The Catholic Action Bethlehem (CAB) is a longstanding community-based organization in Bethlehem since 1952, a city where Jesus was born. The CAB Community Center aims to provide a safe and supportive space for children, youth, and families, offering a range of services to promote physical and mental health, community engagement, and
educational opportunities.

It is worth mentioning that the CAB is the only community-based organization in Bethlehem, and one of the few in the entire country, offering such a comprehensive range of services for children, youth, and families. The CAB is a unique and essential resource for the Bethlehem
community, providing a safe and supportive space that is unmatched in the region.

Bethlehem: A City in Need
Bethlehem, a city of immense historical and spiritual significance the city of peace, has faced significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict in the region. Children and families in Bethlehem have been disproportionately affected by the violence, displacement, and economic hardship. The CAB Community Center is committed to providing a haven for the community,
offering essential services and support.

The CAB Community Center: A Beacon of Hope
The CAB Community Center is a vital asset to the Bethlehem community, offering a range of services tailored to the needs of children, youth, and families. By revitalizing the center, the CAB aims to:
 Promote physical and mental health: Empower children to heal and thrive: Offer a holistic approach to well-being, including sports programs, counseling, and support groups, to help them overcome the trauma of conflict and rebuild their lives.
 Empower youth: Offer educational programs, leadership training, and vocational skills development.
 Foster community engagement: Create a welcoming and inclusive space for community members to connect and participate in activities, especially children with the feeling safe and free within the Cab premisses
 Support vulnerable populations: as indirect beneficiaries providing happiness to their children,

A Comprehensive Center for Children
The revitalized CAB Community Center is offering a comprehensive range of services for children, many activities on daily basis, such as gymnastics, balet, basketball and indoor and outdoor playground, for the first such type in Bethlehem.

The goal to reach in upcoming years:

• Educational Opportunities
   Academic Support: Provide after-school tutoring, homework help, and academic
  enrichment programs to support children’s academic success.
   Vocational Training: Offer vocational training programs to equip young people with
  practical skills and prepare them for future employment.
   Lifelong Learning: Promote a culture of lifelong learning by offering a variety of
  educational programs for all ages.
• Recreational Activities
   Creative Expression: Foster creativity and self-expression through arts and crafts
  workshops, music lessons, and theater productions.
   Play and Socialization: Provide safe and stimulating indoor and outdoor play areas for
  children to socialize and have fun.
   Cultural Experiences: Organize cultural events, festivals, and workshops to celebrate
  the rich cultural heritage of the region.
• Exposure to the World
   Global Citizenship: Broaden children’s horizons and foster a sense of global citizenship through educational, cultural exchanges, and technology workshops.
   Language Learning: Offer language classes to help children learn new languages and
  connect with people from different cultures.
   Technology Skills: Equip children with essential technology skills, such as computer
  programming, digital literacy, and online communication.
   Global Awareness: Incorporate global issues and current events into educational
  programs to raise awareness and promote empathy.

By providing these opportunities, the CAB can help children develop a broader perspective, appreciate cultural diversity, and become active global citizens

By offering these programs, these project ideas, combined with the center’s focus on community engagement, sustainability, and gender equality, can create a thriving community center that benefits children, families, and the entire community also contributing to the local economy by creating job opportunities and generating income.
Center Rehabilitation and Infrastructure
To ensure the safety and accessibility of the community center, the CAB will undertake the
following rehabilitation efforts:
 Infrastructure improvements: Repair and upgrade the building’s structure, electrical systems, and plumbing.
 Accessibility: Ensure the center is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
 Safety measures: Implement safety protocols and regulations to protect children and ensure their safety first.
Community Engagement and Partnerships
The CAB will actively seek partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and individuals to
strengthen its community engagement efforts.

Collaborative initiatives may include:
 Joint programs: Offer joint programs with schools, community centers, and healthcare providers.
 Volunteer opportunities: Recruit volunteers to assist with center operations and activities.
 Community events: Organize community events and festivals to foster a sense of belonging and unity.

The CAB Community Center is a vital asset to the Bethlehem community, offering essential services and support to those affected by the conflict. By revitalizing the center and expanding its program offerings, the CAB can make a significant impact on the lives of children, youth, and families in the region. We urge you to consider supporting this project to ensure that
“Every child deserves a brighter future through a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment, Together, we can rebuild a better Bethlehem. Invest in the future of Bethlehem and Give children the gift of hope.

All interested in support of our local community in Bethlehem through the activities of the Catholic Action in Bethlehem can contact us on: