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Changing lives, shaping futures

Israel’s Youth Villages provide a second life for some of the country’s most vulnerable young people. Each year, more than 1,300 at-risk youth find stability, purpose and hope across [six] village campuses which operate like mini kibbutzim.

Originally established to rescue Jewish children from Nazi Europe, Youth Villages today serve young people facing trauma, poverty, or family breakdown, offering them the tools to heal, learn and thrive in Israeli society. Many children enter the program with a record but they leave with a clean slate, ready to serve their country and begin their future.

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A safe and structured home

Students aged 12 to 18 live and learn in a residential kibbutz style setting. They receive a full academic education, access to counselling and therapy, and structured daily routines that build responsibility and resilience. Most return home on weekends and holidays, staying for up to six years while receiving support tailored to their individual needs.

Therapeutic, hands-on learning

Youth Villages are not subsidised just boarding schools. Each village includes therapeutic programs like music, sports, arts, and animal care. From student-run cafes to robotics teams and surfing clubs, these programs help students develop confidence, leadership and vocational skills that prepare them for adulthood.

Diverse communities, shared growth

Each village serves a different population. From new immigrants to religious boys, Bedouin youth and teens facing legal intervention, every student receives a customised path forward. Most arrive with emotional and behavioural challenges, some even have criminal records, but they leave with academic qualifications, IDF placements, or vocational certifications.

Support beyond graduation

The work does not stop at 18. Alumni receive ongoing guidance through military service, university, and their early careers. Annual reunions and peer support networks keep former students connected and on track, often inspiring them to give back as mentors or educators themselves.

The Impact

For thousands of at-risk teens, Youth Villages are a lifeline. Students come from unstable environments and leave with hope, education and a clear path forward.

1,300

youth supported annually

6

Youth Villages across Israel

300,000

alumni have been through the program

80%

complete matriculation

90%

enlist in IDF or national service

I didn’t used to see any potential in myself but living here I realised I have to use my potential for a good cause so I can help myself and the people around me. -

Student at Kiryat Yearim

Youth Villages gave me more than a home. They gave me belief in myself, the tools to succeed, and a family that never gave up on me.

Graduate

Ramat Hadassah

I came with nothing. Now I am serving in an elite IDF unit. That would have been impossible without my teachers and counsellors.

Graduate

Ben Yakir

Post October 7 Response

The events of October 7 placed added pressure on Youth Village communities. Many students were directly affected by loss or trauma, while others had family members called to the front lines.

Youth Villages responded with urgency, expanding their therapeutic services and trauma counselling. Professional staff helped students process grief and anxiety, while maintaining a structured and supportive daily environment. For many, the Youth Village became their anchor through the chaos.

Give Israel’s most vulnerable youth a chance to choose their future.

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