ESRA Modiin was honored to host members of ESRA’s executive and five other hardy enthusiasts from Netanya in April when they made a special visit to Modiin’s community project, Neve ESRA, an after school center. The meeting was also open to local volunteers in the city to give them a chance to see the objective of their admirable efforts. Key speaker was Seffi Rosenberg, the municipal social worker, who supervises the afternoon care center.

After Seffi’s in-depth overview, Tina Barnett, who coordinates our English Enrichment program in Neve ESRA, described the volunteers’ efforts to enhance the children’s English capability through games and origami. Nina Zuck, ESRA’s Projects Coordinator, pointed out that Neve ESRA is the sole community project totally funded by the local branch. .

Last year, we succeeded in obtaining the municipality’s agreement to match all funds invested by ESRA Modiin in Neve ESRA, which this year topped NIS 50,000.

We arrange fundraising activities on a regular basis and also operates ESRABOOKS, which sells secondhand English and Hebrew books. In addition, we actively approach donors from abroad to assist in the many areas requiring funding. Over the past three years we have succeeded in funding a Parents’ Support Group, educational evaluations for each child, remedial teaching and social activities, in addition to new furnishings and equipment for Neve ESRA in general and the private therapy room in particular.

Over and above the information exchanged between all the participants, were the warm camaraderie and indeed the interest and enthusiasm shown by all. ESRA Modiin would like to express its deep appreciation to ESRA National for its ongoing backing and support.

ESRA Modiin is co-chaired by Jackie Klein and Cynthia Barmor.