for Tidewater Fun!

Email Nofar with any questions.

Danielle Hartman

FROM

I live in Kfar-Saba with my parents and two sisters

HOBBIES

Sports (I played competitive volleyball for 8 years) and running

ONE THING DANIELLE LOVES ABOUT ISRAEL

Israel is my home, I love the Israeli people. I love that when something good or bad happens, all of the Israeli people unite for the same purpose. I also love Israel's rich cultural diversity and the views, beaches, weather, and food.

Watch Danielle's Introduction Video

Emily Patyuk

FROM

I live in Qiriat Ekron with my parents and brother

HOBBIES

Leading tours as a "Mashazim", playing the guitar, and spending time with my family

ONE THING EMILY LOVES ABOUT ISRAEL

I love the beautiful nature we have here. I can't ignore the beauty of our country and the stories it tells. I adore it's history, especially the parts that explain our deep bond to the land. I also love that Israel is a rapidly evolving country and has made so many achievements in just 75 years.