ALYNformation

In this issue 

As we look ahead, ensuring long-term support for ALYN means investing in younger leaders today. Through our Young Professionals initiative, AFAH is building a vibrant network dedicated to raising awareness, fostering community, and sustaining ALYN’s mission for generations to come. This has become a national movement with events held in Boston, NYC, LA, Chicago, and Austin. We recently hosted a Valentine’s Day–themed cocktail hour in Boston in partnership with Chai Life Boston, bringing together over 180 young Jewish professionals for a fun night of drinks. Our most recent event was Mind Over Wine in NYC , partnering with Moishe House UES and House of Lev, featuring mentalist Michael Samen. It’s shaping up to be an exciting night—good wine, great company, and a performance that’s all about surprises. conversation and plenty of bourekas and babka. Behind the scenes, we’ve also held a few meetings of our Young Professionals Committee as we work to expand the program and plan new ways for people to connect through future events and partnerships. We are always looking for people to join the committee. If you know anyone who may be interested, please reach out to Alex at alex@alynus.org . We’re looking forward to continuing the momentum with more events in the months ahead.

There is something extraordinary about the stretch of time we find ourselves in right now. We stand between two of the most spirited holidays on the Jewish calendar—Tu B’Shvat, the New Year of the Trees, and Purim, a celebration of resilience and joy. 

At ALYN Hospital, Purim isn't just another holiday. It's an experience — with the focus where it matters most: the children. From the moment families arrive, the halls are filled with laughter, music, and creative costumes that make every corner feel like a celebration. Kids and siblings donned vibrant masks and playful outfits, bringing playful energy to the hospital spaces. ALYN’s incredible team made sure that every child had a chance to take part in interactive Purim activities — from glittering art stations where they decorated groggers and crowns, to festive Purim décor that transforms the hospital into a world of color and imagination. Sweet holiday snacks are made special by the kids using the newly upgraded therapeutic kitchen with adjustable tables, sink, smart tech appliances, and wheelchair-friendly spaces. The delicious treats are shared throughout the day, and families and staff gather for moments of light-hearted fun that help brighten the routine of rehabilitation with the warmth of the holiday spirit. At ALYN, staff and families continuously come together to transform the day, year after year, into something truly special — a chance to create memories, share happiness, and make every child feel seen, cherished, and part of something in their journey towards independence.

In this issue 

By this point in January, most of us have already let go of at least a few New Year’s resolutions. Life gets busy, routines return, and good intentions often fall by the wayside. But at ALYN Hospital, there is no giving up.

Two new, innovative learning spaces have recently been unveiled at ALYN Rehabilitation Hospital , creating joyful environments where children and teens can learn, create, and connect while continuing their rehabilitation journeys. Designed with care, creativity, and intention, these multipurpose activity rooms reflect ALYN’s commitment to treating the whole child—not only through clinical therapy but also through play, exploration, and meaningful engagement. Filled with therapeutic toys, games, and hands-on activities, the spaces invite children to move, imagine, and interact in ways that feel natural and fun. One of the most exciting features is a ceiling-mounted projection system that brings interactive games directly onto the floor. These games encourage children to stand, walk, crawl, jump, and explore movement at their own pace—turning therapy into an experience that feels more like play. Through this innovative technology, mobility, coordination, and confidence are strengthened in an environment filled with laughter and encouragement.  These new spaces were made possible thanks to the support of SASA Setton and generous contributions from partners who believe deeply in ALYN’s mission. Their support is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact that thoughtful initiatives can have on young lives. At ALYN, every detail matters. These new learning spaces are more than rooms—they are places where children discover what they can do, build independence, and experience the joy of progress, one step, jump, or game at a time.

Over the past few months, our events have created space for people to connect—through movement, learning, and shared experiences—while getting to know the work of American Friends of ALYN Hospital (AFAH). We kicked things off with a Barry’s Bootcamp class in Chelsea with Barry's , Empowered2Sweat, Moishe House, and Jukebox. These high-energy events brought together people from different circles and sparked new connections around a shared goal. Later in December, we gathered in Miami for a Challah Braid & Learn in Aventura—an evening filled with conversation, tradition, and learning—followed by a Pilates class in Miami Beach with Club Allenby that offered a more relaxed way to come together. Across all of these events, the focus stayed the same: building relationships and raising awareness for AFAH’s mission.

