The YAD group of the Karmiel-Misgav-Pittsburgh Partnership 2000 program gathered over the weekend for a series of professional and strategy discussions to the define the group's vision, goals and objectives for the coming years.

The seminar, this year conducted at Kibbutz Sdot Yam opposite beautifully clear skies and Mediterranean sea shore, is part of the group's annual program and included entertainment, trips and a Kabbalat Shabbat conducted by the multi-talented members of the group. The 'serious' part of the weekend included a goals and visions workshop moderated by Professor Amnon Baham from Gilon. Prof. Baham proposed to the group a strategic marketing model that will make it possible to define clearly the organization's goals and group character.

The timing of the seminar is not at all incidental and is intended to allow new members of the group to participate in an active manner in the discussions and enhance their bond and relationship with the veteran members of the group. "I think we attained an excellent set of tools and ideas during the conference that will help us to produce a number of desirable outputs" according to Magi Ben Yehudah who joined the group just a few months ago, she added that the atmosphere among the group's members was excellent and overall it was a very enjoyable weekend.

The group set itself initial goals of establishing a group structure, maintaining motivation and a tight-knit group. The group also toured the Carmel Mountain Range, visited a local winery and a museum at the famous artist colony at Ein Hod. They enjoyed dinner at a wonderful Arab restaurant and played a variety of games aimed at developing a strong and intimate community.

The Israeli "YAD" group was established last year within the framework of the Jewish Agency's sponsored "Partnership 2000" program and operates concurrently and opposite its sister group in Pittsburgh in order to promote joint projects in the Karmiel-Misgav and Pittsburgh areas. The members of the group are all residents of the Karmiel-Misgav area and conduct monthly meetings as well as a variety of non-formal social events in order to strengthen relationships and personal contacts. The group has set itself a goal of increasing its involvement and integration in the country's and the region's social goals and objectives and invites all interested individuals to participate in this important Zionist activity.