A message from a JFMD funding recipient
Kfar Tikva: The Village of Hope, is a Home for Life and inclusive community for adults with cognitive, developmental and other disabilities located in Northern Israel’s scenic Jezreel Valley. The village provides access to medical and therapeutic services, activities, employment and vocational training, cultural activities, and more, many times in the neighboring towns with local residents as meaningful opportunities for inclusion in the community at large.
Animal therapies and particularly therapeutic horseback riding has gained popularity in recent years. Therapeutic horseback riding aka Equine Assisted Therapy is a human/horse experience that provides and facilitates a treatment modality that encourages increased strength and flexibility, improves motor skills, and promotes cognitive reasoning as well as relationship building and social skills. All these elements are extremely significant and beneficial for adults with cognitive and other disabilities.
A Personal Story
N is a Kfar Tikva resident in his 20s with Autism Spectrum Disorder. He does not speak much and has difficulty connecting to others or interacting socially. As a young child N benefited from animal therapies including horseback riding. Based on his history the professional team at Kfar Tikva recommended that he try Equine Therapy as an adult. N wanted to participate but held back. He would not approach the horses or the other members of the group. For almost a year he traveled to the horse riding facility outside of the Kfar and walked around but would not participate. Slowly, over time and with the continuous support of the therapeutic team N gradually began approaching the horses and opening up. Now, he does not miss an opportunity to be with the horses. N talks to his peers about the horses and upon arrival at the riding ring, goes directly to the counselors to discuss the latest news and horse related updates. N insists on approaching and interacting with each counselor before his session begins. His relationships and interactions with his fellow riders have improved as they have bonded over their love of horses. The group spends time talking about the horses, working together to suit them up and care for the equipment and has strengthened their bonds.
Thank you to the JFNA and the Jewish Federation of Metro Detroit, and the Gertzman Endowment Fund for your support and friendship. Your support will enable the purchase of two horses for the Equine Therapy Facility and plays a critical role in making this strategic project a reality.
Tulip Winery
Tulip Winery is an independently owned and operated boutique winery located on the grounds of Kfar Tikva. The relationship spans many years and was a result of the Tulip Winery owner and founder’s vision to create a socially responsible business in addition to producing fine wines. The resulting partnership between Tulip and Kfar Tikva, creates a forum for adults with disabilities to develop their abilities and realize their potential. The Kfar Tikva residents work alongside the other employees from the community at large. The residents are involved in a variety of functions including wine making, vintage, packaging and the maintaining and hosting of visitors in the Tulip Winery Visitor Center. A number of residents are employed on a regular basis and have become an integral part of the Tulip Winery family. Additionally, Tulip Winery employs dozens of other residents on special projects throughout the year, and during the pre-holiday busy season. These special projects help preserve the spirit of community and enable the winery to provide opportunities to more Kfar Tikva residents.
Employment plays an important role in the lives of the 230+ residents of Kfar Tikva. Work builds self-respect, self-esteem, social skills and provides meaningful structure to daily life. The residents of Kfar Tikva enjoy productive work environments geared to their abilities and personal preferences. The partnership with Tulip Winery plays a key role in providing a range of employment options and meaningful opportunities for inclusion with the community at large.