TORONTO, ON, September 4, 2024 — Israel Magen Fund of Canada — Arbel Institute's Summer Conference trained 600 educators on trauma care to support Israeli children's mental health, made possible by Canadian donations. The event featured key experts, including Dr. Gilad Bodenheimer, the head of Israel's mental health system, and focused on schools affected by recent conflicts.
In the heart of Israel, where the scars of war and displacement run deep, the Arbel Institute has emerged as a beacon of hope and healing.
Renowned for its comprehensive psychological services, the institute employs over 80 multidisciplinary professionals, including clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and academic researchers. Together, they confront the complex mental health challenges that arise from the traumatic experiences of war, helping hundreds of thousands of individuals who have been deeply affected.
As conflicts and traumatic events have become an unfortunate reality for many in Israel, the prevalence of mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has risen significantly. The urgency of the situation is evident, with an estimated 8% to 20% of children, men, women, and soldiers in Israeli society expected to develop PTSD as a direct result of war. The need for psychological support and trauma intervention is more critical than ever. Since the events of October 7th, the consequences of trauma have become starkly evident, with 61% of children reporting significant distress, 45% of adults experiencing anxiety disorders, and a staggering 30% increase in requests for help following sexual abuse.
The Arbel Institute's 2024 Summer Conference
Amidst this backdrop of urgent need, the Arbel Institute's Summer Conference stood out as a pivotal moment in the collective effort to address Israel's mental health crisis. Thanks to the generous donations from the supporters of the Israel Magen Fund of Canada, the institute was able to host this event, which brought together 600 educators for critical training on trauma-related issues. The conference not only provided attendees with vital skills and insights but also represented a turning point in how the country is responding to the growing mental health challenges faced by its children and communities.
The event, attended by top experts in the field, was a monumental step in building the necessary framework to support those affected by trauma. One of the most prominent speakers was Dr. Gilad Bodenheimer, the head of Israel's mental health system. His participation underscored the importance of the event, as his presence highlighted the institute's role in shaping the country's approach to mental health. Dr. Bodenheimer's insights on trauma and recovery were invaluable to the educators and professionals in attendance, many of whom work directly with children and families impacted by the ongoing conflict.
A particularly poignant moment from the conference involved Merav, the director of Alonim School in the Gaza Envelope. Her school is one of the many that were directly affected by the tragic events of October 7th, with several of its children being kidnapped and many others brutally murdered. The Arbel Institute has had the privilege of supporting Merav and her school over the past year, offering crucial guidance and psychological aid as they navigate the aftermath of such unimaginable horror. The strength and resilience shown by Merav and her staff are a testament to the power of community and support in the face of adversity.
The conference served not only as a forum for learning but also as a space for healing. Educators who work on the front lines of Israel's trauma crisis were given the tools they need to support the children under their care. They learned how to recognize the signs of trauma, how to intervene effectively, and how to create environments where children can feel safe and supported. These skills are essential, as early intervention is key to preventing long-term psychological damage.
The highlight of the event was the closing remarks by the conference moderator, who took a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to the Israel Magen Fund community in Canada.
The generous donations from Canadian supporters made the entire event possible, providing the funding needed to organize the conference and bring together such a distinguished group of experts and educators. Without this support, the critical training provided at the conference might never have happened, leaving hundreds of educators without the resources they need to help children cope with their trauma.
The impact of this conference and the ongoing work of the Arbel Institute will be felt for years to come. By providing strategic training and support, the Institute is creating a foundation of strength and recovery, ensuring that children and communities can thrive despite the immense challenges they face. The educators who attended the conference will return to their schools with new skills and renewed hope, ready to make a real difference in the lives of the children they serve. This is the kind of impact your support can help us continue to make.
But the work is far from over. Trauma is not something that can be healed overnight. It requires ongoing support, not only from professionals like those at the Arbel Institute but also from communities around the world. The Canadian supporters of the Israel Magen Fund of Canada have already played a crucial role in this effort, but there is still so much more that can be done. Your continued support can help us make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by trauma.
Trauma Is No Child's Play
The Arbel Institute's work is not just about treating the symptoms of trauma—it's about building resilience, fostering recovery, and empowering communities to heal. With your support, we can continue to provide the training, resources, and care that Israeli children need to overcome the mental health challenges they face. Together, we can ensure that these children grow up not defined by their trauma but by their strength and their ability to thrive in the face of adversity.
Your donation can help create a brighter, healthier future for the children of Israel. Please consider making a contribution today.
How You Can Help
The Canadian community has the power to make a lasting difference in the lives of Israeli children affected by trauma. There are several ways you can continue to support the Arbel Institute's mission to provide critical mental health services to those in need:
By Cheque: You can send your donation by cheque, made payable to the "Israel Magen Fund of Canada," and mail it to our office at 41 Alvin Ave, Toronto, ON, M4T 2A7, Canada.
Via eTransfer: This method is quick, simple, and incurs no fees. To send an eTransfer, use the recipient email donate@imfoc.org.
Online Donation via Credit Card: For convenience, you can donate securely online using your credit card. Your donation will be processed immediately, ensuring prompt support for our cause. You can donate online at www.imfoc.org.
コメント