בס״ד
IDF soldier learning Torah at sunset over the desert

יל״א

Yala

יחידת לכתחילה אריבער

Yechidat Lechatchila Ariber

A Chabad pre-army Mechina built to prepare guys spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally for the IDF and the future. Our first program runs October 4 – November 5, 2026 כ״ג תשרי – כ״ה חשון ה׳תשפ״ז.

Oct 4
Program Start
Nov 5
Program End
2026
Current Cycle
The Name

Yala

יל״א

יחידת לכתחילה אריבער

The term Lechatchila Ariber comes from the saying of the Rebbe Maharash:

"The world says that if you cannot crawl under an obstacle, try to leap over it. However, I say, leap over it in the first place!"

It was also a commonly used phrase by the Shliach Rabbi Sholom Dovber Lipskar A"H.

About Yala

A growth-focused Chabad Mechina.

Yala is a growth-focused Chabad Mechina created primarily for young men preparing for army service. Our first group is being built for guys preparing for the November 2026 draft, with the goal of continuing to serve future groups as well.

Rooted in Chassidus, Yiras Shamayim, and a deep love for the Holy Land and the Jewish people, Yala focuses on building the whole person spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Through a strong daily structure, fun experiences, physical preparation, mentorship, learning, and a deep sense of community each participant will develop a deeper understanding of who he is, what he represents, and the impact he can have in the world.

While the main focus of Yala is preparation for army service, it is also open to young men who may not yet be certain about drafting, or who may be in a stage of life where they would deeply benefit from this type of environment.

Whether a participant ultimately drafts or not, the goal remains the same: to help him grow into a stronger, more grounded, more capable version of himself with confidence and purpose.

Yala is more than army preparation.
It is preparation for life.

Our Mission

השליחות שלנו

Yala's mission is to prepare Chabad young men to step into the army and the next stage of life with Chassidus, discipline, strength, and purpose, proud of who they are, and ready to actualize their unique Shlichus in this world.

A place to grow, lead, serve, and bring Mashiach closer.

Our Values

The principles we live by.

הערכים שלנו

רצון השם

Ratzon Hashem

Living in line with Hashem's will.

תורה וחסידות

Torah & Chassidus

Rooted in Torah, Chassidus, and Hiskashrus to the Rebbe.

שליחות

Shlichus

Recognizing and actualizing each person's unique mission.

אהבת ישראל

Ahavas Yisroel

Living with love, care, and responsibility for every Jew.

אהבת הארץ

Ahavas Ha'aretz

A deep love and connection to Eretz Yisroel.

משמעת

Discipline

Structure, consistency, and showing up every day.

משפחה

Community

Warmth, connection, and support where everyone is cared for like family.

הכנה גופנית

Physical Preparation

Workouts, challenges, endurance, and readiness.

צמיחה אישית

Personal Growth

Building character, confidence, and responsibility.

בריאות הנפש

Mental Health

Emotional strength, self-awareness, and healthy support.

Raphael Andrusier
Organized by
Raphael Andrusier

Raphael is a Chosid of the Rebbe and former lone soldier from Miami, Florida, who served as a commander in the Nahal Brigade.

מוכן להצטרף?

Ready to join יל״א?

Spots are limited. Our current program runs Sunday, October 4 – Thursday, November 5, 2026 (כ״ג תשרי – כ״ה חשון ה׳תשפ״ז). You can also express interest in a future cycle (for example a March draft) on the form below.

Application Form

Take the first step.

טופס הרשמה

By submitting you'll be contacted by the יל״א team.