Jul 27, 2016

Federation Supports a Partnership with a Community of Ethiopian-Israeli Residents in Pardes Channa-Karkur for Over a Decade

For more than a decade, the Greater Miami Jewish Federation has supported a partnership with a community of Ethiopian-Israeli residents in Pardes Channa-Karkur, an Israeli city between Tel Aviv and Haifa. Working with our overseas partners, Federation is helping construct a Gojo, a traditional Ethiopian home that will serve as a center for multi-generational programming, including social, cultural and educational experiences on the grounds of the Community Garden, enabling residents to enjoy the riches of the tradition and culture.

Specifically, the Gojo will provide a focal point for educational programming designed to familiarize others with the richness of Ethiopian tradition. By exploring Ethiopian culture beyond the local community, the Gojo and the related programs will instill a sense of pride within the community, enabling the younger generation to embrace their heritage in order to enter Israeli society as equals with their peers. An educational program has already begun during the past school year as a pilot program, whereby neighboring 4th and 5th grade students have visited the Community Garden to learn about Ethiopian culture.

Not only does the Gojo and Community Garden act as a learning tool for the neighborhood, it also enables the elderly Ethiopian-Israeli community to have social activities that are familiar and welcoming, providing a sense of purpose and an opportunity to help their family.