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HappyNew Year!Beit Issie Shapiro marks its

with a new logopage 2

30th anniversary

Dreamscancome true!Karen Schiffman’s parents did not imagine that one day she would attend a regular school. Beit Issie Shapiro made this happen. An optimistic family story.page 3

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Greetings from Naomi Stuchiner, President – CEO International

Dear Friends,

Twenty-nine years have gone by since my late father Issie Shapiro passed away and since we established Beit Issie Shapiro in his memory. One year later, we opened our first program in a little house in Herzliya with 16 children – certainly humble beginnings.

And, how far we have come – year by year, we established new and innovative programs, answering the needs of our special children and their families, providing high quality services to many thousands each year, impacting not only on them but on the entire community.

Today we are a world-class organization impacting on over 25,000 people each year.

As we approach our 30th year celebrations, we are presented with a new challenge – how to ensure that the work that we are doing is appropriately portrayed to our friends and supporters. We therefore undertook to evaluate whether our original image sufficiently well depicted the multidimensional model we have developed over the years. We did this with the guidance of volunteer experts from Israel, the US and the UK, together with a branding company here in Israel – BBDO Design – and we thank

them for their generosity of time and effort. And we are now proud and excited to launch our new logo and ‘brand’ which more appropriately reflects what we do.

Beit Issie Shapiro stands on 3 pillars:

• The Issie Shapiro Center, which provides therapeutic and educational services to over 7,000 children and adults each year

• The Issie Shapiro Institute for development, research and training

• The Issie Shapiro Forum for social change and advocacy in the community.

I congratulate Jean Judes, our executive director, and her incredible staff for taking responsibility to realize the vision of Issie Shapiro ז”ל with sensitivity, dedication and professionalism, and indeed, for changing the lives of people with disabilities each year.

I wish you all a very happy and healthy New Year, filled with good health and renewed hope.

Sincerely,

Naomi StuchinerPresident & CEO International

The International Friends of Beit Issie Shapiro mourns the tragic loss of its first Chairman of the Board, Nahum Sharfman, and his wife Nava ז”ל – both wonderful and devoted friends of BIS – in a devastating plane crash in April. We share the loss with their family, friends and colleagues.

For some children, like three-year-old Keren Shiffman, Beit Issie Shapiro (BIS) is just one of the schools they attend. Five days a week, Keren takes part in a group at BIS where she receives therapy as well as learning normal kindergarten skills, while for one other day, she attends a regular kindergarten near her home. In another year, she will enter a mainstream kindergarten – the same as other children her age. BIS will have helped make that possible.

Keren loves her group at BIS, say her parents, Inbal and Larry.

With her blond hair, blue eyes and smile, Keren is a ray of sunshine. Laughing, chattering, the center of attention, she isn’t still for a minute. She demonstrates how quickly she can move with the aid of parallel bars, slips, falls, and quickly pulls herself up. “No harm done!” says her mother, and in a second, she is on the move again. Nothing stops this lovely, determined child from making a success of her life.

Yet a year ago, her future was less clear. Keren was born prematurely, weighing only 1.33 kilos, a twin to Tomer and sister to Gili, now 8, and Mai, age 10. “At first, all seemed well,” explained Larry. “It was only when she reached a year that we realized her development was slower than it should be.” After testing, she was diagnosed with spastic diplegia, a form of cerebral palsy that affects muscles in the legs and hips.

According to Inbal, “It was recommended that we send her to Beit Issie Shapiro, but when we visited, I thought, ‘This isn’t for Keren.’ Although she has motor problems, her cognitive level is very high and we thought that she wouldn’t fit in. But BIS works to realize the potential of every child, according to each one’s capabilities.”

When Keren first started at BIS, she couldn’t walk at all. Today, she moves confidently with the aid of a walker. “Her speech has developed a lot too,” says Inbal. “She has self-confidence and is very sociable. We have been working

to ease her into the regular educational system. Not only do the staffers at BIS give her the physical training she requires, but they teach her the things she would learn in a regular kindergarten!”

On Fridays, Keren goes with her brother to a kindergarten near her home. A student from BIS accompanies and helps her physically when necessary but generally, that help is minimal. Keren interacts with her peers and takes part in all the activities of the kindergarten. She will spend another year at a remedial kindergarten, and then will take part in regular studies, just like any other child.

