With 34 students, Ma’ayanot’s Team Shalva sent their largest delegation yet to run in the Jerusalem Marathon on Friday, March 15, with their advisers. Arriving on Thursday, the group immediately got to work volunteering at a Purim carnival at the Shalva National Children’s Center, which provides services for 2,000 people with disabilities. Prior to the race, the group enjoyed a concert by the Shalva Band and a pasta party. The weekend included an inspiring shabbaton in Jerusalem, a concert with Nissim Black and trips to Caesarea and the Old City of Jerusalem.

“Running alongside teens from all over the world was extremely fulfilling and the ruach lasted through the weekend,” said sophomore Adira Sklar. “Seeing all of the children at the Shalva Center and the amazing amenities that the Shalva Center provides made me realize that the fundraising and publicity that my peers and I have been doing all year is really going to a great organization.”

“It was a really inspiring trip, and I really felt like I made a difference,” added sophomore Aliza Cohn.

Sophomore Leorah Burack joined the Shalva team and visited Israel for the first time. “Running the 10K along with Team Shalva in the Jerusalem Marathon was an amazing experience. I was able to see all the wonderful things Shalva is doing, the beautiful Shalva campus, the inspiring Shalva band and of course the amazing Shalva kids,” she said. “This was my first time in Israel and for the first time I felt a deep connection to our country. I was so exhilarated running through the streets of Jerusalem, taking in the Kotel and the people. I was able to spend time with friends and family at the shuk and enjoy the local restaurants. This trip was the most meaningful, fulfilling and amazing experience I have ever had and I highly recommend it to everyone!” Collectively, Ma’ayanot’s runners raised nearly $100K for Shalva.