Mikveh Guides transform the ordinary into the holy. Seven Steps is the essential course for training the Mikveh Guide of today and tomorrow. Drawing from rabbinic sources, current psychology and the experiences of contemporary mikveh attendants, this 8-week training offers the knowledge and skills to facilitate immersions with dignity, respect, and modesty. Learn best practices for making guests feel welcomed, safe, and supported, and gain skills for becoming a mikveh ambassador in your local community.
Mayyim Hayyim is now accepting applications for our 13th cohort of Boston-based Mikveh Guides—apply by January 24. This cohort will be trained through a hybrid (remote/online and in-person) version of the Seven Steps Mikveh Guide training program.
Please note: Participants must be vaccinated per Mayyim Hayyim’s policy and masks must be worn at all times during the in-person sessions and while guiding.
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What does it mean to be a Mikveh Guide?
What Makes a Great Mikveh Guide?
Successful Mikveh Guides are able to:
- Display compassion and empathy
- Adapt to a variety of situations in real time
- Maintain a strong sense of boundaries
- Work with a wide diversity of people
- Multi-task while maintaining a calm presence
- Work independently
- Use technology (internet and phone)
Volunteer Commitment
Volunteer hours are flexible and include weekday, weeknight, and weekend hours. If accepted, applicants are expected to commit to volunteering a minimum of 4-6 hours a month. In addition, women are asked to commit to volunteering one Saturday night per year.
Mayyim Hayyim takes seriously the support and supervision of its volunteers. There are regular opportunities for communication and feedback. Mikveh Guides are expected to participate in ongoing education sessions following the training (usually 2-3 per year).
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How will the training be structured?
The training will be a combination of asynchronous learning online and four (4) live sessions, some in person and some online, and will conclude with participants shadowing a current Mikveh Guide before beginning to volunteer on their own.
The schedule for the live sessions is:
- Sunday, February 6 at 3:30-5:30 pm– In person opening session at Mayyim Hayyim
- Sunday, March 6 at 3:30-5:30 pm – In person learning session at Mayyim Hayyim
- Sunday, March 27 at 3:30-5:30 pm – In person learning session at Mayyim Hayyim
- Sunday, April 3 at 5:00-7:00 pm– Virtual closing session on Zoom
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What is the selection process?
- Complete the online application form by Monday, January 24. The application form includes two references who know you in a professional or volunteer capacity
- Participate in a panel interview
- Complete the Seven Steps training course from February 6 – April 3, including asynchronous online learning and live sessions
- Shadow an experienced Mikveh Guide
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How much does the training cost?
It costs Mayyim Hayyim $665 for each volunteer Mikveh Guide we train. Thanks to generous support from Combined Jewish Philanthropies, we are able to offer this opportunity on a sliding scale from $36 – $250, with a suggested fee of $54.”
- Sliding Scale: $36 – $250 (Suggested amount: $54)
Questions? Contact Elana Pollack, Program Manager, at elanap@mayyimhayyim.org or 617-244-1836, ext. 205.
Hybrid training for Boston-based volunteers
