Minister of Welfare and Social Affairs, MK Meir Cohen, ministry office director Sigal Moran and other senior staff were welcomed to ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran by founder and chairman Major-Gen. (Res.) Doron Almog, village CEO Avi Wortzman and Merhavim Council Head Shai Hajaj.
The group toured the village’s different divisions, including the Special Education School, the Vocational Center, the High Dependency Ward, the residential homes and the accessible amphitheater. Minister Cohen was deeply impressed with the village activity, and he lauded village staff for their limitless dedication to the village and its residents.
“It was a pleasure for me to visit my friend, Major-Gen. (Res.) Doron Almog, chairman of ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran and see firsthand the activity in this wonderful place. This innovative rehabilitation center services adults, youth, children and babies with disabilities from all Negev populations and sectors, bringing them together with kindhearted staff, volunteers and students who perform their jobs with a sense of mission and desire to help others. At ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran, people are perceived beyond their disabilities. The village is a paradise within the Negev. We will continue our joint activity and deliberations to develop new ideas and projects to advance noticeable improvements in the quality of life for all people in Israel,” commented the Minster at the conclusion of his visit.
CEO Avi Wortzman added, “The visit by Minister of Welfare and Social Services was of utmost importance and commands a positive change in the public dialogue regarding acceptance of those who are different. As our children sing during Chanukah, ‘Every person is a small light; together we are a strong flame.’ The moment we stand side-by-side as a society that leads in accepting those who are different, we will be able to direct a positive transformation in society. We look forward to a continuation of our joint work with the Minister and his bureau.”
