Shinshinim (short for shnat sherut, or “year of service”) are recent Israeli high school graduates who choose to spend a year giving back before beginning their army service.
They come to Atlanta as part of a partnership between the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and The Jewish Agency for Israel—serving as a living bridge between Israel and our community.
Every Shinshin has a story to tell. In this video, our Shinshinim share what their experience as part of Federation’s Schoenbaum Shinshinim program has meant to them, from the relationships they’ve built to the impact they’ve made across Jewish Atlanta. Their year of service is about connection, community, and bringing Israel to life in a deeply personal way. Want to be part of that journey? Host families play a meaningful role in welcoming a Shinshin into our community for a semester and building a lifelong bond along the way.
There’s no better way to connect with Israel than through Israelis themselves—and our Shinshinim bring Israel to life in the most personal, meaningful way.
These inspiring young ambassadors infuse every moment with their energy, culture, and stories. Whether they’re baking challah, teaching Israeli slang, or leading a holiday celebration, they help our community experience Israel—not just learn about it.
But what makes Shinshinim truly special are the relationships they build. Through shared meals, late-night conversations, and everyday moments, they form deep, lasting connections with families and community members. Israel becomes more than a place on the map—it becomes personal, familiar, and part of our community.
Long after their year ends, those connections remain—growing into lifelong friendships that keep Israel close to our hearts.
More Than a Guest — A Lifelong Bond
Open your home to a Shinshin for a semester and experience something truly special. Hosting is a unique opportunity to build a lasting connection with Israel, deepen your family’s Jewish identity, and give back to our shared homeland in a meaningful way.
If you’re interested in connecting with a host family, please contact Debbie Sasson at dsasson@jewishatlanta.org.
In Atlanta, Shinshinim can be found in synagogues, day schools, youth movements, public school clubs, afterschool programs, and more, serving as informal educators and facilitators who share their energy, creativity, and deep love for Israel. Get the complete list of where they engage with the community below.
Follow Us on Instagram at @shinshinim.atlanta
