The Israel " Youth Award "
The Youth Award is a international project, which was begun in England fifty years ago and introduced to Israel in 1982. The idea was that of the Duke of Edinburgh, who is now being represented by Prince Andrew, who gives his auspices to the project world wide. Hundreds of thousands of young people participate in the award scheme from over one hundred countries around the world.
The project involves four main principles set out for youth from the ages of 14-25, which enhances their abilities and potential, increases their awareness of the importance of public and communal affairs, as well as emphasizing the importance of nature and peoples.The four main principles are:
Developing a hobby.
Physical exercise.
Volunteerism within the community.
Challenging expeditions.
5,000 young people are registered in Israel in many schools and local authorities. WIZO is the only organization that has taken a decision to implement the project within its educational network.
The decision was made in September 2007, and is being operated in six WIZO youth villages. 250 youngsters from WIZO youth villages are registered to begin activities in the award scheme in January, 2008.
The Israel Youth Award Scheme is a long term project, over several years, and each ninth grade will join the framework. Within a few years the project will become an integral part of all WIZO informal education activities.