inside jewish

finland & latvia

in partnership with Repair the World

May 21-28, 2025

Join us for the journey of a lifetime in the Baltics on Inside Jewish Finland & Latvia! Together with like-minded young professionals, discover the beauty of these countries who have risen from the ashes into vibrant and sustainable communities. Jewish life has staged a remarkable recovery in recent decades — we’ll witness this through impactful community visits, vibrant architecture and breathtaking historical sights.

Please note: Inside Jewish Finland & Latvia is open to individuals ages 23-39 who have experience volunteering and are alumni or program participants of a Jewish Service Alliance (JSA) Organization

APPLY NOW

trip
highlights

FAQ
  • Explore the rich Jewish heritage of Finland and Latvia, from Helsinki’s vibrant Jewish community to the deep historical narratives of Riga’s Ghetto. Gain unique insights into how these communities have persevered and evolved over time.
  • Forge meaningful connections with Jewish leaders, educators, and families in Helsinki and Riga. Participate in service projects that directly contribute to the sustainability and growth of local Jewish life.
  • Experience the beauty of Shabbat in Helsinki’s Jewish community, with warm hospitality and enriching conversations that highlight the universality and diversity of Jewish traditions.
  • Marvel at UNESCO World Heritage Site Suomenlinna in Helsinki and walk through the cobblestone streets of Riga’s Old Town. These unforgettable landmarks will provide a backdrop for exploring cultural resilience and multiculturalism.
  • Through service and dialogue, you will explore your own Jewish identity and deepen your commitment to global Jewish responsibility.
  • Gain insider access to local synagogues, community centers, and cultural landmarks—opportunities only possible through our extensive global network.
  • Join a cohort of like-minded peers passionate about engaging with Jewish life globally, building friendships, and fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the Jewish future.

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

PARTICIPATION FEE

$500 (airfare not included)

INCLUDES:

Local transportation within and between Finland and Latvia

Meals

Hotel accommodations

Site visits, briefings, tours, etc.

Medical and emergency evacuation insurance.

*Please note that your participation fee does not include international airfare. Travel and cancellation insurance is required.

Trip Dates

May 21-28, 2025

Application Deadline

February 14, 2025

APPLY NOW!

About JDC

JDC (the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee or “The Joint”) is the leading Jewish humanitarian organization, working in 70 countries to lift lives and strengthen communities. We rescue Jews in danger, provide aid to vulnerable Jews, develop innovative solutions to Israel’s most complex social challenges, cultivate a Jewish future, and lead the Jewish community’s response to crises. For over 100 years, our work has put the timeless Jewish value of mutual responsibility into action, making JDC essential to the survival of millions of people and the advancement of Jewish life across the globe. Learn more at jdc.org.

About Repair the World

Repair the World mobilizes Jews and their communities to take action to pursue a just world, igniting a lifelong commitment to service. In 2009, Repair the World began elevating meaningful service as a defining element of Jewish life by engaging Jewish young adults in service and learning to meet pressing local needs. Today, inspired by their values, Repair activates a national service movement, mobilizing partners and tens of thousands of Jewish young adults and their communities to serve alongside their neighbors.

COVID-19 Protocol

The safety and security of our participants is of the utmost importance. Trip participants will agree to abide by all COVID protocols set forth by both governing bodies and JDC Entwine staff and partners. Travel always assumes some risks and participants are aware of the medical risks associated with travel. This trip is subject to COVID protocol updates, changes, and cancellation. For more information, see here.

Explore more trips