In a groundbreaking new initiative, a residential complex has opened in Jerusalem to house around 100 young women who made aliyah alone from across the world to volunteer in Israel’s National-Civic Service.
The residence, established by Nefesh B’Nefesh, provides a supportive and vibrant home for these volunteers as they dedicate a year or more of their lives to serving Israeli society.
The Nefesh B’Nefesh Bnot Sherut Bodedot Residence includes 50 fully furnished apartments for 95 residents, along with a secure lobby, gym, lounge and laundry facilities. Developed in partnership with leading National Service organizations, Bat Ami, Aminadav, the Israel Volunteer Association, Shlomit and Shiloh, it is the first initiative of its kind in Israel.
“This new initiative is intended to accompany, support and empower these young women as they give back to the country through their National Service,” said Nefesh B’Nefesh co-founder and Executive Director Rabbi Yehoshua Fass.
“The Nefesh B’Nefesh Bnot Sherut Residence is more than just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. We are thrilled to provide a nurturing and inspiring environment where these young women can grow spiritually, emotionally and communally while helping serve our country.”
Reuven Pinsky, director-general of Israel’s National-Civic Service Authority, praised the volunteers’ dedication. “You left your homes and families overseas to serve the State of Israel. It’s inspiring and deeply moving,” Pinsky added. “I wish you all success in your service to the people of Israel.”
Among the residents are Penina from Maryland, Simcha from Croatia, Malia from Australia and Molly from Chicago; four young women whose personal journeys reflect courage, purpose and love for Israel.
Penina Sloan, 19, had planned to study medicine in Maryland before her year in Israel during the war changed everything. “From the moment I arrived, I felt drawn to make aliyah,” she says. “When the war began, that feeling intensified. Experiencing both the unity and the pain of the Jewish people made me realize this is where I belong.” Today, she volunteers at Shalva, working with children with disabilities.
For Simcha Dado, 19, from Zagreb, Croatia, life in a small Jewish community meant she was often the only Jewish student at school. “It wasn’t always easy, but I always knew that after turning 18, I would move to Israel,” she recalls. After her brother’s wedding in Israel, she decided to stay for good. Today, she serves in the internal medicine department at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem, assisting elderly patients.
Malia Isakovich, 18, from Sydney, Australia, discovered her connection to Israel on a high school trip. “That’s when the spark was lit,” Malia says. After returning for a seminary program, she made aliyah last August and now volunteers at Shaare Zedek’s geriatric ward. “My dream is to become a midwife,” she explained.
Molly Hefetz, 20, from Chicago, was studying in Israel in 2023 when the Iron Swords War broke out. While many peers returned home, she chose to stay. “It was a powerful experience that deepened my love for this country,” she says. “Being here during that time made me feel more connected to Israel than ever.” She now serves in the International Communications Department of United Hatzalah, using her background in graphic design to contribute to the organization.
Across Israel, more than 200 Lone National Service Volunteers are currently serving in government ministries, hospitals, schools, NGOs and community institutions, making a significant impact on Israeli society. The new Nefesh B’Nefesh residence represents another step in supporting these young women as they integrate into Israeli life and find a true sense of belonging in the country, they now call home.