Realizing a true need existed for the inclusive goal of Mechinat Harel - to empower and enable youth who otherwise would be unlikely to flourish - extended beyond the confines of lone immigrants from the former Soviet Union, we understood we needed to offer the unique Mechinat Harel platform for others as well.

 
This was the impetus behind the opening of Mechinat Harel - Be'er Yaakov. To provide an opportunity for young men and women of all backgrounds the opportunity to develop themselves and become empowered to rise above difficult personal circumstances or less privileged upbringings.  

At Mechinat Harel - Be'er Yaakov students experience a true melting pot of Israeli cultures and Jewish backgrounds, benefiting everyone.
Most of the students are Israeli born and from mesorati  (traditional) homes, yet some come from completely secular backgrounds and others, somewhere in between. For most, Hebrew is their first language, and for some they are just becoming comfortable with it as a second language. Most have family in Israel, while there are also Olim Chadashim who've come on their own. The students learn to appreciate the beauty of this diversity, and together become stronger - as they prepare for the IDF and their post-IDF lives.