About Us
Welcome to the Bethlehem Association. We are a non-profit charitable organization with a mission to support the community in and around Bethlehem, Palestine through public service.
The needs of the Palestinian community in Bethlehem, Beit Jala and Beit Sahour range from scholarship assistance as well as contributing funds to the numerous charitable organizations in the area that provide, food, medicine and care for women, children, and the elderly. Since 1985, the Bethlehem Association has been striving to preserve our rich Palestinian cultural heritage and traditions within the United States.
Our MISSION
The Bethlehem Association is a non-profit, charitable organization founded in 1985 by Dr. Edward A. Hazboun. It is registered in the State of Pennsylvania as a Section 501(c)3 public charity public organization and classified as a charitable, cultural corporation with a constitution and bylaws. It is a membership organization primarily for people whose family origin is from the area of Palestine that includes Bethlehem, and the adjoining towns of Beit Sahur and Beit Jala. It has no religious affiliation. Other friends of Bethlehem are also welcome to join. Donations are tax deductible (EID 23 2377526).
Most of our members live in the U.S., although there are sizeable groups in Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador, Brazil, Chile and the rest of the world. Social activities such as banquets, dinners, and picnics keep local communities and chapters in touch with each other. Our bi-annual convention has been very successful in bringing together hundreds of members from all over the world. Past convention locations include Philadelphia, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Toronto, San Diego, Miami, Monterrey - Mexico, Atlantic City, Chicago, Washington, Orlando, San Diego, and Whippany-NJ.
OUR GOALS
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Strengthen close ties among Bethlehemites living in the United States, Canada, and Latin America and keep them in touch with each other and with their hometowns of Bethlehem, Beit Jala and Beit Sahur, Palestine.
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Raise funds to help and support our families and friends and improve communities in our hometowns.
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Grant scholarships to deserving and needy students at Bethlehem University through a capital endowed Bethlehem Association Scholarship Fund.
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Inform members about Association activities, diaspora news, and the history, customs, and current events of the area.
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Promote a better understanding of the Bethlehem area and its people with outreach projects to the larger community.