Kibbutz – Special Interest Week

Posted in Special on 21. Jul, 2010

Chanichim who chose the Kibbutz option for Special Interest Week are based on Kibbutz Ketura in the Arava desert. Most of the chanichim have already visited Ketura with their regular buses, but this is a chance to really experience kibbutz life.

The chanichim arrived Sunday afternoon after a long drive through the desert! David, a kibbutz member, greeted their group and directed everyone to their rooms. After having a few minutes to unpack, the chanichim got an in-depth tour of Ketura and learned about the history of the kibbutz and what Ketura is known for as its major products. Next they had dinner in the Chader Ochel (dining room). After dinner the chanichim divided into two groups, based on where they wanted to work on Kibbutz. They could either work on the Kibbutz- working with kids, helping in the dining room or kitchen, assisting with the care of kibbutz animals (mostly cows), or they could do mud building. Chanichim were told that no matter which option they chose they would begin work at 5 or 6 am!

Monday morning was the first day of ‘work’.  Some of the chanichim were in the dining room, or kitchen preparing and serving meals. Others worked with the cows, some assisted with feeding and cleaning them, and a few lucky chanichim got to witness a baby cow being born, while another traveled to nearby kibbutzim to help with artificially inseminating cows!

Everyone who chose mud-building learned how the kibbutz builds structures out of mud and recycled materials. Mid-day, everyone had a break for lunch and some time to relax at the kibbutz pool. The group had two peulot (activities) to learn more about kibbutz life. They discussed kibbutz values and also had debated environmental ethical issues that the kibbutz faces and what they should do. Everyone was eager to participate and share their thoughts.

Monday evening chanichim were given the option to attend services on the kibbutz for Tisha B’av. Those who chose not to join participated in group ice breakers and games. It was early to bed to prepare for another busy day experiencing kibbutz life!