When and where is Hike that Heals 2009?

The group will meet at the airport at 5:30 pm on Sunday May 17. We will be sleeping in Ein Gev Sunday night. The hike begins on Monday morning, May 18 and ends Thursday, May 21.

What will a typical day be like?

We will be hiking through the Golan Heights, which has some of the most beautiful terrain in the spring. Our days will begin early, after breakfast. There will be rest stops throughout the day and we will be provided with lunch everyday. The day closes with dinner. Some places may have swimming pools for our use. Hiking the northern part of Mount Hermon is contingent upon security clearance.

How good a hiker do I have to be?

You do not have to be an expert hiker. You will on average be hiking 9-12 miles (15-20 kilometers) per day. Some of the terrain may be hilly.

What health precautions do I need to take?

Your registration must include a medical clearance form signed by you and your doctor. Please download, print, complete and sign the Medical Clearance Form. People from outside Israel should take out travel insurance. Please check with your own insurance company. Should medical treatment be necessary, participants must personally cover the cost of treatment and a bill will be issued, which can be used to apply for reimbursement from their own medical insurance.

What does the hike provide?

The hike will provide transportation, all overnight accomodations, kosher meals and refreshments at rest stops, water, transportation in case of fatigue, transporting of luggage between stops, a paramedic, security and comradery.

What accomodations will the hike provide?

Accomodations will be kibbutz guest houses. Rooms are double occupancy, unless you wish to pay an upgrade for single occupancy. We will try to put you with a roommate of your choice.

What should I pack?

Pack as lightly as possible; you will have to carry your own luggage from the parking lot to your room. Click here to see a suggested packing list.

What will the hike cost me?

The hike will cost $1,100 US dollars per participant not including airfare (see below). The single supplement is $260. You can register online. In order to participate, each participant is asked to raise a minimum of $1,000 in sponsorships. Every additional immediate family member must pay the $1,100 and are asked to raise $800 in sponsorships.

How do I obtain sponsorships?

Tell your friends and family about the hike and about the work that Emunah is doing in Israel. We are sure that most people will be happy to sponsor you. You can also use one of our sample letters to give potential sponsors a closer look at Emunah. You may also want to suggest sponsorship amounts to your family and friends. A dollar or shekel per kilometer is a popular sponsorship option. Emunah offices both in New York and Israel have additional materials to help you in your fundraising efforts.

Where do my sponsorship funds go?

Funds raised by the Hike that Heals will go to heal the lives of children and families in Southern Israel who were victims of Hamas rocket attacks. EMUNAH continues to provide them with psychological counseling through our Crisis Hotline, Crisis Counseling Centers, and extra staff for the Day Care Centers and our Children’s Residential Homes in Southern Israel.

Can sponsors donate online?

Yes. Please click here.

Are sponsored donations tax-deductible?

Yes. Official tax receipts and acknowledgements will be sent to every donor.

How do I register?

You can register online; make sure you have your Israeli ID or your passport number when you register. If you have any questions about registration, you can email Ronnie Faber — ramdys1@aol.com or call the Emunah office — 212-947-5454 ext. 321.

What happens once I register?

As soon as your registration is fully paid you will receive an information package. You will also receive periodic e−mails from Ronnie Faber. Please be sure to read your e−mails carefully and respond promptly to any questions.

What about airfare?

Emunah of America has the best prices on EL AL Airlines. To book your reservations, call Debbie at the Emunah office 212-947-5454 ext. 321.

Where can I stay for Shabbat after the hike?

Emunah of America can make reservations for you wherever you want to stay.