The city of Ariel has created a paradign of immigrant absorption to be followed by cities around Israel. After the fall of the iron curtain Mayor Ron Nachman identified a new opportunity. He realized that the new immigrants needed a warm and welcoming home. He also realized that the success of their absorption in Ariel would mean a true contribution to the city of Ariel. Even more than the significance of the increased quantity of Ariel’s population, would be its quality.

 

The city of Ariel warmly welcomed its new brethren from the Former Soviet Union. The city’s population doubled and to this day the Russian immigrants represent half of Ariel’s population. Most importantly, the “new residents” have given so much to Ariel. Their dedication to a higher caliber of education has raised the demand for academic excellence in the city’s schools. Their appreciation for culture has birthed entire departments for music and the arts, performing groups and visiting cultural events throughout the city. Their work ethic combined with their other strengths has been a backbone of the Ariel University Center’s progress and success. Indeed, it is difficult to imagine how the city of Ariel would have become the reality that it is were it not for those Russian immigrants.

 

 

With the diverse population and an unbeatable Aliyah (immigrant) absorption track record the city of Ariel has embarked on yet another endeavor. The city community Aliyah program encourages English speaking olim (immigrants) from North America and South Africa to build their homes here in Ariel. Currently in its second year the program has had unsurpassed successes. The new residents have been integrated into the city’s various communities, they have found employment and their children have been adjusting to the local education system. The city of Ariel continues to show that its genuine dedication to the principles of Zionism can and do succeed in bringing every Jew home.

 

 

Follow the personal story of a young family who made aliyah to Ariel directly from Detroit, Michigan.

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