Ibbim Immigrant Student Village
The Ibim Student Village represents a precedent-setting concept for the absorption of young people into Israeli society. In a warm and serene environment, Ibim offers a framework which combines educational opportunity with a comprehensive support system. Since opening its doors in 1992, Ibim has been operated by the Jewish Agency for Israel’s Immigration and Absorption Department. The United Jewish Federation of San Diego County adopted the village in 1998, providing for the welfare and daily lives of its residents.
The students residing at the Village study at the Sha’ar HaNegev Regional College, an ideal framework for the gradual yet steady absorption into Israeli society. Most of the students are from the Former Soviet Union, the youngest being 17-year-olds who participate in “Selah” (the Hebrew acronym for “Students before their Parents”), an ten-month program designed to prepare them for subsequent higher education in Israel. The older students either learn in ulpan or attend academic courses.
In addition to low-cost student apartments, the Village provides for the residents day-to-day needs with a dining room, grocery store and launderette. A professional and specially-trained staff, including counselors, a full-time social worker, social activity coordinator, housemother, overseas coordinator, and maintenance staff offer round-the-clock guidance and help to all residents.
400 young adults, leisure time needs are an integral aspect of the Village, including field trips, weekly sport activities, and movies.
In addition, an array of activity is conducted at the Educational Center and Social Center – both endowed by William A. Shenk of San Diego.
The adjacent “Arnon” Community Center provides cultural activities on a regional scale, and houses a well-equipped fitness center endowed by the Robert Price Foundation of San Diego.

The physical surroundings of the Village also make an important contribution to the feeling of belonging of the residents, and thus a tremendous amount of attention has been invested into the development of its landscaping. These efforts were widely recognized when Ibim received the “Council for a Beautiful Israel” award presented by Reuma Weizman, wife of the the former President of Israel.

This unique combination of education, social cohesiveness and tranquility provide the ideal conditions for these young student immigrants successfull integration into Israeli society.

For more information on Ibim and the ties with San Diego visit the following link.
San Diego and Ibim - a Unique Partnership