Arcenciel (stylised as arcenciel), is a Lebanese non-profit, apolitical and non-confessional

NGO A non-governmental organization (NGO) is an independent, typically nonprofit organization that operates outside government control, though it may get a significant percentage of its funding from government or corporate sources. NGOs often focus ...

created in response to the

Lebanese civil war The Lebanese Civil War ( ) was a multifaceted armed conflict that took place from 1975 to 1990. It resulted in an estimated 150,000 fatalities and led to the exodus of almost one million people from Lebanon. The religious diversity of the ...

in 1985. It participates in

sustainable development Sustainable development is an approach to growth and Human development (economics), human development that aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.United Nations General ...

and was recognized as a public utility in 1995 by the Lebanese Presidential Decree N⁰7541. Arcenciel’s main goal is to work with and support people living with disabilities or other physical and psychological difficulties. In 1994, arcenciel created the division “Acces et Droit” ('Rights and Access') within the Ministry of Social Affairs It does that within the framework of 5 core programs, each designed to help Arcenciel to actively participate in Lebanon’s sustainable development.

Core programs

Agriculture and environment

With a plot of land 2.3km2 in size at Domain do Taanayel, managed by arcenciel, arcenciel is able to work on innovating new techniques for organic farming, saving energy and water for the benefit of present and future generations.

Mobility and health

Mobility and Health participates in the social reintegration of people in need, focusing on those living with disabilities. It supports people through their entire recovery process by providing diverse health consultations, distributing mobility equipment and adapting living spaces. In 1994, Mobility and Health created the division “Accès et Droit” within the Ministry of Social Affairs. The division single-handedly passed governmental policy, Law 220, that financially and socially protects all Lebanese disabled people.

Social support

This program aims to support and help the community on the ground by identifying the difficulties and needs they are struggling with. It runs an employment office, which acts as a social support system and comprises a network of clothing and furniture boutiques focused on integrating people back into society.

Tourism

The ecolodge, Khan el Maksoud and Domaine de Taanayel have become part of Lebanese tourism by offering an experience of rural living with accommodation, restaurants and activities while protecting Lebanese heritage and the country’s natural resources.

Youth empowerment

Youth Support helps at risk youth develop their emotional, social and psychological capacities. The program offers a range of activities, essential to youth empowerment: sports and recreation, arts and culture, education. Established in 2001, cirquenciel became the first circus school in Lebanon. It promotes intercultural dialogue and help at risk youths reintegrate educational and professional paths.

Arcenciel USA

Arcenciel USA, is a nonprofit organization providing a bridge for US based individuals, institutions, and corporations to support Lebanon’s underprivileged and marginalized communities, regardless of religion, political affiliation or nationality.

Arcenciel France

Arcenciel France consults and recruits for Lebanon through academic and professional trainings. Processmed supports social entrepreneurship in the Mediterranean and provides the opportunity for French, Tunisians, Lebanese students and social entrepreneurs to collaborate in Tunis, Beyrouth and Lyon on strategic development and business development.

References

{{Reflist Organizations established in 1985 Non-profit organisations based in Lebanon 1985 establishments in Lebanon