Stay connectedAl-Bustan Association is a community-based Palestinian organization in Silwan, Jerusalem. We work with children, young people, women, and families to expand access to safe spaces and education, strengthen wellbeing, nurture talent, and create opportunities for community participation.
Creating opportunities
together.
Through learning, sports, arts, psychosocial support, and community initiatives, we help people develop their abilities, connect with others, and shape their future.
“We will become one day what we want.”From our community roots
Established in 2012, Al-Bustan Association grew from the community’s youth efforts to support families facing demolition threats, displacement, and the pressures of everyday life in Silwan.
Our roots extend to the Al-Bustan community tent, established in 2002—a place for people to gather, organize, and express their hopes for the future.
These roots continue to guide our work. We create spaces where children can learn and play, young people can develop their talents, and women and families can find support and opportunities.
In November 2024, our headquarters and community tent were demolished. Despite this loss, we continued delivering activities and supporting the community through alternative spaces and partnerships.
From a child’s first learning milestones to a young person’s next opportunity, our programmes put people first.
01Curiosity into confidence
Our Educational Center, Injaz, in Ras al-Amoud supports children’s learning through educational activities and academic assistance. We work to strengthen skills, encourage curiosity, and help children feel more confident in their abilities.
02A space to feel supported
Through our Abaq Mental Health programme, we provide psychosocial support for children, young people, women, and families. Our work includes supportive activities, specialist assistance, and crisis intervention in response to community needs.
03Stronger, together
Our sports programmes help children and young people build fitness, discipline, teamwork, and confidence. Activities include football, basketball, taekwondo, judo, kickboxing, gymnastics, and circus.
04Our stories. Our expression.
Through dabke, drama, theatre, music, photography, and other creative activities, participants explore their talents, express their experiences, and connect with Palestinian cultural heritage.
05The next generation takes part
We create opportunities for young people to volunteer, develop leadership and awareness skills, and take part in community initiatives. Our youth programmes, including Jerusalem Ambassador and other activities, encourage responsibility, cooperation, and active participation.
06Belonging in action
Al-Bustan’s scout group takes part in community and religious celebrations and events across Jerusalem. Through these activities, our scouts strengthen their sense of belonging, develop teamwork and leadership skills, and contribute to community life.
07Skills that open possibilities
Our Women’s Circle brings women together for learning, mutual support, and community participation. Initiatives such as the Women’s Diploma develop practical skills and support pathways towards economic participation.
Our work reaches children, young people, women, and families across Silwan and other Jerusalem communities. We also collaborate with institutions and partners beyond Jerusalem.
In 2025, Al-Bustan received Al-Tawoon’s “For Jerusalem We Work” – Ragheb Al-Kalouti Award for its “Youth in Jerusalem” initiative, developed with a network of 21 French municipalities.
Partnerships help us sustain our programmes, exchange knowledge, and create new opportunities for our community.
We work with local and international organisations, municipalities, educational institutions, and community partners. These relationships support activities ranging from education and psychosocial support to sports, cultural exchanges, and women’s empowerment.
Interested in working with us? We would be glad to hear from you.
Collaborate on programmes, exchanges, or initiatives that respond to community needs.
Discuss a partnershipShare your time and skills to support our activities.
Ask about volunteeringContact our team to discuss ways to contribute to our programmes and community initiatives.
Talk to our teamReceive community stories, programme updates, upcoming activities, and opportunities to get involved.
Together, we grow.