Thu, Apr 30
|New Bern, NC
New Bern Volunteer Retreat
Join us for a meaningful 4-day retreat in New Bern, NC, where service meets community. In partnership with Nechama, a leading Jewish disaster relief organization, we’ll spend time giving back to a community still rebuilding—while also creating space for connection, learning, and Shabbat.
Time & Location
Apr 30, 2026, 5:00 PM EDT – May 03, 2026, 10:00 AM EDT
New Bern, NC, New Bern, NC, USA
About the Journey
Overview
This experience is in partnership with Nechama, an organization that provides Jewish volunteers to support and rebuild communities affected by natural disasters.
We are combining hands, with Nechama bringing the volunteer aspect, and Lech-Lecha bringing a meaningful Shabbat experience.
Hands-on disaster relief work
A chance to support real recovery efforts on the ground
A fully immersive Shabbat experience
Time to connect—with others, and with yourself
We’re combining action and reflection—doing meaningful work, then stepping back to integrate it together.
Group Size: Limited to 6 participants.
There is the possibility of arriving earlier in the week and volunteering directly with Nechama. Housing will be provided!
Trek Leaders
Rabbi Scott Klein
Scott is a U.S. Army Chaplain within the 82nd Airborne Division. He is an incredible leader, great fun to be around, and has been supporting Nechama's volunteer effort for years. You can read his bio further here.
Location
New Bern has faced significant storm damage in recent years.
The need for ongoing support is real—and often overlooked after the headlines fade. Through Nechama, we’ll be plugged directly into work that matters.
Itinerary
(Subject to change depending on weather and trail conditions)
Day 1 — Thursday, April 30
Arrive to New Bern at any point. Our lodging will be available by evening time. We'll settle in, meet the group, and then head to bed for an early start the next morning.
Day 2 — Friday, May 1
Day of service with Nechama. We'll finish our work and then begin prepping for Shabbat. Once Shabbat comes in, we'll eat, sing, share, and learn together.
Day 3 — Saturday, May 2
We'll spend Shabbat together, learning, eating, playing, and singing.
Day 4 — Sunday, May 3
We'll wake up, have breakfast, do a closing circle, and then head home.
Transportation Recommendations
We recommend flying into Anchorage International Airport.
Within Anchorage, we recommend you book at Base Camp Hostel (one of the only hostels in Anchorage). It's best to book a bed ASAP as they fill up quickly.
From there, we will designate a meetup point in downtown Anchorage. From there, we're renting cars and all your transportation to and from the trailhead will be included.
Shabbat and Kosher Friendly
We welcome people of all levels of Jewish observance. Our trips are structured to ensure that participants who observe Shabbat and kashrut can do so comfortably.
All food provided by Lech-Lecha is kosher, and the schedule allows participants to comfortably observe Shabbat.
Spiritual Theme for this Event
Showing Up Where It Matters
We spend much of our lives thinking about who we are.
What we believe. What we stand for.
But there is a quieter, more honest question beneath all of it:
Where do we actually show up?
This retreat is an invitation to close the gap between intention and action.
What to Expect
Physical volunteer work (moderate intensity)
Group-based lodging (details provided after signup)
Kosher food throughout the retreat
Shabbat observance
What do I need to bring?
Lech-Lecha provides:
All kosher food
Cooking equipment
All communal gear
Participants must bring:
Personal items
Games, books, and prayer books for Shabbat
Musical instruments for havadallah
Contact
To learn more about this trek, please contact:
Noam Levenson – Noam@lechlechajourneys.org
Director of Programming
Tickets
New Bern Volunteer Retreat
Paying the full amount guarantees your spot at this experience. Paying only the deposit will reserve your spot up to 2 weeks prior to the event. We will send you an invoice by email for the remaining balance (plus any rental gear!). The full payment is due within two (2) weeks prior to the Trek Date. Please see the FAQ section below for our cancellation policy.
Sale ended$250.00
Pay Deposit Only
Paying the full amount guarantees your spot at this experience. Paying only the deposit will reserve your spot up to 2 weeks prior to the event. We will send you an invoice by email for the remaining balance (plus any rental gear!). The full payment is due within two (2) weeks prior to the Trek Date. Please see the FAQ section below for our cancellation policy.
$100.00
Sale ended
Frequently asked questions
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Let's Connect
Got questions? Reach out and we'll get back to you real soon!
