The population of Jericho, the West Bank and Gaza is estimated at 4 million, of which 65% are under the age of 24 and 43% are under the age of 15. Because jobs are few with a limited financial base for providing families with a steady income, these young people grow up without much hope for their future. They are largely uneducated and unskilled. Seeds of Hope has developed a place for young people to gain skills needed to secure a better future. Through computer skills and language classes, including English, French, and German, as well as classes on democracy, tolerance, and peace the youth and young adults of Jericho and the West Bank will open themselves up to many more opportunities for a better future. The youth center provides a safe, positive place for young people to congregate. Equipped with a billiard and ping pong table, various workout machines, snacks and drinks, the youth are encouraged to use their English skills and are mentored by staff who are equipped to practically model and teach good character qualities before them building relationships for better cultural understanding.
