North Lebanon has historically been cut off from Beirut and the rest of the country both economically and socially, since the end of the civil war. Azahir operates north of Tripoli, known as the capital of the North, specifically in two communities: Nahr el Bared Palestinian Camp and the remote village of Tel Maayan, where we are the only NGO operating.

From on-the-ground learning, we know that lack of safe spaces for children and youth matched with lack of recreational activities, are a recipe for destabilization and future social problems. They don’t have opportunities to play, to engage with other kids their age in a positive environment — so we decided to take action by creating local and accessible community centers focused on programming for children, youth and parents. Places that celebrate culture and promote creative learning.

Community Centers or social centers have been identified by many studies as “crucial for maintaining social stability and increasing local resilience.” In environments that face sever socio-economic challenges and hardships for daily living, we offer a safe and engaging place for youth and children to develop and grow positively.