a community development agency

We believe that societies thrive when communities work together to alleviate suffering and elevate the dignity of individuals.

Leven is comprised of professionals and volunteers from a diverse array of fields and perspectives. Our mission is to see improved quality of life in the Near East, in the context of meaningful community. We work toward this through the implementation of human centered design.

Meaning

Latin:

“lift” / “lighten”:
root word for “elevate”,
“alleviate”, “relief”, etc.

Ancient Greek:

absolute numeral:
“the whole”,
“the individual”

Priorities

EDucation

Working to ensure ubiquitous access to education while facilitating skill development to empower marginalized individuals for autonomous living.

Relief

Offering immediate humanitarian crisis response toward the end of strategic problem-solving focused on long-term solutions tailored to the affected.

ENTERPRISE

Securing the fundamental right to work for individuals in need, fostering a dignified way of life through basic income.

Health

Empowering marginalized communities with accessible healthcare, addressing systemic disparities, prioritizing preventive care, and promoting holistic well-being.

Capacity

Development

design thinking
research
project development
fundraising
organizational design

EXPRESSION

branding & communication
print & web design
media production
event production

Orientation

We believe Leven is uniquely positioned to navigate the challenging cultural context of the 21st century Near East: holding a deep respect for ancient traditions in one hand and a passionate commitment to postmodern creativity and collaboration in the other. We are motivated and inspired by the rich concepts and culture we have inherited. We are deeply committed to the development of community-scale social innovations which benefit the whole of society, irrespective of creed or circumstance.