“Each candle shines on its own, but together we create a magnificent flame.”

“Each candle shines on its own, but together we create a magnificent flame.”

BeNetivei Udi

The “BeNetivei Udi” association was established in 1994 in memory of Lieutenant Udi Elgrably, may his memory be blessed. Udi was a paratrooper and a communications officer who was killed in combat defending the country in the security zone in Lebanon. His path and the values in which he believed have been incorporated into the various programs operated by the association.

“BeNetivei Udi” is dedicated to building an exemplary Israeli society that embraces all sectors and populations through respectful dialogue and mutual responsibility. Founded in 1994 by Mordechai and Georgette Elgrably in memory of their son, Lieutenant Udi lgrably, who was killed in action, we uphold the values of social responsibility and unity. In the face of pressing social challenges, we operate impactful programs that promote equality, justice, and quality of life for all citizens. We invite you to read about these challenges and our work to make a meaningful change:

1

The Issue:

Significant underrepresentation in Israel’s technology sector – both in the IDF and in the high-tech industry – of diverse populations, including residents of peripheral areas, members of the Druze and Ethiopian communities, and women.

The Solution:

The Nitzanim program addresses this gap by offering technological education and training for youth and young adults, from middle school pupils to discharged soldiers. The program includes placement opportunities in both the IDF technology units and private sector tech companies, creating pathways for career advancement and economic mobility. It collaborates with government ministries, schools, and educational networks to maximize impact.

2

The Issue:

A deepening divide exists between religious and secular populations in Israel.

The Solution:

The Garinei Udi program fosters dialogue and social activism among religious and secular youth. It collaborates with youth movements, local authorities, the Ministry of Education, and philanthropic organizations to promote understanding and cooperation.

3

The Issue:

Lack of support infrastructure for bereaved families in Israel; a wide disparity in state responses between civilian and military bereavement.

The Solution:

The Mima’amakim program provides support to families and individuals following a loss. It operates in collaboration with the healthcare system and hospitals across Israel.

Udi’s Legacy

Social equality, inclusion, love for the land and state, excellence, perseverance, and the ability to learn from mistakes and grow.

“Udi chose to volunteer, leading the convoy to the Rihan outpost to protect his soldiers, which ultimately cost him his life. Saying farewell to Udi was profoundly difficult—not just because we lost him personally, but because we lost what he represented. We resolved to continue his legacy, ensuring that his life and values would not be cut short. This commitment sparked our journey to implement Udi’s heritage. Today, many young people enlist in the army with a deep social and educational awareness.
The organization’s activities have brought joy back to our home and rekindled our song: the people of Israel must build their homeland. We cannot afford to pause; the State of Israel must thrive.”

Mordechai and Georgette Elgrably, founders of the BeNetivei Udi NPOFrom grief and loss, a lifelong mission has emerged in Udi’s spirit: fostering connections, reducing inequalities, and promoting social solidarity. This is the essence of BeNetivei Udi.

about udi

Udi Elgrably, z”l (1972-1994)

Udi Elgrably, z”l, was born on the 26th of Tammuz, 5732 (July 8, 1972) in Jerusalem. A cheerful child, he radiated warmth and love, sharing it generously with those around him.
As a guide in “Bnei Akiva” in the Ramot neighborhood, Udi became a beloved figure among his students. His commitment to values, broad perspective, integrity, and openness inspired deep admiration.
Udi was a true educator who not only instilled values but provided his students with personal, warm, and caring support. He treated everyone as equals, valuing them for who they were. Udi had a remarkable talent for uniting his students and attracting new, unexpected members to the troop.
His exceptional organizational skills were matched by an unwavering love for the land. Together with his friends, he organized trips across Israel, creating new routes while also revisiting familiar ones. During these excursions, Udi was the vital spirit that connected everyone, bringing them together in shared experiences.
Udi chose to volunteer, leading the convoy to the Rihan outpost to protect his soldiers, which ultimately cost him his life. Saying farewell to Udi was profoundly difficult—not just because we lost him personally, but because we lost what he represented. We resolved to continue his legacy, ensuring that his life and values would not be cut short. This commitment sparked our journey to implement Udi’s heritage. Today, many young people enlist in the army with a deep social and educational awareness. The organization’s activities have brought joy back to our home and rekindled our song: the people of Israel must build their homeland. We cannot afford to pause; the State of Israel must thrive.

Mordechai and Georgette Elgrably, founders of the BeNetivei Udi NPO

Udi always believed in everyone:

“How many times have people told you that you don’t belong? How many times have they said you can’t do it? Don’t listen to them; ignore those voices. Smile! You are with us Now, and together we will help you succeed. Yes, in Udi’s way: with perseverance, a smile, humility, and love for others. It will happen, you’ll see.”
“Thou shalt turn my mourning into dancing for me”
(Psalms 30:12) From legacy to action.

“Thou shalt turn my mourning into dancing for me”

(Psalms 30:12) From legacy to action.

After Udi, z”l, fell in 1994, the Elgrably family chose to honor his legacy by spreading the values that guided him throughout his life. Mordechai and Georgette committed themselves to acts of kindness and community contributions.

In 1995, the first youth journey in Udi’s memory was held, bringing together Udi’s friends from various youth movements in Jerusalem. This initiative aimed to bridge hearts and foster understanding of different perspectives through direct experiences.
In 1999, the BeNetivei Udi NPO was established to promote unity and understanding among the people of Israel. The annual “Unity Journey” expanded to include summer camps for children from underprivileged families, nurturing the idea of Garinei Udi —youth activity groups in diverse neighborhoods that embody Udi’s unique approach of embracing others and advocating for a better society for all.
The first group was launched in the Ramot neighborhood of Jerusalem in 2005, and since then, dozens of groups have actively worked to build a cohesive and caring society.
In response to the government’s decision to relocate the IDF southward and move the Computer Science School to Be’er Sheva, Major General Uzi Moscovitch, then Chief of the Communications Branch, invited Mordechai Elgrably and Brigadier General Arnon Zuaretz to create an educational-technical program. This initiative aimed to provide opportunities for youth from the Negev to fill technological roles in the transitioning Communications Branch. Thus, Nitzanim—the technological excellence program in the Negev and Galilee—was born.
Today, Nitzanim serves thousands of students, ranging from 9th graders to high school graduates, and works tirelessly to cultivate the next generation of technological leaders for the State of Israel.
As a bereaved family, the Elgrablys received a warm embrace from the military and the state. However, they recognized that many families coping with loss outside of military contexts often lack the support given to families of fallen soldiers and victims of terror. In response, the “Mima’amakim” program was established in 2020 to assist individuals facing loss. Volunteers from Mima’amakim offer a listening ear and emotional support to those grappling with civilian grief, currently operating at Meir Hospital.
From the depths of grief and loss, a meaningful legacy has emerged in Udi’s spirit: fostering understanding, bridging divides, and promoting social solidarity. This is the mission of BeNetivei Udi.