Yael - be-atzmi

Yael, divorced with 3 children from Hadera

Today: a family facilitator working for the Ministry of Social Affairs and Social Services.

“I learned that it’s possible to ask for help and there’s no shame in doing so. I now have faith in myself, a new job, new friends, and a more supportive family. I’ve become stronger in ways I never believed I could.”

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Yael joined our employment program in Hadera after not working for 7 years. Her youngest daughter, Noy, has cerebral palsy and is confined to a wheelchair. Ever since she was born, Yael has been taking care of her.

Yael tells us: “I lived just for her. All my strength was devoted to her, at the expense of my other children and ex-husband. For 18 years now, I’ve been fighting to achieve a better quality of life for Noy and other children like her. I quit my job a few years ago because I found it difficult to work and take care of Noy at the same time. And then the crisis of getting a divorce came as well and I felt that I was collapsing. I started therapy, which made me realize that I needed to try and get back into the job market. That’s how I came to Be-Atzmi’s program, which has enabled me, for some time now, to do things that benefit me. I recall that while taking part in the program, I had difficulty doing a seemingly simple assignment: writing down what my strengths are. After all these years, I didn’t realize just how much I have to offer. I believed that what I was doing had to be done and required no explanation.”

During the program, Yael managed to recognize her abilities and the needs she wants to fulfill. She tried not to miss any of the sessions despite the difficulties. With help from the program coordinator, Yael got a job as a family facilitator in a program run by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Social Services, for which she received special training. She now works with families trapped in the cycle of poverty, and her job is to advance them to the place where she herself is today.

Yael adds: “I made amazing friends who always gave strength to one another and faced the same challenge – getting a job! I completed Be-Atzmi’s sessions with faith in myself, with a new job, with new friends, and a more supportive family. I learned that it’s possible to ask for help and there’s no shame in doing so. I’ve become stronger in ways I never believed I could. I wish to thank each and every one of you who took part in this incredible effort. You rescued me! Today I can say with pride that I succeeded!”

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