A program that sends people around retirement age to live in communities close to the Gaza border receives the President’s Award for Volunteerism in a ceremony at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.
They are presented with the award by President Isaac Herzog.
Volunteers with Shnat Sherut 50 Plus, or Service Year 50 Plus, move south for a year to offer their skills and experience.
“The President’s Award is first and foremost a tribute to our volunteers,” says Guy Gardi, CEO of Elul, a pluralistic Beit Midrash focused on Jewish renewal.
“These remarkable individuals chose not to stand on the sidelines during one of the most challenging periods in Israel’s history,” Gardi says. “They chose instead to move into affected communities, share daily life with residents, and contribute their skills, experience, and humanity to rebuilding the social fabric of Israeli society.”
Read more: Kickin’ it old school: Retirees rediscover youth with national service year for over-50s
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From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
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