Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tzav HaLev?
Tzav HaLev (The Heart's Calling) is a registered Israeli nonprofit (amuta no. 580832392), born out of the events of October 7 to commemorate the fallen soldiers of the Duvdevan Unit and the fallen of Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Its members include bereaved families, the fallen fighters' teammates and comrades from the unit, and many other good people. It works in full partnership with the kibbutz.
What does the name "Tzav HaLev" mean?
On the morning of October 7, when the residents of Kfar Aza came under attack in their homes, the fighters of the Duvdevan Unit did not wait for an emergency call-up order (a "Tzav 8"): they set out to defend them, answering the call of their hearts. That is where our name comes from: Tzav HaLev, "The Heart's Calling."
What does Tzav HaLev do?
We commemorate the fallen through three projects: the MEA Mechina, a pre-military academy in Kfar Aza; the Fighters' Lookout, an observation point and memorial site; and the Bike Trail, a cycling and walking route in memory of the unit's fallen.
What is the MEA Mechina, and where is it?
The MEA Mechina is a pre-military academy in Kfar Aza for high school graduates before their army service. Its 20 trainees, young women and men from all over Israel, live on the kibbutz, are educated in the spirit of the Duvdevan Unit's values, volunteer in the community and prepare for meaningful service in the IDF and the security forces.
How do I join the mechina?
The mechina is for high school graduates from all over Israel who are highly motivated to do meaningful service and to give back to the community. To join the next class, fill out the form on the mechina page or the contact page, and we will get back to you.
What is the Bike Trail?
The Bike Trail is a cycling and walking route, about 30 kilometers long, on paths across the Gaza border area, built and maintained by Tzav HaLev. Along the way are 32 information stations, each dedicated to the story of a fallen soldier of the Duvdevan Unit. The trail is open to the public, and you can schedule a ride with us.
What is the Fighters' Lookout, and can I visit it?
The Fighters' Lookout is an observation point and memorial site dedicated to the fallen of the Duvdevan Unit, overlooking the kibbutz's fields and the Gaza border area. It also serves as an open-air classroom for the mechina, and it is open to the public.
How can I donate?
You can donate online through our donation page, or by bank transfer to The Heart's Calling (R.A.) at Mizrahi-Tefahot Bank, SWIFT MIZBILITXXX, IBAN IL66-0205-1100-0000-0336-627.
How do I contact Tzav HaLev?
Email us at info@tsavhalev.com, or send us a message through the form on our contact page.