“It hasn’t been an easy path, but we are optimistic,” says Inbal. “The staff at BIS has been wonderful. They teach the children, with love, that they can help themselves. With the skills and security she has gained here and the support of her family, Keren will be able to deal with the problems she will face in life. She can go to university and become whatever she wants.”

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A few months ago Nava and Nahum Sharfman, dear and beloved friends of Beit Issie Shapiro, lost their lives in a tragic air crash.

Nava and Nahum were our friends and partners. They were a source of inspiration and, for our special children, a ray of light and hope.

The warm, close connection between Nava, Nahum and Beit Issie Shapiro came about immediately after they heard us speak on the radio and decided that they wanted to be part of our organization. Within a short time, we had formulated a common vision and plans for the future, and they became significant supporters of our projects.

At the end of Independence Day, when news of the terrible accident that took the lives of Nava and Nahum reached us, we refused to believe it.

We at Beit Issie Shapiro have adopted their optimism, humility and love – as a beacon of life.

Jean Judes and the staff of Beit Issie Shapiro

In memory of our beloved

Nava & Nahum ז”ל

We are proud that Beit Issie Shapiro has been awarded a high rating from Midot in five critical areas that were assessed.

For the past 28 years, Beit Issie Shapiro has worked very hard not only to provide the best possible facilities for children and adults with developmental disabilities, but also to ensure that our program and services are delivered with care, compassion and extreme professionalism. These goals, combined with a policy of integrity, transparency and work ethics, have resulted in this very exciting achievement.

We would like to thank all our partners in our mission, for without your support, we would not have been able to accomplish a better life for our children and their families.

Below are a number of extracts from the report.

I: Organizational Attributes

Horizon: The organization’s vision, goals and strategic philosophy are clear, understood and known by all its employees. The wide range of programs operated is congruent with its goals and provide a comprehensive answer to the needs of people with developmental disabilities. Beit Issie Shapiro prioritizes research and even operates a research unit which complements and supports the organization’s activities.

People: The Board of Directors is involved in the central and strategic processes of the organization. Beit Issie Shapiro’s employees are highly skilled and experienced.

Structures: Beit Issie Shapiro has excellent facilities. The organization is familiar with its environment and collaborates with diverse agencies – public, social and academic – as well as soliciting advice from experts. During all its years, the organization continuously expands its activities, initiating and developing innovative services.

Finances: Beit Issie Shapiro has a stable financial infrastructure, mostly due to a mix of diverse funding sources. Most of the funds are directed to fulfilling the organization’s goals. The organization’s financial planning is long-term, deriving from an in-depth analysis of the field and the organization’s capabilities, while keeping in mind the maximization of income.

Ethics: Beit Issie Shapiro acts with openness vis-à-vis other organizations, and is willing to be transparent with its interest holders. The organization has an Ethics Committee. A Tenders Committee has also been established to oversee and authorize all significant business decisions, and insists on these transparent processes.

Beit Issie Shapiro is awarded an “A” by “Midot”–an index specializing in rating non-profit organizations in the areas of finances, work ethics, vision, goals and infrastructures.

II: Social Measures

Effectiveness: Though located in Ra’anana, Beit Issie Shapiro serves people from around the country. All its facilities are accessible. Activities are age appropriate. Services have consistently expanded and in 2008, the number of recipients increased by 10% from 2007.

Beit Issie Shapiro has successfully led the struggle to expand the legal entitlement to early intervention daycare for infants with developmental delays.

Research examining the youth leadership program for changing attitudes of teenagers towards people with disabilities found a marked improvement in their attitudes.

Beit Issie Shapiro has always operated services that support families preferring to raise their child with special needs at home.

Leadership: Beit Issie Shapiro has developed a unique model of operating and it shares this with other organizations. It has initiated and is leading an advocacy coalition of 50 organizations active in the field of disabilities.

In the field of research, the organization publishes articles in professional journals and produces professional material. It has established a program for higher education for people with disabilities and a training institute for professionals in this field.

The Midot Organization was founded as a unique partnership between Meitav Investment House and the Israeli Joint.

Its aim is to improve the professionalism of third-sector organizations and influence donor decision-making through comprehensive evaluations of non-profit organizations in Israel. The organization presents the general public with the full picture of the various organizations that are active in Israel.

The Midot Index is based on an innovative analytical model conducted by social analysts.

The ranking and the summary of the assessments are performed free of charge and with the organizations’ agreement.

