Druze in Israel: Help for a Unique Community

The Druze have lived in parts of northern Israel since the 16th century, and with the establishment of the State in 1948, joined their destiny with the people of Israel. Over the years, more than 300 of their men have given their lives in the country's defense.

Despite their immense contribution to the State, the Druze - a tight-knit, traditional community - have yet to reap the full benefits of the society they do so much to defend. Israel has worked to address the community's needs by connecting Druze villages to utility networks, upgrading health services, and adopting an initiative to boost academic achievement among the mainstream students.

But for areas these initiatives do not reach, JDC has developed a three-pronged initiative - spearheaded by Edith and Henry Everett, and in close consultation with Druze and government partners - to help the Druze find a balance between their traditional lifestyle and the opportunities Israel offers.

The first aim of the JDC initiative is to develop the community's capacity to chart its own future. Training in leadership, planning and administration skills for Druze local government officials and other community workers will enhance their ability to develop more effective social and educational services, and to advocate with the State for assistance that meets their specific requirements.

JDC's second area of focus provides vocational and empowerment programs to help Druze women advance in employment and community leadership. JDC will assist women through programs developed in partnership with the community, building on earlier experience. In addition, early childhood facilities will be developed to further enhance such opportunities.

The third element of the JDC initiative targets the young, particularly through education. JDC will focus on preparing underachievers for working life, and on enabling the brightest students to achieve the grades that will set them on the road to future success. These JDC education initiatives will involve parents as well as children, and stress the training so many teachers seek. They will also address informal needs, through enrichment programs at community centers, by working to expand the number of playgrounds in the villages, and by helping the most talented youngsters develop the skills to become effective community leaders.

Together, this comprehensive JDC initiative will help the Druze enjoy the opportunities Israeli society offers while enabling them to preserve the traditions that make them so unique.