Hoops 4 Israel

H4I Volunteer Dave Borins is making sweet music! LIVE!

2010-10-08T08:39:00.000-07:00

Dave Borins has been a committed volunteer to Hoops 4 Israel since 2008 and has recently been stepping up his influence in the Jewish community through an elite social media consultancy role to UJA Federation in an effort to bring more love to our homeland Israel online. Although Dave's altruism and contribution back to the Jewish community has been exemplary since his Birthright Israel trip in 2006, his real passion is his love for creating music and performing for all types of audiences. Although we cannot truly do justice for the impact Dave has had on the Canadian music scene, feel free to follow this link to the recent article published by the Canadian Jewish News.

Amazing Stat on Dave's Musical Efforts:

In just 2 years he has performed in over 250 shows!

Borins on the cover of his last album: 'The Lucky Ones' in 2009

Borins has embarked on a career defining decision to create a LIVE album October 20th & 21st at one of the most legendary venues friends can go to see a gig in Toronto - Hugh's Room. Apparently, the recording will be live, with the entrance fee to the show going towards the creation of this independent album. Not only do we encourage you to come support one of Toronto's best Jewish musicians, but use this opportunity as a night to network and bring some friends as Hugh's room has great food and room to make a night of it at.

Borins singing the national anthem at H4I in 2009

For more info or to hear some tracks by Dave Borins and his eclectic musical colleagues, please visit www.daveborins.com

B.Y.O.B. (Birthright on Bat Yam) - Going Strong!!!

2010-06-22T13:03:00.000-07:00

Photos by: Michael Rajzman

With over 500 young Jewish adults coming through Bat Yam this spring and summer as part of a new initiative in conjunction with United Israel Appeal of Canada, Canada Israel Experience trips with Taglit-Birthright & Hoops 4 Israel; the social action encounters have brought new perspective and nachas into the hearts of these dynamic children of this vulnerable community. UJA Federation of Greater Toronto's sister-city for the past two years has been Bat Yam - as several fundraising and now grassroots initiatives are cropping up to bring support to the youth of this growing city.

Birthright Israel participants visiting the community within Bat Yam on June 2nd, 2010

Founder of Hoops 4 Israel in Toronto, Canada - Dave Goodman greets the kids!

The visit to Bat Yam gives young Jewish adults from Canada a glimpse into the lives of these young children who have to face significant challenges to assimilate and adapt to Israeli society. Many children living in Bat Yam have only moved to Israel in the past 1-4 years and are still going through the transition phase of life. The CIE Taglit-Birthright time with these Ethiopian-Israeli youth give them a better idea of how difficult adolescence can be during a life of transition and difficult cultural change.

Over 80 care packages were made for IDF soldiers who are stationed

away from family during their service on bases throughout Israel.

Bat Yam youth really taking to the Canadians playfulness and durability

Over 50% of these children come from families relying on social welfare services

40% of these children are categorized as 'at-risk' and 1 in 4 will drop out of high school

B.Y.O.B., an initiative to bring participants of TBI to visit the community and bring tangible goods to enhance these children's lives. If you have any of the following and would like to have them shipped to Bat Yam via CIE trips, please contact goodman@hoops4israel.com:

school supplies
musical instruments
sports equipment
gently used or new clothing

Oh what a night!! Jam 4 Israel 2010

2010-06-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Photos by: Giordano Ciampini

On Thursday, June 10th, 2010, the Hoops 4 Israel charity hosted its first official after-party to celebrate another year of fundraising success that will wholly benefit the vulnerable Ethiopian-Israeli community in Bat Yam. Jam 4 Israel, H4I's sister-project, added another $29,000 of fundraising revenue and packed the London Tap House with over 575 attendees supporting Israel in a great time of need. Just one week prior to the party, the international media condemned Israel for the controversial decision to board flotilla filled with "humanitarian aid" intended for citizens of Gaza.

Although Israel's acts were also seen as justified to guarantee the safety of its own population and to ensure that weapons were not secretly hidden aboard the flotilla, the majority of international coverage of this happening did not agree. Widespread demonstrations demonizing Israel took place in nations around the world.

Jam 4 Israel was a timely event that demonstrated young Jews in the Diaspora coming together to celebrate Israel's right to exist and defend itself in the wake of virulent condemnation. It is for this reason that Jam 4 Israel stood for much more than just a celebration, but rather, a solidarity rally!

Event Chairs & Organizers (Top: Josh Howard, Elissa Grossman {Founder of J4I} & Dave Goodman)

Bottom: Rob Altbaum (Social Chair of Jam 4 Israel 2010)

Event Sponsors: George & Kitty Grossman and Jamie & Rami Benayon

The event showcased some home-grown talent with Keys N Krates, DJ Applescratch and DJ J.T. mixing a plethora of urban and top 40 beats and keeping the crowd bumping until after last call. Thank you to one of our event sponsors - Sole Power Productions and Magen Boys Entertainment for pulling the show together for us on such tight timelines!

Keys N Krates tearing it up (above)

DJ J.T. (below) opened the night on the tables, with DJ Applescratch - both donating their skills to the night's events for free - what mensches!

Mini Bball Shootout was donated in kind by Hart Entertainment for J4I attendees use on the rooftop patio

King David's Pizza was also donated in kind to bring in some extra fundraising revenue

for our friends in Bat Yam!

J4I Committee Member Lauren Ashley and friend Brad Silverberg

J4I meets H4I:

Elissa says: 'Who knows what can happen?'

Dave says: 'Happiness!'

A great big thank you to our event sponsors, attendees, committee members and event chairs for making the inaugural Jam4Israel a smash hit! Looking forward to upping the enterprise in 2011!!

