About Shomera

Shomera was founded in 1998 in Jerusalem, with the goal of building a healthier, more ethical and pro-active society and environment. It has grown from a grass-roots organization into a nationally recognized entity whose ecological-social innovations, over the years, have served as models for other organizations throughout Israel.
The organization’s programs strengthen Jerusalem’s diverse communities. It imbues them with an appreciation for the capital and its natural treasures and provides them the tools that will permit us, together, “to work and to protect” (Genesis 2:15) these treasures now and in the future.

Meeting Challenges - Integrating Jewish and Conventional Approaches
Shomera’s programs seek to impart to the participants knowledge and practical know-how. Hands-on experiences teach about nature, ecology and conservation, organic and community gardening, sustainability and advocacy. Shomera encourages individuals to take initiative and promotes the values of caring and responsibility for others and for our surroundings. Shomera integrates Jewish and conventional sources while seeking solutions to environmental challenges.

Customized Programs to Accommodate Individual Needs
Shomera enjoys a unique relationship with the religious communities of Jerusalem and has expertise in working with special needs individuals and youth-at-risk. Through innovative educational approaches, experiential programs and inspiring teachers, Shomera is creating the foundation upon which to build communities appreciative of the needs and capabilities of all residents and sensitive to the value of
husbanding the land’s precious resources.

Partnerships and Support
For its initiatives and contribution, Shomera was awarded the Ministry of the Environment’s Prize in 2003, the Mayor’s Award for Volunteer Organizations in 2005 , the Ford Motor Company Conservation and Environmental Award in 2005 and the Life and Environment 'Green Globe Award' for 2008.
Shomera’s programs are endorsed by: the Etz Hatamar Foundation, the Lisa and Mary friedman Foundation, the Gimprich Family Foundation, the Green Environment Fund, the Jewish National Fund, the Kagan Foundation, the New Israel Fund of Canada, the Shoresh Charitable Trust, the Steinhardt Family Foundation, the Yoreinu Foundation, the Israel Association of Community Centers, the Jerusalem Municipality and the Ministry of the Environment.