This would have never happened were it not for the support of the Jewish Agency Partnership 2000 Program.

Uzi, the owner of a hair-care salon at the Mall, habitually outreached kids who had dropped out of school offering them work at his salon, creating for these youngsters an alternative framework, later even trying to talk them into continuing their education. Those who chose not to resume their studies at least had the opportunity to acquire a profession.

Sagit Saniya, the municipal crime reduction coordinator, who heard of Uzi's initiative, contacted him asking for his help in formulating, with the municipal social workers, a hairdressing technicians course for young girls at risk. The concept has become a reality, with 12 young girls presently enrolled in the course. Five times a week, the girls meet in groups to get practical experience and twice a week for theoretical lessons that include communication skills in general and with clients in particular as well a professional education. As a bonus, the girls are taught make up tips.

All this happens in a room allotted for this purpose in the hair salon. The course is conducted in an amiable ambiance, a fun experience for both parties. The girls attend regularly and willingly spend much of their free time practicing. At this stage, the girls are still practicing on mannequins, but will soon begin to practice on each other and later on will have the opportunity to shampoo hair and interact with clients.

Uzi and his staff are well aware of the importance of this project and have gone out of their way to help. The project is unique in terms of the extensive attention and care lavished on these girls, both during the training sessions as well as during their leisure time, by social workers Galit, Sandra, accompanied by Nechama Gibor from the Municipal Youth Unit, who do much more than ensure the girls' regular attendance but spend quality time conversing with the girls and inspiring them with self-confidence.

A', a student in the course: "We are presently practicing on mannequins, but I can't wait to actually start working". At the end of the course and after an internship some of these girls will become part of the professional staff at the salon. Partnership 2000 funds 30% of the project.

Uzi notes that being involved in this project is very satisfying and he already has an idea for an extension program - he hopes to create a hair styling internship school that would allow course graduates to service clients on its premises. To this end he wishes to build a second floor in the salon. This will require additional funding and Uzi hopes to find organizations and supports for this unique project.

Adar Aleph 5763 - March 2003