Hoops 4 Israel 2010 - Gameday - April 4th @ Hoopdome

2010-04-11T20:46:00.000-07:00

Photos by: Giordano Ciampini

EVENT CHAIRS (L-R): Daniel Winberg, Eden Pollock, Aaron Collins, Erin Cohanim, Dave Goodman, Jon Ordon (missing)

Sunday, April 4th, 2010 marked the fourth annual Hoops 4 Israel event held at Toronto's HOOPDOME for a day of bball madness in support of Bat Yam, Israel and the vulnerable Ethiopian-Israeli youth through UJA of Greater TO and BAC. Above, Dan Winberg, Eden Pollock, Jon Ordon (edited in), Erin Cohanim and Dave Goodman (BAC staff) formed the executive committee of the H4I 30+ volunteer organizing committee. Over $102,000 was grossed for this event and over 190 volunteer participants and 56 volunteer committee members and gameday volunteers took part in the day's events.

Men's A Division Winners: Ryan Tevel, Omri Dor, Josh Mann & Paul Ceresne

Women's Division A Winners: Amy Wilchesky, Lesley Suchter, Amanda Suchter and Laura Wilchesky

hold top prize clothing graciously donated by Erin Kleinberg Designs.

Women A Division Runner's Up: Julie Kovac, Elise Kovac, Shayla Diamond (Top Individual Fundraiser), Lisa Smuskowitz.

Men's B Division Champs: Itamar Halevy, Justin Hummel, Gidon Frank, Viktor Vitebski

Event In Kind Sponsor - Jian Magen of Magen Boys Entertainment

Team Riocan: Evan Sadofsky, Corey Shemuel, Jeremy Freedman (Top Individual Fundraiser) and David Mualin.

H4I 2010 Top Individual Fundraisers (L-R): Mikey Singer, Robert Wise, Michelle Masters, Joseph Wise, Dave Isaacman, Jamie Goodman, Jeremy Mack, Evan Taerk, Daniel Sultan, Nicole Plener, Andrew Damelin, Jeremy Freedman, Shayla Diamond & Jason Bitton (1st Place Fundraiser).

Thank you so much for going the extra mile and making H4I reach the next level of fundraising impact in conjunction with UJA & Bat Yam!

Hoops 4 Israel's first Dunk Contest - sponsored by the fundraising efforts of Jam 4 Israel's: Elissa Grossman. Above is Alex Borins dunking over Top Fundraiser Jason Bitton. Below is Evan Taerk - the innaugural 'Jam 4 Israel' Dunk Contest Winner.

H4I's annual 3 ball contest with winner Jesse Solomon sealing the deal in the final round!

H4I Allstar Rookie Volunteer - Sarah Brager through the mesh

A glimpse at part of the prize table - over $32,000 of goods and services were donated in kind by various Toronto companies to help keep H4I costs below 8% of fundraising revenue (our lowest ratio since 2007) and take H4I to the next level with an amazing offering of food, amenities and rewards!

Thank you greatly to all in kind sponsors - your involvement and contribution - big or small made a difference in enhancing our event to reward our volunteer participants for their fundraising efforts!

Above: H4I Founder, Dave Goodman addresses the players and fans.

Below: Team BAC snaps a team shot: Shauna Waltman, Shira Webber & DG.

Ari Ditkofsky (H4I 2009 Top Fundraiser & 2010 Captain Finalist) distributing the rock

Mike Gilbert - H4I Vet throws down a lefty-windmill on the 8ft Jam 4 Israel contest

Jon Corbin of Corbin Visual who donated a huge amount of time and expertise in marketing H4I through video and is capturing the testimonials of Richard Madras (Zerofootprint Ambassador) with Gameday host - Dave Borins on the importance of measuring your consumption and reducing your carbon footprint.

Hoops 4 Israel received carbon offset credits generously donated by Zerofootprint to officially execute a Carbon Neutral event in 2010. Eco-consciousness and sustainability were themes of H4I 2010, as other measures such as water jugs instead of individual plastic water bottles were distributed for hydration. The involvement of a corporate partner in Zerofootprint was a means to educate H4I constituents of the importance to live a sustainable lifestyle and having a lesser impact on the environment through Jewish community events and involvement.

Founder of SHALOM LIFE and rookie H4I volunteer participant, Stephen Arbib with his gorgeous baby boy and wife, Adrian & Shelly.

Team Snackbar Chairs: Jess Shostack & Em Goodman

Shosh Allen of JUMP, Kobe Bryant of Marnina Syrnik and Shira Webber of Shosh Allen.

Jordy Beale & Ben Fagan repping Rock Your Cause - an in kind sponsor of H4I 2010

Noah Gelbart - in kind amenity sponsor wiz & gameday volunteer along with Dave Paulin, long-standing H4I Volunteer Committee Member

Eden Pollock, Wendy Goodman, Sarah Brager & Dan Winberg during registration

Ariella Abramovich, Jordana Hoppe & Amy Carman of registration and team snack bar on the volunteer end of things

A Corbin Visual Masterpiece - Click Here

Thank you to all of our 2010 Hoops 4 Israel Corporate Sponsors, Players and Committee Members!!

Touched by Bat Yam on Birthright Israel (January 2010)

2010-03-30T10:34:00.001-07:00

By: Vanessa Bloomfield (Banff, Alberta)

I recently went on Taglit-Birthright trip to Israel with Canada Israel Experience. I am extremely grateful to Canada Israel Experience and my madrachim (trip leaders)for this incredible opportunity. While it was eye opening in many respects regarding my personal beliefs about Judaism—the most eye opening experience came on the final day of the trip. We went to Bat Yam, a small, poor Ethiopian immigrant community on the outskirts of Tel Aviv. While in Tel Aviv you can feel the wealth and capitalism. There are shops, markets, hair salons and modern apartment buildings strung in rows upon each other. The people walking the streets speak English and Hebrew; there are tourist attractions, local pubs, and advertisements for businesses. Tel Aviv, is, in every sense, a modern city.

As we drove to Bat Yam the apartments became more run down, smaller. The streets became different. Maybe it was my imagination, but it felt darker. We were told that these children have come to Israel with nothing, usually only the clothes on their backs. They are, literally, starting from scratch. We went to an after school program where the children are given a positive space to play and learn after school. We made boxes for soldiers and pom-poms out of tissue paper to cheer on the basketball game that was to occur.

