Philanthropy in Kiryat Yearim: Empowering the Next Generation of Changemakers

Nestled in the beautiful and scenic Kiryat Yearim Village near Jerusalem, a unique school is fostering the next generation of changemakers. With its stunning views of classic Jerusalem landscapes, this school is more than just a place of learning—it’s a thriving community where students, teachers, and administrators come together to care deeply for one another and for their larger community.

Walking around the school, one cannot help but be struck by the lively energy of the students. The courtyard is filled with young people playing soccer, while classrooms are equipped with projectors, making the space feel modern and engaging. With a student-to-teacher ratio of around 4:1, every student receives the attention and support they need to succeed. This personalized approach helps ensure that students not only persevere academically but also grow as individuals with a sense of responsibility to others.

The Heart of Philanthropy in Kiryat Yearim

One of the most powerful aspects of this school is its commitment to philanthropic experiences, utilizing the Honeycomb curriculum. Every year, the school hosts philanthropic seminars that culminates their program. The goal is to introduce students to the concept of giving and making a tangible difference in the world around them.

Throughout the year, students engage in hands-on activities that teach them about the importance of giving back. They spend time volunteering in various settings, from assisting elderly neighbors to supporting organizations that help those with disabilities. The program allows students to directly interact with different populations in need, offering them invaluable experiences that broaden their perspectives and foster empathy.

A Collaborative Learning Process

The philanthropic seminars are a hands-on, interactive process. During the seminars, students are divided into groups, each tasked with exploring a different aspect of philanthropy. One group delves into the definition of philanthropy, researching how the concept manifests in Israel and around the world. The other groups focus on identifying and investigating three populations in need of help: the elderly in Israel, adults with disabilities, and families living in poverty. One example of how the school and its students work with the community to help with their needs is the Social Shop, which is a kind of “thrift” store, which the students run and have access to for any clothing, or styling needs which may come up.

Each group is tasked with finding a nonprofit organization that supports their designated population, learning about the impact of these organizations, and ultimately presenting their findings to their peers and the community. It’s a collaborative and empowering experience that encourages students to critically examine the needs of others while recognizing the power they hold to create change.

Empowerment Through Decision-Making

The culmination of the seminars comes when students vote on which nonprofit organization they would like to donate to. The class is given 4,000 NIS to donate, and they make this decision through a process that encourages them to reflect on the learning they’ve done throughout the program. Each student ranks the nonprofits based on the criteria they’ve learned about, and after tallying the scores, a decision is made.

This process is designed to empower students. They aren’t just learning about philanthropy—they are actively making decisions about where funds will be allocated. They gain confidence as they research, examine the needs of different populations, and weigh the merits of each organization. The end result is not just a financial contribution but an opportunity for students to experience the impact of their decisions and understand the importance of thoughtful, responsible giving.

A Powerful Lesson in Civic Engagement

What stands out most about the philanthropy program in Kiryat Yearim is how it teaches students the value of community engagement and social responsibility. By giving them the tools to make informed decisions, the program nurtures a sense of empowerment and shows students that they have the ability to influence society. It’s a reminder that even young people can make significant contributions to the world, and it encourages them to continue their philanthropic efforts as they grow into adulthood.

Through the seminars, volunteer activities, and the decision to donate, students are not just passive participants—they are active agents in shaping the world around them. They learn that every person has the power to make a difference, and that their actions—whether big or small—can have a lasting impact.

Looking to the Future

As the students of Kiryat Yearim move forward, they carry with them the knowledge that they can make a meaningful difference in their communities. The school’s focus on philanthropy helps instill values of empathy, responsibility, and civic engagement that will stay with these young individuals for the rest of their lives.

This is more than just an educational experience—it’s the foundation of a new generation of changemakers who will continue to contribute to society in profound ways. And in a world that desperately needs compassion and action, the students of Kiryat Yearim are proving that the future is in good hands.

Honeycomb’s Jewish youth philanthropy program at Kiryat Yearim Youth Village is generously supported by the Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Foundation.