FAQ

Q: Who Can Join?
A: You can! If you are: Between the ages of 21-26, passionate about working on social justice issues in an urban environment, interested in doing this work from a uniquely Jewish perspective and excited about living and working with people from different backgrounds. At this time participation in AVODAH is limited to American citizens/permanent residents and Canadian citizens.

Q: Can I choose my placement?
A: Although we can't guarantee you your first choice, you will be able to select among a wide variety of placement options. We do our best to match every Corps member with the position best suited to their interests and skills. To learn more, read about the matching process.

Q: Can I choose which I want to do the program in?
A: During the application process you will have the chance to select which city you would like to live and work in. Your chances of being accepted to the program are increased if you do not have a city preference.

Q: How long is my commitment?
A: One year, beginning at the end of August.

Q: I am Jewish but I haven’t had a lot of connection to Jewish activities. Can I still join?
A: Definitely. There will be Jews with all kinds of backgrounds in the program. Our program is built on respect for diversity.

Q: I'm very observant and it’s important to me to be able to keep kosher and observe the Sabbath. Will I be able to?
A: Yes. AVODAH offers a diverse Jewish environment in which young people from across the spectrum of Jewish life live together and learn from one another. At the outset of the program year, each AVODAH house will have one kosher kitchen, and it is up to each AVODAH community to agree upon how and to what degree they will observe laws of kashrut. Likewise, the members of the community will decide together on Shabbat observance and other house rules in a way that respects everyone's needs. As a participant in AVODAH, you may be working and living with people from different backgrounds, Jewish affiliations, cultures and sexual orientations. All applicants to AVODAH should feel comfortable with and value this high degree of diversity.

Q: Will I have enough money?
A: Yes. The stipend from your placement agency covers rent, utilities, food, transportation and expenses. You’ll also receive health insurance from your placement. Upon completion of the program, you get a $1,000 exit stipend and, if you qualify, a voucher from AmeriCorps for $4,725. You can use the voucher to pay off student loans, or you can apply it to tuition payments at any accredited school of higher education. For more information read How can I afford this?

Q: Can I defer student loans during my service with AVODAH?
A: Yes! You can defer payment of your student loans during your year of service. Please see the How can I afford This?

Q: What are the houses like?
A: Read more about life in Chicago, New Orleans, New York, and Washington, DC

Q: Will I be able to have work or intern in addition to AVODAH?
A: AVODAH is a full-time program. You should not expect to work elsewhere during your year of service. AVODAH requires a serious time commitment, thus participants are strongly discouraged from taking on any outside obligations that will take them away from participating in any aspect of the program.

Q: What if I can’t make the programs?
A. Attendance at regular programs outside of work is an integral part of the AVODAH experience. Along with full-time work, all Corps members should expect to meet weekly to learn about various aspects of social justice and Judaism.

Q: What are the program dates?
A: The program year starts on August 24th, 2008 and ends on August 9th, 2009.

Q: Do I have to be in AVODAH the whole time?
A: Yes, a commitment to completing the entire year is required before acceptance.

Q: How old do you have to be to participate in AVODAH?
A: All applicants must be between the ages of 21-26 by the start of the program year, August 24th, 2008.

Q: I am having trouble filling out the on-line application what should I do?
You can call us at 212-545-7759 or email apply( put the “at” symbol here )avodah.net. You should also check out at the technical requirements page to make sure your computer has the right settings.

Q: I forgot to download the reference form in the on-line application. What should I do?
A: You can download the form here.

Q: I forgot my personal login for the on-line application. What should I do?
A: Go to the application. Under the login button there is a way for the system to email you your password. Just click on the words “forgot your password”.