Our Stories of Economic and Social Entrepeneurship Supported by Federation for the Arab Israeli Sector

 Arab Israelis make up 21 % of the population in Israel. Our overseas agencies work in partnership with many organizations in Israel who provide services to help Arab populations improve their quality of life.  When we talk about repairing the world, tikkun olam, we do not differentiate  we should make our world a better place for everyone.  Yesterday afternoon we spent time in Nazareth learning about the many programs we support that benefit the Arab Israeli community.

In order for to Israel to continue to grow it economy and  thrive, all citizens much reach their full potential.  There are stumbling blocks for Arab men and women to participate fully in many facets of Israeli life.  Therefore Prime Minister Netanyahu created the Authority for Economic Development of Arab, Druze and Circassian Sectors. Pictured left is the Northern Coordinator Salima Mustafa-Suleiman.  She shared with us the multitude of ways that the Israeli government, in partnership with non-government organizations, including those funded by Federations, are making a difference in promoting these important sectors of society.

Reem Younis and her husband Imad founded Alpa-Omega in 1993.  This company has created, developed and is now selling ground breaking technology in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease.  Click here for more information about their incredible story and product.

As part of their vision of success they believe that their company also needs to be a social inspiration that brings Arabs and Jews together in the work place and supports programs and organizations that bolster the Arab sector in Israel. 

Pictured above are Reem and the electrodes sold by Alpha Omega. 

Stef Wertheimer has funded several industrial parks in Israel.  His latest, left, is in Nazareth.  This building houses companies like Alpha Omega and provides the space for economic and social entrepreneurship for all sectors of Israeli society.  Products created for export in this facility strengthen both Israel's economic and social fabric.

Our Federation system supports programs that bring together Arab and Jewish Israelis recognizing that Israel must provide equally for all citizens and offer support to all sectors.

When we began our adventures on Wednesday, the day began with a red alert siren blazing through Tel Aviv.  We quickly went from our bus to a shelter.  I am reminded of the famous quote from Rabbi Hillel "If I am not for myself, who will be for me?  If I am only for myself, what am I?  If not now, when?"  While Israel protects her citizens and visitors from the barrage of rockets from Gaza, we still confront our challenges and make sure we are addressing together the most pressing needs of today for a bright future tomorrow.