Skip to main content

Building purpose and potential in Israel’s youth

For young Israelis on the edge of adulthood, the path between high school and national service can define the course of their lives. Through Mechinot, Keren Hayesod-UIA helps ensure that disadvantaged youth have the best opportunity to walk that path with strength, clarity, and confidence.

Mechinot’s intensive pre-army academies provide six months of structured, immersive learning. They strengthen character, leadership, and readiness for meaningful IDF service. The goal is a more equal Israeli society shaped by young adults who serve with pride, commitment, and connection.

Your donation is the great equalizer for Israeli Youth.

Donate now

A critical year of preparation

Mechinot bridges the gap between high school and national service for youth who need it most, including young Israelis from low-income, immigrant, or peripheral backgrounds. In just six months, participants grow in emotional resilience, civic identity, and leadership potential. They take part in volunteer work, physical training, Jewish learning, and community immersion. By the time they enter the IDF, they are confident, focused, and ready to serve with purpose.

A springboard for the less advantaged

Ofek Mechinot supports more than 500 at-risk youth each year. These teens might otherwise be placed in the lowest army roles or drop out entirely. Located across 12 sites in Israel, the program helps these young people reach elite units, secure command positions, and take pride in their service. Indeed, Mechinot graduates show significantly higher IDF retention, leadership, and placement outcomes than the national average.

Kol Ami Mechinot

Kol Ami brings together 240 Israeli and Diaspora teens, with a 60 to 40 ratio, for an immersive leadership experience. These six-month programs foster deep relationships across Jewish communities through pluralistic learning, identity exploration, and shared volunteerism. Participants leave with a stronger Jewish identity and a global perspective on community, heritage, and responsibility.

A baseline of resilience

Since October 7, the war has hit young Israelis hard. Mental health is in decline, and IDF dropout rates are rising. But Mechinot graduates are proving what true resilience looks like. From packing food for soldiers and hosting activities for evacuees to cleaning shelters and supporting elderly neighbours, participants stepped up when their communities needed them most. Mechinot are not just preparing youth for service, they are building a generation of leaders grounded in action, unity, and hope.

The Impact

Mechinot programs are transforming young lives and strengthening Israeli society. Each year, nearly 1,000 teens complete their program equipped to succeed in service and in life.

940

participants annually

18

Mechina locations across Israel

97%

enlist in the IDF or National Service

97%

of those serve in combat or elite units

32%

serve in command or training roles

Only 6%

drop out compared to the national average of 15%

Before Mechina, I didn’t believe I had what it takes. Now I’ve been accepted into an elite combat unit. My whole future has changed.

Erez

Ofek Mechinot graduate from the Negev

Kol Ami helped me understand what it means to be part of a global Jewish family. I came back home inspired to lead and give back.

Jonah

participant from South Africa

I used to be scared of the army. Now I’m not only ready to join, I’m ready to lead.

Rawan

Druze participant in Ofek Mechina

Post October 7 Response:

The trauma of war has taken a toll on Israel’s youth. With parents called to reserves, constant sirens, and entire communities displaced, many teens entered adulthood under impossible conditions. Mechinot became a light in the dark, offering routine, guidance, and purpose when the world felt chaotic.

Past participants got to work immediately. They cleaned bomb shelters, distributed food, hosted evacuees, and volunteered in agriculture. They became the helping hands of their communities and the steady shoulders others could lean on.

Support the next generation of our people’s warriors.

Donate to Mechinot today.

Donate Now

Subscribe to get the latest news and updates

[gravityform id="7" title="false"]

Who We Support

How to Give

About

What's On

News

Together With

Strategic Partner

ABN:75 071 207 094

Copyright © 2026 United Israel Appeal. All rights reserved.