Hi Everyone!  Thanks for visiting my fundraising page! On November 1, 2009 I will be running the New York City Marathon to raise money for Etgarim, a charity whose mission is close to my heart. Etgarim (which means challenges in Hebrew) was established in 1995 as a non-profit organization by a group of disabled Israel Defense Force (IDF) veterans and rehabilitation experts. The principal aims of the organization are to enable children, adolescents, and adults with special needs to realize their optimum potential, to enhance their abilities, and to integrate within society at large. These aims are achieved through outdoor and adventure training. Through educational rehabilitation, Etgarim facilitates personal growth, enhanced self-confidence, the nurturing of excellence, and improved self-esteem.  To date, Etgarim has opened up a new world and a variety of options for over half a million Israelis. Today over 5,000 children and teenagers with different disabilities participate in its activities, as well as 700 adults from over 100 communities around Israel.

 

Today there are some 50,000 special needs children in Israel. Their disabilities range from physical disabilities to autism, Downs syndrome, trauma, and paralysis. Of those 50,000, Etgarim reaches only 5,000. This year Etgarim has set itself the goal of expanding the programs to reach even more children.

 

Please help me help Etgarim's mission by making a donation.  On November 1, as I complete my own "challenge" of running 26.2 miles throughout New York City, I will be thinking about all of your generosity and the individuals that we will be helping.  Thank you!!