The Need

Every year, hundreds of young adults from the social and geographic periphery finish the army and national service. Many of these adults do not have the family support that they need to realize their potential either academically or in the workforce, and they subsequently fall between the cracks. The integration of these young people into the workforce or academia has a direct impact on Israel’s economic stability and the sustainability of her society.

Goals

• Providing knowledge – life skill acquisition for optimal integration into Israeli society.
• Accessing rights – aiding young adults who have completed their national service in exploring and exercising all their rights as well as connecting them to relevant community services.
• Education – guidance for integration into higher education or relevant vocational training. The program provides guidance for completing secondary education if necessary.
• Employment – integration and persistence in employment including technological training.

Target Population

Young adults at risk aged 18-25 both during and after military or national service Who fit one or more of the following criteria:

• Of disadvantaged social, economic, and family background.
• Immigrants and/or children of immigrants who experience difficulties with absorption and/or integration into society.
• Without economic and / or emotional support from family or otherwise.
• Without occupational and basic life skills.

Program

The Strengthening Civic Life program seeks to provide a response to the acute need felt by recently released soldiers and girls who have finished national service in pursuing their successful integration into academia and the workforce. The program focuses on lone soldiers and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who do not have the benefit of family support. The yearlong program focuses on acquiring skills needed for successful integration into the workforce including: vocational workshops, informative sessions about academic institutions, resume writing, computer courses, and learning “soft skills” which will help them in the workforce as well as in life.

Framework

• Individual mentorship – this includes vocational guidance as well as a tailor-made personal advancement plan for each participant.
• Group sessions – once a month, including occupational guidance, skill acquisition and tools for obtaining employment and education.
• Training mentors – there is a personal and group training session once a month.