Engaging in sports teaches kids so many life lessons. They learn about rules, discipline, boundaries, cooperation and more. Dr. Rutie Pilz-Burstein has dedicated a good part of her life to sports and research on its impact. Using those years of experience and study led her to begin Sport-Bridge to Education which operates in many youth villages and utilizes different sports activities to reach vulnerable youth who have lost their way.
Israel
Collective Lavo B’tov
Often, people with disabilities lack social contacts and meaningful support. Shoshi Margolin and Rachel Kolette Wheeler, originally mentee and mentor, have come together to found Collective Lavo B’tov, a colloquialism that refers to having a good attitude. Collective Lavo B’tov is one project within a larger effort that empowers those with disabilities who are often isolated and provides them with community and support. As Israel navigates the trauma of October 7 and an ongoing war, Lavo B’tov’s programming removes the isolation and provides a community of caring and compassion for disabled people.
Our funds are directed to start-up costs for this new venture.
Waves of Hope
In his youth, Eliyahu Ben Zion was drawn to the power of the sea and became an Israeli surfing champion. At 19, he adopted a more religious lifestyle and eventually was encouraged to use his surfing talents for something new.
Throughout Israel’s religious communities there are disaffected youth who have left school and community. With no support system they often fall prey to anti-social behavior. It is for these youth, both young men and women, that Eliyahu created a unique therapeutic program. “It is amazing to see how with just one small push on the surfboard you can see a child succeed,” Eliyahu says. As he puts it, “The obstacles of the sea teach them to cope with the barriers and difficulties in their lives.”
“When I enter the water, I empty all of my thoughts,” says Dovid, one of the program’s graduates.
Our funds are used for a new class for girls.
Brit Ha’Leviot
When Leora’s daughter Nili was 15, she shared that she felt uncomfortable in her body. For two years, Nili’s mental health deteriorated, until she met with a therapist who helped her through her gender transition.
What do parents do in that kind of situation? Seeking support, Leora came upon the work of Brit Ha’Leviot. “At first it was rough. I cried about…how bad things are…. But “the alliance of lionesses encouraged me … I found people who understood what I was going through,” Leora says.
In 2016, Merav Livni Keish joined with three other mothers of trans kids to address these new challenges. Their mutual support evolved into Brit Ha’Leviot, an organization now dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of trans and gender diverse children, supporting their families, transforming institutions and educating Israeli society at large.
Our matching funds are directed to administrative expenses.
Tag Meir
Gadi Gvaryahu began Tag Meir in 2011 to address racism in Israel and to help solidify a more democratic and humanitarian society informed by Jewish values. Members of the organization come from all sectors of the Israel Jewish and Arab communities as well as from other established social justice organizations. All share a deep desire for a more just and compassionate society.
Israeli Transgender Association
Guided by her own difficult journey, Linor Abergel, a trans woman, found her way out of prostitution to establish a Tel Aviv community center that offers other women in similar circumstances a safe space, nourishing food, clothing, cultural activities and educational opportunities. Linor has also become an advisor to Knesset members on issues important to her community.
Our grant provides funds for individuals who find themselves in need of emergency support.
