CNN Hero,to speak at Jewish Cape Care AGM

OWN CORRESPONDENT

Ben Yosef founded the Shanti Houses – “Warm Homes for Youth at Risk” – 33 years ago. To date, the association has assisted more than 46 000 youths in  Israel. The houses accept youths regardless of religion, race, gender or nationality, from the ages of two to 21. About 80 per cent of the Shanti children return to normal life, acquire an education, enlist in the army and grow to be law-abiding citizens who contribute to society in Israel.

Ben Yosef is  the first Israeli to be featured in CNN’s prestigious flagship project – CNN Heroes. Shewas selected from among thousands of candidates from 187 countries.

With a problematic past of her own, involving homelessness in her early teenage years, Ben Yosef knew the horrible reality so many others experienced. She welcomed youth off the streets to share in her Shabbat meals.

Those who came through the door were all different but had all escaped some sort of mental or physical abuse, drug use, crime, or unhealthy relationships at home. No matter what their backgrounds, those who came to Ben Yosef’s home were never turned away.

In 2000 Ben Yosef was invited to light one of the beacons at that year’s official Independence Day Eve Ceremony and in 2007 she was awarded the title of Woman of the City of Tel Aviv. While in Cape Town, she will be conducting workshops with the professionals in the seven welfare organisations under the JCC umbrella, as well as with the broader community.

The JCC AGM on October 18, will be the only opportunity for the public to hear this inspirational speaker.

* For further information, contact Shifra Jacobson  (021) 462-5520 or 083-509-7154.