Yesodot programs have been evaluated over the past several years by independent researchers, using both qualitative and quantitative survey methods. Below are some of their recent findings:

Among teachers who participated in Yesodot courses:

• 62% reported a positive impact on their attitudes to the importance of equal treatment for all citizens, Jewish and non-Jewish.
• 64% reported that the program had a great influence on their attitudes towards secular Jews.
• 85% reported that the program had a great influence on their attitudes towards exposing their students to a wide range of religious and political influences in school.

Among students surveyed after participating in Yesodot programs:

• 92% agreed that it is important to respect the dignity of every human being.
• 86% said that the equality of all human beings is important to them.
• 88% recognized the importance of tolerance towards all human beings.
• 80% of students identified with democratic values and saw them as rooted in Judaism.

Testimonials

“I applaud your vanguard spirit and teaching success on Jewish civic society and the State.”
Rabbi Yuval Sherlo, Rosh Yeshivat Hesder, Petach Tikvah

”Thanks to Yesodot’s Gender Equality Program, the Ohr Torah staff analyzed the compatibility between Torah values and the democratic values of equality and autonomy. Participants now have a greater appreciation for these values and how they strengthen the modern family in today’s world.”
Rabbi Shlomo Riskin, Chief Rabbi of Efrat, Chancellor & Dean of Ohr Torah Stone Colleges and Graduate Programs

“I sincerely thank you for the Talmud curriculum you created, in which you succeeded in focusing on social issues… it has both depth and is enlightening.”
Prof. Yaakov Katz, Chair, Pedagogic Secretariat, Education Ministry

“I was very impressed with the special Talmud edition that you published, highlighting democratic issues of society and state. It is a heart-warming endeavour that will greatly encourage our youth.”
Rabbi Yaakov Ariel, Chief Rabbi of Ramat Gan

“I was very impressed with the effort Yesodot invested in preparing the “Yahadut, Chevra and Democratia” (Yachad) curriculum. It provides important tools for religious educators to utilize when teaching democratic structures and values. I was especially impressed with its friendly didactic approach that will undoubtedly attract students to this material.”
Knesset Member Zvulun Orlev, Chairman of the National Religious Party

“In the Sheirut Leumi Program we explored the relationship between Jewish law and democracy, a subject that surrounds us but is rarely discussed. The sessions were thought-provoking and led to personal growth. By presenting, analyzing and clarifying different viewpoints, the Yesodot program exposed me to a variety ofnew ideas and inspired me with a deep and rich learning experience which members of the national religious community ought to experience.”
Moria, Sheirut Leumi Program participant