What makes the project unique is a connection that is far from obvious: culture alongside employment, a stage alongside opportunity, and community alongside social responsibility. Rather than separating different populations and uses, the complex was designed from the outset as a shared, vibrant and active space, where people with disabilities will be an integral part of the site's everyday life.
The establishment of the complex is the result of extensive planning, long-term efforts and significant investment, as well as a partnership between the Lahavim Local Council and Bnei Shimon Regional Council, together with Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), the Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs, the National Insurance Institute, Keren Shalem and additional partners.
For Lahavim, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, the project marks another milestone in the community's development and reflects a vision that extends beyond municipal boundaries to create a significant cultural and social hub for the entire region.
During the ceremony, a cornerstone scroll was placed at the site, declaring that the facility is intended to be much more than a building: a home for culture, creativity, community and connection; a place where performers and audiences, ideas and dreams, and residents of Lahavim, Bnei Shimon and the entire region can come together.
Photo: Matanel Bushari
President Isaac Herzog said:
“If I had to think of one vision, one belief, that is not only shared by everyone here today but also guides the way they act, I would choose the words: the future is in the Negev. I am a great believer in the potential of this region, and thanks to the shared vision that has accompanied us for decades—but has gained impressive momentum in recent years—we can all see how the Negev is becoming a center of innovation, investment and high-tech. The future really is here. The State of Israel must build on this momentum, and we must all do everything we can to ensure that the Negev remains at the top of our national priorities, because the future is here. The cultural center and employment center being established here are an outstanding example of what two local authorities can achieve by working together for the common good.”
KKL-JNF Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky said:
“KKL-JNF is proud to be part of the development of the western Negev, and in particular to lead a major investment in Lahavim and Bnei Shimon. The cooperation between the local authorities and their leaders is what inspired us most to join this effort. We will encourage regional cooperation and support strategic projects in every way we can. The establishment of a regional cultural center that will serve all segments of the population and bring about meaningful change in the region is a project of tremendous importance, and we are honored to lead it.”
Lahavim Local Council Head Elad Arazi said:
“Today, we are turning a vision that has existed for years into reality. The cultural center and employment training center being built here is a project of regional significance, reflecting the way we see Lahavim and the Negev – as places that initiate, lead and build for the future. We are creating a place that will be a home for culture and creativity while, at the same time, providing people with disabilities with a genuine opportunity to integrate, develop and work with dignity. This project is the result of true partnership, determination and significant investment. I would like to thank the Bnei Shimon Regional Council and its head, Nir Zamir; KKL-JNF; the Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs; the National Insurance Institute; and all our partners who joined us, believed in the vision and worked together to bring us to this moment. Today, we are embarking on a significant project that will impact thousands of people, strengthen culture, community and employment in the region, and become a major asset for Lahavim, Bnei Shimon and the entire Negev.”
Bnei Shimon Regional Council Head Nir Zamir said:
“The laying of the cornerstone for the cultural center and employment center for people with disabilities, a joint project between Bnei Shimon and our neighbors in Lahavim, is another significant step demonstrating what we experience every day: the strength of the Negev lies in regional cooperation. At Bnei Shimon, we believe that crossing municipal boundaries and working together are the key to genuine regional development. This new initiative will connect community, rich cultural experiences and new employment opportunities for people with disabilities, proving once again that when we think and act together, we build a stronger, more prosperous and more connected future for everyone living in the region.”
Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs Moshe Lavon said:
“I would like to thank the President of Israel for his presence and commitment to promoting an equal and inclusive society, and the Lahavim Local Council, Bnei Shimon Regional Council and all our partners for their cooperation and willingness to advance meaningful services for people with disabilities. The laying of the cornerstone for the employment center reflects the vision promoted by the Ministry of Welfare: enabling every person to realize their abilities, participate in the workforce and community, and live an independent, full and meaningful life. In recent years, we have worked to expand and develop a diverse range of community-based services in employment, housing, leisure and independent living. Partnership between the government, local authorities and the community is the key to creating opportunities and removing barriers, so that people with disabilities can choose how they live their lives and be an integral part of Israeli society.”
National Insurance Institute Director General Tzvika Cohen said:
“The National Insurance Institute works every day to ensure that people with disabilities have the rights, services and opportunities they need to participate equally and independently in society. Through the National Insurance Institute's funds, we can take this one step further – to initiate, develop and invest in innovative solutions that create real change on the ground. The new center in Lahavim is an expression of this approach: bringing together culture, community, training and employment to create new opportunities for people with disabilities and strengthen their integration into society and the workforce.”
Photo: Matanel Bushari