Matnas Arava is an organization for the advancement of the Arava Community. The Central Arava Regional Council was established in 1978 and its residents are sparsely scattered in an arid dessert with sharp climate changes and extreme topographic conditions. Due to the fact that it is an area of strictly limited resources, a sense of community is central to preserving reasonable living standards in this unique, pristine region. The regional council has delegated Matnas Arava to carry out all cultural/informal educational activities for all ages. These include cultural and sport events, youth activities (trips, camps, etc.), afterschool activities and classes (that also support at-risk youth, those with learning disabilities, and gifted children), art, dance, and music programs, a special program for the elderly, and more.