IDC fair puts positive spin on volunteer work

Students at Interdisciplinary Center in Herzliya hold special activism fair; recruit hundreds of volunteers for social ventures

Hadas Midbari |Published: 10.30.12 , 14:46

The Student Union at the Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya (IDC) launched a three-day social activism fair, Ynet learned Tuesday.

Over 40 non-profit organizations took part in the event, which began on Monday and will close on Wednesday, with aim of showcasing their activity and teaching the students about the different volunteering opportunities in Israel.

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According to the organizers, the response was overwhelmingly positive, with hundreds of students signing up to volunteer with various social causes.

The social activism fair is an annual IDC event, and it is considered to be one of the school year's highlights.

Hailed as a success. The fair (Photo: Hadas midbari)

VP of the Student Union Elad Erdan told Ynet that "Hundreds of students join the volunteering circle every year thanks to the fair.

"The IDC Student Union advocates social activism as a primary value, and is trying to help every student to find the right place where he or she can give back to Israeli society."

Ori Ben-Ner, who heads the social activism department at the IDC Student Union added: "We believe social activism of any kind gives students a unique experience – the kind you can't usually find in a classroom. The way we see it, volunteering goes both ways, it benefits both those in need and those who are fortunate enough to be able to give, one way or another."

In an effort to make the event even bigger and better than the previous ones, organizers presented the students with a colorful schedule, hosting live music performances and food stands – with all proceeds going to charity.

"By turning the event into a festival, we're trying to convey the message that volunteering can be fun, fulfilling and meaningful, all at the same time" Ben-Ner said.

"We get lost in our daily lives so easily, running back and forth from getting good grades to making a living," Hila Segev, 24, a second-year communication student told Ynet. "It's nice to take a break from the madness and realize how easy it is to give to others, and get just as much, if not more in return."