2013-2014

ASSAF’s mission is to assist all those entering Israel in search of asylum by providing psychosocial, community-based, and advocacy services. The organization works to strengthen the coping mechanisms of asylum seekers and refugees so that they can deal with daily economic, social, legal and emotional challenges. Additionally, ASSAF advocates for a dignified existence for this population through public campaigns and political lobbying.

Established in 2000, Economic Empowerment for Women (EEW) draws from more than two decades of experience in women’s organizations, especially “Isha L’Isha”, the Haifa Feminist Center. EEW assists women in opening their own small businesses using a strategy originated in Bangladesh by Nobel Peace Prize winner Professor Muhammad Yunus and the Grameen Bank. In twelve years EEW has served over 4,000 women through business training courses, small business loans and advanced business development services. EEW played an active role in the establishment and growth of over 1,700 small businesses among graduates and loan recipients.

IT Works   Grant: $5,798.94

ITWorks provides economically disenfranchised populations throughout Israel with technical training, professional skills and job placement support, helping launch careers in Israel’s thriving hi-tech and communications industries. ITworks’ mission is to close the job placement and income gaps between Israel’s thriving center and flagging periphery. The organization’s programs promote personal empowerment and professional change through quality technological employment, while enabling the hi-tech boom to benefit all sectors of society.