Celebrating our Diversity

Israel Elwyn

1 day ago

On Holocaust Remembrance Day, we remember those who were murdered, honor the survivors, and carry their stories forward.

The story of Meir Heller z”l, who survived Auschwitz as a child, reminds us not only of the depths of cruelty, but also of the strength of life, dignity, and humanity. Meir, who was a service recipient in Israel Elwyn's programs for many years, left a lasting impact on our work. His simple request, to retire with dignity, helped drive a change that led to the development of retirement programs for people with intellectual disabilities.

On this day, we remember Meir and renew our commitment to building a society that sees every person as fully human, with the right to dignity, choice, and a meaningful life.

We invite you to read this moving article about the life and legacy of Meir Heller z”l:
www.israelnationalnews.com/news/425434 ... See MoreSee Less

Israel Elwyn

2 weeks ago

“People with autism are first and foremost people. Each one is different from the other” 🧠💙

In honor of International Autism Awareness Day, which will be marked this coming weekend, we choose to highlight people’s stories. Not definitions. Not labels. People.

Meet Elad Manor (25) from Haifa.

Elad lives independently in an apartment with a roommate, supported by the Independent Community Living team of Israel Elwyn, with guidance from direct support staff member Yulia Greenberg and coordinator Reut Zilka Danan.

Less than a year ago, Elad was exempt from the army after completing full service as a volunteer in a counter-terrorism unit, and even received a Unit Excellence Award, a moment he defines as one of the most meaningful in his life.

Today, Elad works as a climbing instructor at two climbing gyms in Haifa, Boulder and Kir Yoav, and continues to build an independent, active, and meaningful life.

But beyond the achievements, what stands out about Elad is the journey.

The ability to persist, to grow, to acquire life skills, to navigate public transportation, to work, to dream, and above all, to choose every day to keep moving forward.

And when asked about his dreams, the answer is simple and precise: to be in a good and healthy relationship, to build a family, and to advance professionally until he becomes a physiotherapist.

Maybe that says it all, in one sentence.

Finally, our sincere thanks to our partners, the Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs and the Joint Israel, for their guidance, support, and trust along the way. ... See MoreSee Less

Israel Elwyn

4 weeks ago

Sometimes all it takes is one moment around a shared table
As every year, this year as well, our Supported Living Program team gathered for a shared Iftar meal to mark the end of the daily fast during the month of Ramadan.

Especially during this challenging period and the intense weeks we have all been through, it felt important to pause for a moment to sit together around one table, to share, to listen, and to remember the strength found in community and in the people who walk this journey together day after day.

And by the way, for those wondering- what is Iftar?
Iftar is the traditional meal eaten after sunset during the month of Ramadan. It marks the breaking of the fast and is also a moment of gathering, partnership, and mutual respect.

A big thank you to our dedicated team,
and special thanks to the kitchen staff for organizing and preparing everything with such care and heart. 💙 ... See MoreSee Less