The kids were shy at first, but despite the language barrier were obviously excited and pleased. Underneath the excitement the sense of poverty was apparent. The play room was a former bunker, and the school heavily relied on charity to create this space for the children of Bat Yam. This place could be the difference between a life of crime on the streets or a life of bettering the world with whatever contribution the children choose to make. And choice is the key, here in the slums of Tel Aviv. These people have all chosen to come to Israel; to make a better life for their families. They choose to pursue their dreams in a place of hope surrounded by enemies and prejudice. Yet still the children are faced with a choice of right and wrong in a very real sense of defining their entire lives.

The positive after-school space helps provide an escape, a warm meal, and the ability to define themselves in terms of sports or dance. We, our bus, took them ballet gear and basketballs for their sports program. The children were thrilled! Have you ever felt that sense of poverty, and the fire of the will from the people in this situation?

The capitalism is apparent in Tel Aviv; and these children want what everyone else has. The will of the children to learn and grow is only topped by their pursuit of fun. A girl shouts “Sit down” to a participant. He sits. She shouts “Sit Down” again. Now he's confused. He tells her “I'm already sitting”. She shouts “Sit down” with a gigantic smile on her face. So he lays down. “Sit down” she yells. Now everyone is confused and he stands up again. A teacher wanders over and speaks in Hebrew with the girl; apparently she does not know what “sit down” means, but she knows how to say it. The teacher explains in Hebrew and the girl giggles. I look over and another participant is playing a game of chase with two girls, much like any dad would do at the park with his daughters. He runs, slowly, letting the girls 'escape' then runs after them roaring while the girls shriek with laughter.

I am touched by the love and laughter of this place; in the place of abject poverty I feel no sadness, but a love of life. I found out that even in the poorest of circumstances, money does not dictate laughter and love. The richest may not be the happiest and that even the simplest activities like playing a game of chase or laughing over a shared language barrier may bring the greatest joy.

We should all look to our children for inspiration of positive and simple ways to laugh. It eases the heart of an adult and gives children such a sense of accomplishment that we find value in their ways and thoughts. This alone creates a positivity that can change the world. Even though we were in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Tel Aviv,we were amazed at what generosity from Canadians can do for a few children’s futures. We all agreed that was one of the most incredible moments of the trip. For many of us, it even topped floating in the Dead Sea! Which was great! I would love to go back and volunteer, but in the meantime, I will volunteer in my own community to increase the laughter and positivity of children, give back to the world, and strive to create positive space wherever I go.

H4I UWO Edition 2010 - BIG SPLASH!!!

2010-03-20T12:58:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, March 13th, 2010, over 90 volunteer participants joined Evan Silver and Kevin Treger (Co-Chairs) of the first UWO edition of Hoops 4 Israel presented by Israel on Campus. Over $2,400 net proceeds were raised for at-risk youth living in vulnerable situations in Bat Yam, Israel. Mazel tov to the H4I UWO volunteer committee for pulling off a great fundraiser and making a huge contribution to the 2010 Hoops 4 Israel fundraising campaign.

Some pictures from their event last week...

(L to R): Ryan Kroll, Alyse Gilboord, Evan Silver, Rachel Levitsky, Harrison Notkin

Arizona: David Kepecs, Wesley Brown, Dean Zoran

'3 Point Contest Champion': Evan Silver, Jake Simon (Winner of a Canada Goose Jacket), Kevin Treger

Volunteer Committee

On behalf of the Hoops 4 Israel committee of Toronto - we thank you for your hard efforts to make this student fundraising event a reality!!

H4I Word Bubble

2010-03-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

Hoops 4 Israel's 'sister-project' > JAM 4 ISRAEL!!

2010-03-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

Hoops 4 Israel - the charity basketball initiative launched by Birthright Israel Alumni Community in 2007 has been looking long and hard for an after-party to celebrate their annual success that enhances the lives of hundreds of Ethiopian-Israeli at-risk youth. Finally, we have found our esteemed volunteer in Elissa Grossman, an ambitious young woman with an incredible gift of connecting with others coupled with a heart of gold.

The idea of a charitable 'Jam' was conceived by Elissa, a York Student with desire to give back to the Jewish community and inspired by her late grandfather, Alexander Grossman z"l.

“To appreciate your community, you must give back to it.”
-Alexander Grossman z"l

Elissa's grandfather was a large member of UJA and a genuine pillar of support for the Jewish community. "He did more than talk the talk but he supported his words with tremendous vision and generosity. When he passed away, I was left with his foremost lesson to never let the spirit of giving die." says Elissa.

The Hoops 4 Israel team is thrilled to bring Elissa on in 2010 to help spearhead the charitable after-party fundraiser of H4I, where all proceeds go towards supporting the vulnerable community of Ethiopian Israeli immigrants living in Bat Yam.

On June 17th, 2010 at the Empire Lounge, the inaugural Jam 4 Israel event will take place with a $15 entrance fee before 11:45pm and $20 afterwards. For more information or to help enhance this event, please contact elissa@jam4israel.com.

UWO & Israel on Campus take on Hoops 4 Israel!

2010-03-09T12:52:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, March 13th, 2010, Evan Silver & Kevin Treger have decided to Co-Chair Hoops 4 Israel as the Israel on Campus charitable event this year at University of Western Ontario. Having already raised almost $2,000 to be directly contributed to the Hoops 4 Israel charitable project in Toronto; the UWO version of H4I is the second project in 2010 that will be contributed to the overall Hoops 4 Israel fundraising campaign.

"As a student at the Univeristy of Western Ontario two things have become apparent. Firstly, the best way to support a community, is by taking the initiative to develop infrastructure for development; schools, hospitals, recreation centers etc. Secondly, competition and sport consistently bring people together. These are the reasons our club, Israel on Campus, has chosen to support Hoops 4 Israel, a charity which builds basketball courts and recreation centers for at risk Israeli-Ethiopian Jews. Traditionally Hoops 4 Israel holds a basketball tournament in Toronto to bring young professionals together for a great cause. Israel on Campus followed their lead by creating a similar tournament in London for university students." -Evan Silver

Evan Silver

Evan is a third year honours History student. In his spare time he plays basketball, squash, writes for a campus newspaper and is intereted in politics.

