It will take place in Israel between April 25-20 and the sponsored event is giving women aged 30-45 a challenge to work hands-on in a number of inspiring WIZO projects.

However, the type of buckets and spades used on this vacation are more likely to be found on a building site than a beach.

"Not only will WIZO women be physically and tangibly making a difference to the lives of some of the children and women that WIZO supports in Israel, but the chance to raise funds to help provide essential social welfare services will be one of the initiative's over-riding features," said Natalie.

One of the projects offered on the five-day trip is the renovation of a residential youth village that provides facilities for immigrant children.

The kids, survivors of abuse and neglect, stem from troubled households.

Also on offer is the opportunity to lend a hand in general renovations, such as creating a garden or painting a mural at one of WIZO's flagship refuge facilities for abused women.

Natalie, chairman of Leeds WIZO 3000, needs to raise £1,850 in sponsorship. So far she has a shortfall of £600.

"There are 17 of us going and I am the only one from Leeds," she said. "Although we all work to fund the WIZO projects, I have never really seen them for myself so this is a wonderful opportunity to have a hands-on involvement.

The group will stay in Herzliya but will commute daily to Jerusalem and meet at the Rebecca Sieff Centre.

"They also have vocational courses to help teenagers on to a career in catering or hairdressing.

"I thought it would be great to join a course to teach them about traditional Anglo/Jewish cookery," the mother-of-two said.

Initially Natalie felt "a bit apprehensive" at going, mainly because of not knowing any of the group and the usual practical problems of leaving husband and children.

"My family's welfare has now been resolved because David, my husband, will look after the children (aged eight and 10) and my mum from Manchester will be over to supervise them at home and on the school run," she said.

"Now that has been sorted out I feel really excited.

"I really hope I can make a difference.

"By the end of the week with a bit of luck we will all have left a significant contribution by transforming the garden, painting the walls and meeting other like-minded people, as well as raising vital funds for WIZO."

Donations to Natalie on www.justgiving.com/Natalie-Pearce or cheques made payable to WIZO UK to Leeds WIZO Office c/o MAZ community centre.