Federation brings Israel to Rochester by welcoming a new cohort of ShinShinim each year.
ShinShinim—a Hebrew acronym for shnat sherut or "year of service"—are the best and brightest of Israel's recent high school graduates who defer army service for one year to become emissaries in Jewish communities around the world. They volunteer, engage people of all ages with Israel, build connections with community members, and bring Israeli culture to life through educational lessons, presentations, arts and crafts, and music.
The ShinShinim serve as a living bridge between the Rochester community and Israel. Each one brings their own unique energy, love of Israel, and fresh views to our synagogues, schools, preschools, JCC, and other institutions, both inside and outside the Jewish world.
Meet Our 2025 - 2026 ShinShinim!
We’ve handpicked this years four ShinShinim to be part of our Rochester community. We’re excited to welcome Yael, Itai, Nadav, and Maya here to Rochester, and they can’t wait to meet you. Here’s a little bit about them:
Contact Us
Michal Spivak
Director of ShinShinim Programming
585.241.8611
Are you interested in becoming a host family or already are one?
Itai
Itai lives in Modi’in Macabim Reut with his parents, two brothers, and their dog. In high school he majored in Physics and Diplomacy—two subjects that reflect his intellectual curiosity and interest in global affairs. Itai chose Diplomacy because it is taught in English and connects with his passion for public speaking and current events. Physics challenges him and helps him better understand real-world phenomena, which he finds both fascinating and rewarding.
In his free time, Itai enjoys working out at the gym, hiking in nature, playing soccer, and spending time at the beach with friends. Every Friday, he and his friends follow a tradition: beach time, hummus, soccer, and evening activities like bowling or ping pong.
Over the past five years, Itai has coached soccer for children aged 5 to 14, working with over 1,000 kids. He believes sports are a powerful tool to teach teamwork, resilience, and respect. In addition, he is an active member of the Scouts youth movement, where he leads weekly activities for middle school students and participates in volunteer projects and hiking trips throughout Israel.
What are three things Itai loves about Israel? “First, the people—I love the warmth, kindness, and strong sense of community that Israelis share. Second, Israel’s gorgeous nature—I love exploring the country’s diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains. And last but not least, the food—I’m a big fan of Israeli cuisine and its unique, bold flavors."
Yael
Yael lives in our partnership city of Modi'in with her parents, Itshak and Ayelet, her two brothers, Yoav and Itamar, and their dog, Hero. She attended Mor High School, where she majored in Diplomacy and Physics, two subjects that reflect both her interest in global affairs and her analytical mindset.
In her free time, Yael enjoys doing Pilates, baking, and most importantly, being a part of the Israeli Scouts (Tzofim). She has been a dedicated member since 4th grade. Over the past two years, Yael volunteered as a guide for 6th and 7th graders. This past year, she took on the role of Merachezet (head counselor) where she mentored the 4th-grade counselors and worked with children with special needs.
Yael finds deep meaning and joy in her involvement with the Scouts, where she has developed valuable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and creativity. She looks forward to bringing this same passion, commitment, and sense of community to her role as a ShinShinit in Rochester.
What are three things Yael loves about Israel? " First, I love the blend of old and new—like in Jerusalem, where ancient streets sit beside modern high-tech buildings. It creates a special harmony between tradition and innovation. Second, the music—Israeli songs, old and new, are an inseparable part of our Israeli identity. I love the way music brings people together, whether on the beach or at a . And finally, summer—the season when the country comes alive. With blooming nature, crowded beaches, and joyful energy, I love the warmth of the sun and the vibrant atmosphere it brings."
Nadav
Nadav lives in Lapid with his parents, two older sisters, two dogs, and cat. He was born in Jerusalem and moved to Lapid at just four months old. He recently graduated high school with a major in biology and computer science. In his free time, Nadav enjoys art—especially drawing and painting—as well as listening to music, traveling, hiking, playing tennis, and running.
Since 4th grade, Nadav has been an active member of the Tzofim (Israeli Scouts) youth movement. In 10th grade, he began volunteering as a counselor for 5th graders. The following year, he became the “Rashgad”—head of the counselor team—mentoring his peers throughout the year. Currently, he serves as a counselor for the 9th grade, which is the Scouts' leadership training year. Nadav is passionate about Hadracha (youth leadership) and is excited to bring his experience to his work with children and teens in Rochester.
What are three things Nadav loves about Israel? " “First, I love the diverse landscapes. Israel has the most amazing views—from the Mediterranean Sea to the Negev Desert, the green hills of the Galilee, and the snowy mountains of the Hermon. As a member of the Tzofim youth movement, I love spending time outdoors and going on nature hikes. Second, the people. Israelis are warm and caring, and the sense of community makes our country feel like one big family. Another thing I love about Israel is that it’s such a ‘small world’ here—no matter where you go, you always run into a familiar face or discover a surprising connection.
Maya
Maya lives in Modiin with her parents, two older brothers, and younger sister. Born and raised in the city, she studied at the Democratic School in Modi’in and majored in Computer Science and Art. She has a special love for animals, especially dogs.
Maya enjoys Pilates, it is something that helps her reset and care for herself. Dance, however, is one of her greatest passions. She dances with the professional dance group called “Zooz” and was honored to perform in Israel’s national Independence Day ceremony on Mount Herzl, marking the transition from Memorial Day to Independence Day.
Maya also serves as a Merkazet (coordinator) in Shevet Amir, her local Israeli Scouts troop, where she helps plan and lead trips and events. She has been active in youth education for the past five years through both dance and the Scouts. Before that, she trained in acrobatic gymnastics for nine years. In her free time, Maya enjoys sports, cooking, baking, and spending time with friends and family.
What are three things Maya loves about Israel? “First of all – Jerusalem. There’s something about the atmosphere of the city that brings me a deep sense of joy. The energy, the people, and the special spirit of the place always lift me up. Second – Machane Yehuda Market. The smells, the people, the liveliness—I love everything about it. I always make time to visit when I’m in Jerusalem. And finally – the sea and nature. If I lived closer to the beach, I’d end every day watching the sunset and listening to the waves. It’s the perfect way to unwind.”
Meet our past ShinShinim
Hadas, Yehonatan, Ofer, and Ziv (2024-2025)
ShinShinim 2024-2025 Year-in-Review
ShinShinim 2024-2025 Music Video
Uri, Yael, Dana and Ron (2023-2024)
Aviv, Ori, Avishag, and Alon (2021/2022)
As a parting gift to the Rochester community, these ShinShinim created their own Israel Travel Guide. It’s filled with recommendations on their favorite places to eat and hike, how not to look like a tourist, and other tips for seeing Israel like a local.
Yael, Keren, Gilad, and Ori (2019/2020)
After returning to Israel, this first group of ShinShinim created an Israeli Recipe Book filled with details on how to cook their favorite dishes from home.