Kevin Treger

Kevin has always been a competitive basketball player, the sport has been his favourite past time from a young age. Spending the summer of 2008 working as a volunteer medic in Israel, Hoops 4 Israel combines his loves of Basketball and Israel, which is why he believes it is such a worthy cause. Kevin is currently a fourth year Biology student.

H4I Volunteer Committee:

Sarah Brown

Sarah is an honours History student at the University of Western Ontario. She has always believed it is important for Jewish students to learn about Israel. Currently Sarah is the head of Israel on Campus' Education Committee.

Leore Zimner

Leore is in her fourth year at Western, finishing her BA, Honors Specialization in History. After spending one year post-high school in Israel, Leore became involved with Israel on Campus at Western in her third year as VP Communications. Leore is the president of Israel on Campus. An avid Israeli advocate and CJPAC fellow, Leore is an inspiration to her peers on and off campus.

Brittany Sud

Currently, Brittany Sud is an HBA student at the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario. Her interests include traveling around the world, playing tennis, and figure skating. Brittany has always been passionate about basketball and Israel and she is looking forward to be a part of an event that combines both.

Ryan Kroll

Ryan is a third year student at the Richard Ivey School of Business. He volunteered as a medic in Israel in the summer of 2008 with Kevin where they both developed a passion for Israel and helping others in need. In his spare time Ryan plays guitar, writes for a campus newspaper and keeps up with current events. Ryan hopes to go to medical school when he graduates from the Richard Ivey School of Business.

Alyse Gilboord

Alyse Gilboord is currently a 3rd year Psychology Honours student at Huron University College. She enjoys playing soccer, spending time with her family and friends and making a difference in others lives by volunteering for various organizations. Both sports and Israel are dear to Alyse’s heart and she feels honoured to be part of this wonderful event.

On behalf of the Hoops 4 Israel committee of Toronto, UJA Federation, and Birthright Israel Alumni Community, we thank you for your massive contribution of time, energy and significant funding that will go towards the vulnerable community of Bat Yam. The UWO edition will give approximately 8 at-risk children the opportunity to be immersed in social programming that will set them on a path towards success, rather than the alternative disadvantaged lifestyle that this disadvantaged community can offer without our funds. Kol Ha'kavod and keep up the good work UWO Jew Crew!

My journey to Israel, to Kiryat Moshe and back to Toronto and Hoops!

2010-02-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

Written by: Melissa Grosser

In May 2008, I finally took the plunge to travel far and to get in touch with my roots: I went on Birthright! After years of hearing how wonderful the trip was, I made it a point to be a participant on this trip. With one of my best friends and over twenty-five strangers, I flew away from my life in Toronto to embark on a trip of a lifetime.

After ten hours of flying, our group landed in Israel. Although I felt tired, I stepped off the plane and was immediately energized by all of the excitement around me. Having never been to the holy land before, I was even ecstatic walking through the pathways of the Ben Gurion airport.

Once our baggage was collected, my group and I were bussed to our first location of touring. Once the tour finished, my friends and I took some down time to relax, eat some great Israeli ice cream and take in the sights. At this point, my trip leader Dave Goodman was telling me that one of the key ingredients that will make this trip memorable was our group’s charity project in Kiryat Moshe. This community happened to be the focus of Hoops 4 Israel’s charitable plans. As I heard this, I thought “I am here to experience Israel and all of its beauty. It would be great to make a difference and give back to their communities.”

After several days of touring, my group and I arrived in Kiryat Moshe. As our bus stopped, I looked out the window and saw at least two sports courts, a few buildings and tons of Ethiopian Jewish children joyously playing sports and outdoor games.

The afternoon was spent playing basketball and soccer with the children and helping them to make “cheer” packages for the Israeli soldiers. While helping a little boy make a package, I noticed he would draw pictures of soldiers and put little hearts and stars next to them. Although there was a language gap between the two of us, it amazed me how this little boy and the other children would express how grateful they are for the army’s service to Israel.

When the afternoon had ended and our group headed back to the bus, I was sad to leave but was so happy to have spent the time with these children and to see how Hoops 4 Israel has changed the lives of these children.

As a child, I participated in sports and dance because I loved the activity, the social aspect, the involvement and as much as I don’t like to admit it, it introduced me to the concept of discipline and hard work. I couldn’t imagine my childhood without these activities; I am so glad that the children in Kiryat Moshe don’t have to either.

Since returning from my Birthright trip, I have been active in volunteering with Hoops 4 Israel and never intend to stop. Seeing the difference that Hoops has made for this community and for these children is incredible. Although I am a tiny piece of a huge puzzle of volunteers, it warms my heart to bring joy to these children through fun activities such as sports, art and dance classes and other educational programs. After seeing it firsthand, I remembered how much I took my childhood activities for granted and am glad to help provide these children with the same opportunities. The fact that I am helping to make change means a lot.

Volunteer Perspectives...

2010-02-02T11:48:00.000-08:00

Joshua Lerner, H4I Volunteer since 2007

"Getting involved with Hoops 4 Israel is one of the best things I have ever done. I always have liked to get involved in the community but found in my post-university years that it was difficult to find a cause where I could play an active role and make a difference. When you are in school, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved, but as you enter the working world, these opportunities and time for them seem to diminish. I found myself lacking an outlet. Then I heard about Hoops 4 Israel.

There are so many things about Hoops 4 Israel that I love. It is a wonderful mixture of 2 things in life that are very important to me - the State of Israel and the game of basketball. Finding a way to help the former with the latter is ideal. This perfect blend really helps me creatively think of ways to improve the tournament. I also like that I can choose how much of a contribution I can make the tournament. I have found in years past that the more I put in to the organization of the event, the more satisfaction I feel when I realize the success of it.

