Derech Eretz

Derech Eretz operates social-educational and leadership education programs for Israeli youth and young adults, most of who come from underprivileged backgrounds, leveling the playing field across all sectors of society. Programs are offered at the important junctures of early adult life, and on a continuum from the time high school finishes, before... military service, throughout military service, during the transition back into adult, civilian life, completely changing their life's trajectory. Founded in 2011, Derech Eretz's bottom-up initiative intends at minimizing social gaps while creating engaged citizens and, ultimately, building a better future for Israeli society. All of our programs achieve our mission by: Deepening participants' knowledge of our Jewish heritage while promoting mutual respect among Jews of all backgrounds, nationalities, and denominations Providing exposure to all facets of Israeli society Instilling a love of Eretz Yisrael Enhancing social skills and social responsibility Providing positive experiences in which participants learn how to face challenges Breaking down the silos in which many communities within Israel reside All program participants perform community service. Since opening 6 years ago, our participants have volunteered over 70,000 hours of community service. Our Target population includes youth and young adults, olim and veteran Israelis, religious and secular (and all levels of religiosity in between), from all over Israel. The majority of our participants come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Six years ago, we began with 23 students on one campus. In 2017-18, 120 Israeli youth will be participating in our various programs on 3 campuses and we have 500 graduates. Our three campuses are located in the Negev, in Kmein, Nitzana and Ashalim (our Nitzana campus is run in partnership with the Jewish Agency).Read More