"Being a Mikveh Guide elicits the best in me. In this role, I am my most patient, nurturing, helpful, instructive self."
Selection Process No prior mikveh experience is required, however the application and training process is rigorous. Applicants are required to fill out a preliminary form and shadow an experienced Mikveh Guide. Applicants will be invited to participate in a small group interview of 3 - 5 candidates. Because of the sensitive nature of Mikveh Guide responsibilities, sometimes a one-on-one follow-up interview is requested.
Training
Those who are accepted take an intensive course, "Guide My Steps," taught by a diverse and talented faculty. The curriculum includes:
Welcoming guests and witnessing immersions with sensitivity
Biblical and Talmudic sources for mikveh
Laws and practice of traditional mikveh use
Contemporary mikveh uses, e.g. healing, celebrations, life transitions
Volunteer Commitment Volunteer hours are flexible; if accepted,
applicants commit to volunteering a minimum of 4 - 6 hours a month,
including (for women) two Saturday nights a year. Male Mikveh Guides
volunteer during weekdays and / or Sundays, 2 - 4 hours per month.
Mayyim Hayyim takes seriously the support and
supervision of its volunteers; regular opportunities exist for communication and feedback. Mikveh Guides are expected to participate in ongoing education sessions following the training (approximately three per year).
Helpful Attributes for Volunteer Mikveh Guides Successful Mikveh Guides are able to:
