HILLEL - The Right to Choose

“Hillel” helps young people in Israel, who have decided to leave the ultra-orthodox world, and integrate into the modern life in Israel. Since its establishment, the Association has helped hundreds of youngsters join the regular Israeli society. The association was established by Israeli volunteers, and all work is done by them. In general, when someone decides to leave the religious fold, the person becomes disconnected from his/her family and any other support circles he/she had in the past. Moreover, the person becomes disconnected from every familiar social environment, and has to cope alone in the secular world. Leaving the fold and entering the general society is always traumatic for that person, who arrives like an immigrant, with no economic basis, no relevant education, no vocation, or knowledge of the general “language”. “Hillel” constitutes a warm, supporting setting by providing a response to the loneliness of leaving and entering a new life style. Also, the association helps the people in acquiring education and a vocation, as well as preparation for the army service. We believe in the individual’s right to choose his/her own way, helping only those who have decided to leave of their own free will.