The activity that we were most looking forward to finally arrived. We went to Or Akiva, GMJF's sister city. The city is very beautiful and modern. We "ooohed and ahhed" at the beautiful building which houses the Or Akiva High School. Rena Genn, our community's representative in Israel, jumped on our bus and pointed out various spots of interest. Our first stop was at the Mete'or Kindergarten Center. We were amazed at the programs offered for pre-kindergarten children in the hands-on science center. A few of the guys were eager to play with some of the educational toys. Our next stop was at the Erez After School Club. As we descended the bus, the children excitedly introduced themselves to us in English. Some children were shy but quickly warmed up to us. We had a chance to help paint Disney characters on the side of the building. You will never believe how much fun and bonding we had with the children despite the language barrier. Since it was two days before the end of the school year we had arranged to hold a party for them - and what a party we had!

After a very delicious barbeque, we handed out toys, much to the delight of the children. Their beaming smiles could have lit up the entire city at night. We left Or Akiva with a sense of pride for all the hard work that we did today and continue to do in Miami for these children. A few of us expressed an interest to come back next summer and volunteer.

Elul 5763 - September 2003