August 2025 Newsletter

Health and Environmental Unit

In August, the health workers at Lajee Center conducted 157 home visits to patients with diabetes and hypertension in Aida and Al-Azza camps, some alongside Dr. Mohammed Abu Srour. Patient information from each visit was recorded in the KoBo system for follow-up under the supervision of Dr. Henry.

On the environmental side, significant work was carried out to maintain and improve the center’s green spaces. The first greenhouse was cleared of old hydroponic systems and prepared for new Dutch Bucket installations, including floor coating and table measurements. Plants on the rooftop, in the stairwell, and throughout the center were regularly cared for, while tomato plants in the second greenhouse were tied and fertilized with iron. Regular inspections ensured water supply and optimal plant growth. The Environmental Club also conducted weekly activities focused on recycling plastic bottles into decorative flowers.

The fifth annual Summer Environmental Camp engaged more than 40 children aged 12–16 from Aida, Al-Azza, and nearby communities in a five-day program. Activities included ice-breaking exercises, lessons on the connection between environment and Palestinian identity, an environmental hike from Al-Makhrour to Battir, discussions on pollution, paper recycling workshops, plastic bottle decoration, and a closing recreational trip to Husan Resort. The camp provided children with opportunities to learn, create, and connect with their community.

International Summer Camp

The International Sunmer Camp brought together 14 participants from multiple countries for a two-week immersive program. Participants visited Palestinian cities including Jerusalem, Ramallah, Hebron, and Bethlehem, as well as Tulkarm and Nour Shams refugee camps, to witness firsthand the impact of the occupation on daily life.

Participants engaged in volunteer work at Lajee Center and participated in activities with local children. Cultural and social activities included camping at Mar Saba Monastery, Arabic language lessons, and training in traditional Palestinian dabke dance. Participants also met with former prisoners and officials from the Palestinian Prisoners’ Affairs Commission to learn about the challenges faced by Palestinian detainees. The program fostered international solidarity while providing a deep understanding of Palestinian culture and community life.

Media Unit

After a short pause due to summer camp activities, the Media Club resumed its training sessions in August, focusing on the fundamentals of photography. Participants practiced both technical and creative skills, preparing to complete this stage of training before moving on to new areas in media and communication.

Lajee-Celtic Academy

Lajee-Celtic Academy continued its regular training sessions throughout August, with each age group following its tailored schedule. The academy restructured its teams according to age categories as directed by the Palestinian Football Association. The youth team (born 2012–2014) participated in a preparatory league organized in cooperation with Al-Khader Municipality, while the 2008–2011 age group was registered for the upcoming league starting next month. Friendly matches organized by Coach Mehran Nahar allowed players to improve their skills and strengthen team performance.

The first team played three friendly matches in preparation for the Palestinian Fourth Division (Waiting League), recording two victories and one loss. A key achievement this month was Lajee-Celtic’s 4–2 victory over Orthodox Beit Sahour, showcasing the team’s skill, determination, and competitive spirit.

Boxing Training

August also marked the completion of an intensive boxing training program led by Tyron, an Irish coach and former fifth-place winner in the World Continental Championship. The program included three groups: ages 10–15, ages 17–25, and a female group aged 13–25. Over three weeks, with four intensive sessions per week, participants developed their boxing techniques, physical conditioning, and discipline under the mentorship of a world-class coach.

Lajee Music Institute

The music unit continued its weekly and monthly music sessions for children, focusing on the oud, qanun, violin, and tabla. These sessions provided young participants with opportunities to develop musical skills, explore traditional and contemporary music, and express themselves creatively.

ACLAI Palestine Gym

During August, the Gym held 287 training sessions with a total of 1,964 participant attendances, reflecting the dedication of the coaching team in providing consistent and high-quality training experiences.

Dabka Unit