COMMUNITY & CULTURE
Building strong, vibrant communities in the Negev region
Derech Eretz
- “Derech Eretz” (DEH-rech EH-retz) means “the way of the land,” and as an expression it means “courtesy, politeness.” For those entering the Israeli Army, however, Derech Eretz means a great deal more. It is the name of an amazing program, established in 2011, that helps them ease their way into Army life.
- Derech Eretz provides education, fitness, and survival-skills classes, including a week-long camping trip, preparing teens mentally, physically, and emotionally for Army life.
- Participants also perform acts of local community service, enhancing their Negev community, while the program itself employs many area residents. Derech Eretz is a six-month experience, although it can be extended to a year if necessary, and includes room and board.
- In civilian life, many—especially teens— are used to dealing only with those like themselves. But almost everyone in Israel participates in military service. This means teens— Army service starts at age 18— will suddenly find they have to interact with those of different ethnic, economic, geographic, and religious backgrounds. Derech Eretz helps them find commonalities, while respecting their diversity.
- Derech Eretz continues to keep in contact with its participants once they have entered Army service. And, after participants have completed their service, Derech Eretz helps them transition back into civilian life, with employment support and other counseling. It also runs three Shabbatons (weekend retreats) a year for alumni, helping them keep their friendships strong.
- The program has been a resounding success, with 750 graduates in eight years. It has been especially beneficial for at-risk, immigrant, and underprivileged youth.
- Word has gotten out, and now the number of applicants far exceeds capacity. As the government only supports programs that run more than two years, and Derech Eretz runs from a half-year to a year, it can only survive with outside help such as yours.
- Check out the Derech Eretz website for more information.