After detailed and strategic planning, Alei Siach held an exciting and important retreat for parents of special needs children. Feedback following the event showed that it accomplished the goal of providing a necessary respite to these parents, who dedicate enormous time, energy, and effort to care lovingly for their special children. The retreat offered a rare opportunity for them to relax, catch their breath, regain strength, and have an inner renewal.

The retreat began midday on Tuesday. Parents gathered at meeting points around the country to travel together to the destination. They set off on buses offering a warm and welcoming ambiance, loaded with snack packages and drinks for the journey. Upon arrival at the beautiful Nir Etzion Hotel, nestled in the picturesque Carmel region, they were warmly greeted with smiles by Alei Siach’s friendly staff, who had prepared each room with a welcome packet complete with an activity itinerary, bottled drinks, snacks, sweets, and a comforting touch of home.

After settling in and resting briefly from their travels, guests explored six activity stations that offered activities including a photo booth with on-site printing, hands-on experiential workshops, and food and drink tasting stations, including coffee, pastries, Belgian waffles, and other delights. In the evening, guests were treated to special entertainment programs and a delicious dinner.

On Wednesday morning, guests were inspired by Rabbi Yisrael Goldwasser and a special presentation featuring Uri Hanan, a survivor of the October 7 massacre, who shared how he was saved due to his recitation of Shema. Members of the audience emotionally conveyed how moved and strengthened they were by his experience. Other lectures, by Rabbi Nathan Rosen and Rabbi Mordechai Segal, offered insights on faith, inner struggles, and inner strength.

That evening, a moving tribute was held to mark 35 years of Alei Siach’s activities. Hosted by media personality Rabbi Shlomo Kook, the evening included live entertainment by the singer Oziel Deitch, Neshama Choir, and the orchestra of Yehuda Hirshenbaum. It was well-organized by R’ Ephraim Silberger and the renowned production company, Effect, with meticulous attention down to the last detail. They created an unforgettable evening that left a strong impression on the hundreds of parents, staff members, and guests who participated.

On Thursday morning, the final day of the retreat, guests attended an educational and informative panel. It was chaired by media personality Rabbi Shlomo Kook and participating panelists included Rabbi Moshe Einhorn, Principal of Beit Binah Seminary, leading social worker Rabbi Shmuel Posner, and a parent, Rabbi Yehuda Zaks, who shared insights on parenting children with special needs from their experiences.

The positive feedback has been overwhelming. Parents at the retreat enthusiastically shared that this was unlike any retreat they had experienced, with an incomparable combination of enriching content, non-stop activities, scrumptious meals, and attention to the small details.

“This really gives us tremendous strength to move forward, learn more about Alei Siach, meet more of their team, and obtain greater appreciation what they do for us parents. We don’t take any of it for granted.”

Alei Siach, we agree that these three days had a personal, touching impact that confirmed the importance of providing support to parents.