BINA: The Jewish Movement for Social Change is an Israeli movement at the forefront of social activism and Jewish pluralism in Israel. Every year, BINA reaches over 50,000 Israelis and individuals from around the world through social, educational and community programs.

As a BINA Gap Year participant, you’ll be a part of a diverse community of Israelis and internationals working toward social change through study and action.

Our Gap Year (Mechina) program is for participants from around the world who want to spend an extended period of time in Israel developing their own Jewish identity and connection to Israel alongside their Israeli peers. The program is for people who have just finished high school, ages 17-19.

Mechina literally means ‘preparation’. In Israel, it refers to a year of studies and social action after graduating high school before starting their army service. BINA’s mechina combines Jewish studies and social action, seeking to educate young Jews about important tenets of Judaism, and about how to put them into practice through social action and grassroots activism.

Yes, BINA is proud to support and welcome participants of all sexual orientations and gender identities. BINA as an organization proudly advocates for the rights of LGBTQ+ people in Israel and beyond, and we make great efforts to make sure that individuals of diverse identities feel welcome, included, safe and celebrated.

For other questions and inquires, email taylor@bina.org.il or fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page and we will get back to you ASAP!