Matzmichim – Growing, Belonging and Resilience for the Third Age
Matzmichim Academy
Field: Community
Requested sum: $22,000
33% of total budget
Location: Kiryat Gat, Lachish, Shafir
// About the Organization
Matzmichim Academy has been operating for more than 21 years as a leading force for social change, through an evidence-based model for changing norms and increasing feelings of security and belonging.
// Project Description
The program features innovative workshops designed to enhance group belonging and social resilience among seniors in social groups, such as assisted living facilities, nursing homes and day centers. Sessions are led by experienced professional facilitators using unique methods to encourage sharing, emotional expression and group support. Each intervention includes a preparatory meeting with the facilitating staff, 10 group sessions for the seniors as well as a training session for the staff who receive a tailored guide.
// Project Goals
The purpose of the project is to strengthen resilience and a sense of belonging among seniors within their peer group, while addressing growing loneliness. The program empowers participants by highlighting their unique cultural, professional and personal contributions. Improving group climate, enhancing self-efficacy and building support group mechanisms.
// Target Population
Seniors with normal cognitive abilities who meet regularly in clubs, nursing homes, day centers, and other group settings. 15 groups of 25 participants each. The program trains the caregiving staff, approximately 60 people. Total direct impact: 435 seniors and staff.
// Outcomes
Short term outcomes: strengthening group belonging and safety, improving social climate, reducing loneliness and empowering participants. Long term outcomes include changing social norms, creating ongoing support groups and embedding group resilience tools among the staff.
// Project Timeline
Timeline: July: facilitator training, updating staff guidebook and scheduling sessions. August–June: Each group completes 10 sessions with a Matzmichim facilitator, a preparatory staff meeting and a final session that includes practical tools and a guidebook. May: Summary
// Budget Sustainability
In order to introduce and implement this innovative program, an initial funding is required. Following the expected success and increased recognition of the program, Matzmichin Academy will be able to shift to a model based on training local staff. This step will reduce costs and enable institutions to fund the program themselves.
If the Partnership will not fund the full requested sum, it will decrease the number of participating groups undergoing the process. Matzmichim Academy will need to adjust the number of groups proportionally to align with the revised budget.
// Project establishment status
Matzmichim Academy contacted senior service managers and together mapped out relevant groups for the project. High demand was found with at least one relevant group in almost every town and several groups in Kiryat Gat. Once the budget is approved it will be possible to set dates and begin.