ISRAELI COMMUNITY NRW
KEHILA-NRW - Israelischer Kultur und Integrationsverein NordrheinWestfalen e.V
What are our goals as an Israeli community in Germany?
The Israeli community in North Rhine-Westphalia works to achieve three main objectives:
1. Promoting Pluralistic Israeli Culture
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Nurturing the Hebrew language and passing it to the younger generation
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Preserving and strengthening connection to Israeli heritage
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Promoting values of tolerance and intercultural understanding
2. Bridge Between Cultures
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strengthening the connections between Israel and Germany
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Promoting cultural and artistic dialogue
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Creating collaborations with local communities and organizations
3. Supporting the Israelis living in Germany
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Assisting in optimal integration into German society
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Creating a supportive and welcoming Israeli surrounding
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Fostering a complex and rich Israeli-German identity
The Community Board
The managing board is responsible for all community activities and its members serve voluntarily. Board members are elected annually at the annual members' assembly.
Current board members:
Elad - Chairperson 1
Galit - Chairperson 2, Education Haus
Efrat - Deputy Chairperson
KEHILA NRW Community Structure
The Israeli community in North Rhine-Westphalia operates as a registered non-profit organization (e.V.), maintaining complete independence from political or religious bodies. At the core of our activities lies the principle of collective decision-making, where all registered members who pay annual dues are full partners in shaping the community's direction and future.
The organization is led by a board of directors, elected annually at the general assembly. The board, comprised of dedicated volunteers, oversees the planning and implementation of the community's ongoing activities. Alongside the board, specialized working groups focus on various aspects of community life.
Community activities are primarily funded through annual membership fees, which cover the organization's operating expenses. We maintain transparent and responsible financial management, enabling us to offer a wide range of activities while keeping costs reasonable for families. In cases of financial hardship, we work to find solutions that ensure participation remains accessible to all interested parties.
We welcome collaborations with organizations that share our vision - building a strong Israeli community that preserves Hebrew cultural heritage and passes it on to the next generation. Donations received from organizations and individuals support the enrichment of educational activities, Israeli cultural events, Hebrew language instruction, and making activities accessible to more families.
Decision-making processes in the community are based on full member participation. The annual assembly elects the board and sets general policies, with significant decisions made through democratic voting. The community actively participates in planning events and activities, and feedback from members serves as the foundation for developing new initiatives and continuous improvement.
The organization operates according to a detailed annual work plan while maintaining flexibility to respond to the community's evolving needs. We maintain cooperative relationships with similar communities and organizations, and acknowledge the contribution of sponsors and donors to our activities with gratitude
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The driving force behind our community is the combination of an organized structural framework with a volunteer spirit and deep community engagement. We believe that only through cooperation and mutual commitment can we continue to develop a strong and thriving Israeli community in Germany.
Curious about how our Kehila works?
Here's everything you need to know
1. Roles and Responsibilities
Board of Directors
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Elected annually at the members' Annual General Meeting.
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Oversees policy-making and provides strategic guidance for the Kehila.
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Composed of members elected from the association who serve on a voluntary basis
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Planning Team
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Active in various areas to advance the Kehila's goals.
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Comprised of volunteers with expertise and experience.
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Collaborates closely with the Board of Directors.
2. Decision-Making
Our association prioritizes transparency and actively involves all members in significant decision-making processes.
Annual General Meeting
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A yearly gathering of all Kehila members.
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Election of a new Board of Directors.
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Discussion and establishment of policies and plans for the year ahead.
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Presentation of financial reports and a review of activities.
Democratic Voting
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Conducted on key issues affecting the Kehila.
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Every member's voice is heard.
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A clear, documented process ensures transparency.
3. Planning and Growth
The activities of our Kehila are carefully planned, with consideration for members' needs and long-term objectives.
Annual Work Plan
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Outlines goals and targets.
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Includes a timeline for events and activities.
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Accounts for available budgets and resources.
Feedback and Improvement
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Regular collection of member feedback.
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Evaluation of activities and events.
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Adjustments made to meet changing needs.
4. Volunteer-based community engagement
Our Kehila fosters active participation among its members and provides diverse opportunities for volunteering and support.
Volunteer Work and Participation
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A wide range of opportunities to get involved.
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Project-specific planning teams for special initiatives.
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Sharing knowledge and expertise within the community.
Social Initiatives
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Encouraging new ideas from Kehila members.
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Supporting social projects.
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Creating opportunities for connection and collaboration.
5. Communication and Support
A robust communication system ensures efficient information sharing and mutual support among members.
Dedicated WhatsApp Groups
General, private group for official Kehila announcements.
Topic-specific, moderated groups for various interests, such as:
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Students and young adults
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Healthcare professionals
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Culture club
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Educational initiatives
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Event and meeting
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Q&A forum
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Marketplace for second-hand items and exchanges
Management and Moderation
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A dedicated team oversees each group.
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Ensures respectful and professional interactions.
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Provides quick responses to inquiries and concerns.
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Offers 24/7 support when needed.
Regular Communication
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Frequent updates on activities and events.
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Sharing important information for everyday needs.
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Announcing relevant opportunities and resources.