In an emotional ceremony with wide participation from people with disabilities, representatives of government ministries and public institutions, and civil society activists, the AlManarah Association celebrated the inauguration of its new center – Beit AlManarah – in the city of Nazareth. This center marks a significant milestone in the association’s journey to promote and empower people with disabilities in Arab society in Israel.
The event opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by the unveiling of a plaque honoring the Fund for the Development of Services for People with Disabilities of the National Insurance Institute, in appreciation of its major contribution to the establishment of this unique center.
The event was skillfully and inspiringly moderated by Mr. Shlomi Afriat, Deputy Director-General of AlManarah. The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Vivian Azran, a board member of the association, who emphasized the importance of partnership between civil society and government ministries in promoting Beit AlManarah and achieving its goals.
Next, Ms. Sarit Levy, Director of the Fund for the Development of Services for People with Disabilities at the National Insurance Institute, spoke about the importance of this pioneering project, reaffirming the Fund’s commitment to supporting impactful and innovative social initiatives.
She was followed by Ms. Tami Raisner, the Regional Commissioner for Disabilities in the Community, Northern District, Ministry of Welfare and Social Security, who highlighted the importance of developing community services for people with disabilities and welcomed the opening of the center as an inspiring and model initiative.
Mr. Tareq Kadah, Regional Inspector in the Ministry of Education, praised AlManarah’s initiatives in educational outreach and support within Arab schools. He elaborated on the importance of developing inclusive educational environments that respect diversity and enable every student to reach their full potential, also noting upcoming joint projects between the Ministry and the association.
Attorney Abbas Abbas, Founder and Director-General of AlManarah, delivered a heartfelt speech in which he reviewed the main milestones of the organization’s twenty-year journey, culminating in the establishment of this new center. He emphasized the importance of Beit AlManarah as a space for enrichment and empowerment for every individual facing challenges.
An engaging lecture was delivered by Ms. Nasrin Hamtsi Jabarin, an educational counselor, parent educator, and longtime activist in the association, focusing on the theme “Family and Community Partnership for People with Disabilities.” She emphasized the integrated role of the family, community, and institutions in achieving genuine empowerment.
The event concluded with a tribute ceremony in honor of AlManarah’s main partners and supporters, during which certificates of appreciation were awarded to:
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Sarit Levy – Director of the Fund for the Development of Services for People with Disabilities, National Insurance Institute
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Chaya Fishgrund Schwartz – Director of Multi-Service Center Programs
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Shmuel Feinglass – Former Director of the Fund for the Development of Services for People with Disabilities at the National Insurance Institute
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Vivian Azran – Board Member of AlManarah
At the end of the event, Attorney Abbas Abbas expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who took part, stating:
“This center is not just a building – it is a living vision aimed at lighting the path for people with disabilities toward a future of dignity, equality, and opportunity.”
