Invest in the Bedouin Women's Leadership Project, and we'll match your donation 100%

At the edge of Israel's Negev Desert, modern society is slowly engulfing an ancient way of life—and the village of Lakia is a bridge between two worlds. Here, in one of the few Bedouin villages officially recognized by the Israeli government, the nomads who once roamed the desert sands have learned to build permanent homes—but there is a great deal more to be learned … especially concerning young women.

Born into a patriarchal society, Bedouin girls have nowhere to turn for the personal or professional fulfillment that modern Israeli women enjoy just beyond Lakia's borders.

By supporting our Bedouin Women's Leadership Project, you can bring fulfillment to their lives—and we'll match all gifts through 8/19.

Preserving tribal traditions in an era of globalization is always a delicate balancing act. Some of these traditions, such as the symbolic tents kept in Bedouin backyards, provide a comforting link to a cherished cultural identity … but others are better kept in the past. Bedouin girls are often called upon to take care of their families at a very young age. Education, employment, and financial independence are simply not part of a young woman's development.

"The goal of our project is to empower young women between the ages of 14 and 18 by introducing them to subjects previously not considered feminine in Bedouin culture," says Moshe Ben Simon, Grand Circle's Area Manager in Israel. "By making these women aware of their potential, we'll enable them to make informed, independent decisions about their social status and personal development."

Working with the Association for the Improvement of Women's Status in Lakia, which focuses on employment opportunities for adult women, our three-year program will include English and computer lessons, high school exam preparation, and courses in women's rights and cultural identity. As the participants advance in the program, they'll gain firsthand leadership experience by counseling their younger peers, staffing a mobile library, and supporting the association's telephone line.

Help us reach our first goal of $7000, which will fund instructor fees, transportation, books, and classroom rentals for English language lessons.

Further to these lessons, Overseas Adventure Travel will offer the young women a unique opportunity to practice what they've learned during interactions with their travelers to Israel—which will prove to be a rewarding cultural exchange for both Bedouins and Americans alike.

Support these young women, and we'll match your donation dollar for dollar through August 19.

Because we charge no administration fee, 100% of your tax-deductible contribution goes directly to the women of Lakia.

Together, we can give young Bedouin women a chance to enjoy the basic opportunities that so many of us take for granted. Invest in the village of Lakia today.

For updates on our progress in Lakia, be sure to sign up for our monthly e-newsletter.