ELEM in the News

The organization is “literally out there every single day, doing work that matters, that saves and changes lives,” said Jewish podcaster Jonah Platt.

More than 200 people attended the group’s annual gala at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in downtown Manhattan

Ari Ackerman and Jonah Platt recognised by ELEM for championing Israeli youth overcoming trauma, inequality and violence

American Friends of ELEM will host its annual Ray of Hope Benefit on Wednesday, Nov. 5 in New York City, honoring two leaders whose dedication to empowering youth reflects the mission of the organization.

I came to Israel this summer expecting a 10-day work trip with ELEM, the Association for At-Risk Youth, visiting programs that serve at-risk youth across the country.

American Friends of ELEM announced Wednesday that San Diego will host Walk B’Yachad – Walking Together for Israel’s Youth on Sunday, Oct. 26, at 8 a.m. in Balboa Park.

At 20 years old, Tzipora Mordechai found herself raising a baby she hadn't wanted, all alone. She was struggling with undiagnosed depression, with no money and no job. "I looked at the baby and told my sister: 'Take her away from me,'" she recalls. Today, at 23, she is a manager at a high-tech company and teaches students through "Last Chance" programs. The journey from rock bottom to success happened through the organization ELEM, where for the first time, she saw herself not just as a "failed mother," as she used to say, but as the strong woman who has been there within her since childhood.

Israel’s leading nonprofit for at-risk youth expands safe spaces for teens returning from evacuation.

“What do you mean Israel has prostitution or trafficking or homelessness?” said Liora Attias-Hadar, CEO of American Friends of ELEM, of those stateside unaware of the more troubled sides of Israeli society.