Prioneering Community

The October 7 war has severely affected locales in southern and northern Israel, whose recovery and renewal are inseparable from the future of their young adult residents. This group is a key to the community’s economic growth, future leadership and social resilience. Yet, in peripheral cities they face challenges that existed even before the war and have intensified now. This, in addition to the traumatic events of the war, may drive many high potential young adults to leave for the opportunity-rich center.

Pioneering Community, a joint initiative with the Edmond de Rothschild Foundation, is based on the belief that the combined efforts of local leadership and committed young adults can create an engine for social and economic growth within municipalities. It focuses on building a strong young community that works together with municipal leadership to drive change, thus integrating local young adults into the center of decision-making and action, while also strengthening the municipality’s professional capacities.

The initiative targets young adults (ages 22–35) and is being implemented in two pilot municipalities: Ofakim in the south and Ma’alot-Tarshiha in the north. Once feasibility and success are demonstrated, the model can expand to additional locales.

Expected outcomes

• Growth in the number of young adults in the city
• Strengthened sense of belonging and community resilience
• Expanded opportunities for quality employment
• Increase in the number and scope of social initiatives led by young adults

Partners

Philanthropy | Local authorities