On my very first day as an intern in WIZO’s Fundraising Division, within an hour of stepping foot into the office, I was invited to join Annette Crandell, WIZO’s Internship Coordinator, to meet with the Director of the WIZO home for the elderly (WIZO Beit Horim Parents Home). The meeting was in Hebrew, and I had no idea what the women were saying, but one thing became quickly clear to me through the animated conversation -the individuals that dedicate their time to WIZO are incredibly motivated, passionate, and absolutely devoted to their work for WIZO. In the course of my four months as an intern here, I had the privilege of meeting and working with World WIZO Division Chairs, WIZO Presidents from abroad, WIZO Center volunteers, WIZO Youth Village Directors, and WIZO donors from all over the world. All of these hardworking individuals have taught me what it means to be wholeheartedly dedicated to a cause and have inspired me to be truly devoted in my life’s work.
Of course, when one is working for WIZO, it is impossible not to become quickly involved and inspired. Later on my first day at WIZO, I was introduced to the project book listing WIZO’s 800 projects throughout Israel, which include multi-purpose day care centers, schools, women’s centers, and many more. Everyday at WIZO, these projects came to life for me. I wrote background reports, learned about donors, created budget and new project proposals, and most rewardingly, I learned and wrote articles about the individuals that benefitted from these projects. I even had the opportunity to visit a few of these projects and see firsthand the beautiful impact and importance of WIZO’s work in Israel.
In a few days I will return to the United States after spending five wonderful months living in Tel Aviv. My time as an intern at WIZO’s Fundraising Division contributed greatly to my experience in Israel. In addition to teaching me valuable work skills, through WIZO, I have connected more deeply with the community of Israel and have gained a greater sense of the importance of Jewish philanthropy. I would like to thank Annette, Esther, Mickey, Monique, Mali, and the other interns for contributing to my meaningful experience at WIZO.
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