The ratings are available to the general public on the Midot website: www.midot.org.il

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A Ethics

A Finance

A System

A People

A Horizon

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International News

The New Community Jewish High School recently held a viewing of “Withdrawal from Gaza,” a documentary directed and produced by Joel Blasberg. Students donated 100% of the ticket proceeds to Beit Issie Shapiro. L.R.: Mr. Gregg Keer (Faculty Advisor), Andrew Cohen, Mr. Joel Blasberg, Yonatan Blasberg, Ms. Amy Slater-Ovadia of Beit Issie Shapiro, and Mr. Roger Blonder (Media Arts)

News from the USA Milestones ProgramOur Milestones program has been an anchor in the West Coast region, and our National Milestones Director, Amy Slater-Ovadia, is bringing the program nationwide. Several nursery schools, day schools, religious schools and synagogues have joined the cycle. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Amy at slaterovadia@comcast.net

Children participating in Cycles For Smiles at Beth Sholom Congregation, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania

News from the UKUKFOBIS, the UK Friends of Beit Issie Shapiro, continues to grow. In June it was ‘eyes down’ once more as we were again part of the Hebrew Order of David Bingo Evening. Over 240 people from a variety of charities came together for an amazing night characterised by the friendly atmosphere, fantastic prizes and great food. We raised £20,000 for BIS and were delighted that so many of our friends and supporters won big prizes. Our thanks go to UKFOBIS board member Alex Beare for the work he and his committee, led by Eric Shapshack put into the event, and

to Aidee Beare for leading the catering team.

We are also delighted to welcome Wendy Pater to the UKFOBIS board. Wendy has been involved in a number of communal organisations including JNF, and we are sure her experience and enthusiasm will help us support BIS even more.

UKFOBIS is always looking for new fundraising ideas. If you are looking to make purchases from the UK, then please visit www.easyfundraising.org.uk/fobis and support us for free by shopping at over 600 stores, including Amazon and M&S.

Haleh Banayan hosted the first Israeli/Persian breakfast in the San Fernando Valley. We are excited to have new friends in the Beit Issie Shapiro family. Thank you to Haleh for your hospitality! L.R.: Haleh Banayan, Paula Nazar, Sigalit Nechemia-Plafkin, Naomi Stuchiner

Beit Issie Shapiro is approaching its 30th anniversary.

As the years go by, our organization's ability to honor our mission grows stronger, our horizons broaden, and our determination remains unflinching.

Over the past decade, Beit Issie Shapiro has made significant inroads into the international disability community. We are proud that our impact stretches beyond the borders of Israel.

Our overseas involvement spans different ventures in a number of different countries all over the world:

• International Referrals to Beit Issie Shapiro for assessment and treatment from Nigeria, Russia, Hungary, England, America and Yugoslavia.

"We are very grateful that you noticed our daughter's apraxia and for the ‘sensory diet’ – which has proved most useful. We badly need your recommendations at our school!" K., mother of child from Yugoslavia

• International Training by Beit Issie Shapiro’s professionals in USA, Russia, Cyprus, Spain, Portugal and South Africa.

"We learnt many important lessons from you and we hope that it will help us and our colleagues in Moscow orphanages to work better with children and love them as much as you do in your country!"

Maria Natasha and Maria's Children – Russia

· International Professional Advisory Committee (PAC)* An expanding network of top international experts help us develop new areas of expertise in Israel.

"I was so very impressed by your center and all the incredible work you are doing. I am really looking forward to further collaborations." Professor Turk, Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, London

"… I think you are very special people who created a unique and wonderful place. It also reminded me how much I miss the Israeli spirit and enterprise." Julia Avnon, Psychologist, London, after lecturing at

Beit Issie Shapiro

· International Research – Beit Issie Shapiro collaborated with Canada and Australia to develop "The Family Quality of Life Assessment Tool". This has been translated into many different languages, including Japanese, Farsi, Spanish, Chinese, Flemish, Dutch, Slovene, Bosnian, etc.

· Beit Issie Shapiro’s staff are invited to present their research at International Conferences.

· Beit Issie Shapiro hosts an international conference every 4 years which is well credited on the world conference circuit.

We are proud to be part of the global effort to make the world a tolerant and caring place for people with disabilities. We look towards the future with a firm belief that we can make a difference!

