Programs
Jewish Identity
Darchei Avot is dedicated to strengthening Jewish identity, heritage, and values among IDF soldiers through meaningful and inspiring programs that provide spiritual enrichment and a deeper connection to their roots.
Each week, Darchei Avot hosts IDF units for immersive Shabbat weekend retreats. These transformative experiences include prayer services and joyous dancing at the Kotel, engaging educational sessions on Jewish heritage, and delicious meals that bring tradition and warmth to the soldiers.
In addition to Shabbat retreats, Darchei Avot offers weekday programs in Jerusalem and organizes classes to bring Jewish learning directly to soldiers wherever they serve.
Darchei Avot’s mission is to help Israeli soldiers appreciate the significance of what they are fighting for. Many participants have little or no prior exposure to Judaism.
By fostering a connection to Jewish heritage, the land of Israel, and the unity of the Jewish people, Darchei Avot inspires soldiers with a renewed sense of purpose, pride, and belonging.
Rehabilitation and Support for Wounded Soldiers and Financial Aid for Lone Soldiers
Darchei Avot operates a dedicated, life-saving rehabilitation program designed to support the recovery and long-term well-being of wounded IDF soldiers.
Through the American Friends of Darchei Avot, this initiative has grown into one of the most impactful frameworks in Israel for soldiers suffering from the invisible wounds of war—emotional trauma, PTSD, and the heavy psychological toll that military service often brings.
This program is built on a deep understanding of the crisis facing Israel today. More than any time in recent history, thousands of soldiers are returning from Gaza, the northern border, and other high-risk zones carrying acute trauma—flashbacks, anxiety, depression, emotional breakdowns, and difficulty reintegrating into normal life.
These challenges often affect every aspect of their lives: family relationships, their ability to hold a job, social functioning, academic success and physical health. Without proper intervention, many soldiers feel they are living in a parallel world—unable to move forward, unable to breathe fully, and trapped in memories that continue to haunt them.
American Friends of Darchei Avot’s rehabilitation program was created to break these chains of trauma and give these heroes a real path back to life. The program provides:
Individual and group therapy sessions, led by experienced trauma specialists who understand the unique psychological landscape of IDF soldiers.
Tailored emotional-healing workshops focused on coping strategies, processing traumatic memories, restoring confidence, and rebuilding inner stability.
Personalized one-on-one support, ensuring each soldier receives attention specific to their emotional, family, and practical needs.
Strength-building activities, such as team bonding, nature therapy, and structured motivational programming that reconnect soldiers to purpose and identity.
Spiritual encouragement and Jewish inspiration, restoring values, meaning, and inner resilience at a time when many feel lost or broken.
Financial assistance and practical support, relieving pressure from soldiers who cannot work due to trauma or who require help covering therapy, transportation, or basic needs.
What makes this program exceptional is the intimate, family-like environment. These soldiers are not treated as “cases” or “statistics”—they become part of a community that surrounds them with dignity, warmth, and unconditional support. Many soldiers describe it as the first place where they felt “seen,” “understood,” and “safe” since returning from combat.
The results are profound. Soldiers who enter the program overwhelmed by fear, anxiety, or emotional paralysis begin to regain control of their lives. They learn to manage triggers, rebuild relationships, re-enter the workforce, return to their studies, and reconnect to their faith and community. Most importantly, they are given the tools to move forward not as victims of trauma, but as empowered individuals with renewed strength, clarity, and purpose.
In addition, Darchei Avot provides financial aid for lone soldiers, ensuring they have the necessary resources to navigate military service and transition successfully into civilian life.
Supporting Teens at Risk
In Israel, thousands of teenagers are "at-risk," facing challenges that jeopardize their future. Many struggle without support, often missing opportunities for education and stable employment.
Darchei Avot is committed to addressing this crisis. By supporting these teens during this critical time, we can guide them toward hope, purpose, and success.
Together for Israel
"Together for Israel" is a unique initiative designed to strengthen the bond between Jewish people worldwide who visit Israel and the courageous IDF soldiers defending our homeland. Through meaningful programs, we provide opportunities to connect, share experiences, and celebrate our shared heritage and unwavering love for Israel.
From exploring Israel’s most iconic sites together to sharing meals and participating in collaborative service projects, these encounters foster unity, inspiration, and lasting connections. Visitors to Israel have the chance to deeply connect with the heroes of the IDF, creating cherished memories while building bridges across the global Jewish community.
