Israeli pride: 'Krembo Wings' inclusive youth movement is UN's Special Advisor
The UN recognizes the importance of the Israeli movement for children and youth with and without disabilities; Chairman of the organization's executive committee: 'Proud of the team and thousands of active youth'
The "Krembo Wings" youth movement for children and youth with and without disabilities was chosen to serve as a "special advisor to the UN" on Sunday.
The UN decided to give "Krembo Wings" the new title since the movements is a "world-leader in the integration of children and youth with and without disabilities in empowering social activities," the UN explained.
The title of "Special Advisor" to the UN (ECOSOC) is an outstanding acknowledgment of the movement's important work in Israel and abroad.
Established in 2002, "Krembo Wings" operates 65 branches across Israel, and welcomes thousands of young people aged 7 to 22 from all cultural, religious and socio-economic backgrounds.
The movement provides weekly social activities for young people with all types of mental and physical disabilities together with their able-bodied peers, and arranges the meetings of 6,000 Jewish (secular and religious), Muslims, Christians, Bedouins, Druze and immigrants activists.
Nir Bronstein, Chairman of the movement's Executive Committee, said, "I am excited by the fact that the UN has given international recognition to the extraordinary activity of 'Krembo Wings.'"
"I am proud of the movement's management and professional staff, especially the thousands of active youths whose important work is internationally recognized," he said.
"However, I am concerned about the 3,000 children and youth with disabilities and their families who are still waiting for the opening of new 'Krembo Wings' branches.
"We will do everything in our power to accelerate the process despite the many obstacles and economic challenges we face," Bronstein added.
Talia Bejerano, the movement's CEO, added that "the unique international status that the movement received from the United Nations will enable 'Krembo Wings' to raise awareness for the right of young people with disabilities to live a full and fulfilling social life in Israel and around the world."
"This recognition will allow us to branch out and spread our vision— creating a place and meaning for everyone— throughout the world," the CEO concluded.