*You can get to know about our esteemed friends on our professional committees on our website – www.beitissie.org.il/Eng

Beit Issie Shapiro in the Global ArenaBy Jean Judes, Executive Director

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Aidee Beare and HodBingo guests

Special Events with Our Amazing Friends

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Contact UsISRAELIssie Shapiro St.P.O. Box 29,Ra’anana 43100, IsraelTel: +972 9 770 1222Fax: +972 9 771 0465E-mail:info@beitissie.org.ilExecutive DirectorJean Judes President, CEO International: Naomi Stuchiner Ministry of Interior Non-Profit Organization #: 58-007-185-0

USANew York / National OfficeAmerican Friends Of Beit Issie Shapiro 404 Park Ave South, 7th Fl.New York, NY 10016Tel: +1 (212) 586-2464Fax: +1 (212) 246-4914E-mail: info@afobis.orgWebsite: www.afobis.orgRegistration #: 13-3434-781National / NY Director: Eddie WardE-mail: ew@afobis.orgPlanned Giving Consultant:Steve Rose E-mail: stevefrd@bellsouth.netNational Milestones DirectorAmy Slater-OvadiaE-mail: slaterovadia@comcast.net

CaliforniaLos AngelesAmerican Friends of Beit Issie Shapiro5870 West Olympic Blvd. Suite 107 Los Angeles CA 90036Tel/Fax: +1 (323) 938-9851E-mail: laoffice@afobis.orgWest Coast Director: Yael BlasbergEmail: yaeli58@aol.com

San FranciscoAmy Slater-Ovadia 1240 Golden Springs LaneConcord, CA 94521Tel: +1 (925) 609-6360Email: slaterovadia@comcast.net

FloridaAmerican Friends Of Beit Issie Shapiro c/o JCC 18900 NE 25th Ave. Miami Beach, FL 33180Tel: +1 (305) 933-0774, +1 (305) 933-0823Representative: Steve RoseE-mail: florida@afobis.org

SOUTH AFRICASouth African Friends of Beit Issie Shapiro, c/o Raelene TradonskyP.O. Box 1636 Houghton, Johannesburg 2041Tel: +27 11-728-3586, +27 11-575-0480E-mail: raelene.tradonsky@is.co.za

CANADACanadian Friends of Beit Issie Shapiroc/o Barbara Abrams5 Gladiola Court, Toronto Ontario M3H 5X5 CanadaTel: +1 (416) 633-4995Fax: +1 (416) 633-2746E-mail: cfobis@rogers.comRegistration #: 89056 - 1848 - RR0001

UNITED KINGDOMUK Friends of Beit Issie ShapiroUKFOBISCatalyst House720 Centennial CourtCentennial ParkElstree, HertsWD6 3SYTel: +44 208-736 5876Fax: +44 7801 816801Charity #: 328303Development Director: Jon LandsmanEmail: ukfobis@googlemail.com

Website: www.beitissie.org.il/eng

• National fundraising campaign – this August we launched a national campaign at the “Ribua Hakachol” department stores. Customers were asked to donate 2 shekels for the children at Beit Issie Shapiro.

The summer was filled with an abundance of fun-filled events.

• In June we held an auction of contemporary Israeli art, donated by renowned local artists at the “Toby Dresdner” gallery in Tel Aviv. It was a wonderful evening, which yielded great profits for our special children.• An Israeli Love Story - Adi Bielski, Caron (chairperson of Beit Issie Shapiro) and Zeev Bielski’s (MK) daughter, and an award- winning actress, performed in a romantic play. All proceeds from the tickets were donated to Beit Issie Shapiro. • Greeting Cards – Pepi Marzel and Yael Ziv volunteered to illustrate greeting cards for our special children. The cards are now being sold at different stores throughout the country and in our offices abroad.

The success of the campaign was helped due to the irresistible charm of Beit Issie Shapiro’s own 3 year old, Tal-el, who was the face of this campaign. • Sweet summer – Nestle will donate 1 shekel for each family package of ice creams sold at Shufersal supermarkets to Beit Issie Shapiro.

Still to come …

• The 10th anniversary of the annual Virtual Share Holders’ event will be held in the US Ambassador’s home. This event hosts key persons from the business and local community, in the hope of establishing a better society for us all. This year a virtual share “trades” for NIS 5,000.

Dorit Maor and Nili Lipman

Nir Bronstein, auctioneer

Greeting cards for special children

We would like to thank the photographers: Alberto Birmaher, David Garb, David Zana