This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to get involved in the community. Not only will you feel a sense of accomplishment, you will develop and sharpen skills that will help you in whatever other pursuits you may have, all while meeting a dynamic mix of interesting people. The experience has been invaluable to my personal and professional development and I wholeheartedly recommend it."

Em Goodman, H4I Volunteer since 2007

"Hoops 4 Israel uses basketball as a channel for a improving the lives of youth in the Kiryat Moshe, a place that I refer to as the ‘ghetto’ of Israel. It has developed into international outreach program where both men and women compete in a day-long basketball tournament raising sufficient funds to build basketball courts and other sport facilities for the community of Kiryat Moshe.

Hoops 4 Israel’s goal is to transgress the racial boundaries of the Ethiopian Jews living in Kiryat Moshe and integrate them into Israeli society. I have volunteered at the event since it started 3 years ago, and I always find it touching and inspiring to see how Hoops 4 Israel has changed the lives of the youth by motivating them to get involved with their community. It was amazing to actually meet some of the kids of Kiryat Moshe and truly see how these impoverished youth have become inspired themselves and realize that they can grow up to be an important part of society and accomplish their own realistic goals.

It is very easy to get caught up in the trivial day-to-day events in our North American lifestyle and I usually don’t have time to volunteer – I would prefer to just give money. However, onHoops 4 Israel tournament day, it makes you feel really good knowing that you have helped to foster development in Israel and made a difference in peoples lives.

I hope Hoops 4 Israel can grow to other North American cities with large jewish populations because it is truly an amazing way for everyone to get involved and have some fun!"

Carly Baker, H4I Volunteer since 2009

What aspects of the project are most appealing to you:

"I find hoops most appealing because it allows me to participate in a favorite past time of mine, basketball, as well as enabling me to find a way to help others. I find that hoops poses a unique opportunity for young professionals to get involved and help people thousands of miles away. I think hoops is a great cause because it targets a community within Israel that be overlooked by other fundraising or charitable organizations."

How you would like to better contribute to its success down the line:

"I think down the line I can have more success harvesting the girls side of the tournament. Due to outlying circumstances this year, I found it difficult to get girls involved. However in the future I think I will be able to spark interest and bring more girls to the tournament. Obviously as well, once the economy begins to improve I think I could bring in more corporate sponsors."

More volunteer perspectives to come...

Deep Roots: Walden & Hoops 4 Israel

2010-01-28T07:13:00.000-08:00

If you were part of a pick-up basketball game at Camp Walden during the years of 1994 to 2009 there is a strong likelihood that you have contributed to Hoops 4 Israel based on the tight network that has stemmed from love of the game out of Palmer Rapids, Ontario. For the past 4 years, Sol Birenbaum and Howie Grosinger, have been long-standing sponsors and supporters of this charitable initiative. "The friendships that we made and lessons that we developed to sports were fostered at Walden and amazingly translated into philanthropy for the Toronto Jewish community and Israel, years after our Walden days" remarks Daniel Winberg (2010 H4I Team Management Chair).

Walden Inter-Camp Bball team (1998) - H4I volunteers make up the core of this roster

Sol Birenbaum, Walden Director and part-owner, has been actively fostering his Walden alumni network since his tenure with the camp began in 2003. Upon developing tremendous relationships with some of these staff, he noted the synergy amongst some of his most faithful Walden alum and their involvement with the Hoops 4 Israel charitable initiative. As an alumnus of CHAT and an avid-sports fan, Sol has brought H4I into his corporate social responsibility portfolio for the camp. The commonality of helping at-risk youth in Israel and running a summer camp that provides life-long experiences that allow youth to reach their full potential is something that resonates deeply with Sol and Howie. The fact that active Walden alumni can find a connection and provide significant support to the Jewish community in Toronto and Israel makes the partnership that much more meaningful .

Sol Birenbaum, President & CEO of Walden since 2003

The foundation of volunteer and professional support, from left: Daniel Winberg (Past Unit-head / Walden Camper of 10+ years), David Katz (Past Head of Ski / Walden Camper of 10+ years), David Goodman (Past staff member / Camper of 10+ years) and Aaron Collins (Past Unit-head / Leadership team member / Alumni Reunion Committee Volunteer / Camper of 10+ years) demonstrate their commitment to Jewish community after years of personal growth at Walden. Several other volunteers of H4I who spent their formative years at Walden include: Michael Binder, Jon Goldfarb, Brandon Pike, Jamie Goodman, Emily Goodman, Rob Trager, Luke Cole, Jamie Collins, Dave Borins, Dave Rotchtin, Mike Gilbert, Aron Brager and Josh Lerner.

Walden has been able to lift the Hoops 4 Israel charitable intiative to amazing fundraising levels, contributing as a corporate team sponsor in 2007 where H4I raised $100,250, 2008: $131,000 and 2009: $98,200. Walden has committed to be a team sponsor in 2010 to further solidify this partnership. As cliche a basketball term as we can find is only fitting to describe the Hoops 4 Israel partnership with Walden...a Slam Dunk!

Birthright Visits Bat Yam in January 2010!

2010-01-27T13:29:00.000-08:00

Visiting Bat Yam and Kiryat Moshe has become a staple of Canada Israel Experience - Taglit-Birthright Israel trips over the past 3 years. The engine that drives this partnership is of course fueled by Laura Kindler & Leah Biteolin, two outstanding individuals who have facilitated over 30 volunteer projects with BRI trips. On January 25th, 42 Canadian participants teamed up with at-risk youth of Bat Yam to create gift-packages for soldiers, paint murals to decorate the school, and taught basketball skills to the youngsters who were grateful to share the afternoon with such spirited Taglit participants.

Kindler & Biteolin describing the background of Ethiopian-Israeli youth

The participants visit to Bat Yam was an nice lift of for the students of the Akiva after-school program, as the BRI participants taught them english words, affirmed the importance of tikkun olam and doing volunteer service, and gave the children a sense of importance and purpose in making a special visit to spend time with them in Israel as Diaspora Jews.

