JDC and the Israeli Druze Enrichment Alliance Take Steps Towards Druze Self-Empowerment

Since the launch of the Druze initiative in October 2002, the JDC, through a unique partnership with the Israeli Government and local non-government organizations, has taken important steps to advance the Druze community in Israel. The initiative, known as the Israeli Druze Enrichment Alliance (IDEA), was spearheaded by the Everett family and is rapidly gaining momentum.

Specifically, the partnership is now is carrying out a series of programs in full cooperation with Druze community professionals, including three broad-based community programs designed to enrich the lives of thousands of people living in the Galilean villages of Beit J'an, Kisra-Smia and Sejur. Additionally, a variety of programs are being carried in out in 12 other communities in the following areas:

Education: Efforts are being made to increase the number of students obtaining matriculation (Bagrut) certificates, and directing them to higher education, while improving overall educational opportunities for the communities. To date:

• 1,028 pupils are enrolled in the Bagrut program;
• Over 100 teachers are receiving further training and enrichment programs; and
• 12 high school principals are actively involved in a Principals Forum, a support group that shares best practices and facilitates intense training seminars and professional dialogues.

Women: A series of initiatives have been developed to help empower women by giving them access to educational training and by facilitating employment opportunities for them. The development of early childhood facilities will further enhance such opportunities. To date:

• 75 women are now participating in courses that allow them to complete their high school education and 75 more will begin their studies in September. Some may even have an opportunity to continue with higher education. An integral component to this program is the provision of child-care, enriching the lives of both mothers and babies;
• In Pequi'in, 15 women are being trained to serve as childcare providers, enabling them to set up home-based day care businesses;
• 20 women from Mrar are now involved in a photography course for family and communal events; and
• 20 women from Beit J'an are participating in entrepreneurship courses with a special emphasis on traditional crafts and tourism . Additionally, 25 women from Yarka and Abu Senan are currently enrolled in small business and hairdressing courses.

Youth and At- risk youth: The JDC is developing enrichment frameworks for young people, including at-risk youth, by working with them and encouraging them to learn and take an active and volunteering role in the community. To date:

• Over 270 youngsters are involved in specially designed programs that supply sports facilities and training and significantly develop their self-image, confidence and leadership potential. More importantly, these at-risk youth are involved in supportive frameworks which lead to more opportunities and hope for a brighter future; and
• In Mrar, more than 100 youth will soon benefit from the opening of a multi-purpose youth center, a comprehensive recreational and educational facility designed especially to meet their needs.

Community Development: The JDC is working to upgrade the skills of professionals employed by the local municipal authorities. This will lead to a more systematic approach and create better management within the local government. To this end, a steering committee consisting of the directors of municipal departments for education, welfare, youth, and women, is now functioning and working strategically to pull resources together.

By working through this important partnership, the JDC hopes the training of local staff will lead to an abundance of professionals qualified to make a long-term difference in their communities. Ultimately, these initiatives should provide the tools necessary to ensure a better future for the Druze population in Israel.