Rationale
For children growing up in poor and distressed neighborhoods, role models of success are hard to come by, sometimes making criminal behavior look like a tempting shortcut and perpetuating the cycle of poverty and distress. Those who have the ability and foresight to break out and seek higher education, lack the financial means to achieve it.
The program promotes social integration and community involvement for youths and their families while mentoring students who are provided with accommodation and study grants.
In addition, MA students mentor BA students in coping with studies while imparting leadership values and personal empowerment. MA students who have experienced some of the difficulties that BA students encounter, mentor the BA students, helping them overcome challenges.
Target Audience
University students and children from disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Netanya: 31 students living in 13 apartments mentor 124 children from 3rd to 6th grades in 4 neighborhoods
Akko: 10 students living in 4 apartments mentor 40 students from 3rd-6th grades
Rishon Lezion: 7 students living in 2 apartments mentor 28 students from 3rd-6th grades
Objectives
Children:
- Personal and group social development
- Educational reinforcement
Students:
- Financial support to ensure graduation
- Creating activists in Israeli society
Duration
A long term project, pupils: 3 -4 years, Students: 2-4 years, 2 hours twice a week plus community events and projects
Results
In 2020-2021, 136 pupils participated in the project, of which about 50% were in their second year in the project or more.
90% of the pupils are persistent in the activity, feel a significant improvement in self-confidence and social skills.
100% of the students complete their degree, and 50% of them participate in the project for two years or more
95% of the students feel that the project contributes to them socially and personally, they would like to continue to contribute to the community after the project too.
Location
Netanya, Akko, Rishon Lezion
