Bridge for Youth (גשר אל הנוער) is a non-profit organization founded in 2002. Our mission is to reduce school dropout rates among at-risk youth by providing them with supportive services to encourage their success and meaningful integration into society.

Holistic Model

Bridge for Youth has developed and operates a holistic program for at-risk youth that addresses their educational, personal, social and emotional needs.

Our program offers individual tutoring to help young people achieve their educational goals, alongside group activities, emotional support and values education focusing on Zionism, Jewish tradition and respect for others.

The perfect place

Bridge for Youth operates youth support centers that provide a welcoming environment, hot meals, tutoring, mentoring and emotional support.

It's All About Them

Bridge for Youth works closely with municipal authorities and school staff to identify young people who could benefit from the program. We develop an individual support plan for each participant, tailored to their needs, skills and abilities. We maintain regular contact with their schools, families and, where appropriate, their social worker.

Measuring Our Impact

Since our founding in 2002, we have continued to develop and refine our model. Our success rates are high and are being measured constantly.High rate of the young men and women in our Youth Support Centers are graduating successfully from the Israeli education system with a high school diploma.High rate of our graduates enter military or national service.We support young people in becoming independent adults with a strong sense of responsibility and personal values.

Giving is receiving

Supporting young people enriches us and strengthens Israeli society. Our work helps participants build their futures and contribute to their communities.

Our Program Achieves a High Rate of Success

of program participants enter military or national service

% 0

of program participants pursue certificate programs or academic studies

% 0

of program participants are eligible for an Israeli matriculation certificate (Bagrut)

% 0

of program participants enter the workforce

% 0

OUR MISSION

To support young people facing challenges at school, at home and in their communities, and to help them develop the confidence, skills and opportunities they need to participate fully in society.

Target population:
Our program serves adolescents aged 14–18 who face educational, social, family or financial challenges and are at risk of dropping out of school. We help them build on their strengths, develop motivation and work towards personal and educational goals.

Objectives:
• Strengthen confidence, self-worth and essential life skills.
• Help prevent school dropout and support progress towards an Israeli matriculation certificate (Bagrut).
• Prepare and support participants for military or national service.
• Guide program graduates towards further education and employment.

BRIDGE FOR YOUTH - “GUIDING AT-RISK YOUTH TO SUCCESS”

A PROGRAM FOR INDIVIDUAL EXCELLENCE – Educational, Social, Emotional

Bridge for Youth was founded in 2002 by Varda and Dov Halperin to help young people facing social and economic barriers access opportunities to succeed. Our approach combines educational assistance, personal guidance and practical support. We work alongside families, schools and local authorities to help participants continue their education, develop independence and plan for the future.

OUR PROGRAM

Bridge for Youth takes a holistic approach to supporting young people, addressing their educational, personal and social needs through a coordinated program:

Youth Support Centers: Providing a welcoming environment where participants can receive tutoring and personal support, enjoy hot meals and take part in social activities.
Individual Support Plans: Developing a personalized plan for each participant, tailored to their needs, strengths, abilities and goals.
Educational Support: Offering individual and group tutoring by professional teachers throughout the school year to help participants improve their academic performance and prepare for final exams.
Personal Support and Mentoring: Strengthening confidence and self-worth through emotional support and guidance from a personal mentor, while helping meet practical needs such as clothing, school supplies and hot meals.
Social Activities and Life Skills: Organizing trips, talks, team-building activities and workshops that help participants build friendships, develop life skills and explore their interests.
Values and Community Involvement: Encouraging responsibility and contribution to the community, while preparing and supporting participants for military or national service.
Positive Role Models: Helping participants learn from positive role models who inspire confidence, perseverance and personal growth.
Cooperation with Schools and Local Authorities: Working closely with municipal education departments and school counselors to identify young people who could benefit from the program and coordinate their support.

How We Support Young People

Educational Support: Helping participants improve their academic performance, stay in school and work towards graduation.
Personal Mentoring: Providing guidance from a trusted adult who serves as a positive role model and helps participants develop essential life skills.
Confidence and Self-Worth: Offering encouragement and emotional support to help participants recognize their strengths and believe in their abilities.
Enrichment Activities: Providing cultural, social and educational experiences that broaden participants’ horizons and encourage personal growth.
Preparation for Service: Guiding participants as they explore pre-military preparatory programs and prepare for military or national service.
Family Support: Offering families guidance and support to help them respond to their children’s needs.