or lachayal - israelgivesshabbat hospitality meals 583 7,000 9 105 administrative and miscellaneous...
TRANSCRIPT
Or LachayalBringing Light to Our Soldiers
Annual Programming Plan5775 • 2015
32
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
4. Purim: Mishloach manot food parcels for IDF soldiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
5. Passover: Matza Campaign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
E. Special projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 511. Taglit hospitality at a BBQ for the Soul event . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .512. Mezuzah Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .523. Tefillin cabinets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .534. Food Vouchers for Needy Soldiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .535. Brit Milah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .536. Tzitzit for combat soldiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .547. Emotional Support for the Injured and Bereaved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .548. Sefer Torah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .549. Field Relaxation Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5510. Off-road Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5511. Special Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
F. Or Lachayal House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
G. Administrative and Miscellaneous . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
A. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
B. Annual Programming Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
C. Ongoing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111. General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112. BBQ for the Soul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153. Tefillin Bank - “The Jewish People’s Secret Weapon” – for IDF Soldiers . . . . . . . .194. Shabbat experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .235. Torah & Heritage Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276. Study Days and two-day Seminars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .297. Home Away from Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .318. Morale and Tefillin Patrol - Mobile Units on Bases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339. Silver Candlesticks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3510. Shabbat Hospitality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3711. Or Lachayal Monthly Newsletter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
D. Holiday Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 401. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432. Sukkot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .453. Chanukah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Contents
54
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
A. Introduction Or Lachayal was established by Rabbi Menachem Ofen in 2000, following his miraculous survival of an attack by Hamas terrorists against him and his brother near the Tarqumia checkpoint outside Hebron, while on their way to deliver mishlochei manot and bring the simcha of Purim to IDF soldiers serving in the Hebron region. While Rabbi Ofen was recuperating from his injuries he decided to devote the rest of his life to being a shaliach for the Lubavitcher Rebbe, bringing joy and encouragement to IDF soldiers who are dedicating their lives to the defense of Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael, and connecting these soldiers to their Jewish heritage.
Or Lachayal’s goals are: To bring light and joy to IDF soldiers, in order to raise their morale and to instill in them the values of brotherhood and mutual responsibility – Ahavat Yisrael, and to strengthen their Jewish identity. The main focus of Or Lachayal’s activities is the Jewish experience, bringing pleasure and pleasantness to the soldiers as we contribute to their physical and spiritual welfare. All of Or Lachayal’s activities are coordinated with and approved by the official IDF and state authorities in charge of the soldiers’ welfare, including the Human Resources Department, the Education Corps, the Ministry of Defense, Association for the Wellbeing of Israel's Soldiers (AWIS) and the IDF Rabbinate.
IDF Chief of Staff Moshe Levi visiting the Lubavitcher Rebbe.
The Rebbe expressed warm feelings for and bestowed special blessings on anyone supporting his activities and projects in the IDF. Several chassidim have disclosed that for decades the Rebbe had personally sponsored some of the IDF’s holiday activities.
76
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
B. Annual Programming PlanOr Lachayal’s programming plan has three main areas of activity: year-round ongoing activities and seasonal programs before and during Jewish holidays, and special projects.
In the 2015 programming year, we anticipate a significant increase in activities in all three areas. The annual programming plan has been constructed based on an annual budget of $17.2 million: $7.3 million for ongoing activities, at $605,000 per month; $2.2 million for seasonal activities and $7.7 million for special projects.
In addition to the above budget, in 2015 we are planning to purchase and renovate Or Lachayal House in Jerusalem, which will serve as a center for the organization’s programs. The cost of this acquisition and the renovations is estimated at $9.5 million, and we have already raised half of that sum.
The actual implementation of the following programming plan depends on the funding resources available to the organization. Most of the funds for Or Lachayal’s programs come from the very generous donation by Reb Itzchak Mirilashvili and the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF).
The transfer of the substantial budgets from the FIDF and other donors on a matching basis will contribute immensely to the expansion of Or Lachayal’s programs in 2015, and to an increase in the number of soldiers who will benefit from the light and joy that Or Lachayal spreads in the IDF.
Following is a summary of the Annual Programming Plan.
Table 1 | Ongoing Programs
Summary of the Work Plan for 2015, by types of programs
Program Type Annual Cost (Thousands of dollars)
Proportion of total programming budget
Ongoing 7,254 32%Seasonal 2,244 10%
Special projects 7,726 34%Or Lachayal House 5,500 24%
Total 22,708 100%
Table Summ Progra
OngoinSeasonSpeciaOr LacHouse Total
1 | Ongoinmary of the
am Type
ng nal
al projects chayal
ng Prograe Work Pla
(Tho
ms an for 2015
Annual Cousands o
5, by type
Cost of dollars)
7,2542,2447,7265,500
22,708
s of progr
Propprogra
rams
portion of tamming bu
31
34%24
10
total udget
32% 0%
%48 4%
0%
98
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
Table 2 | Summary of Costs for Ongoing Programs – 2015 (in Thousands of Dollars)
Project Unit measure
Number per month
Total per year
Cost per Month
Total Annual Cost
BBQ for the Soul Events 33 396 281 3,366
Tefillin Bank Set of tefillin 100 1,200 49 590
Shabbat in Jerusalem Shabbats 6 72 61 727
Torah and Heritage Classes 260 3,120 26 312
Study days Study days 4 48 11 129
2-day study program
2-day programs 2 24 13 152
Home Away from Home (4 homes)
Activity days 92 1,100 28 331
Morale and Tefillin Patrol (10 teams)
Activity days 220 10 71 852
Silver candlesticks Candlesticks 833 10,000 13 150
Or Lachayal Newsletter Newsletters 1 16 8 96
Shabbat Hospitality Meals 583 7,000 9 105
Administrative and Miscellaneous
- 37 443
Total 605 7,254
Table 3 | Summary of Seasonal Programs for 2015 (in Thousands of Dollars)
Name Description Units Number for 2015
Budget for 2015
High Holiday Awareness
Pre-holiday educational event
Events 30 45
Shofar ProjectDistribution of Shofars at IDF bases
Shofarot 300 20
Sukkot Bank Building Sukkot at IDF bases Sukkot 100 200
Four Species Arba Minim) campaign
Distribution of the Four Species
Sets 10,000 120
Simchat Beit Hasho’eva events
Simchat Beit Hasho’eva events
Events 30 90
Chanukah Program
Chanukah Candle lighting Events 50 100
Chanukah Program – Items
Distribution of Chanukah Items
Items 177,000 169
Mishlochei Manot for IDF soldiers
Distribution of Mishlochei Manot
Food parcels 250,000 750
Matza Project Distribution of Shmura Matza Shmura Matzot 250,000 750
Total 2,244
1110
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
C. Ongoing activities1. General The ongoing activities consists of 11 different activities, all of which are aimed at improving the soldiers’ quality of life, both physically and spiritually.
