Mechinat Eitan is a truly unique place within the Israeli landscape.
Our students combine hands-on "doing"
with a beit midrash program.
The students come from all walks of life in Israel.
And this fascinating mix of diverse populations
creates a spectrum, a human fabric
that is truly fascinating. These connections...
It's exhilarating to see these connections form, as an observer, and also from the inside,
how people here really come a long way.
They start off at a certain point,
and little by little, step by step, they progress.
They take this year here to build their personalities and their character, brick by brick.
The daily routine here is really empowering and helps us grow.
I work mostly in the sheep pen.
We have different teams at the program, each person has a role here.
Never in my life did I have this kind of routine. I wake up in the morning, and I have stuff to do.
And it isn't a waste of time, I'm doing things that are helping me grow and advance,
things that make me wake up with a smile. To go to the animal pen in the morning
and take a flock out to the open areas nearby,
guarding from intruders. Learning things that I want to learn.
Yes, there's discipline here and routine, because routine is a must, but the kids are given a lot of
freedom to choose what they want to do.
And I believe -- we at Mechinat Eitan believe --
in this educational approach. When someone comes, and does these things of his own volition,
not that someone is forcing him or coercing him to do it,
that's when he blossoms and grows.
Truly, the sky's the limit.
During this year in the program, we cover all of the cornerstones
that someone who's just graduated high school needs for the army and for life.
Whether it has to do with character, physical fitness, other meaningful activities,
going on trips.
Your time in a pre-military academy, before enlisting,
is a one-time opportunity.
It's a year when you're a bit self-centered,
but not really. You focus on yourself, you learn about yourself,
but then when you contribute your three years,
you're the best that you can be.
There's an enormous difference between enlisting straight out of high school and completing a pre-military academy.
It's true that some people come in more mature from home,
and they're more ready.
But what you get out of a pre-military academy... you can't get that anywhere else.
School? What schools have sheep in them?
Really: to take care of yourself, and take responsibility for all of these things...
I don't have this much responsibility in my own home!
So, really, doing this program is like a dream come true.
This place is right for all kinds of people,
regardless of opinions, worldviews, lifestyles...
There's room here for everyone. We love everyone. We accept everyone.
Everyone here can undergo a meaningful process.
The pathways are here for students to walk, they just need to want it,
and to go for it.
In this program, we uncover the next generation of leaders in Israel.
We educate people to live a meaningful life.
Please be our partners as we take this program to the next level.
With your help, we'll expand the beit midrash program
and add another classroom. Your support means the success
for our future generations.