Emily Dehmer
Minnesota, USA
After traveling to Israel with Yeshiva University in the summer of 2024, Emily knew she wanted to return. Rather than following the headlines from afar, she felt called to engage more deeply with Israeli society, serve marginalized communities, and develop a more personal and nuanced understanding of the country's complexities.
Emily holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Peace and Justice and a Master's degree in Holocaust and Genocide Studies. Following college, she completed a service year with Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest/AmeriCorps, living in Idaho and working at a nonprofit supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. That experience sparked a love for intentional community, meaningful service, and living alongside others committed to making a difference. She is excited to spend another transformative year learning, growing, and serving with the Yahel community — and eager to trade Minnesota's icy winters for Israel's warmer climate.
Emily is passionate about helping people feel seen, valued, and encouraged. Whether through volunteering, thoughtful conversations, or small acts of kindness, she believes genuine human connection can create lasting change. Outside of volunteering, you'll usually find her reading or writing letters and postcards. She's on a quest to receive mail from every country in the world, with 125 countries and 27 territories checked off so far.