A monthly update for our most dedicated supporters from Gidi Kroch
The people who make our mission possible
At the core of Leket Israel’s mission lies a powerful force that expects no recognition and asks for no reward: our volunteers.
They come from all backgrounds, from across Israel and around the world. Some return each week like clockwork, others show up just once yet leave a lasting impact. Together, they form the living spirit behind our work, individuals who choose to give their time and energy to feed others.
What happens when over 800 of these remarkable individuals share their stories, feelings, and motivations? You get a glimpse into something truly extraordinary.
To better understand this community, we conducted a volunteer survey among 839 individuals aged 18 and above, during February 20-23, 2025. Here’s what we learned:
- 98% of volunteers are satisfied with their experience, and 93% intend to return.
- 82% volunteered in agricultural fields across Israel
- 66% rated the training and guidance as “very good”
- 66% said they are certain they’ll return to volunteer
- 76% said their motivation to volunteer was a wish to give back to the community
- 61% did so to experience the satisfaction of giving
- Top reasons for satisfaction: helping farmers (28%), our welcoming team (26%), and a sense of purpose (18%)
- Most people heard about Leket through friends/family (38%), educational programs (17%), and social media (16%)
These aren’t just statistics, they reflect a deep sense of meaning, connection, and belonging. Volunteers spoke of the joy in helping Israeli farmers, the warmth of our team, and the impact they feel from the moment they arrive.
Many volunteers join because a friend or relative simply says, “Come with me”. But 42% said they stay because they feel deeply aligned with Leket Israel’s values.
In a time of uncertainty, being part of a community with shared purpose matters more than ever.
Among the tens of thousands who joined Leket Israel since the outbreak of the war are volunteers whose stories inspire us deeply.
One of them is Alexander Schiller, a 68-year-old attorney from the US, whose love for Israel moved him to take immediate action. The day after contacting Leket, he boarded a plane and began volunteering in the fields. What was meant to be a two-week visit quickly transformed into a long-term commitment. “I no longer felt like a tourist, I felt I had a stake in Israel’s life and future.” Alexander now volunteers twice a week while learning Hebrew at an ulpan, and even met his partner, Aya, on the Leket bus.
Another unforgettable moment came when Sas and Rocki Ezekiel, long-time supporters from the UK, returned to volunteer despite the ongoing situation. Amid packing fresh produce for Israelis in need, they celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary at our Logistics Center, bringing with them not just dedication, but joy and heartwarming spirit.
Volunteering at Leket isn’t just something people do – it’s something they become a part of. A community. A movement. A family.
In a world full of uncertainty, there is clarity in kindness. In the face of challenges, there is strength in service.
One of them is Alexander Schiller, a 68-year-old attorney from the US, whose love for Israel moved him to take immediate action. The day after contacting Leket, he boarded a plane and began volunteering in the fields. What was meant to be a two-week visit quickly transformed into a long-term commitment. “I no longer felt like a tourist, I felt I had a stake in Israel’s life and future.” Alexander now volunteers twice a week while learning Hebrew at an ulpan, and even met his partner, Aya, on the Leket bus.
Another unforgettable moment came when Sas and Rocki Ezekiel, long-time supporters from the UK, returned to volunteer despite the ongoing situation. Amid packing fresh produce for Israelis in need, they celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary at our Logistics Center, bringing with them not just dedication, but joy and heartwarming spirit.
Volunteering at Leket isn’t just something people do – it’s something they become a part of. A community. A movement. A family.
In a world full of uncertainty, there is clarity in kindness. In the face of challenges, there is strength in service. And through every apple picked, every box packed, and every hand extended, our volunteers show us what’s possible when people come together for good.
To our volunteers: thank you. You are not only part of our mission. You are what makes it possible.
To our volunteers: thank you. You are not only part of our mission. You are what makes it possible.