About Us

Jad Lenoar supports Jewish youth facing a wide spectrum of personal and social challenges. Some struggle with a deep desire to belong to a peer group; others find themselves lost in unhealthy family dynamics, school, or social environments, often having endured difficult childhoods. These challenges can manifest as discomfort, loneliness, emotional distress, substance abuse, gambling, pornography and sex addiction, depression, or even suicidal thoughts or attempts. These youth come from all walks of life. Some are, quite literally, homeless living on the streets without society even noticing.

In Gibraltar, Jad Lenoar discreetly operates a well-equipped, always-accessible centre that offers a safe and familiar space for local youth. Whether it's to unwind, connect with peers, speak with a mentor, catch up on studies, or simply take a breather, the environment is designed to be welcoming, supportive, and judgment-free.

Alongside emotional and practical support, Jad Lenoar offers space for personal growth and the meaningful exploration of Jewish identity. Daily services and brief learning sessions provide structure, stability, and a sense of community particularly for those who may have felt disconnected from traditional practice. We understand that struggles with religious identity can be deeply personal, and if left unspoken, may lead to disengagement. That’s why our approach is never coercive. Through genuine relationships, thoughtful education, and positive experiences, we help young people reconnect with their roots in a way that feels relevant and empowering.

The organization also provides guidance in areas such as career planning, vocational training, and academic support. When needed, we make referrals to our strong network of professional and specialist advisors in the education and career field.

Thanks to the close bonds between the youth and their mentors, who are available 24/7 in emergencies. Jad Lenoar’s programs continue to grow and have proven to be both effective and sustainable.

Currently, 171 young people internationally, of them 31 in Gibraltar are being supported, many of whom go on to integrate into the workforce or build stable families. Due to the growing number of participants and programs, the organization now employs 21 part-time male staff members and 3 female staff members, as well as several learning coaches and tutors.

Most participants come to Jad Lenoar through word of mouth via friends, classmates, or recommendations from educators and mental health professionals. We do not proactively recruit.

What we offer:

Community Centre

In Gibraltar, Jad Lenoar operates a single, centrally located penthouse designed to provide safety, comfort, and a sense of belonging for boys facing challenging home environments. For those unable to remain at home due to instability or emotional risk, this space offers a secure alternative – calm, welcoming, and thoughtfully equipped for their needs. The penthouse features private bedrooms for boys who need a safe place to stay, along with spacious indoor and outdoor areas that promote rest and renewal. Two large terraces—including a rooftop space overlooking the Rock and the sea—offer a unique environment for relaxation and reflection. Inside, a games area, kitchen, and comfortable lounge space provide room for recreation, connection, and day-to-day routine in a supportive, respectful setting. Every element is designed to help the boys feel safe, seen, and supported as they regain balance and rebuild confidence.

Short Trips – Recharging Through Connection

Two to three times a year, we take our members on short trips, both our Gibraltar and Swiss members together. These journeys offer a valuable break from daily pressures, combining informal relaxation with self-exploration and sporting activities. More than just a getaway, each trip fosters team spirit, emotional resilience, and social development. Travelling together builds camaraderie, responsibility, and belonging. It’s deeply moving to witness just how warmly new participants are embraced by the group. Our members return from these experiences with renewed strength, meaningful memories, and a deep sense of connection.

Prevention First – Education, Awareness, and Early Intervention

At Jad Lenoar, we don’t just step in once challenges arise, we work actively to prevent them especially for youth who are most vulnerable. Our prevention program includes regular group sessions, interactive workshops, and roundtable discussions with experienced mental health professionals. Topics range from emotional wellbeing and peer pressure to substance use and healthy decision-making. These sessions are designed to be engaging, judgment-free, and rooted in real-life relevance giving our youth the tools they need to make informed choices before problems take hold.

High Risk of Assimilation – Rebuilding Connection Before It’s Lost

Many of the boys we work with are at serious risk of becoming disconnected from their identity and heritage. At Jad Lenoar Gibraltar, we intervene early. Through engaging cultural activities, honest conversations, and meaningful experiences, we help these boys reconnect in a way that feels real and relevant. It’s not about pressure it’s about giving them something to hold on to before they let go completely. Our goal is clear: to stop the drift before it becomes permanent, and to replace disconnection with pride, clarity, and belonging.

Crisis Intervention – When It Matters Most

When a young person faces a crisis whether at home, at work, or within themselves we step in quickly, calmly, and compassionately. At the request of the youth, our staff mediate conflicts with parents, siblings, or employers, and intervene in urgent situations such as suicidal ideation, mental health collapse, or substance abuse. Our team works closely with a trusted network of doctors, psychologists, and social workers, ensuring that each case receives the professional care it demands—without delay, and without judgment.

Daily Support – Consistent Presence, Real Connection

Our team is available around the clock, offering hands-on support and a listening ear. From early morning check-ins to late-night phone calls, we accompany our members through the daily ups and downs of life. Acting as trusted mentors, we help them navigate everything from doctor’s appointments and therapy sessions to job searches, school challenges, and official paperwork. For those in education or training, we also provide access to qualified tutors, ensuring each young person receives the academic support they need to succeed.

Contact

Verein Jad Lenoar
Birmensdorferstrasse 458
8055 Zürich

Tel. 044 244 88 80
info@jadlenoar.ch