Everyone can make a difference – this simple idea sums up the philosophy of the Tzedek Centers. Founded in 2016, the Tzedek Centers strengthen Israel’s democracy by empowering citizens to take action and engage in social change. A strong and vibrant democracy begins at the local level. Through training programs on social change, they provide knowledge and tools to help people influence policies and have a social impact.

Since October 7, the Tzedek Centers have significantly expanded their work, particularly in the southern and northern regions of Israel, which have been most impacted by the war. In the south, new centers were established in cities that suffered terrorist attacks, such as Netivot, Ofakim, and Ashkelon. These centers initially focused on emergency aid, including housing assistance, legal counseling, and psychological support, while also helping with rebuilding infrastructure and trauma recovery.

Today, the centers work closely with local authorities to create sustainable structures that address both immediate and long-term needs, strengthen community resilience, and foster local leadership. The Tzedek Centers provide a space where people come together to build a democratic future. They also have dedicated programs for Russian-speaking Israelis and for Jewish-Arab cooperation in cities like Haifa, Nazareth, Jerusalem, and Lod.

Some of their main projects include a social rights network in Ofakim, the “Living with Dignity” initiative in Ashkelon supporting people in poverty, and a pilot project in Nahariya to make the local Tzedek Center more accessible, offering educational programs for children and youth, after-school activities, vocational training for economically disadvantaged individuals, and initiatives to better integrate marginalized communities.

Building on their experience in southern Israel, the Tzedek Centers are now expanding their work in the north to support communities in their recovery. Cities like Haifa, Nahariya, and Kiryat Shmona were under rocket fire from Lebanon for months. At the same time, they took in thousands of evacuees from kibbutzim near the border. To strengthen social cohesion and help communities cope with the aftermath of the war and the integration of evacuees, the Tzedek Centers plan to open two new locations in northern Israel.

The Tzedek Centers represent a nationwide movement that promotes a more just society and a strong, thriving democracy — starting from the local level. They firmly believe that grassroots civic engagement is the key to lasting change.

To continue their work, expand existing centers, and establish new locations in northern Israel, additional funding is needed.