GIVING BACK TO THE ORIGINAL PIONEERS
Shortly after the People of Israel miraculously liberated the Biblical Heartland in 1967, bold and courageous pioneers seized the opportunity that finally arrived after centuries of tears and yearning——to restore the region to its former glory! So determined were these pioneers that many eagerly faced the challenge of replenishing and reviving the hot, scorching desert in the Jordan Valley. Starting in 1968, with new communities like Mechola, Gilgal and Argaman, these pioneers did the impossible! They developed a thriving agricultural sector and founded over twenty newly restored communities!
Over the past several years, the Jordan Valley Regional Council has given back to the region’s original pioneers, who are now living in their golden years, by establishing and running local senior clubs in eight communities. Each of the clubs offer a variety of activities specially suited to their age group, alleviating loneliness or accommodating disabilities that might otherwise prevent them from enjoying activities outside the home.
The most popular activity offered at the local clubs is an exercise class with professional instructors. After every class, the seniors leave with a restored sense of confidence in their ability to move around and live independently. The importance of such a class became most apparent over the past year, as citizens of all ages were forced to run for shelter every time a siren sounded. In such a scenario, improved mobility can literally make the difference between life and death or serious bodily injury.
- LOCATION: East of Samaria, west of the Jordan River
- BIBLICAL SIGNIFICANCE: After 40 years in the desert, the Children of Israel crossed the Jordan River and took their first steps in the Land of Israel
- NUMBER OF COMMUNITIES: 21
- POPULATION: 8,600
Hoping to build off the successes of its exercise class program, the Jordan Valley Regional Council needs your help to open a sports club at each of its local senior citizens centers. With your support, you will be rewarding the original pioneers of the Jordan Valley, now in their golden years, ensuring that they spend the rest of their lives in dignity and self-respect. Please give back to these dedicated and devoted pioneers!