In this issue 

As we approach the close of 2025 and look ahead to 2026, I find myself reflecting on just how much we have accomplished together—and feeling deeply grateful for the community that made it all possible. This past year has been one of meaningful growth, connection, and impact for American Friends of ALYN Hospital. At the heart of it all has been our shared commitment to ensuring that the children of ALYN continue to receive the world-class, compassionate care they deserve. One of the highlights of the year was, once again, our strong participation in the annual Wheels of Love Bike Ride in Israel. Wheels of Love is more than a ride—it is a powerful expression of solidarity, determination, and love for ALYN and its children. Seeing riders come together from around the world to support the hospital remains one of the most inspiring reminders of what this community can accomplish.

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After a tragic road accident that nearly cost him his leg, Amri spent months in rehabilitation at ALYN Hospital before returning home to his friends and family—and along the way, his parents shared a message that stayed with us: "In a magical city, between mountains and quiet neighborhoods, there is a place like no other. Anyone lucky enough to arrive here discovers something wondrous, a home filled with superheroes disguised as everyday heroes, angels in the form of nurses and caregivers, and musicians conducting the orchestra in the shapes of doctors and therapists. Four months ago, we came here lost and hurting. Between long days and longer nights, within the walls of the ward, you lit a light for us, a light of gentleness, of patience, of boundless humanity. In a difficult time, you became our anchor, the steady hand that held us when our strength trembled, and the wide, wordless embrace that carried us forward. You do not only heal wounds, you also restore faith. You do not only treat the body, you also touch the soul. Thank you for being the light in our healing journey, for turning pain into hope…"

In this issue 

Wheels of Love 2025 is now “in the books,” and what an extraordinary ride it was. More than 320 participants from over 10 countries came together with a single purpose: to ride on behalf of the children of ALYN Hospital. Despite unusually high temperatures in northern Israel, the week was filled with camaraderie, beautiful landscapes, challenging routes, and a shared sense of mission. The hotel and food were outstanding, the atmosphere was warm, and—most importantly—our riders have already raised over $2.3 million to support ALYN Hospital, Israel’s premier pediatric and adolescent rehabilitation center. For someone who isn’t able to ride, it was deeply inspiring to witness the strength of this community. Time and again, riders spoke about not only supporting ALYN’s life-changing work, but also standing with the people of Israel—particularly those in the north who have faced two extremely difficult years of war and displacement. This commitment was especially evident during a special pre-ride solidarity day held on Sunday. 

This November, we are kicking off the month with community, movement, and more! November 3–6, you joined us in Israel at Wheels of Love and were able to see firsthand the incredible multi-disciplinary approaches ALYN Hospital uses to make each child’s state-of-the-art therapy fun, effective, and long-lasting, allowing them to ride with us through the mountains of Galilee and beyond!  Whether it be hydrotherapy on the rooftop pool, physical therapy and diagnosing using Virtual Reality, or mobility exercises in the hospital, each form of therapy is crafted by a team of experienced experts who prioritize reintegration and management of the patient and family needs inside and outside the hospital. And it all starts with getting active.

In this issue 

Every day, children at ALYN push boundaries and take new steps toward independence. By following us on social media, you’ll get a front-row seat to their inspiring stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates on how American Friends of ALYN supports these incredible children. We’re now on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn —and most recently, TikTok ! Our feeds offer more than just updates: you’ll see the dedication of ALYN’s therapists, get a glimpse inside our innovation space, PELE, and witness the amazing progress children achieve every day. You’ll also stay up to date on Wheels of Love, Heels of Love, our Young Professionals Program, and other events that help raise awareness for ALYN and AFAH. When you follow, like, share, or comment, you’re helping spread awareness and grow our community of supporters. Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and TikTok to see hope in action and help children reach their fullest potential.