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The initiative focuses on empowering local communities in Israel’s social and geographic periphery through a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach. By fostering collaboration across various stakeholders, Thriving Communities aims to enhance social mobility and improve the overall quality of life for individuals at every stage of life, from infancy to old age.
 

Thriving Communities is being implemented in 16 communities across Israel’s social and geographic periphery: Acre, Sakhnin, Kfar Kana, Umm al-Facham, Hadera, Pardes Hana, Petah Tikva, Elad, Rishon LeZion, Ramla, Bat Yam, Rehovot, Yavne, Hura, Ofakim, and Eilat

The program utilizes a collaborative, multi-sectoral approach across four key areas:

1. Economic Development

2. Urban Planning

3. Social Engagement

4. Education

 

The implementation strategy of the program focuses on developing a strategic urban vision for community engagement, enabling local communities to shape and influence their environments by utilizing existing resources and mobilizing organizations committed to community development.

 

The target audience includes residents, community activists, and local communities at the grassroots level, as well as policy-makers, municipal professionals, civil society organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions involved in community initiatives.
 

Thriving Communities focuses on transforming municipal work methods, mapping community needs, strengthening networks, and fostering social cohesion. It will establish a municipal data infrastructure, apply a ‘Collective Impact’ approach, and provide training for professionals and stakeholders.

Implementation will be led by municipal social services departments, with continuous support through guidance, training, and tailored strategies. Municipalities commit to sustaining the initiative, ensuring long-term community strengthening, social mobility, and improved quality of life, with success dependent on engaged municipal leadership.