Jewish Indian Internship
The Jews of Mumbai, a small but increasingly vibrant and active community of approximately 5000 people, have a strong Jewish culture and identity thanks in part to the vigorous efforts of community leaders, the local JDC and JCC.
The JDC-Gabriel Project Mumbai Internship Program is an exciting four-month volunteer opportunity for young Jewish Indian professionals and undergraduate students to work with the children of the Mumbai slums. In this program participants make a meaningful difference and a positive impact on the lives of youth living in the Kalwa slum, North Mumbai, through an organized program of social and learning experiences. The brainchild of JDC Country Director for India, Mandie Winston, this program is the first initiative that brings together young Indian Jews and Jewish volunteers from around the world to collaborate on providing literacy and nutrition in the Mumbai slums.
The JDC-GPM Internship Program offers the children living in the slums an opportunity to socialize together in a fun, empowered and enjoyable informal educational setting.
“Participation in the Gabriel Project Mumbai encourages the local community members to reach out beyond their Jewish circle and see the difference they can make to the under-privileged sections of society at large in the true spirit and essence of Tikkun Olam.” Elijah Jacob, Director of JDC India says.
GPM’s International Jewish volunteers also work side by side with their Indian Jewish counterparts in developing an incredible experience for the children living in the slums. The JDC-GPM Internship Program has two implications: it gives the youth the opportunity to give back to society while identifying with the concept of Tikun Olam and it will also help them grow into responsible individuals who will continue to care for service in more ways. The JDC-GPM Internship Program is a way for the young Jewish Indian adults to better understand our neighbors, help children in need while exploring the Jewish values of gemilut chasadim (acts of kindness), tzedakah (charity) and social justice. As the participants are starting their careers and families, social justice, charity and helping others will be a strong foundation to the lives they are building.
Program Overview
Every Sunday, interns organize social learning activities for the children living in the slums. Activities will include day trips to museums and learning centers as well as group social and sport programming. The children will learn about interacting in a group social setting and experience fun and interesting cultural events. Interns will act as counselors and teachers to the children. Interns stress the concepts of self respect, working in a group, interacting with and respecting others. Children learn an array of social skills that will benefit their overall education.The program will provide all meals and transportation for the children.
Upon successful completion of the internship, participants receive a professional certification from the JDC and may have the opportunity to continue with further internship programs on a leadership level.
Locals to Mumbai interested in applying for the internship and to find out more details should contact the JDC in Mumbai or send Gabriel Project Mumbai an e-mail.