Founded in 2009, Melach HaAretz is Israel’s first integrated pre-military leadership academy, bringing together youth from all backgrounds for a year of personal growth, for IDF or national service preparation, and to foster a deep connection to the land.
The Mechina deliberately brings participants from many different backgrounds, from ultra-religious to secular, from the city and periphery, from every culture, religion, ethnicity, political, and socioeconomic background. Here they learn about the advantages of diversity, about responsibility, communication, mutual respect, and love of the land (and its people) – skills that stay with them for life.
Melach HaAretz teaches young Israelis that true strength lies not only in excellence or achievement, but in unity, in learning to embrace our differences, to disagree respectfully, and to love one another as one people.
Melach HaAretz operates separate programs for young men and women, not for religious reasons, but as a deliberate educational choice that allows each participant to engage deeply in personal growth without social pressure or distraction.
This structure creates an open, focused environment where every voice can be heard, and every participant can explore their identity with honesty and confidence. Despite the separation throughout most of the programs, the Mechina still maintains and fosters meaningful encounters between the two groups throughout the year
At 18, Israeli teens have to make life-defining choices. Many of them have never met peers outside their own social circle before they enlist into the IDF where they meet the rest of the Israeli population for the first time.
Melach HaAretz bridges the divides of religion, socio-economic status, politics, and culture, by teaching and cultivating mutual respect, resilience, and leadership.
Our Alumni go on to become soldiers, officers, and citizens who lead, volunteer, and build inclusive communities – continuing the vision of the Mechina all over the country.
Your support prepares tomorrow’s soldiers and citizens to build a more inclusive Israel.
*Youth who chose to forge a new path, clear their criminal records, and were able to enlist with pride.
In local kibbutzim, nature reserves, and underserved communities
70-80 (50 boys / 20-30 girls)
Weeks of desert hikes, survival skills, and nationwide treks, allowing the participants to get to know Israel through their feet.
Group living, shared decision-making, and personal coaching for each participant.
Physical training, resilience and values-based preparation for meaningful IDF service
Daily volunteering in the local Kibbutz communities with children and elderly residents, as well as volunteering in the local Nature Reserves.
Select a project to fund and make a targeted, meaningful impact. From in-depth seminars to educational and field excursions, each program strengthens our participants’ skills, values, and leadership.
Educational Seminar
10 per division per year – 20 total
Structured learning sessions, delivered as multi-day intensives or a series of shorter seminars.
Educational Excursion
6 per division per year – 12 total
Thematic learning days or overnight trips: Judea & Samaria, Israeli society, history, IDF preparation, Holocaust remembrance, and more.
We currently have 30 participants in need of scholarships.
