Origin Story: Eliahu Cedars Foundation

Eliahu Cedars Foundation Inc's (ECFI) story began with one family many years ago when our namesake, Mr. Elias J. Bechara, was contacted by a family he worked with. This family saw the talent and potential of their child but were unable to send the kid to college. After hearing the student out, Mr. Bechara made the decision to help them out of his own cash and with his own time.

After Mr. Elias passed away in 2009, the student's parents approached Mark to ask if the support would continue. Mark had no idea Mr. Elias was supporting a scholar and was so proud and inspired by him. That particular experience and epiphany were what we used to pair the creation of ECFI.

After 14 years, our organization has expanded; we are now a fully authorized not-for-profit foundation with SEC registration. We've had a quantifiable impact on their lives, growing from one student to dozens (and grads!). Our intention has always been to make a significant long-term impact that will affect not only the future of our scholars but also the future of their families and communities. Because of this, our Foundation employs a distinctive model—one that goes beyond simply financial assistance.

We have always been proud that Eliahu Cedars understands the value of paying attention to individuals who ask for help. It was obvious from the very start that financial aid alone cannot guarantee a student's academic success. Scholarship recipients have to complete their degrees.

It is the mission of Eliahu Cedars Foundation Inc. to mitigate and even eliminate the challenges facing today’s university students. Many of our scholars are the first in their families to go to college, but all benefit from the four pillars of support: Financial Support, Mentoring Support, Family Support, and Spirit of Service. This model allows our scholars to focus their energy on their studies.

In the end, the support is there to encourage a student who already has what it takes to succeed. Our students study for their entrance exams, work hard in school, earn their degrees and competently interview for jobs after graduation. The achievement is all them.

Eliahu Cedars Foundation is proud of the decade of beneficiaries who are paying forward the heart of helping and giving. These unique individuals bring the ‘special sauce’ – a unique blend of talent, perseverance, and knowledge, enabling them to find meaningful employment and pursue their dreams. We hope you’ll stand with us, as we watch them flourish.