Who We Are

The Dr. Haider Abdel Shafi Center for Culture and Development (HCCD) is an independent, Palestinian non-governmental, non-profit organization founded in 2014 by civil-society leaders, educators and peace-builders in Gaza. Inspired by the life and legacy of Dr. Haider Abdel Shafi—a physician, statesman and champion of justice—the Center advances human rights, social responsibility and democratic participation.

HCCD fosters a culture of civic engagement, tolerance, non-violence and internal social cohesion, with special focus on marginalized groups, particularly women, youth and displaced communities. Operating across the Gaza Strip, our programs integrate psychosocial support, empowerment, cultural heritage preservation and community development as pathways to resilience.

We believe in building an inclusive, just society where every individual—regardless of gender, background or status—has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to shaping a better future.

Our Mission & Vision

Mission

To carry forward the values and civic legacy of Dr. Haider Abdel Shafi—integrity, transparency, unity and justice—by delivering programs that support community development, resilience and democratic engagement.

Vision

A democratic and inclusive Palestinian society rooted in justice, equality, civil rights and peaceful coexistence, where all individuals actively participate in shaping a stronger, more equitable future.

Core Values

  • Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards and transparency.
  • Civic Participation: Encouraging active engagement in public life.
  • Social Justice: Ensuring fairness and dignity for all.
  • Non-Violence: Promoting peaceful conflict resolution.
  • Gender Equality: Guaranteeing equal opportunities for everyone.
  • Cultural Identity: Preserving Palestinian heritage and community values.

Strategic Goals

  1. Strengthen democratic values, freedom of expression and tolerance.
  2. Empower youth and women in leadership and civic roles.
  3. Provide psychosocial and humanitarian support to conflict-affected communities.
  4. Create platforms for cultural and intercultural dialogue.
  5. Advocate for Palestinian national rights, including return and self-determination.
  6. Build institutional capacity of civil-society organizations, especially during crises.

Program Areas

  1. Women & Youth Empowerment
    • Leadership, civic engagement and advocacy training programs.
    • Economic empowerment initiatives, including entrepreneurship support.
  2. Psychosocial Support & Mental Health
    • Trauma-informed care for women, youth and civil-society workers.
    • Group support sessions, recovery workshops and resilience-building activities.
  3. Promoting Internal Civil Peace
    • Dialogue workshops on conflict resolution and social cohesion.
    • Awareness campaigns on tolerance, diversity and peaceful coexistence.
  4. Civic Engagement & Human Rights
    • Workshops on human rights, citizenship and democratic values.
    • Youth-led initiatives to boost civic participation.
  5. Cultural & Artistic Expression
    • Community theater, participatory media and cultural storytelling.
    • Events that preserve and promote Palestinian identity and heritage.
  6. Humanitarian Aid & Emergency Relief
    • Distribution of essential aid and food to vulnerable and displaced populations.
    • Emergency response programs addressing urgent needs during crises.
  7. Institutional Development & Partnerships
    • Capacity-building for grassroots organizations and local civil-society actors.
    • Strategic partnerships with regional and international institutions to enhance impact.

Where We Work

HCCD operates across all governorates of the Gaza Strip: North Gaza, Gaza City, Middle Area, Khan Younis and Rafah.

Networks & Memberships

  • Member of the Palestinian NGO Network (PNGO) — Culture, Youth, Education & Protection sectors.
  • Partner with the United Nations OCHA — Education & Protection clusters.