By Rivka Werner
Shalva is an Israeli organization that supports Israel’s disabled children of different denominations and backgrounds. We have the incredible opportunity of being a member of Team BAS Toronto for the Marathon; we are one of 12 different international school groups running for Team Shalva in the annual Jerusalem Marathon. Our team arrived in Israel a few days early and have been enjoying uplifting sight-seeing and touring.
We started by visiting Nivei Michael, an orphanage for children who cannot live at home. There, we got to meet and play with the amazing kids. After hearing about the heart-wrenching backgrounds of the kids at Nivei Michael, our team was imbued with a strong appreciation for all the blessings in our lives, and a sense of empathy for those less fortunate. The positive attitude of many of Nivei Michael’s kids was truly an astonishing result of the selfless dedication of the loving and caring volunteers and staff. In the evening, we had a pre-Purim party and stayed there overnight.
The next day, we headed to Jerusalem, where we visited Har Herzl and Yad Vashem, both of which were incredibly inspiring experiences. In the afternoon, we toured the Har Nof Shalva facility and heard about their forthcoming, highly advanced new centre. Visiting Har Herzl was a very meaningful experience. Standing by Herzl’s grave made me realize how much positive influence every individual can have, and how much more can we accomplish if we stand together for a mutual cause – as does Team BAS Toronto for Shalva. Hearing from the mother of an IDF soldier killed in battle was an emotional experience 
as well, and really gave us strong appreciation for the protectors of Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael.
Participating in the marathon today was a truly unique experience. All along the way there were crowds of people who were cheering us on. They really gave off a strong feeling of achdut, of unity. At the end of the marathon, many people didn’t go down to the tents to relax. Instead, they went to the sidelines to cheer other runners on, which further contributed to the aura of achdut.
A huge shout out to Rav Yair, Mrs Cohen, and Mrs Weinberg for this well-planned life changing experience.
