Netanya Mayor Awards ZAKA Volunteer Group with 2026 City Volunteer Honor

In a ceremonial event held at the Netanya Culture Hall, Mayor Avi Salama presented the 2026 City Volunteer Award to the ZAKA organization. This year's award, themed "The Lion's Roar," recognized the dedicated efforts of ZAKA volunteers in serving the city's residents, especially during emergency situations. The award ceremony was led by the Welfare Department and attended by Welfare Director Ruti Gur, Deputy Director Limor Itskovitz, and Community Resources Manager Efrat Baruch.

The honor was received by Eliezer Lifshitz, head of the ZAKA Netanya team, and his deputy, Hezki Reich, who lead the team’s year-round activities. Mayor Salama praised the volunteers as emblematic of Netanya's spirit of volunteerism, highlighting their professionalism and sensitivity. Lifshitz accepted the award on behalf of all volunteers and their families, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to the community.

Etti Yosef, head of the Netanya Volunteer Department, commended ZAKA volunteers for their meaningful and dedicated service. Israel Godlevsky, commander of ZAKA Sharon region, expressed gratitude for the recognition and the partnership with the city, pledging continued support for Netanya residents in all missions.