Vision
The preparatory program “One of Us” was established to minimizing the social gaps in Israeli society. The association’s goal is to provide the under-privileged youth with tools that will help them blend into civil life on equal terms with those in stronger populations. The means for implementing this vision – establishing a preparatory program prior to the military for this youth.
Activity
The One of Us program provides an opportunity to discover the abilities, skills and talents of each and ev ery one of the students. This is achieved through a high ratio of tutors to students, so each member can bring out the best in himself and contribute not only to his family but also to the society and the country. The innovation this association came up with is speaking to the core of the under-privileged population, giving an equal opportunity to those who want it and need it, but can’t afford it. To summarize it in one sentence: building the preparatory program for thousands, not champions.
The students in the program have had lessons in general knowledge and self-empowerment. They have experienced success, dealt with difficult situations, solved problems, and developed self awareness. The program puts emphasis on developing personal responsibility among the students. The students in the preparatory program take courses on the geography of Israel (Israel’s geography and demographics through the history of Israel) and of course strengthen their Jewish-Israeli identity. In addition, the students go through a comprehensive preparatory program for the IDF.