Leah cutting cake for a student's birthday

Dave Goodman in a photo opp with some of the at-risk youth in the after school program

One unique aspect of these Akiva after-school programs - also known as 'Youth Futures' - a dynamic program supported by Hoops 4 Israel in Bat Yam since 2008. A tailored intervention that helps at-risk youth achieve personal and scholastic success and become productive members of society. Below shows a boy who receives additional food from the supplemental assistance that this program provides.

A Taglit-Birthright Israel participant really takes to the youth on Jan 25

Birthright volunteers teach the youth basketball skills and use some of the donated
Wilson Sports equipment brought down by them on their flight to Israel

A professional soccer coach is subsidized for training this youth soccer team - providing leadership and purpose to these sports and recreational programs for the at-risk youth

Packing gift boxes from IDF soldiers living away from their families

Volunteers involved the children in the mural painting project - a huge success!

On behalf of Hoops 4 Israel & Taglit-Birthright Israel:

THANK YOU > Laura & Leah for coordinating such a fulfilling afternoon of Tikkun Olam activities for us!!

Hoops 4 Israel Exec Crew 2010

2010-01-07T08:56:00.001-08:00

"It's all right to aim high if you have plenty of ammunition" -Hawley R. Everhart

That is how we feel with Hoops 4 Israel, lofty goals on a yearly basis, but plenty of fire power in our volunteers to make it happen. H4I is privileged to have buy-in from some of the most capable and dedicated young volunteers in the Toronto Jewish Community.

Aaron Collins (28), joined the H4I committee in 2007 to help plan and implement its inaugural event. Since then, Aaron has been extremely active in the planning process and took on Gameday operations chair in March 2009. A 2005 Birthright Israel alumnus, Aaron has made a significant impact on the Hoops squad through his years of volunteerism with us, and continues that trend by heading up Gameday ops in 2010 (contact: aaronc@hoops4israel.com)

Daniel Winberg (27), has been part of the H4I faithful, planning and playing in the event since 2007. In 2008, Dan was a top-individual fundraiser and furthered his involvement in the community by Chairing the annual One Family Fund bike-a-thon to support Israeli victims of terror. A Birthright Israel alumnus of 2004, Dan is spearheading the team management division of H4I 2010. To register a team with us, please contact danielw@hoops4israel.com.

Jon Ordon (27), joined H4I in 2009 and made a significant impact in his first year as part of the in-kind sponsorship division, leading H4I to have its largest amount of rewards for top fundraisers and winning teams since our beginning. Jon is heading up this division again in 2010 and is looking for volunteers to help enhance our event by obtaining goods that can be used to reward our amazing volunteer participants. Jon can be reached at jonathano@hoops4israel.com.

Ari Ditkofksy (26), is the newest member of the executive crew of Hoops 4 Israel 2010. Having returned from his Birthright Israel trip in August 2009 and having spent a week with Ethiopian-Israeli youth, Ari is ready to make an impact through Hoops 4 Israel channels in 2010. A player and committee member, Ari brings an innovative and enthusiastic approach to Jewish fundraising that will set a new standard of how fundraising events are conducted in the Toronto scene moving forward. To connect with Ari, please send him an email to arid@hoops4israel.com to ask how you can get involved with his help.

Team Post of Birthright Israel Alumni Community (BAC): Lior Cyngiser (29), Shira Webber (29), Shauna Waltman (29), Dave Goodman (27) have been the staff-arm of Hoops 4 Israel since 2007. H4I is a grassroots initiative that has used the guidance and support of BAC since its inception of planning in 2006. For more information about the plethora of initiatives and programming that BAC executes on a monthly basis, please visit www.bactoronto.com.

Nice Chemistry: Taglit-Birthright Israel & Hoops 4 Israel

2010-01-07T08:55:00.000-08:00

Since 2007, Canada Israel Experience, the leading trip organizer of Taglit-Birthright Israel in Canada has partnered with the Jewish Agency of Israel to provide volunteer outlets during the trip where participants could learn about the challenges of Ethiopian Olim (immigrants) in both Kiryat Moshe and Bat Yam. The volunteer projects have been a huge success over the past three years, ranging from painting projects to packing gift packages for Israelis serving the IDF.

In June 2007, David Goodman (founder of H4I) had the privilege of bringing his national bus to visit Kiryat Moshe on the final day of their trip and the grand opening of the outdoor sports-court that was built with the funds of Hoops 4 Israel from April 2007. Speeches, dancing and an inaugural basketball game put an explanation mark on this Birthright Israel trip, emphasizing the significance of volunteer work in support of Israel from the Diaspora (outside of Israel).

The inaugural basketball game: Birthright Israel vs. Yechallal sponsored basketball team in Kiryat Moshe

Birthright Israel participants repaint an old post-office in the centre of Kiryat Moshe

Since that initial visit to Kiryat Moshe, Laura Kindler & Leah Biteolin have facilitated over 25 projects with Taglit-Birthright Israel buses, involving 1000+ Canadian Jews in Tikkun Olam (meaning: 'repairing the world') in conjunction with at-risk Ethiopian Israeli youth.

Basketball games are a staple when CIE Birthright Israel trips visit Kiryat Moshe

A CIE Birthright Israel group visits Bat Yam in December 2008

Laura "Superwoman" Kindler, delivers messages to BRI pariticipants and youth of the Kadimah centre in Bat Yam

A visit with a David Goodman bus guarantees a couple case loads of rubber basketballs as a corporate donation from Wilson Canada through Jim Sanderson.

If you have interest in donating tangible goods that can be delivered to children in Bat Yam or Kiryat Moshe, please contact davidg@hoops4israel.com to arrange transferring the merchandise via Birthright Israel trips to our constituents in Israel.

Leah Biteolin: The Living Bridge

2009-12-23T10:48:00.000-08:00

Smart, outgoing, stunning and accomplished, Leah Biteolin has made the best of the opportunity the Israeli government granted her family in 1984 by absorbing them amongst 100,000+ other Ethiopians since the early 1980's. Currently, she works on her law degree from Ono College in Israel, but her vocation has her serving as the "living bridge", executing city to city partnerships with Toronto & Switzerland to provide overwhelming support to vulnerable Ethiopian communities in Israel, Kiryat Moshe & Bat Yam.

