Israeli Sailing Team Surfs With Special Needs Children

Fifteen members of Israel's national sailing teams participated in a volunteer day with the families of the "Beit Al Hayam" (House on the Sea) association. The event, initiated by windsurfer Tomer Vardimon and supported by the Olympic Committee of Israel, took place last Friday at Beit Al Hayam in Herzliya. Athletes engaged in surfing activities with children with special needs and their families, concluding with a Kabbalat Shabbat ceremony.

Vardimon, a national team member, has been volunteering with the association for six years, organizing surfing activities for children and their families. He sought to involve more teammates to experience the impact of working with these children and families, highlighting the reciprocal benefits of athletes contributing to society.

"As athletes, we have a responsibility to influence people, and we have the power to do so," Vardimon stated. "I see the power I have as an athlete and a person, how I've impacted people, how I've made their day, and how they've made mine. I learn a lot from these individuals. It's a two-way street."

He described the participants as individuals facing significant challenges with physical disabilities and special needs, approaching them with inspiring resilience. "The power of giving is what's at play here. As athletes, we can impart the values we develop daily to those around us, and in return, we receive inspiration and motivation," he added, emphasizing the connection between representing the country in competitions and supporting these individuals.

The event was held at Beit Al Hayam, which operates the country's only accessible surfing club in partnership with the Herzliya Municipality. Attendees included Herzliya Mayor Yariv Fischer, Deputy Mayor Dana Oren Yanai, Olympic Committee CEO Adi Bichman, and VP Yarden Har-Lev.

Shai Viter, a co-founder of Beit Al Hayam, expressed pride in the collaboration with the Olympic sailors, recognizing the therapeutic and educational impact of the sea and sports. He noted that the participants continually break boundaries when they come to the sea.

Olympic champion Tom Reuveni shared that Beit Al Hayam is a place that provides great strength and empowerment to both families and volunteers. He called the day one of his most significant volunteer experiences, praising Vardimon's initiative and expressing a strong desire to return and volunteer again, recommending others to contribute to good causes.

Beit Al Hayam utilizes the power of the sea and community to support populations with special needs, IDF veterans, and trauma survivors. Last year, the association served 1,500 children and youth with special needs and at-risk youth, 250 families, and 450 volunteers. The Azrieli Foundation supports the "Families on the Sea" program, under which this event took place, ensuring all family members participate equally.