LEADERSHIP
The DFI values a variety of models of leadership (reform, innovation, and [cultural] creation) and seeks candidates who are active in conventional, as well as unconventional, forms of civic and Jewish engagement.
The DFI seeks candidates who are committed to improving their capacity to exercise the leadership required to create new forms, and reinvigorate existing forms, of Jewish expression. Though a deep understanding of Judaism and Israel is critical for effective North American Jewish Leadership and indeed is a central goal of the Fellowship, the DFI is not best suited to those who are primarily seeking to explore their relationship to either. Those who are interested in primarily learning about Judaism and/or Israel should visit http://www.masaisrael.org/find-program.
AGE
The DFI is open to American/Canadian Jews between the ages of 22-30. (To be eligible, one must be 22, but not yet 31 prior to August 1 of the fellowship year.) Successful candidates exhibit the maturity and life experience to be able to make the best use of the Fellowship to refine, rather than construct, their individual identity. Please note that the DFI will not make exceptions to this or other eligibility requirements.
CITIZENSHIP
Non-American/Non-Canadian citizens may be eligible for the DFI -- with prior approval of the DFI Director. Candidates must be/have been residents of the US, having graduated from an American high school and/or an American college/university, and must intend to reside permanently in the US. Non-American/Non-Canadian citizens interested in receiving approval for application should contact aaren@dorot.org.
ALIYAH
As the purpose of the Dorot Fellowship relates to the American Jewish landscape, candidates who do not intend to reside in North America are not eligible.
AFFILIATION AND EXPERIENCE
The Fellowship does not require that candidates have previous experience in Israel, knowledge of Hebrew, or a particular affiliation with any denomination or movement.