December 2024 Newsletter
A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
In the United States, December ushers in a season of celebration, a time when people from all walks of life and diverse faiths come together as friends and colleagues to share in the spirit of the holidays. For the Jewish community, this is also the time when we celebrate Hanukkah, a holiday that symbolizes dedication. Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after the miraculous victory of the Jewish people in their three-year struggle against the Greeks.
Today, in Jerusalem, we continue to witness the power of dedication and miracles through the inspiring work being done at ALYN Hospital—Israel's leading pediatric rehabilitation center. Each day, there are stories of resilience and hope as children make incredible progress in overcoming significant challenges, whether congenital, due to illness, or the result of an accident. Regardless of the cause, one needs only to look at the faces of the children at ALYN to see the miracle of healing in action.
ALYN Hospital also embodies the spirit of unity that defines this time of year. The staff and patients come from diverse backgrounds: Jews and Muslims, secular and religious, young and old. It is a place where people set aside differences to work together on behalf of the children. As some have said, this is what peace in the Middle East will look like when it is finally achieved.
Then there is the greatest miracle of all: you, our supporters. It is truly extraordinary to see how thousands of people—from all over the USA—come together to support children in need half a world away.
For over 90 years, your generosity has played a pivotal role in enabling us to provide hope and healing to these children. Your unwavering support has made all the difference, and for that, we are deeply grateful.
Am Yisrael Chai. May 2025 be the year that brings us closer to peace.
REI’S WHEELS OF LOVE JOURNEY
Among the many cycling teams that participate in Wheels of Love, one stands out: the Swift & Bold. This year, one of the participants was Rei Levin, age 13, who was treated at ALYN for Perthes Disease, which affects the hip bone. Not only did Rei ride this year, but he also spoke and sang at the Wheels of Love closing ceremony.
FINDING LIGHT & HOPE AT ALYN HOSPITAL
This past summer, Stacy Wasserman, a Jewish educator and child advocate from Denver, spent time in Israel and found one of her trip’s highlights at ALYN Hospital. Stacy shares her experience with us, pointing to the effort and grace with which ALYN has “kept the darkness out” of the hospital in the post-October 7 world and embraced bringing light into the lives of the children treated there and their families.
WAYS TO MAKE YOUR YEAR-END GIFT
As the year draws to a close, there are several meaningful ways you can support ALYN Hospital's vital mission. However you choose to give, your generosity helps ensure we can continue providing essential care. To help you make the most of your year-end giving, we've outlined several convenient options that not only support our work but may also offer you valuable tax benefits as you plan your charitable contributions for the year.
Wishing you light and peace this Hanukkah.
From, The AFAH Board and Staff