HOSTING OPPORTUNITIES

EXPERIENCES • COMMUNITY • CONNECTION

Providing housing to young Israelis can spark real connections that last a lifetime! It allows us to strengthen our Jewish identity, deepen our connection with Israel, build Jewish community, and learn about experiences different from our own. By sharing our world, we create community amongst ourselves in Austin, in Israel, and with Jewish people everywhere.

SHINSHINIM 2026-2027

Shira and Amir, 2026-2027 Austin ShinShinim

What is the ShinShinim Program?

As a part of Shalom Austin’s Israel initiative, and by your generosity through our Annual Campaign, we will be continuing our ShinShinim program for the 2026-2027 school year!

Two ShinShinim, young emissaries from Israel through the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), will be coming to Austin before entering the Israel Defence Force (IDF), and will be a part of the Austin Jewish community as shlichim (emissaries) to educate and engage while experiencing the world of diaspora Jewry here in Austin. This marks our fourth year proudly hosting ShinShinim, strengthening connections and bringing the magic of Israel home to our community.

The ShinShinim are hosted in the homes of community members (either together or separately) to maximize relationship‑building and truly integrate them into our community and American life. This is where YOU come in!

Interested in Hosting? Fill Out This Form!

WHAT WE COUNT ON FROM OUR HOSTS

A warm, welcoming home for 2–3 months, offering the ShinShinim a true sense of belonging while they’re here.
A private, comfortable bedroom that’s just for them, giving them a personal space to rest, recharge, and feel at home.
Access to a bathroom they can use comfortably and privately — a shared family bathroom works.
Daily meals and a place at your family table, helping them experience the rhythm and warmth of everyday American life.
Inclusion in family outings and local activities, giving them a window into our community and creating memories that last long after their year ends.

WHAT YOU CAN COUNT ON FROM SHALOM AUSTIN

A reliable vehicle, cell phone, and full health insurance for the ShinShinim, ensuring they can navigate Austin safely, stay connected, and feel fully cared for throughout their stay.
Extensive training and ongoing support from Shalom Austin and JAFI, giving the ShinShinim the tools, confidence, and guidance they need before they arrive and all year long.
Consistent communication and personal support for host families from Naama, our ShinShinim Coordinator, so you always have someone to turn to with questions, ideas, or anything that comes up.
A meaningful relationship with the ShinShinim that continues long after their year in Austin, creating lifelong connections that often become part of your extended family.

Apply to Host a ShinShinit Here!

Questions? Contact Naama Shabtay, Shalom Austin Beged Kefet Campus Head & ShinShinim Coordinator, at [email protected]

Having [one of the] ShinShinim live with us has been a deeply enriching experience for our whole family. It’s not just about sharing space, it’s about sharing culture, stories, and values. Through conversations, meals, and daily life, we’ve gained a new perspective and forged a connection that transcends borders. In today’s world, experiences like this remind us how powerful personal relationships can be in fostering understanding and unity.

– Karine Gordon, previous host