Leah speaking at the General Assembly in Washington (2009)

Leah with soon-to-be Ethiopian-Israelis at an absorption centre in Ethiopia (2008)

Hoops 4 Israel has been fortunate enough to have benefited from the dedicated work of Leah since 2007. She has been intimately involved in introducing Canadian Birthright Israel groups to the situation of Ethiopian Israeli at-risk youth, to mentoring Jewish Hillel students in long-term volunteer programs in such communities for more than 3 years now.

“My first toothbrush was a gift from Americans who came to visit the absorption center in Kiryat Gat where we were living. It was very exciting,” remembers Leah Biteolin.

Her family risked everything to realize their dream of making aliyah from Ethiopia in 1984. Leah was three years old. Leah integrated quickly into Israeli society. She did her national service as a medic with Magen David Adom and later received her degree in political science and public communications from Bar Ilan University.

Leah with colleague and mentor, Laura Kindler (Representative of Partnership Communities)

Leah carries herself with a Mediterranean flare and zest for life, living each day to its fullest. Her dedication to her services with the Jewish agency and her partnership communities is astounding. “My work is really meaningful. We are creating a living link between Jewish communities everywhere and Israel,” says Leah.

The Bat-Yam - Toronto Partnership is already making the city a national example of successful integration through intensive investment in educational programs for Ethiopian-Israeli elementary and high school students, and vocational and professional training programs for their parents. “One example is the Youth Futures program,” says Leah, “which is helping children bridge critical educational, social and extracurricular gaps.”

Leah has been instrumental in acting as this bridge, connecting Federations from other cities, volunteers, Birthright Israel Participants and the Hoops 4 Israel project with the communities of Kiryat Moshe & Bat Yam. This blog post is just a little tribute to the great work Leah does for Israel, but to learn more or to get in touch with her, please contact dave@hoops4israel.com.

RioCan: Putting Community on their back

2009-12-23T08:45:00.000-08:00

"With great power comes great responsibility" -Batman

RioCan REIT personifies this notion through the corporate social responsibility they have demonstrated since their inception. Founder and CEO, Ed Sonshine, along with his team at RioCan lead by COO, Fred Waks, have continually put Jewish based fundraising efforts and community-building events at the forefront of their CSR strategy.

As we embark on our 4th year of operating Hoops 4 Israel in Toronto, we are proud and grateful for the overwhelming support and encouragement of RioCan and their corporate leadership of Eddy & Freddy. Two avid sports-fans and proven leaders in business and community, RioCan is a perfect fit as a title sponsor to H4I four years running!!

Ed Sonshine, past UJA Chair, has a long-standing and inspiring commitment to the Jewish community in Canada and Israel. His leadership roles span a variety of Jewish-based causes such as: United Jewish Appeal of Greater Toronto, Mt. Sinai Hospital, Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care, and Yad Vashem. Ed's amazing wife Fran has used her background in teaching to have significant influence and leadership responsibilities amongst these institutions as well. The willingness to publicly position RioCan as a title sponsor for so many Jewish and Israel-based causes, demonstrates a pride that we hope, will influence more Jewish business leaders to follow in regards to corporate social responsibility of the Jewish community.

Fred Waks, a current Chair of Koffler Centre of the Arts, past-Chair of the 2006 Israel-Canada Emergency Campaign and past-UJA Chair, Fred has followed Ed's lead in becoming one of Toronto's elite Jewish leaders. His commitment to the Jewish community has even had a trickle down affect to other Jewish employees of RioCan. A staunch supporter of Israel and a myriad of Jewish causes such as: UJA of Greater Toronto, Mt. Sinai Hospital, Yad Vashem, the Koffler Centre for the Arts; Fred is continually pushed by his dynamic wife Linda to give back to the Jewish community in unique and powerful ways.

Fred has said: "I see the next generation taking responsibility. As a parent and someone in the Jewish community, there's nothing more important than that continuum".

Most recently, RioCan has titled or been a major sponsor the following Toronto Fundraising events:

UJA's 'Walk with Israel'
Baycrest's 'Dancing with our Stars'
Canadian Friends of Yad Vashem's 'Dinner of Miracles'
BAC & UJA's 'Hoops 4 Israel'

Ed & Fred's values and commitment to the Jewish community have set a standard for Jewish business professionals and young Jewish adults to strive for. It is no surprise their success in business has carried over to the success they have had in Jewish community building both here and Israel. Their lead is inspiring for the next generation to follow and their support for us brings great confidence that we have met their standard of excellence in Jewish philanthropy.

Time for some Indoor Ball in KM Town!

2009-12-19T14:41:00.000-08:00

After the 2007 redevelopment of the outdoor sports court in April, the H4I committee set its sights on something bigger to leave their mark on the town of Kiryat Moshe. The structure next to the sports-court had been left vacant for years, and was an ideal location to create an indoor sporting outlet for the community's youth to use during hot or rainy times of year.

The inside of this building was in bad need of a facelift, with broken windows, infestation, and no amenities of a sports facility; the contractors had their work cut out for them.

The project was to be complete by summer 2009, and we are happy to announce that with the great work of the Rashi Foundation and the municipality of Rehovot (The capital city in Israel to which Kiryat Moshe is a suburb to), the building went through the following transformation...

The reconstructed entrance to the indoor sports hall

The sports hall can also be converted for a variety of indoor sports and has the possibility of hosting bar/bat mitzvah's and town hall meetings. Other amenities that the building has are:

a new roof
new windows and bars
acoustic ceiling
a sports court surface
coed change rooms and washrooms
a myriad of sports equipment to stock the hall courtesy of H4I 2008
A new main entrance
Basketball nets

Over $80,000 was taken from the Hoops 4 Israel 2008 campaign to help fund the redevelopment of this amazing space. The remaining funds went to fund an extensive social rec program called 'Yuvalim', in the vulnerable Ethiopian community in Bat Yam.

