Tikva Israel A Place to Call Home Our Mission Tikva-Israel was established in order to continue the educational and supportive services provided by Tikva Odessa to children, ages 16 and over who have chosen to make aliyah. The organization is committed to caring for each participant individually; connecting them with the tools, financial assistance and resources they require in order to become independent and productive young adults. Providing Vital Absorption Support Tikva Israel provides a wide range of absorption services for Tikva's children who have chosen to relocate to Israel from Tikva's homes and schools in Odessa. Tikva Israel is a unique, tight knit community that offers a comprehensive array of programming to encourage the future success of these youngsters. Since the majority of our children came to Tikva from seriously traumatic circumstances, individualized interventions and extensive support are required to ensure that they become functioning, self sufficient adults. Tikva Israel provides the following necessary services in order to assist these individuals to effectively establish themselves; making a smooth, healthy and productive transition into Israeli society. Pre-Israel Marketing and program recruitment Hebrew language study Pre-aliyah orientation Organizing and processing necessary documentation Obtaining study permits In-Country Welcoming students on arrival Providing emotional support Negotiating and interfacing with academic institutions Securing tutors & scholarships Hebrew and English language instruction Renting an apartment Coordinating medical and psychological care Vocational counseling and employment placement Distributing pocket money to soldiers Securing textbooks, clothing, linens, etc. Providing emergency cash assistance Providing for basic household items Supporting basic costs of weddings The Tikva Student Center - The Focal Point of this Growing Community The Tikva Student Center opened its doors in the summer of 2006. Although previous support services for Tikva alumni existed prior to the creation of the facility, Tikva Israel staff realized that a more coordinated and sophisticated base of support was needed. In response, Tikva Israel sought funding to establish a physical space for students to gather, connect to one another and access additional staff and resources so vital to their successful acclimation. Open from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, the Tikva Student Center, located in Givat Shaul offers enrichment courses, career advice, counseling, nutritious meals and the opportunity for kids to meet with their peers and Tikva staff. Some 200 students utilize the facility on a weekly basis, the majority who reside in Jerusalem or its surrounding areas. The Tikva Family Tikva's dedicated staff of counselors and volunteers provide the love, emotional support and understanding that Tikva students and alumni need to develop and become responsible, independent adults. A source of stability for these youngsters, staff members organize Jewish holiday celebrations, arrange and finance weddings, attend graduation ceremonies, and provide the guidance, advice and encouragement these students require. Tikva's Graduates - Helping to Build Israeli Society Since our first young adults arrived in Israel in 1998, over 350 graduates of the Tikva Homes and Schools in Odessa have successfully relocated with Tikva's assistance. Tikva graduates are enrolled in high schools including Boys town, Beit Ulpana and Machon Gold. Others are pursuing degrees at Israel 's universities, colleges and religious institutions or are serving in the IDF. Many are already working, some having established businesses of their own. Over 90% of Tikva students who have made aliyah with Tikva's support, continue to reside in Israel today.