ABOUT US

 

SHEMESH began in 1986 as a grassroots, “good neighbors” organization. In 1993 it was recognized as a tax-exempt, not for profit organization in Israel, and in 1995 the American tax-free Friends of Shemesh was established.

We build trust, respect and understanding between Jews and Arabs in the Galilee Region of Israel. We do this through our “people-to-people programs” that create friendships and impart skills for coexistence.

When we started, there was little personal contact between Arabs and Jews in the Galilee. They lived in separate neighborhoods, spoke different languages and studied in separate schools. They were neighbors living in separate worlds. Graduates of Shemesh's programs become committed to a different reality, one in which all of Israel's citizens recognize each others' cultures as equal to theirs.

Committed to coexistence and equality between Jews and Arabs in Israel, SHEMESH is dedicated to:

  • Building friendly relations between Arabs and Jews of all ages in the Galilee;

  • Nurturing understanding and respect for cultural differences;

  • Operating educational and cultural programs;

  • Establishing model programs for communities throughout Israel.

SHEMESH was awarded the 1998 Misgav Regional Council Certificate of Recognition for its contributions to Regional Jewish–Arab Coexistence.

 

Our Board Members (all volunteers):

  • Yasser Faour – Principal of the Shaab Elementary School, Chairperson

  • Peter Soriano – Computer Science Instructor, Treasurer 

  • Hussam Abu El Heija – Business owner 

  • Miriam Abu Raya – Teacher in Sahnin

  • Gary Kamen – Principal of the Hosen Institute for Special Education, Haifa

  • Ruti Mai - Nurse from Lotem

  • Anwar Shabrawi – College student in education

Senior Staff:

  • Matti Picus - Director of Shemesh (volunteer)

  • Lior Asad – Summer Camp Director

  • Hasia Hamski Porat – Women’s Leadership Coordinator

  • Tamir Yanai - Ken Galil weekly afternoon program coordinator

 

SHEMESH is part of a network of non-profit organizations committed to Jewish – Arab coexistence in Israel. Our work is primarily supported through individual contributions and foundation grants. We have received support from:

To contact us in Israel:

SHEMESH
MATA Misgav
D.N. Misgav 20179
ISRAEL

Phone: +972.4.980.0039
Fax: +972.4.980.0389
E-mail: Email us

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