the time of Jesus' birth and is toured by many visitors each year. The YMCA houses the
Rehabilitation Program that was founded in 1989 as part of the East
Jerusalem YMCA. The uniqueness of the Program's philosophy and the
service delivery systems, as well as the holistic approach applied in
rehabilitation, have earned the Program an excellent reputation both
locally and internationally.The YMCA provides temporary residential accommodations for approximately 25 to 30 people with disabilities, both male and female, who participate in the Rehabilitation Program for periods of three to six months. Each individual's program is personalized to meet his or her needs, as determined through an extensive evaluation process.
The holistic approach in rehabilitation provides the beneficiaries of the Program with all the rehabilitative services needed to help them reach the maximum degree of independence. This includes psycho-social counseling, vocational evaluation and counseling, house or school building modification, and self-employment opportunities. Medical rehabilitation services will also be facilitated and made available for the clients.
The Program also works with the families of beneficiaries, as well as the local community, to ensure the maximum possible support for the beneficiaries. Additionally, the Program meets the training needs of local governmental and non-governmental organizations to strengthen the social service delivery system for the disadvantaged in Palestinian society.
Along with the Rehabilitation Program, the Shepherds' Field YMCA provides Youth Activities for the local community. On the grounds is a secure camping facility that remains active during the summer months for use by Boy Scouts and other organizations. The camping facilities are also used by groups of people with physical disabilities.
The facility's growth includes the construction of a Sports Center that will initially house a half-Olympic size indoor pool. Its function is two-fold by offering swimming instruction and recreation to the local community while providing water therapy services for beneficiaries of the Rehabilitation Program.