How the Schoenbaum Shinshinim Are Shaping Jewish Life in Atlanta
Four months into their year in Atlanta, the Schoenbaum Shinshinim have already become a meaningful presence across the Jewish community. For Debbie Sasson, the new Manager of the Schoenbaum Shinshinim, watching this cohort reach the halfway point of the academic year has been especially powerful. With years of experience hosting a Shinshin, supervising Israeli educators, and supporting young Israelis in Jewish communal life, Debbie describes the program as being rooted in relationships — connections that grow stronger through everyday interactions, shared experiences, and mutual learning.
Since arriving this summer, the Shinshinim have immersed themselves in schools, synagogues, youth movements, and community spaces throughout Atlanta. Through that work, they’ve gained a deeper understanding of the diversity of Jewish life and the many ways people connect to Israel.
“I’ve learned how welcoming and diverse the Atlanta Jewish community is, and how deeply people here care about Israel in their own unique ways,” said Omer.
Andy shared, “Working with different denominations, I’ve seen first-hand how each one understands and expresses being Jewish in its own way.”
“Each family here has their own unique story,” Itai reflected, “and each has their own traditions and way of life.”
Shir added, “Judaism can be experienced in many different ways… while still sharing the same core beliefs and values.”
Many Shinshinim were surprised by how quickly they felt embraced by the community and entrusted with responsibility.
“I was surprised by how quickly I felt included,” Omer said.
Andy noted, “I never expected to have deep and meaningful conversations so quickly.”
“I was most surprised by how welcomed and loved we feel within the community,” Shir shared.
Rotem added, “Almost every Jewish place that I’m going to, people recognize me as a Shinshin and start saying how they support and love this program.”
When asked about their most meaningful moments so far, nearly all pointed to relationships — particularly with host families, students, and colleagues.
“My favorite experience has been with my host family,” Omer said.
Andy shared, “Those relationships have been the most meaningful part of my experience.”
Shir reflected on celebrating Jewish holidays in a new context, saying it showed her how “Jewish life in America and in Israel can look very different, yet still share the same Jewish essence.”
Inbar added, “My favorite lesson is to not take for granted the feeling of being a Jew in a Jewish country.”
As the program reaches its midpoint of the academic year, the Shinshinim are preparing for the next phase of their year, including transitioning to new host families in the coming weeks. Debbie notes that this moment often brings both excitement and reflection — a chance to honor the bonds already formed while looking ahead to new relationships and experiences that will shape the rest of the year.
The Schoenbaum Shinshinim program directly supports Federation’s impact areas of Israel and Jews around the world, as well as Jewish education. By bringing Israeli voices into classrooms and communal spaces, the program strengthens Jewish peoplehood and creates lasting, personal connections to Israel. For donors, that impact is tangible — seen in the trust built, the conversations sparked, and the relationships that continue long after the year ends.
Looking back on their time so far, the Shinshinim say they’re most excited to share the connections and experiences they’ve gained in Atlanta with loved ones back home.
“I found a second home on the other side of the world,” Shir shared.
“I want them to know how warm and supportive the Jewish community in Atlanta is,” Rotem said.
At the halfway point of their journey, one thing is clear: the relationships formed so far are only the beginning.
Interested in hosting a Shinshin in the future? Learn more about becoming a host family and opening your home to this meaningful experience.
Have a favorite Shinshinim memory? Share your Shinshinim story and help celebrate the impact they’ve made in our community.