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About East Jerusalem YMCA PDF Print E-mail
The East Jerusalem YMCA is a vibrant and integral part of the Palestinian social movement. As a member of the World Alliance of YMCAs , the EJ-YMCA is committed to a unique vision of community based on the universal values of human dignity, peace, and justice. Through diverse programs and activities with a focus on holistic youth development, the YMCA aims to work toward the building of a viable Palestinian state based on equality and social justice for all. The YMCA believes that faithfulness to its Christian mission, which embodies openness to all religions in a spirit of love and service, will bring about the transformation of society. Within the context of oppression and Israeli military occupation, the YMCA is a beacon of hope for Palestinians throughout the West Bank . The East Jerusalem YMCA is committed to the World Council of YMCAs Challenge 21 , a document formulated to aid YMCAs throughout the world to renew an understanding of their mission in the new millennium.

The East Jerusalem YMCA was established in 1949 in a tent in Aqabat Jaber Refugee Camp near Jericho . The EJ-YMCA works with all sectors of Palestinian society without discrimination. Today, the East Jerusalem YMCA operates a variety of diversified programs and activities that are consistent with its vision of Holistic Youth Development and related directly to the needs of Palestinian society. As a Christian ecumenical association that offers equal opportunities to all, the EJ-YMCA's vision for holistic youth development is based on:

  • A preferential option for the poor, the weak, and the marginalized
  • A commitment to human, social, and national rights.
  • The building of a civil society based on democratic principles
  • The development of a spirit of cooperation, responsibility, creativity, and volunteerism
  • A commitment to openness, transparency, and accountability

 

Read more:

The East Jerusalem YMCA Mandate
The History of the East Jerusalem YMCA (1948 – 1965)

 
Vocational Training
Women's Training
Rehabilitation
Community & Sports Center
Extension Services Unit
Joint Advocacy Initiative