Jerusalem—On Friday, March 21, over 25,000 runners took to the streets of Jerusalem, running either a full or half marathon, or 10K, to raise funds and awareness for their favorite cause. Among these were Bergen County natives, both younger and older, visiting, studying in or even living in Israel. For those cheering from home, The Jewish Link of Bergen County has highlighted a few of the runners for “Team Bergen County” in the 2014 Jerusalem Winner Marathon:

Ahuva Ehrenberg

From: Teaneck (Beth Aaron)

Now: Studying at Midreshet HaRova, Jerusalem

Ran with: Team Yachad

“I ran with Team Yachad because I, along with many other girls from my school, am involved with Yachad Israel. It’s a really great organization that helps create activities for those with special needs, and a very, very, worthy cause. To contribute to Team Yachad through supporting Ahuva’s run, please visit http://jerusalem.teamyachad.com/runner/Ahuva_ehren/.

Avital Silver

From: Teaneck (Rinat Yisrael)

Now: Studying at Tiferet Center, Ramat Bet Shemesh

Ran With: Team Yachad

“I ran with Team Yachad because the organization is truly flourishing here in Israel, with events almost every week, and shabatonim once a month. Yachad has integrated events for young adults with special needs and yeshiva and seminary students, and anyone else who wants to be involved. I have been to a couple of events, and the atmosphere is truly amazing and indescribable.” To contribute to Team Yachad through supporting Avital’s run, please visit http://jerusalem.teamyachad.com/runner/avitals36/

Esther Simchi

From: Fair Lawn (Shomrei Torah)

Now: Studying at MMY (Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim), Jerusalem

Ran With: One Family Fund

“This organization helps victims of terror in many different ways, including providing emotional, financial and medical aid. The team acts as a family unit and shows care and compassion to any victim of terror. I chose to run with One Family because I felt that running through the streets of Jerusalem with an Israeli organization that deals with the protection and assistance of Israeli citizens shows the resilience and strength of Am Yisrael. The beauty of the Jerusalem Marathon is that all types of Jews from all over participate by helping different organizations, all in support of Israel and the Jews of the world at large. A huge part of Judaism is Tikkun Olam and being an Or LaGoyim, which is perfectly shown in this marathon. To contribute to One Family Fund by supporting Esther’s run, please visit https://www.teamonefamily.org/esthersimchi

Leora Zomick

From: Teaneck (Young Israel)

Now: Studying in Sha’alavim for Women, Jerusalem

RanWith: Team HASC

“I ran as part of Team HASC because I have worked in Camp HASC for two summers and will be returning for my third as a counselor. The work HASC does is extraordinary and by running I am raising money toward scholarships so that more people with special needs can be part of the magic that is “heaven on earth.” To contribute to Team HASC by supporting Leora’s run, please visit http://www.hasc.net/marathon/israel/my/leorazomick

By Tzvi Silver