Machshava Tova (MT) is a non-profit organization established in 2003 dedicated to narrowing the digital gap which exists in Israeli society. In order to confront this problem, the organization works to provide access to residents by establishing computer centers in less-privileged neighborhoods, allows individuals to acquire basic computer skills and, as a result, empowers them to build a different future for themselves and their families. MT offers computer literacy courses for the unemployed, new immigrants, single parents, the elderly, children, minorities, youth at-risk and those with disabilities and special needs. Machshava Tova’s Mobile Computer Unit (MCU), Israel’s first and only, allows the organization to reach even more populations, including: battered women, teenage girls placed in a hostel by court order, ultra-Orthodox children and women, the hard of hearing and more.
By using technology as a tool for empowerment, participants in Machshava Tova programs are encouraged to become active members of their communities. Not only are they taught computer skills but some course graduates use the skills they have recently acquired to serve as role models and mentors for others in their community who lack computer knowledge.
Since its inception, Machshava Tova has founded ten community computer centers (seven in Jerusalem, two in Beit Shemesh and one in Lod), initiated and operated two mobile computer centers (Israel’s first and only) and helped more than 6,000 people learn essential computer literacy skills. Over the next 3-5 years, Machshava Tova hopes to expand its operations to reach 2,000-3,000 individuals yearly. In addition, MT will be creating courses for unemployed individuals and finding tailor-made, personal employment solutions for each one. Machshava Tova looks forward to building on the success of the past five years.
