Chimes Israel – Amazing Organization Highly Recommend to Volunteers
Chimes Israel is a non-profit that’s dedicated to helping people with intellectual developmental disabilities and psychiatric disabilities.
I volunteered with the organization in Tel Aviv and loved the different they programs they offer such as
habilitation services diagnostic evaluations prevocational training vocational services supportive employment opportunities rehabilitation programs individual support services training in independent living skills
I worked with adults who were learning skills, like making beautiful pottery which would be sold. This was not only their way of earning an income (they keep the money from whatever they sell), but they’re taught how to budget their funds. In addition, they feel like they’re contributing to the community, which makes them want to work that much more.
Part of my job was the help them in any way needed. So I would sit at tables with them supervised by a staff member and assist them with boxing up their pottery to go to the store to be sold.
Or some people are given jobs to do. Local companies will hire them to do small tasks, which I love! One job I helped them with was putting pieces of a toy in a bag. It was their job to count the pieces and make sure everything was in order.
Some needed help with it, while others didn’t, however, everyone was friendly and happy to have me there.
Besides the adult programs, Chimes also has programs for babies, toddlers, and older children with special needs.
I worked in all three areas and thought it was so well organized, and really helped those who were enrolled in Chimes.
It’s truly a wonderful organization that I’d recommend to volunteers because it’s responsible. Chimes does background checks on volunteers, they don’t allow you to be alone with the adults or children unsupervised and you don’t work on projects you’re not qualified for.
For those looking for a volunteer organization that offers housing and meals, this is not one. I booked an Airbnb and rented a car to get to the job site daily.
However, it’s such a great place to give back, and you should absolutely consider Chimes.
***I have written permission from family members of the people photographed to promote awareness for Chimes. Normally, photos are not allowed.