iDesign
Project Egoz
Julie, Jackie, Marc, and Ofir
ISC 4-Tiberias
Project Egoz is one of several after school programs for children in under-privileged communities. It was a joint development amongst volunteers (Julie, Jackie, Marc, and Ofir) from ISC 4-Tiberias. The primary goal of Project Egoz was to shape children's identities from impoverished areas. The volunteers felt it was important to create a new look, and designed a logo, as well as, composed a theme song, in which was sung at the beginning and end of every activity. As well, each week a different activity was performed by the volunteers.
Activity Example:
Photo Hunt - Children were divided into four groups and escorted by one volunteer and one staff member. Children were provided digital cameras and were instructed to take pictures from their community. First they were asked to take simple pictures - such as their friends or buildings, and thereafter were asked to take more complicated (abstract) shots - such as pictures that represent hope or peace. The photo hunt was a huge success with the children!
Other Activities Included:
- Teaching children about other cultures (North American, South American, European, etc) through Flags, storytelling, and games
- Creating Identity Masks
- Dance and Music
- Cross-cultural Cooking
- Arts and Crafts
- Sports
Project Egoz was operated by the Tiberias Municipality: Division of Social Welfare and the Community Department of Social Services. The program coordinator and staff were extremely helpful, organized, involved, and friendly.
Project Egoz acts as a second home for most children, by educating them beyond what their formal schooling allows them to. The children range from age 7-12, some of which speak and understand English. If it were not for these after school clubs, children tend to spend most of their time aimlessly. Without any clear directions for their future, kids may become hopeless, and in turn, deviant members of their respective society. Project Egoz and similar after-school programs provide a ray of hope. The presence of a single volunteer alone has each child glowing. Being part of this project is ideal for (but not limited to) volunteer participants' who are passionate and interested in social work, as well as enjoy spending time with children!
