Employment Centers
Why work matters
Research consistently shows that meaningful employment improves quality of life for people with disabilities. Work supports dignity, independence, and emotional well-being, while strengthening self-esteem, social connection, and daily functioning. Having a real role and something meaningful to contribute helps people feel valued, connected, and grounded in their lives.
A flexible employment continuum
Chimes Israel operates employment services along a continuum, in line with the Ministry of Welfare’s framework. This continuum includes sheltered employment, supported employment in the open labor market, and participation in an academic vocational college. Individuals engage in work that matches their abilities, interests, and goals, with the flexibility to move along the continuum over time based on readiness, choice, and life circumstances.
Through coordinated vocational training, rehabilitation therapies, and on-the-job support, participants follow individualized pathways that reflect their evolving skills and needs. Across the continuum, they build practical job skills, consistent work habits, independence, and confidence, supporting long-term employment and meaningful participation in community life.
Sheltered work within the continuum
Sheltered work provides a structured stage within the employment continuum for adults with disabilities who are not yet able to participate independently in the open labor market. Work is adapted to each person’s abilities and pace, with appropriate supervision and support, allowing participants to build skills, establish routines, and gain confidence in a stable environment.
For some individuals, sheltered work serves as a long-term framework. For others, it functions as a preparatory stage that supports transition to supported or open market employment as readiness develops. Alongside work, the centers offer leisure and enrichment activities such as sports, art, gardening, cooking, and physical therapies, and provide daily meals. Together, these elements support structure, well-being, and social connection while reinforcing dignity and inclusion.
Volunteer impact
Volunteers play an important role in daily life at Chimes Israel’s sheltered work centers. Because many participants spend most of their waking hours in these settings, volunteers help break routine and add variety to the day. Volunteers from a range of programs support work tasks and take part in enriching activities such as sports, art, animal-assisted therapy, therapeutic gardening, and community outings. Through conversation and shared experiences, volunteers strengthen human connection and help participants feel seen, valued, and included.
Sheltered work within the continuum
Sheltered work provides a structured stage within the employment continuum for adults with disabilities who are not yet able to participate independently in the open labor market. Work is adapted to each person’s abilities and pace, with appropriate supervision and support, allowing participants to build skills, establish routines, and gain confidence in a stable environment.
For some individuals, sheltered work serves as a long-term framework. For others, it functions as a preparatory stage that supports transition to supported or open market employment as readiness develops. Alongside work, the centers offer leisure and enrichment activities such as sports, art, gardening, cooking, and physical therapies, and provide daily meals. Together, these elements support structure, well-being, and social connection while reinforcing dignity and inclusion.
Department Leadership
Havazelet Amrami
Manager, Continuum of Employment Services, Treatment, and Training for Adults
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Havatzelet has over 35 years of experience in vocational rehabilitation for people with disabilities. She holds a bachelor’s degree in social sciences and humanities, and a master’s degree in public policy.
Sgulit Maman
Professional Director, Employment Services
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Master’s degree in Special Education from Bar Ilan University, with 17 years of experience working with people with disabilities, and supports decision-making on behalf of the Public Guardian.
Employment Center Locations
Chimes Israel operates four employment centers across Israel
Chimes Ariel Protected Workshop
Smadar Arbiv, Director
Chimes Kfar Saba Employment Services Continuum Center
Adi Hosit, Director
Chimes Tayibe Employment Services Continuum Center
Lina Nasirat, Director
Chimes Rosh HaAyin Multi-Disability Protected Workshop
Lilach Gispan, Director
