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History & Early Achievements History We at Shomera proudly trace our beginnings to a watershed event which paved the way for new approaches to environmental activity which affected the urban community of Jerusalem and served to inspire nationwide. In 1996, Tamar Gindis, a resident of Har Nof, learned of two large scale proposals that posed serious environmental threats to the Jerusalem Forest bordering her neighborhood - a large scale development project, and the construction of a highway. To save the forest – a 1,200 dunam green lung - Tamar rallied the support of the area's residents. Under her leadership the group’s grassroots efforts were singularly successful. However, Tamar quickly realized that to ensure permanent preservation of the Forest and open spaces in the capital, Jerusalem residents needed to be educated about the resources at their doorstep, and about sustainable urban living. With that aim, she founded Shomera in 1997 (then called The Committee for the Quality of Life – Har Nof), and spearheaded the formation of a coalition of organizations committed to preserving the Jerusalem Forest. Two years later, Shomera established an Educational Center in the Jerusalem Forest on 20 dunam given to it by KKL. A trailblazer in its field, it was the first ecological site in Israel to teach permaculture and organic gardening to the general public. Shomera educational opportunities reflect the way we believe learning is best absorbed – through experiential, hands on activities. To serve populations who could not visit the center Shomera offered educational programming at schools and community centers, including programs for youth at-risk, blind youth, and individuals with special needs. Shomera leadership has continually adjusted its approach to promoting sustainable urban environments, allowing us to stay current and effective. Today, with efforts to conserve natural resources and promote greenbuilding, we stand at the forefront of initiatives which are entrepreneurial in spirit -- having both national and international influence.
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