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OUR PARTNERSHIP REGION: SHA’AR HANEGEV


Federation leaders traveled to Israel in early 1998 to enhance the connection between San Diego and Israel. They decided on a partnership opportunity with the youth village Ibim, established in 1991.  Ibim houses 300 to 400 young adults who have made aliyah without immediate family.  Ibim initially provided housing for youth from the Former Soviet Union, and today includes youth from Argentina, Ethiopia, and other countries.  Federation has an agreement with United Jewish Communities (UJC), and the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) that a portion of its allocation is directed to the Ibim Student Village.

The relationship with Ibim has blossomed into a strong partnership with the community of Sha’ar HaNegev, where Ibim is located.  The ties continue to grow as the mayor of the municipality and professionals in San Diego work together to build strong bonds between the two communities.  The leadership and staff of Federation Israel & Overseas Center and Community Planning & Innovation Center strive to develop, coordinate, and maintain this partnership. There are many combined programs between the two communities:  Individuals from Sha'ar HaNegev participate on San Diego's Israel Community Teen Trip, JITLI and the Professionals' Exchange, which bring the partnership to new heights.  Additionally, all San Diego missions visit Sha’ar HaNegev, as do many individual travelers. 

Through its annual funding Federation allocates elective funds annually to Sha’ar HaNegev through JAFI and the JDC.  This increased funding enables the municipality to meet crucial needs through programs such as youth counseling, domestic violence, senior services, academic support for students, the Ibim cultural basket and much more.

The San Diego/Sha’ar HaNegev partnership is unique and dynamic.  The relationship continues to grow through people-to-people connections.  We look forward to creating even stronger bonds with our Sha’ar HaNegev family.