As Jewish communities around the world commemorate the third anniversary of the October 7, 2023, the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo is honored to welcome representatives and graduates of Orr Shalom, one of Israel’s leading nonprofit organizations serving children, youth, and young adults at risk and an Israeli charity supported by the Toledo Jewish Community Foundation through the Gerald Getz Fund for Israeli Children’s Charities.

Orr Shalom provides safe homes, therapeutic care, educational support, and long-term guidance to young people who have been removed from their homes because of abuse, neglect, or other serious circumstances. Its Graduate Program supports hundreds of young adults throughout Israel as they transition into independent adulthood, providing mentoring, higher-education assistance, employment guidance, and a lasting network of care.

Since October 7, 2023, Israelis have faced extraordinary hardship brought about by war, prolonged military reserve duty, displacement, economic strain, and widespread emotional trauma. These challenges have placed additional pressure on Israel’s most vulnerable young people, making Orr Shalom’s work more urgent than ever.

During this special visit, members of the Toledo Jewish community will meet Rina Edelstein, Orr Shalom’s Vice President of Resource Development, as well as Graduate Program participants Eden Suissa and Tomer Mayorov. Through their personal stories, Eden and Tomer will share the life-changing impact of Orr Shalom’s programs and the importance of providing at-risk young adults with stability, opportunity, and hope.

By bringing together remembrance and meaningful action, this visit will provide the Toledo Jewish community with an opportunity not only to mourn those who were lost, but also to stand in solidarity with the people of Israel and support the next generation as they rebuild their lives.