In peacetime, aside from his research, Professor Aviv Censor has a large following in Israel for his ultra-helpful videos explaining complex math problems for high schoolers.
Since October 7th, he’s helped Israelis down South navigate the complex logistical and other challenges after the horrific attack.
Likewise active in the Achim LeNeshek (Brothers-in-Arms) organization protesting judicial reform, Aviv took a drastic pivot just 2 days after the attacks on Gaza Envelope kibbutzes.
He took his family and moved in with friends temporarily in Le Havin, 10 minutes north of Beer Sheva, so he could help in the massive Home Front effort.
The local Achim LeNeshek headquarters were quickly converted into a logistical coordination center and Aviv and other volunteers got quickly to work.
The aftermath of the attack, aside from being beyond devastating and totally unprecedented, required a lot of help with even simple things, like armed convoys to evacuate families, bringing medicines and equipment to just-arrived army units, baby food to families who needed it.
There is a strong need to pick vegetables and fruits to prevent them going to waste.
Cows and other domestic animals need to be evacuated or cared for in difficult conditions (army equipment noise, among others).
Vets and cattle ranchers and farm volunteers need transport and other help.
Lots of other non-military needs arise each day.
Just today, he went to sit shiva with various families, to provide comfort to mourners.
The volunteer effort is a truly massive one in the South, just as in the North and Center, a testament to the resilient and helpful spirit of Israel.
The Technion community is immensely proud and supportive of Aviv and our many other volunteers, as well as reservists and soldiers on active duty.
We pray for their safety and for better times very soon.