Description

Objectives of IYL MEPI

1. To experience and celebrate the cultures of the Middle East by providing an unbiased portrayal of Israel and Palestine and the conflict
2. To empower youth to take responsibility for the conflicts that plague the world by taking part in peace-building dialogues and service opportunities that engender cooperative relationships and the breakdown barriers of religion, ethnicity and nationality.
3. To provide a platform that focuses solely on Aspects of the Solutions not Sides of the Conflict to introduce idea that problem solving can be creative and applies our passions or talents.
4. To provide a network for future partnership and collaboration amongst participants by introducing and working with NGO's and students active in different fields.

Highlights

Components of the MEPI IYL:

* Service Projects: Renovation of St. Alexander's Russian Orthodox Church in the Old City of Jerusalem. This is the location of Judgment Gate. Work at a Center for Disabled Children in Bethlehem, Painting projects and interaction with primary school students, collaboration with Service for Peace at a pluralistic synagogue.
* Educational Experience: Learn about the issues that Palestinians and Israelis and Palestinians face. Participate in peace-building dialogues conducted by MEPEACE. Meet Hebrew and Bethlehem University Students,
* Discover New Friends and Networks: Meet students, youth leaders and organizers to expand your network of peace-builders!
* Learn about Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and Non-Profits:
Meet with High Cloud, YFWP, Service for Peace, and other organizations to learn about their work. Visit local schools and community organizations.

For this year of 2010 we may possibly have a summer volunteer program of 12 days and are waiting confirmation, this is due to our own office changes, but we certainly hope to have them for next year 2011.

However, we are offering fact finding tours for people of all age-groups that include conflict resolution, meeting and interfaith with representatives of the major religions including visiting their holy sites, meetings with representatives of both Israel and the Palestinian Authority, and guided tours of Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Ramallah, Galilee, Nazareth, Haifa and the Dead Sea. If you are considering volunteer activities in the future this tour would definitely help you have a clearer understanding of the situation and of different groups of people.

Qualifications

It is with great pleasure and anticipation that the Youth Federation for World Peace announces the 41st Middle East Peace Initiative from June 21st to July 4th. We will gather youth participants and organizations from Europe and America in the Holy Lands of Israel and Palestine under the banner of "Bridging Cultures-- Becoming Peacemakers."

Who is invited?
Youth leaders or organizers interested in meeting international youth also interested in learning more about peace-building initiatives.

Requirements:
Send an email expressing your interest and we will send an application form, more information and participation guidelines.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

850

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• Registration fees
• Travel while in host country

Program Fees Include:

The cost of the tour in Israel is USD 850 per person and includes staying in quality hotels, full 3 meals per day, fully guided bus tours and conferences.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

17+

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 30

Application Process Involves

• Disciplinary Clearance Form
• Essay
• Letters of Reference
• Written Application

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Youth Federation for World Peace - Israel's Mission Statement

YFWP is a dynamic movement of emerging young leaders promoting peace through serving the greater good.