"I can fly"

Graduates of The Wings program in Sderot, Class of 2008.

Spirits were high at the Graduation ceremony of the "Wings" preparatory course in Sderot. Graduates performed a fascinating and humorous

play about the full life that people with disabilities lead and their unconventional road to happiness.

The Wings program enables young people with disabilities to become contributing members of society by enrolling in National Service, joining the work force and leading independent and fulfilling lives.

The students work in various community frameworks, study at Sapir College and experience a life of sharing and independence in a mutual residence.

The fact that they are leading their lives in Sderot, which is under constant rocket attacks, adds yet another dimension to their experiences.

"The warmth and support we have been receiving from the Sderot community in general and from our neighbors (The urban kibbutz Migvan) in particular are outstanding and should serve as a role modal" claims the director of the  program Mrs. Ornit Dan, "Especially in comparison to other towns, where they try to discard of special need populations".

Prior to the graduation ceremony and after completing an emotional three day journey, the graduates received their "wings" followed by a flight above Sderot.

Most of the "Wings" graduates consider Sdeort to be their home now and plan on staying here for a couple of more years. Some of the graduates already have jobs secured for them. Some will continue their studies at Sapir College.

Parts of the graduates have already settled in their own apartments and the rest will live in the student's village "AYALIM" in Yachini, a settlement, nearby the Sapir College.