What is the application process to apply to be part of this group?

The first step is to complete our online application form.  Once received and reviewed, we will contact you with further steps.  We typically ask for two (2) personal references and will provide a timeline for those to be submitted.  We will also set up a phone or Zoom interview time with you. This call would be 30-60 minutes in length and is meant to provide a chance to get to know you better.  It’s also a great opportunity for you to ask more about the project, about JewishGen, Friends of Jewish Heritage in Poland, The Matzevah Foundation, and our work in Poland. The call will be conducted by a project leader and may include additional travel leaders.

After the interview process, the trip organizers will then determine whether the volunteer is a good fit for the project.

What is the cost of the trip?

​The planned cost of the trip is $3,099 USD + airfare. The quoted cost is per-person, double occupancy; single supplement ($558) additional. (From the USA, coach round trip airfare is generally between $1,000 and $2,000). Because part of the cost of the trip represents a small donation to our non-profit organizations and covers the costs of the charitable work done in restoring the cemetery, $1,375 USD of the cost is eligible for tax-deductions for those eligible for charitable contributions.

Those wishing to arrive one day early for a private meeting with a Polish Jewish genealogy expert to cover the cost of that meeting and one day's hotel and meal costs will be charged an extra $134 per person, with a $36 single supplement.

Those wishing to stay on later for an "add-on" trip that we schedule will be offered a package based on the costs to be incurred.

Reserve your space with a $1,000 deposit.

What expenses do my costs cover?

Volunteer expenses paid will cover:

• Project Fees
• Lodging and meals during the time of the project
• Most transportation (except for a few local taxis and buses) during the time of the project

Is a deposit required?

Yes.  A deposit of $1000 is required.  The deposit will be due to JewishGen within two weeks after you receive confirmation of application approval. Full payment is due April 27, 2023.

Are my payments refundable?

Should you need to cancel your trip with us, please notify the project leader as soon as possible.  At that time your balance will be calculated and returned to you. Balance equals deposited funds minus expenses incurred and minus non-refundable fees.  If you cancel within 30 days of the project, your $1,000 deposit will not be refundable.

Especially in this time of travel uncertainty, we highly recommend you purchase travel insurance to help cover any unexpected health or emergency needs.

Is there travel insurance available?

We do not offer travel insurance.  For US participants we require travel insurance to be purchased and for others we highly recommend it.  Some popular insurance companies to purchase from are:

• AIG Travel Guard
• Allianz Global Assistance
• Travelex

Who makes the travel arrangements for flights and in-country transportation?

The participant is responsible for booking travel to and from Poland (plane, train, etc.). The participant is also responsible for any in-country transportation or lodging prior to or after the project, unless it is part of our formal "add-on" programs. We will arrange in-country transportation and lodging during the time of the project.

What type of lodging is there during a project?

Lodging will be dependent on where the project is and what is available in the area. We plan to stay in 3- and 4- star hotels.

What skills are required to participate in a project?

A willing heart and a flexible spirit are a must!  We do require participant-volunteers to be in good health. Cemetery restoration projects include physical tasks such as a lot of walking, dragging and carrying cut branches, brush, and small trees, using equipment such as hand shears, loppers, rakes.  Those who are able and have experience with, can use heavier tools such as bush hogs and string trimmers. This work is hard at times and you will be tired at the end of each day, but you will feel a gratifying sense of accomplishment, too!
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Are there any vaccines that are required for this travel to Poland?

​All participants are expected to show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 at least meeting current US CDC requirements. We do request that your tetanus shot be up to date.

Is a passport or Visa required?

A passport is required for travel to Poland.  Please check with your home country to see if any additional documentation is needed.  For US residents, only a passport is required.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Adults over the age of 18 are welcomed.  Children 15 and up must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

What about other questions?

These FAQ's apply to individual volunteer applicants.  For more information, please email <Neshama@JewishGen.org>.