(Courtesy of Migdal Ohr) This past weekend, a team of passionate, driven (and somewhat crazy) individuals woke up early, laced up their sneakers, and headed out to the rolling hills of Coatesville, Pennsylvania to take on the Tough Mudder, an epic 5-15K challenge course filled with mud, climbing walls and grueling obstacles.
They didn’t do it for the trophies, photo ops or the adrenaline. They did it to support thousands of orphaned and underprivileged children in Israel to overcome the obstacles that they are facing.
Especially after Oct. 7, there have been many opportunities to help Israel, and now people are looking for ways to make a difference beyond donations. The incredible ambassadors embraced the Tough Mudder as the ultimate opportunity to get down and dirty while championing a cause close to their hearts.
Migdal Ohr: A Cause Worth Sweating For
Migdal Ohr is one of Israel’s most respected networks of social welfare institutions, raising over 10,000 at-risk youth, children who come from broken homes, poverty, and trauma. The network is made up of over 24 different organizations, from youth villages to family-style dorms, schools, youth groups, career training programs, and more.
The money raised by the Tough Mudder team is already hard at work, creating opportunities for children who will become the future soldiers, business owners, parents, and leaders of Israel. Migdal Ohr provides everything from food and housing to emotional support, schools, extracurriculars, and even mentorship once graduates get married. The funds raised by the team are directly paying for the essentials, education and empowerment that children need to grow into capable, successful adults.
Creating a Better Future for Israel With Each Muddy Mile
What made the Tough Mudder experience truly unique wasn’t just the mud (though there was a lot of it), it was the unity, the encouragement and the sense of shared purpose between the team members who didn’t even all know each other before the race. They pushed themselves beyond their limits, and in doing so, helped kids halfway across the world.
Noam Rothner, 23, a student at Touro College) captured the day beautifully: “It was awesome — exhilarating even! From the group experience to the great food to the energy, Migdal Ohr took care of every detail. I can’t wait to tell others about it and to continue to be involved!”
Yehuda Marcus, 38, from Teaneck said, “I left the day on such a high. It was unlike anything I’ve ever done and a way to really feel the plight of kids in Israel. It’s such an amazing cause and doing the Tough Mudder with a team for good just solidified my desire to be more active and tell others.”
From the opening pep talk to the final muddy hugs, the day was a testament to the impact that can be made when the Jewish community comes together, proudly and visibly, as Jews supporting Israel.
Support Israel With Your Entire Being: Join the 2026 Team!
Participants do not necessarily have to train for months. If a potential participant is open to pushing themselves, the team will encourage them through the obstacles. It’s a meaningful way to get the word out and to get involved in a cause that is changing children’s lives every day.
Mickey Flaumenhaft, the director of development at American Friends of Migdal Ohr, said, “This was the first time we’ve ever done something like this, but definitely not the last! It’s amazing to see the energy that people brought and how their passion grew after going through something like this together.”
He continued, “We’re building a community of support for children in Israel and looking for new and different ways to help you show your love for Israel. Thanks to everyone who came out to get muddy. You made a real difference to children who were counting on us! We’re already planning for Tough Mudder in the spring of 2026. You too can get dirty to make a difference for Israel.”
To learn more or sign up, reach out to Mickey Flaumenhaft at mickey@migdalohrusa.org. Learn more about American Friends of Migdal Ohr at migdalohrusa.org or call (212) 397-3700.
