HISTORY The African Refugee Development Center (ARDC) is a grassroots, community-based, non-profit organization that was founded in 2004 by African asylum seekers and Israeli citizens, in order to assist, protect and empower African refugees and asylum seekers in Israel. To date, the ARDC has served over 14,000 refugees and asylum seekers from Eritrea, Sudan, Ethiopia and other countries. VISION To enable and ensure that all refugees and asylum seekers are free from persecution, live in dignity and have an opportunity to realize their aspirations. MISSION To empower, protect and assist African refugees and asylum seekers in Israel by advocating on their behalf and enabling processes that increase their awareness, ensure participation and inspire policy change. STRATEGIC GOALS  To safeguard the rights of African refugees and asylum seekers in Israel from harmful and unfair policies that violate international law;  To empower African refugees and asylum seekers in Israel by promoting independence, ownership and action toward a more dignified life;  To promote understanding, cooperation and peaceful coexistence between Israelis and asylum seekers. PROJECTS Community Outreach & Rights Empowerment Community Leadership and Advocacy Practical Refugee Education Program