In the heart of Ofakim, a quiet revolution is taking place – one conversation at a time. Benni, a volunteer with Shnat Sherut 50 Plus, has become a vital part of the city’s Resident Services Department, bringing clarity and empowerment to some of the city’s most vulnerable residents. His focus: helping people plan for the future with dignity and confidence.
Before Benni’s arrival, the municipality offered limited legal aid. Today, with his expertise and dedication, the city has significantly expanded its capacity to support residents in realizing their rights. What began as general assistance in navigating bureaucratic systems quickly revealed a deeper, widespread need – practical, accessible tools for planning for all ages.
Turning Complexity into Confidence
Working closely with the Ministry of Health, Benni helped initiate a city-wide effort to provide legal tools for aging planning. This includes guidance on advance directives, medical proxies, guardianship, and more. These are issues that affect every person, but for many, especially those facing language barriers or lacking digital literacy, the systems can feel impenetrable. Benni bridges that gap with warmth, clarity, and a deep sense of respect for each individual he meets.
Community Education and Outreach
Benni doesn’t wait for people to come to him. He brings the information to where it’s needed. Through a series of lectures in community clubs across Ofakim, he has sparked genuine interest in a topic that is often overlooked how to prepare legally and emotionally for later life. His sessions are informative, practical, and deeply appreciated.
“People want to understand their options,” he explains. “They want to feel that they are in control of their future, not just reacting to it.”
A New Clinic and a Mobile Approach
Benni is also part of a new initiative to establish a dedicated clinic for rights realization for the elderly. The goal is to create a space where residents can receive one-on-one support for legal and bureaucratic planning related to aging.
At the same time, he’s part of a groundbreaking mobile outreach program. In partnership with Meshiv HaRuach, a Joint (JDC) initiative, Benni joins a mobile van that travels between neighborhoods offering municipal services — from veterinary support to help with utility companies and transportation cards. When the van began offering rights counseling, residents flocked to consult with Benni, often about legal planning for aging. Many recognized him from his lectures or community outreach.
Personal, Professional, Profoundly Needed
Benni’s approach is holistic. He combines professional legal knowledge with the empathy and presence that come from a lifetime of experience. Residents don’t just leave with paperwork – they leave with clarity, reassurance, and a sense of agency.
His work exemplifies the core mission of Shnat Sherut 50 Plus: bringing skilled volunteers into high-impact roles where their presence strengthens not only services, but also the social fabric of the community.
In Ofakim, Benni is not just helping people plan for tomorrow. He’s making today feel a little more secure.
