ORT Programs

ORT was created in 1880 in Russia, to teach Jews from the countryside skills that would enable them to find work in the cities. Thereafter, whenever Jews emigrated to a new country, ORT set up shop to empower them with the skills they would need to succeed.

In time, ORT grew into a non-sectarian, global organization empowering individuals of all religions, races and creeds with the skills needed to succeed in the marketplace of the day. Today, ORT has a presence in 55 countries and has helped millions pursue fruitful careers and contribute to society. ORT schools are top-quality, offering science, math and the latest cutting-edge high-tech education to empower individuals with the most important skills required in today’s workforce.


ORT Around the World

ORT Around The World

ORT in Asia ORT Programs ORT in Africa ORT's Kadima Mada Program ORT in the CIS ORT in the Europe ORT in the United States ORT in Latin America

ORT in Michigan

Through parent organizations like ORT America and World ORT, much-needed funds are raised to allow these programs to continue free-of-charge to many students. Locally, ORT America Michigan Region raises money to fund programs like the David B. Hermelin ORT Resource Center.

ORT schools, including the David B. Hermelin ORT Resource Center, offer some of the most cutting-edge, innovative technology classes in the world. At Hermelin ORT, under-employed and unemployed Michigan residents build computer, Internet and job-search skills through a variety of classes, most of which are made available free-of-charge thanks to fundraising efforts by ORT America and generous private donations.

Hermelin ORT is governed by an Advisory Committee to promote and advocate for its programs as well as a Business Advisory Group of prominent local leaders who provide business expertise to the Center staff and students in the BJO program.

Globally, ORT co-operates with industry and is supported by an international membership of more than a quarter of a million people. ORT has consultative status for information and education purposes with UNESCO, and observer status at the ILO (International Labor Organization).

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What People Are Saying
“ORT is helping unemployed and underemployed people in Michigan receive the tech and computer skills they need to gain employment. This [Rub-a-Dub] program is wildly successful. It’s oversold, it’s helping numerous people from all walks of life. When times get difficult, you want to help out as much as you can right here at home. This event makes that happen.”

Randy Wertheimer,
President of Hunter Pasteur Homes and a Rub-a-Dub co-chair


“Rub‑a‑ Dub is one of the most fun events of the summer. ORT is a powerful organization – it sends a powerful message about the importance of education and training. ORT really does a great job of reaching citizens in our community who can use the help and need the support.”

Steven J. Tapper,
Vice President of ORT Michigan and Rub-a-Dub Co-chair


“ORT and by extension, Rub-a-Dub, have been a part of my family tradition for more than 27 years. My parents committed a large part of their volunteer and philanthropic lives advancing the ORT mission of providing education and training to people across the globe. Rub-a-Dub marries the fun of a summer evening barbecue with fundraising for ORT in Michigan and abroad.”

Brian Hermelin


“ORT has impacted the education of our community and the world for 130 years – and Rub-a-Dub is the biggest fundraiser for ORT locally, started by my late husband as a fluke in our garage. Rub-a-Dub has come to mean something very special to so many – it’s a spirited event that involves so many members of our community of all ages.”

Doreen Hermelin,
Past president of ORT America


“Dan and I are so thrilled that our family is involved with Camp Hermelin and with ORT. The mission and the goals of ORT are values that everyone can get on board with. What better mission is there than to empower people to be self-sufficient?”

Jennifer Gilbert,
Camp Hermelin co‑chair


“[Camp Hermelin] is ORT’s only event for the entire family – for several generations, even. This is a wonderful opportunity to have a conversation with your kids about the importance of giving back. To empower people to succeed is the best goal there is.”

Rachel Zimmerman,
Camp Hermelin co-chair