A Patch of Partnership

In the Western Negev, a small patch of green harmony embodies the spirit of San Diego. This oasis of cooperation is the Ibim Friedmann Student Village. The Jewish community of San Diego wanted to create a partnership which would bring them closer to Israel through personal ties, joint decision-making and a greater modicum of control over their funding. There was also a groundswell of support for a project that reflected the values of the San Diego community, promoting peace and pluralistic Judaism. The Ibim Student Village, an absorption center for immigrant students from the Former Soviet Union, Ethiopia and Latin America fit the bill as a perfect partner. Further broadening the partnership and contributing to the common goal of absorbing young immigrants and strengthening Israel's periphery, the facility was recently purchased by Keren HaYesod Holland, in honor of Mr. Felix Friedmann, hence the name Ibim Friedmann Student Village.

Groups from the Immigration and Absorption Department flagship programs for young immigrants, Selah, Kedma, Ofek and Atid reside in the Ibim Friedmann Student Village. In addition, the counselors, as well as the young Israelis who volunteer for at least a year before, or as part of their army service, live in the Village. It is a warm, nurturing community for new young immigrants who come to Israel without their families, and will soon face the complexities and perplexities of heading out on their own, alone.

Members of a joint council deliberate programs and budgets together. Aside from supporting the Ibim Friedmann Student Village, the San Diego Jewish Federation helps finance operations of the adjacent Sha'ar HaNegev Community Center. The facility encourages interaction between the local population and the immigrant students. Project Otzma volunteers from San Diego have resided in the Village and participants on Israel summer trips and missions from San Diego visit regularly.