Our vision

“Aharai!” is an expression in Hebrew meaning “after me” or “follow me”. Dating back to the days of Israel’s independence, this phrase refers to leading by example – only when you take the lead can you call on others to follow.

The organization was established in 1997, during a period of turmoil in which Israel was plagued by both external and internal conflicts. The 1995 assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin devastated the nation and was a tragic example of the divisions within the country. To this day, Israeli public discourse is characterized by extreme polarization.

Every year, Aharai’s programs serve thousands of youth (age 14-19) and young adults (age 19-30) in hundreds of groups throughout the country, especially its social and geographic periphery. To date, the organization has touched the lives of over 50,000 youth, who are now part of its alumni movement. The organization’s inclusive programs serve young people throughout the country, regardless of gender, religion, race or ethnicity.

Aharai leads programs that influence the development of young people as individuals, responsible citizens and members of their local, national and international communities. These programs empower participants to achieve their full physical, social, intellectual, spiritual and emotional potentials.