"HaNagaria", in memory of Beri Berelowitz
A center for culture and healing through art for the residents and communities of the south
HaNagaria ("the carpentry") is a center for culture and healing through art, whose aim is to provide a cultural, professional, occupational and social response for the residents and communities of Israel's south, and to create a space of recovery, connection and hope.
In memory of Beri Berelowitz
Beri Berelowitz (1938–2022) was born in Johannesburg to an immigrant family. Orphaned of his father in childhood and his mother at a young age, he was raised by an uncle and aunt, where he learned early lessons in responsibility and resilience. He nearly had to leave his studies at the University of the Witwatersrand for lack of money to buy textbooks — until a small scholarship opened a door, and he completed an accounting degree with distinction.
He rose quickly in the accounting world, became a management partner, immigrated to Los Angeles in 1978, worked at leading U.S. accounting firms, and later founded his own practice in San Diego. Throughout, he supported education, Jewish community life and Zionist causes, especially projects in Israel — believing that help should reach people directly, and committed to long-term partnerships.
Known as "L.I.T.B." — Leave It To Beri — he is remembered as sharp, curious and solution-focused, with humor and tireless energy. A loving father, a generous mentor, and a broad-minded man. The Berelowitz Foundation was established in his memory, and HaNagaria is one expression of his spirit, still at work for others.
A small gesture can change an entire life course. Beri experienced this firsthand — and it guides us today.
The past year
Close to 800 people take part in the venture every month. 60 artists a year complete training and become leading artists on the art scene. Dozens of groups in art and music, and several communities, have been built.
Kibbutz Yad Mordechai, Shikma School, the Yad Mordechai music shelter and the Nir Am music shelter
regular volunteers
Venture partners
- Yad LeAmi
- With the support of MK Benny Gantz, chair of the Blue and White party and a Yad Mordechai resident
In the media: Feature on HaNagaria · Facebook post