During the recent escalation between Israel and Iran, Desert Stars quickly adapted to the changing reality while ensuring that our students, participants, and alumni remained connected, supported, and engaged.

 

Across all of our programs, learning and activities continued through a combination of online classes, Zoom gatherings, and in-person meetings held in protected spaces whenever possible. Just as importantly, our staff maintained close personal contact with every participant. Team members traveled throughout the Negev, including to unrecognized villages, visiting students and their families to check on their well-being, understand their needs, and ensure that no one was left disconnected or isolated.

 

This work built on the emergency response efforts Desert Stars launched at the outset of the Swords of Iron War. In partnership with local communities, we helped place more than 200 bomb shelters in unrecognized villages across the Negev and led first-aid training for hundreds of community members, helping families prepare for emergencies and access life-saving knowledge and resources.

 

Throughout these wars, our participants continued to demonstrate the leadership and sense of responsibility that define the Desert Stars community. Many stepped forward to volunteer and support others, including through a meaningful day of service at Aleh Negev, where participants helped move medical equipment and prepare facilities for emergency conditions.

 

These efforts took place against a particularly difficult backdrop for many Bedouin communities, where gaps in protective infrastructure and access to safe rooms can make these times especially challenging.

 

Desert Stars remains a source of stability, connection, and support. By staying close to our students and families, maintaining our educational programs, and creating opportunities to serve others, we helped ensure that young people could continue learning, leading, and supporting their communities, even in the most challenging circumstances.