Tivnu Blog
Considering a Gap Year Abroad? Tivnu Offers a Different Path
When you’re exploring gap year programs for after high school, it can feel like your only real option is going abroad. The idea of living and serving in another country is exciting — but you may also feel there’s important work to do and so much to see right here in the United States. One of the benefits of a gap year with Tivnu is that you don’t have to choose between a traditional gap year abroad and deep engagement closer to home. Tivnu’s nine-month program is based in Portland, Oregon, where Jewish teens live in community, intern with local nonprofits, and build real skills. Then, after winter break, we travel to Nayarit, Mexico*, for a 12-day service immersion, working on an organic farm and…
Why Our Family Chose a Jewish Gap Year with Tivnu
A parent shares how her son’s Jewish gap year with Tivnu built independence, maturity, community, and clarity about college.
Should I Take a Gap Year? Why Now Is the Perfect Time
A closer look at the benefits of a gap year, featuring insights from Tivnu founder Steve Eisenbach-Budner and alumni who explain how a structured year of service, learning, and community influenced their paths after high school.
Why a Jewish Gap Year in America Should Be on Your Radar
Tivnu: Building Justice offers the only immersive Jewish gap year in America, combining hands-on justice work, vibrant Jewish experiences, and communal living—all rooted in Portland, Oregon.
Audrey’s Day in the Life
Follow along on a normal Tuesday in my life. It’s filled with so many different experiences: going to my internship, solo-time to reset, exploring different parts of Portland, and having fun with friends!
A Glimpse into my work at the Oregon Innocence Project
Justice doesn’t happen on its own—it takes people willing to fight for it. OIP is one of many organizations offering opportunities for Tivnu participants to volunteer and make a real, lasting difference.
Our trip to Mt. Tahoma
This trip was quite an experience. The views were beautiful, and really made me feel the scale of the planet in a way I have never experienced.
Feeling the Love in Your Home Away From Home
Tivnu fosters a space where those feelings are met with care, celebration, and a sense of community. Birthdays in particular are a chance to bring a little piece of home into the Tivnu experience.
Jesse’s Tivnu Highlights
On the way to OMSI Hancock Field Station, the Tivnu cohort stopped at the Museum at Warm Springs
Friday at Tivnu
Come along with me on a fun Friday, and get a peek into what my everyday life is like!