Location
Umm El-Fahem is located near Megido in Northern Israel in a prominently Arab area. The city sits on the Umm El-Fahem mountain range and is the social, cultural and economic center for residents of the Wadi Ara and Triangle regions. The location is a secluded and conservative area.Umm el-Fahem is a Muslim city and is considered to be a conservative and traditional. It is peripheral to the nearest large city which is Haifa which is 30 km away. It is about and hour and 15 min. from Tel Aviv. Travel to and from Umm el-Fahem is possible by bus and taxi. In Umm el-Fahem itself there is little public transportation.
The Spoken Language in Umm el-Fahem is Arabaic. Most of the people speak Hebrew as well. Although there may be very proficient English speakers in Umm el-Fahem, the average person speaks very basic English, if at all.
About the project
Established in 1996, the Umm El-Fahem Art Gallery aims to bring quality contemporary art to the city and region. In addition, the gallery aspires to serve as an artistic and culture center for the city, bring art awareness and appreciation to its population, and serve as a bridge between Jewish and Arab cultures in Israel.
Orientation in Jerusalem
The volunteer adventure will start off with a GoEco orientation at the Abraham Hostel in the center of Jerusalem. The orientation is a great base to meet fellow volunteers / travelers and includes the following:
- Volunteer preparation and travel directions to your program
- Expert travel advice in Israel for during and after your volunteer placement
- Walking tour of Jerusalem, including the Old City and the famous Machane Yehuda market
- Discount card to experience Jerusalem's vibrant night-life
- 1 night dorm accommodation and breakfast (private rooms available for extra price)
The GoEco orientation will begin at 10:00 AM on arrival day. The next morning, volunteers will travel to the volunteer project with public transportation. Full travel details to Jerusalem and your project will be provided upon registration.
Volunteer Work and Contribution
Volunteers will have the opportunity to contribute to the gallery in a number of ways. Main duties include:
- Research for Fundraising
- Event Coordinating/Organizing
- Website maintenance and content contribution
- Routine gallery maintenance
- Assistance with children's workshops
During the program, volunteers will work between 4-8 hours a day and will have 1-2 days off every week. Volunteers are expected to start their days at 9:00 am.
Accommodation & Facilities
Volunteers will stay in rooms suitable for two. The rooms are located in a two bedroom flat which is situated in the upper floor of the gallery premises. This flat has two twin bedrooms, a shared toilet/bathroom with hot shower, a kitchen and communal dining area. Food at the local markets will cost volunteers an average of $10 per day. Volunteers are expected to keep the apartment neat and tidy during their volunteer period.
Internet: Shared computer in gallery for emails and free wifi access in flat.
Travel Highlights
During the program, volunteers will work between 4-8 hours a day and will have 1-2 days off every week. During their time off, volunteers have the opportunity to visit the nearby attractions of northern Israel such as the cities of Haifa, Akko, Tiberius and Nazareth. Tel Aviv is one hour away by bus and most of the major cities are accessible by the many buses that service the Umm el-Fahem Junction. The gallery is ideal for independent, experienced professionals who enjoy quiet evenings in or out. There are many eateries in the city which are nice places to socialise with the locals and experience traditional Arabic food. For pubs and clubs Tel Aviv, Haifa, Nazareth, et al, are within easy reach by bus or taxi.
Minimum Requirements
- Flexibility, open-mindedness, and cultural sensitivity
- Min age 25 - Max age 60
- Strong English proficiency
- Applicants who are familiar with Hebrew and/or Arabic are prefered
- Good writing and communication skills
- Administration and/or education background a distinct advantage
- Independent travellers only. Must be prepared to spend substantial periods alone in the evenings and when the gallery is closed if there is not another volunteer present
- Full travel & medical insurance Immunizations (please consult your doctor)