Beit Hagalgalim - Provision of Weekend Breaks

The "House of Wheels" organization, which operates six branches nationwide for children, teens and adults with physical disabilities, enacted the following activities, with the help of our donors, the great work of the volunteers along with our partners:  

 Passover celebrations were enjoyed, Passover camps were held, which included lots of fun and entertainment, and in the Jerusalem branch students presented an exhibition of paintings which were presented to the public, andwe helda seminarhostedby "The Genesis" forthe volunteering guides within the organization.

Currently, we are raising funds for twenty four summer camps, provided to approximately 450 children, and youth who will enjoy five full days, of fun, activities and enjoyment. 

The main object of the Association is to integrate the handicapped person into society and to transform him into an active and contributing member (including integration in the creativity and work market).

The Association enables activities in a supportive environment of the guides / companions, who are volunteers, while placing an emphasis on developing the social skills and independence of the participants, as well as the opportunity to socialize and have fun like any other non-handicapped person of the same age.

Goals of the Association:

• Creating long term activities of relaxation, enrichment and development of personal and specific skills in the framework of weekends, activity classes, workshops and summer camps for youths and adolescents with physical disabilities.

• Job placement and training for graduates of the project.

• Nurturing leadership of young handicapped people who are graduates of the House of Wheels.

• Strengthening families in the process of their demanding care of their children and delay of residence outside the home.

• Creating a community of unique and involved volunteers.

• Creating solidarity among volunteers, professionals and families from different sectors, under a common goal of integrating the person with special needs into the community.

• Sending a message of openness, tolerance and patience in society.

Links:

• http://www.beitgalgalim.org.il/English/Default.aspx

The House of Wheels operates a variety of activities for children and adults with physical disabilities, with the help of volunteer guides, placing an emphasis on developing social skills and independence which is necessary for their integration into society, as well as the opportunity to socialize and have a good time.

The Association, which was established in 1979 by the Late Miriam Schwarcz, has six houses nationwide that are adapted to the needs of disabled persons.

The House of Wheels is a second home to over 450 disabled children, adolescents and adults, which is run with the help of a special and dedicated team of guides and more than 450 secular, religious, Jewish and non-Jewish volunteers from different parts of the country who represent a wide range of ideological and professional positions.

The Association’s activities includes weekend activities, classes and workshops throughout the week, day activities for adults, training apartments, life skills project, weekend vacations, summer camps, and  job placement and training for graduates. A prominent aspect of the activities is fun and recreation, but it includes also a deeper level of seriously confronting pain and difficulties.

Integrating people with physical disabilities into the community as active members with equal rights” – from the Association’s vision

Our website : http://www.beitgalgalim.org.il/English/Default.aspx

During the last three months, we continued our ongoing activities at all five branches such as weekend activities, classes, adult programs and more.

The Special activities that took place  :

1. Alumni Seminar – Once a year we organize a seminar for our alumni from all branches. The seminar that took place in Hertzelia focused on health related issues and included lectures and different activities. About 80 alumni participated in the seminar. .
2. Seminar for youth transition program - A 3-day seminar  that aimed to discuss the issue of  inspiration – what inspire us in people, in our work, etc.  About 50 youngsters, age 16 to 21 attended the seminar. In addition, it was a good opportunity to put together the group and work on communication skills.