Keren Girls - Keren Girls

Prevent. Support. Empower.

Through unwavering care and guidance, we believe in ‘Strength in Support, Power in Prevention,’ helping young girls overcome obstacles and unlock their full potential.

About Us

Who we are

At Keren, we recognise that navigating challenges isn’t always easy. We will work with you every step of the way to create a personalised pathway toward your goals.

Keren is here to bridge the gap between available services and your unique needs, ensuring you get the tailored support you deserve. This is your journey, and we are here to guide and empower you, every step of the way.

Our Mission

At Keren, our mission is to ensure that no girl has to suffer in silence, offering compassionate, confidential, and consistent support. Through tailored programs, mentoring, and one-on-one guidance, we help girls build resilience and overcome challenges. Keren empowers girls to discover their inner strength, gain confidence, and reach their full potential, every step of the way.

Our Vision

We envision a world where every girl and young woman feels valued, supported, and empowered to pursue her full potential, no matter her background or challenges. At Keren, our main mission is to build resilience and help young women gain the strength to stand on their own two feet. By providing the resources, guidance, and encouragement needed, we aim to help each girl realise her full potential and build a confident, independent future.

Who we work with

At Keren, we primarily work with Jewish girls aged 12-24 in schools across three local authorities. We collaborate closely with local organisations and statutory services to provide comprehensive support. Our dedicated team of Key Workers and Mentors enables us to connect with girls from diverse areas of the community, while remaining sensitive to cultural differences. Through this approach, we ensure that each girl receives the tailored support she needs to become the best possible version of themselves.

Our Journey

Keren’s journey is rooted in a passion to empower young girls and help them overcome life’s challenges. Discover the milestones that have shaped our mission and the impact we have made along the way.

Getting Started

After consulting with GPs, Rabbonim, schools, and therapists, Keren was established with two Service Users. Within six months of its inception, the number of girls being supported increased to sixteen.

2018

Adapting During Covid

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Keren took on the care of 26 individuals, bringing the total to 44 Service Users. Despite the difficulties of the times, Keren was able to continue providing support, offering online activities, meetings and courses, as well as individualised care packages.

2020

Finding a Home for Keren

In November 2021, Keren acquired a house to use as its base, allowing the workers to meet their Service Users in a discreet location, equipped with a kitchen, art room and games room.

2021

Raising Funds, Expanding Futures

With demand for services at an all-time high, Keren held a matched funding campaign, raising a total of £380,000. This money meant that Keren could reduce their waiting list of 55 girls, train in new volunteer Mentors, hire more Key Workers and Case Managers and complete some renovations to the house.

2022

Making a House a Home

At the beginning of 2024 Keren began renovations on the house. This exciting step has enabled Keren to create purpose-built areas of the house for music, art, therapy, cooking and more - giving the service users a space that they can really connect and engage with.

2024

Expanding our Services

Keren supports over 85 girls on a weekly basis. With an ever-expanding waiting list, and a growing team of staff, Keren continues to grow its services to meet the needs of the community.

to date

Our Services

Mentoring

Our Mentors provide consistent weekly support, guiding through any challenges faced. They offer fun opportunities, activities, and sessions aimed at building self-esteem, confidence, and resilience. With preventative support, challenges become stepping stones, paving the way toward a more fulfilling and resilient future.

Key Working

Some journeys need more in-depth support. Our experienced Key Workers provide both emotional and practical guidance, offering support for mental, social, and emotional well-being. From financial advice to medical advocacy, they are here to help navigate challenges and ensure individuals have the resources they need to thrive.

Sign Posting

Finding the right support and resources can be overwhelming. Keren connects individuals and families with the best providers and services available, including therapy, social care, and other supportive organisations. With a holistic approach, we collaborate with these services to ensure access to the specific support needed to thrive.

Advocacy

Keren advocates for individuals with schools and services, ensuring their needs are heard and supported. This includes requesting adjustments like reduced timetables or extra learning support and securing access to specialist services—all delivered with cultural sensitivity and a focus on well-being at every stage of support.

Group Sessions

Beyond individual support, Keren fosters a sense of connection through engaging group activities. Held in the safe, welcoming environment of Keren House, these sessions, such as kickboxing and art provide a space for skill development, positive social interaction, and personal empowerment. We continuously listen to feedback and, based on popularity, expand group offerings to suit needs.

"During one of the darkest times in my life, someone from Keren grounded me with consistency and care. I truly don’t know if I would have made it without her."

"Keren gave me the confidence to open up, grow from my experiences, and not be defined by them. I’m so grateful for the support."

"Keren was a lifeline. From warm conversations to endless support, I am forever grateful and hope to one day give back."

"Keren gave me a safe space to offload and be heard.”

"I learnt I’m not alone in my struggles. Keren helped me trust again and find faith in people."

