Home / All Blogs / Israel Experiences

Documenting Otzma

By Jonathan Miniello on 06/07/2013 @ 11:06 AM

In October 2012, Miami native Jonathan Miniello, 24, embarked on a special journey to Israel with Otzma, a 10-month program designed to immerse participants in the day-to-day, real life of Israel, as they volunteer and intern in different communities. Miniello documented his time in Israel in a video series that he describes below. Support from the Greater Miami Jewish Federation makes Masa Israel-affiliated programs, like Otzma, possible. Click here for more information on Israel programs and experiences.


Otzma has been a truly unique and multifaceted experience.

We move from city to city and from adventure to adventure. I decided to join the Israeli Media Fellowship project to boost my Israel experience and was given a creative project to complete. I had to make a video series describing my journey.

I made two videos: one about the Building Future Leaders Conference and my time in Jerusalem; and another about my time volunteering in Haifa.

I tried to create the videos for two purposes: First, to serve as a souvenir for me and my friends, but also to tell a tale. I hope you all enjoy seeing Israel through my eyes.

Click here to watch a video about the Building Future Leaders Conference and my experience in Jerusalem.

Click here to watch a video about volunteering in Haifa.

Hurricane Melissa Emergency Relief Fund

Hurricane Melissa Emergency Relief Fund

Be part of Jewish Miami’s response to help victims of Hurricane Melissa.

Read More

Supporting Returned Hostages and Their Families

Supporting Returned Hostages and Their Families

As the released hostages begin to find their new normal, Federation remains deeply committed to their long-term wellbeing, as well as that of their families and the loved ones of those brutally murdered by Hamas.

Read More

Kristallnacht Commemoration: Sunday November 9

Kristallnacht Commemoration: Sunday November 9

Join Miami’s Jewish community this Sunday, November 9 at Temple Beth Sholom to commemorate Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass.

Read More

Stepping In for SNAP

Stepping In for SNAP

As SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits come to an end for millions of families across the country tomorrow, Federation has made emergency grants to help vulnerable Jewish Miami residents make ends meets and ensure they have food for themselves and their families.

Read More

Stay in Touch

Receive news about Greater Miami Jewish Federation events and more.