A Season of Reflection and Hope

As we enter the High Holidays, a time of reflection, renewal, and new beginnings, we are deeply aware of the heavy weight that the past two years of war have placed on all of us. Across Israel, tens of thousands of children and teens are choosing to mark this season together, filled with hope and meaning, through activities in Dror Israel’s associated youth movement, Hanoar Haoved Vehalomed (NOAL).

NOAL participants spread sweetness and hope, wishing their neighbors across the country Shana Tova u’Metuka!

This year, participants in NOAL branches all over the country stepped outside their meeting spaces to bring the spirit of the New Year to their neighbors through the traditional Apple and Honey Initiative. Carrying apples and honey, young members visited homes and local minimarkets, shared sweet holiday greetings, and created meaningful interactions with people living nearby. Guided by their youth counselors, the children not only wished their neighbors a sweet new year, but also let them know: we are here for you if you need help. In times like these, small acts of kindness are powerful reminders of resilience, solidarity, and community.

Kids at their NOAL branches create handmade “Shana Tova” cards to share with neighbors.

For NOAL’s 12th grade participants, the High Holidays are also marked by the annual trek to Jerusalem, a traditional journey of spiritual preparation. This year’s "Selichot tour” carried the theme “As long as the candle is lit, there is still time to repair.” Teens traveled to Jerusalem, where they immersed themselves in Chassidic stories, connected with Jewish tradition, and reunited with friends from across the country. At the Western Wall, the participants placed heartfelt notes with prayers: for the safety of our soldiers, the healing of the wounded in body and spirit, comfort for bereaved families, and the swift return of all those held captive.

From Mitzpe Ramon to Metulla, NOAL’s Apple and Honey Initiative is sweetening up every block!

In these challenging times, the activities of Dror Israel and NOAL are more vital than ever. They provide young people with ways to process the world around them, build resilience, and take action, choosing connection, care, and solidarity over despair. As the High Holidays begin, we hold on to the belief that together we can help repair what is broken, and enter the new year with hope for healing, safety, and peace.

12th graders reflect on the past year and carry their hopes for the future on a late-night trek to Jerusalem.

During this late-night Selichot tour in Jerusalem, teens visit places of prayer and reflection.

Shana Tova u’Metuka to all our friends and supporters. May this new year bring sweetness, peace, and the safe return of every hostage.