"Thank you for helping me come so far. I hope to give back through Keren one day and support others as I was supported."

Make a Referral

If you or someone you know is looking for support,
Please click the link below or call the Keren office on 0161 708 0700

Our Team

Our dedicated team at Keren is committed to empowering young girls, offering expert support through mentoring, guidance, and leadership. Together, we work to inspire change and create lasting impact.

Channah Morawiecki

Founder & Head of Services

Channah is one of the founders of Keren and is a qualified Feuerstein Instrumental Enrichment Teacher. She has specialised in teaching children and young adults for 18 years. With extensive training and experience in addressing mental health and teenage struggles, Channah brings deep insight to her work. Her passion and dedication are what drive Keren forward each day.

Rebecca Abeles

Founder & Trustee

Rebecca is one of the founders of Keren, she has been supporting at risk young women for over 14 years. Rebecca oversees the operational side of the organisation, making sure everything runs smoothly and efficiently. She plays an active role in the day-to-day leadership of the team.

Marianne Debson

Founder & Head of Services

Marianne is one of the founders of Keren. With a BA Hons in Management, she brings fifteen years of operational expertise to Keren. Marianne has a wealth of training and experience working with adolescents, including fostering many over the years. Her commitment and passion contribute to the ongoing success of Keren services.

Amanda Philips

Lead Clinical Supervisor

Amanda is Keren’s Lead Clinical Supervisor, providing expert guidance on mental health and well-being. She oversees the delivery of tailored therapeutic services, ensuring each individual receives the support they need. Amanda’s compassionate approach and dedication are key to Keren’s success.

Debbie Maggid

Clinical Supervisor

With 28 years of experience in education and counselling, Debbie has supported children, young people, and families through a range of emotional challenges. Her work spans schools, private practice, and clinical supervision, including training students and supporting professionals across education, corporate, and charity sectors in Greater Manchester.

Dr Paul Abeles

Trustee/ Clinical Advisor

Paul is a consultant clinical psychologist working at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital for over 22 years. He specialises in working with children, adolescents and families. Paul advises on the more clinical aspects of cases and of service delivery.

Jane Mechlowitz

Trustee/ Safeguarding Lead

Jane has been a trustee since Keren’s inception. She is a qualified social worker and is Keren’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). Jane currently works as an IDVA (Independence Domestic Violence Advisor) for JWA (Jewish Women’s Aid).

Rabbi Yaakov Wreschner

Rabbinical Lead

Rabbi Wreschner is a prominent figure in Manchester’s Jewish community. With deep knowledge of Jewish traditions, he provides spiritual guidance, ensuring Keren’s work aligns with values of compassion, integrity, and empowerment.

Yona Emanuel

Trustee

Yona brings his years of business management expertise to Keren by helping with financial planning, budgeting and ensuring efficiency. He is passionate about helping others and making a difference to people’s lives.

Moshe Dov Morawiecki

Board Member

Inspired by his mother’s legacy, Moshe Dov plays a pivotal role in the organisation’s vision. Known for his hands-on approach, he brings both strategic insight and deep commitment to every aspect of the organisation.

Shimshon Dresdner

Board Member

Shimshon has many years of experience as an entrepreneur. He provides Keren with invaluable advice on Keren’s business model, allowing us to operate smoothly and efficiently.

Alex Haffner

Board Member

With over 15 years in commercial property, investments, and finance, Alex brings deep expertise and strategic insight to Keren. Passionate about supporting at-risk Jewish teens, he combines professional experience with a strong commitment to the charity’s mission and long-term impact.

Goldie Grant

Grant Administrator

Goldie has a master’s degree in education and over 15 years of experience in teaching, training, and presenting. A published author and certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Goldie brings over 5 years of experience in article and grant writing to support Keren’s mission through her educational and pastoral expertise.

Key Workers/Mentors

At Keren, our Staff, Volunteers, and Mentors are the driving force behind our success. Each one is deeply committed to empowering young girls, offering support, guidance, and a safe space for growth. Our Key Workers and Mentors build strong, trusting relationships with the girls, helping them navigate challenges and reach their full potential. With a shared passion for making a difference, our team of dedicated professionals and volunteers works tirelessly to create a positive, lasting impact in the lives of those we support.

Volunteer for Keren

Do you want to join the team of incredible volunteers, and change lives?

Thank you to all our supporters for enabling us to continue with this vital work

Support Us

By supporting Keren you have the power to change a girl’s life. You can have a part in giving young girls support, stability and a future they deserve. Your donation will allow us to continue saving souls, providing care, and giving girls a voice, and listening ear.

Any Questions?

Want to know more about Keren? Are you wondering if Keren is the answer for you? Get in touch now and let us answer all your questions in no time.