The Community Internship program is an integral component of the Machon Maayan experience. By offering an extensive array of internships, Machon Maayan is renowned for being able to integrate academic learning with communal activities. The internship program enables students to choose a volunteer activity that suits their interests and talents. Students discover how to channel their passions into helping others. In addition, Community Internships provide the students with a valuable opportunity to make their personal imprint on Israeli society.

Machon Maayan's unique program afforded me opportunities unavailable anywhere else. Machon Maayan provides countless internships catered specifically to the diversity of the group. Whether it be working with the vibrant Ethiopian community in the bustling city of Bet Shemesh or connecting with the Israeli public while interning at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo.As a medical clown, I visited hospitals and nursing homes. I interacted with numerous individuals, many of whom impacted me profoundly. Through their strength, courage, exuberance, and hope, I learned the magical effects of laughter and the beauty of tears. I learned the meaning of gratitude and the value of time. I learned that some things transcend language and cultural barriers. For all this and more, I will always be indebted to these individuals and to Machon Maayan for teaching me the power of a little red nose.

-Liora Fink, Los Angeles, California