Friend to the Ethiopians: Cabbie on the Street

2009-12-19T10:15:00.000-08:00

On a media mission to Israel in July 2007, the Score crew of 'Cabbie on the Street', lead by Cabral Richards and Dave Krikst (Cabbie's Manager & former Birthright Israel leader), joined the Sun sports writer Steve Simmons and Jordan Kerbel of CJC to stop through Kiryat Moshe to learn about the Hoops 4 Israel project. Cabbie & crew were on a mission throughout Israel to cover Israeli sports, but their stop in Kiryat Moshe opened Cabbie's eyes to the social divide amongst the Ethiopian population from many other neighbourhood's in Israel.

Cabbie in the Golan Heights

Kiryat Moshe's outdoor sports court, redeveloped by H4I funding from 2007

Cabbie & crew made it to KM town just after the outdoor sports court was introduced to the community. The sports court was redeveloped with the funds from Hoops 4 Israel 2007 in partnership with the Municipality of Rehovot & the Rashi Foundation. Its flood lights enable night balling and in turn, keeps kids off the streets and engaged in soccer and basketball.

Because Cabbie is known for his charismatic and intriguing interviews of the 'whose who' in the sports world, it was a real treat to have him show the same love for the youth of Kiryat Moshe and the Hoops 4 Israel project that summer. He even made an effort to come the 2008 event and host the shootout contest during half-time. What a guy!

Cabbie interviewing the Lakers, Kobe Bryant later that year

Cabbie interviewing David Goodman, co-founder of Hoops 4 Israel in July 2007

Cabbie's compassion to the Ethiopian-Israeli youth did not end after this brief visit to Kiryat Moshe. Since July 2007, Cabral has sent several boxes of sports apparel to a social worker he met during the visit. Hoops 4 Israel discovered this by chance, but when we learned of his incredible altruism and his desire to give back, we knew the youth of Kiryat Moshe found a new friend in Canada. The Hoops committee invited Cabbie to host the shootout at H4I 2008 and Cabbie brought his energy and humor to lift the event to the next level.

Cabbie with Yitzhak & Moshe during filming in July 2007

Cabbie with Yisrael Desta after he miraculously wins the 3-Point shootout contest

Cabbie with Kirsten Menkes at Hoops 4 Israel 2008 after she wins the womens shootout

Cabbie and Dave Krikst with a crew from Bat Yam with Laura Kindler (Partner of Hoops 4 Israel) in July 2007

Cabral with Leah Biteolin (partner of Hoops 4 Israel)

Yitzhak Adgo: A Champion of Kiryat Moshe

2009-12-17T13:34:00.000-08:00

In 2008 we had the great pleasure of meeting a young gentleman from the Ethiopian-Israeli community of Kiryat Moshe. Yitzhak (Takelle), defines Leadership. His diligence and success stems from the classroom to the basketball court, setting an example to his peers and family at the age of 19. Yitzhak recently joined the IDF, patrolling the Israeli north at the border with Lebanon.

Yitzhak was one of two Ethiopian boys selected to fly to Canada and join us to roll out Hoops 4 Israel 2008 at the Hoopdome. Yitzhak and his close friend Yisrael Desta were selected for their excellence in school and leadership in the community. Their Toronto trip was whirlwind, hitting major tour sites across the GTA, chilling with Cabbie on the Street of the Score, experiencing Canadian shabbat dinner and other fine cuisine and most importantly, participating and speaking at Hoops 4 Israel.

These boys were basketball fanatics and knew everything about the NBA, so this was a real thrill. The Hoops Committee was able to get them great seats in the ACC for the Raps vs. Nuggets to see their boy, Allen Iverson.

With UJA past-Chair, Fran Sonshine at the event.

Truly an experience of a lifetime for Yitzhak & Y'Israel

(click here to read their testimonies)

Yitzhak represents a success story of the Ethiopian-Israeli Olim (immigrants) that have been assimilating into Israeli society since the 1980's. Although he was raised in a low socio-economic neighbourhood, Kiryat Moshe, Yitzhak has leveraged the social services and education system to rise up and succeed. He also has some serious game on the ball court! A devoted member of the community-based Yechalal basketball program that was sponsored by Hoops 4 Israel with the 2007 funds, Yitzhak's growing success is now a piece of our success as well!

Keep up the great work protecting our Jewish homeland Yitzhak!! You are a true Champion!

Taking it to the next level: Ari Ditkofsky

2009-12-17T11:53:00.000-08:00

Ari Ditkofsky, a 26 year old volunteer participant of Hoops 4 Israel 2009 lead the charge placing first in personal fundraising, second in team fundraising, and finishedas runner's up in bball competitive play in the one-day tourney. Ditkofsky recruited his entire team of 6 to pitch in and make contributions for the at-risk youth of Bat Yam, Israel and set an H4I record sporting the tallest collective H4I team since our inception tourney in 2007.

Ditkofsky taking it to the cup in the semi-finals Vs. the RioCan team (captained by Joseph Wise)

Team Ditkofsky Boys (L-R): Brandon Kaplan, Ari Ditkofsky, J.R. Bailey, Mark Ditkofsky, Kevin Shand, Dave Jankovic

What blew us away was Ari’s determined effort to help long after the charity event ended in late March. After his Birthright Israel trip to the Holy Land in late July 2009, Ari met up with social workers, Laura Kindler & Leah Biteolin to work with some of the at-risk youth to facilitate a mini basketball camp in early August 2009.

Ditkofsky teaching clinics in Bat Yam, Israel (August 2009)

Ari has joined the H4I volunteer committee and is now an active member of our team management division. The spirit of volunteerism and tikun olam runs deep with Ari. He’s a prime example of an H4I volunteer participant who not only wants to raise as much money as possible to support a variety of social infrastructure for these youth; but he wanted to have a hands on influence and experience with the kids themselves. To discuss with Ari further, reach out to him at arid@hoops4israel.com.