Every child is like a flower that needs to grow and take its place within the beautiful garden that is the world. And just as a flower needs sun, lighting, love and care to grow, the children of Negba are cared for in a way that allows them to bloom. Each in their own time, each at their own pace. We, at Negba, offer them adapted programs they can follow with our skilled teams of professional teachers, social workers, in well-equipped premises. But most of all, at Negba we care just as much about what the children will become tomorrow, as we do about who they are today. This is why we pay special attention to each of the children and give them as much love as we can, so that the Negba’s children take their first steps on the road to success! It is our pride and joy to share with you today one of these “success stories” – which are so important to us, but especially to the children.
Amir (pseudonym), 14 years old, H’etz Delphine Levy Teen Club, Jerusalem
Amir is an orphan who lost both his parents. He lives with his grandparents, who do not speak Hebrew.
Amir arrived in Negba in the sixth grade. He is an intelligent and curious child who is eager to learn. However, he had trouble behaving in the community. He sometimes lacked restraint and patience, which could be quite challenging. Amir showed his unease by being verbally, and occasionally physically violent, towards those around him.
“Since Amir arrived at Negba, we have noticed a real change! “Sari, head of the Teen Club, explains. “He has made new friends, he studies more easily, he does his homework, and most importantly, he is now in a place where he is given the attention he needs. “
At the end of his sixth grade, Amir was not admitted in the high school he wanted to attend, because his school records showed his behavioral issues. We couldn’t possibly stop there and thought Amir truly deserved a chance. So we sent a letter of recommendation to Amir’s school to attest to the great change in attitude he had already achieved. We pushed and supported his admission, and Amir was finally admitted in the high school he wanted, which is one of the best in Jerusalem.
Amir has grown and matured. He came to understand that violence is not his ally, but his worst enemy, and that creating a caring environment around him could open many doors for him. He has now learned to use dialogue, as a way to settle the occasional frustrations and disagreements we all encounter in our every day lives.
We are happy to let you know that Amir is now on the 9th grade, in the same high school. He has blossomed ans is excelling both academically and socially. He has also joined the city’s official basketball team. Despite his intensive training, Amir continues to come to the Teen Club twice a week. He also helps 2 younger children who are in 6th grade, once a week. Amir is a true role model, in the sense that he managed to overcome his difficulties and blossom into this wonderful teenager, and is giving back to the community. He understands perfectly how, by giving the right attention to children, you spread seeds of happiness that allow them to rise and shine.
We would like to thank Sari, head of the H’etz Delphine Levy Teen Club in Jerusalem, for bringing us this exciting story, but also for her attention and her daily actions for the benefit of the young people she and her team take care of.
