Handicapped
Should Every Disabled Child Get a Jewish Education?
As the number of children diagnosed with disabilities grows, Jewish schools face two vexing questions: Do parents have a right to expect those children to be served? And at what price?
Anyone can rise to the challenge
A groundbreaking non-profit in Israel allows disabled people to join in sporting activities from sailing to waterskiing to extreme sports. Etgarim (www.etgarim.org was formed to help handicapped Israelis take part in outdoor sports and extreme sports. The non-profit organization was founded in 1995 by two Israel Defense Force veterans who became disabled during their army service. The two saw that there was no equipment, facilities or activities for people with disabilities. Today, thanks to Etgarim, more than 5000 children and 700 adults participate in strenuous activities such as running, cycling, sailing and rope sports. The founders believe that the effects of the activities carry over into all areas of the participants’ lives, building confidence and self-esteem. Adi Schneider, international resource development manager at Etgarim, says results of the experiences are translated into improved performance at school and better relationships with family and friends. Etgarim’s activities allow participants to face challenges and overcome their fears — while having a fun and exciting time. Download links (copy/paste to browser): Streaming video: www.megaupload.com Download HiRes: www.megaupload.com Script: www.megaupload.com
Israel Accessibility Tour - Day 1
Day 1 Drive from Ben-Gurion Airport to the Old City of Jaffa. Jaffa is one of the oldest ports in Israel, existing for upward of 4000 years; it was from Jaffa that Jonah set out before being swallowed by the whale and it was here to which Solomon imported cedars from Lebanon for the construction of the first Temple in Jerusalem. At Kedumim Square in the heart of Old Jaffa you can tour the Visitor Center, which was built around authentic archaeological artifacts and remains. Enjoy an evening seaside walk at the Tel Aviv Port, with its galleries, restaurants and coffee shops, and on to the Yarkon Park to the north to meet the locals as they enjoy Tel Aviv’s “central park” strolling along the paved pathways. Overnight in Tel Aviv For additional itinerary suggestions, please see: www.goisrael.com