What's Happening?
At the Jerusalem Post Annual Conference in New York, Chantal and Marc Belzberg were honored for their 25 years of work with OneFamily, an organization supporting victims of terror and war in Israel. The award was presented by Inbar Ashkenazi, CEO of the Jerusalem Post,
during a session focused on Israel's trauma and resilience crisis. The Belzbergs discussed the changing nature of trauma in Israel, highlighting the increasing number of children left without parents and families dealing with multiple layers of bereavement and trauma. They emphasized the importance of long-term support and community connection for healing. OneFamily has become a crucial support network, providing emotional, rehabilitative, and financial assistance to affected families.
Why It's Important?
The recognition of the Belzbergs' work underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Israeli society due to terrorism and conflict. Their efforts highlight the critical need for sustained support systems for trauma victims, which can serve as a model for other regions experiencing similar issues. The initiative to create a national peer community for children of soldiers with PTSD reflects a growing awareness of the psychological impacts of war on families. This focus on mental health and community support is vital for fostering resilience and recovery in affected populations.
What's Next?
OneFamily plans to expand its initiatives, including the new program for children of soldiers with PTSD. This expansion aims to address the invisible trauma experienced by these children and provide them with a supportive community. The organization's continued efforts will likely influence public policy and encourage other organizations to adopt similar support models. The Belzbergs' work may also inspire increased international collaboration in addressing trauma and resilience in conflict zones.