Table 4 | Summary of Special projects for 2015 (in Thousands of Dollars)
Name Description Units Number for 2015
Budget for 2015
Taglit BBQ for the soul
Hosting Taglit participants in BBQ for the Soul events
Events 200 468
Mezuzah Project
Checking, replacing and maintenance
Mezuzahs 75,000 3,798
Tefillin cabinetsInstalling tefillin cabinets at IDF bases
Cabinets 400 1,948
Food Vouchers for Needy Soldiers
Distribution of food vouchers Recipients 3,500 200
Brit MilahBrit Milah ceremonies in hospitals
Events 100 180
Tzitzit for combat soldiers
Distribution of camouflage fabric tzitzit
Units 500,000 500
Emotional support for the injured and bereaved
100
Sifrei Torah Writing Sifrei Torah for the soldiers’ benefit
Sefer Torah 2 72
Field relaxation vehicle
Vehicle in which soldiers can relax during field training exercises
Vehicle 1 180
Off-road vehicle
Vehicle that will enable Or Lachayal teams to reach every outpost and every soldier
Vehicle 1 100
Special Projects Events 2 180
Total 7,726
1312
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
C. On
1. GeThe onimprov
In addisoldiermitzvot
ngoing ac
eneral ngoing activving the sol
tion to the rs who partt.
ctivities
vities consldiers’ qua
individual ticipate in O
sists of 11 dlity of life, b
experiencOr Lachay
different acboth physi
ce, the joy, yal’s activiti
ctivities, alcally and s
encourageies will ben
l of which spiritually.
ement andnefit from fu
are aimed
d light, the fulfilling ma
at
IDF any In addition to the individual experience, the joy, encouragement and light, the IDF
soldiers who participate in Or Lachayal’s activities will benefit from fulfilling many mitzvot.
The avverage cost per mitzvvah in the oongoing acctivities is eestimated aat $3.3.
The average cost per mitzvah in the ongoing activities is estimated at $3.3. The avverage cost per mitzvvah in the oongoing acctivities is eestimated aat $3.3.
2. BB BBQ fobattaliotheir spfriendsmateriaspirituasoldier The BBevents These overcocontenaccomthe sol2.1 AnThe Anevents $8,500programthe yea
BQ for the
or the Soulons all alonpirits and cship. The pal needs, tal needs. Brs, many of
BQ for the and evenievents em
ome the difft, these bapanimentsdiers’ moranual Prog
nnual Proga week (3
0 per eventmming andar, as deta
e Soul
is a progrng Israel’s connect theroject is bahrough giv
BBQ for thef whom are
Soul progrings for sm
mpower theficult challearbecues ins, plus a staale and se
gramming gramming P33 events at. The impld a great miled below
ram that reborders, to
e combat sased on thving and hae Soul is une not regul
rams also mall IDF une soldiers aenges theynclude a geand-up comnd their spPlan
Plan for 20a month), wementation
many mitzv.
eaches out o the northsoldiers to e understaappiness, wnique in itsarly expos
include ennits on baseand fill themy face. Aloenerous mmedian anpirits soarin
015 assumwith 500 pan of this prvot to some
the soldieh, the souththe Jewish
anding thatwe can opes success sed to Jewi
ntertainmenes scatterem with coung with the
meal of grillnd musical ng.
es an annuarticipants roject in fule 200,000
rs in the fieh and the eh sources tt, by fulfillinen their hein reachingsh values
nt, unique eed throughrage and ie cheerful Jed meats aperforman
ual averagand at an ll will bring soldiers ov
eld, visitingeast, and tothrough lovng a persoearts to fulfg a wide raand ideas
experiencehout the conner strenJewish-cuand all the
nces that ra
ge of at leaaverage c Or Lachayver the cou
g the o raise ve and n’s fill their ange of .
e untry. gth to ltural
e aise
st eight cost of yal’s urse of
1514
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
2. BBQ for the SoulBBQ for the Soul is a program that reaches out to the soldiers in the field, visiting the battalions all along Israel’s borders, to the north, the south and the east, and to raise their spirits and connect the combat soldiers to the Jewish sources through love and friendship. The project is based on the understanding that, by fulfilling a person’s material needs, through giving and happiness, we can open their hearts to fulfill their spiritual needs. BBQ for the Soul is unique in its success in reaching a wide range of soldiers, many of whom are not regularly exposed to Jewish values and ideas.
The BBQ for the Soul programs also include entertainment, unique experience events and evenings for small IDF units on bases scattered throughout the country. These events empower the soldiers and fill them with courage and inner strength to overcome the difficult challenges they face. Along with the cheerful Jewish-cultural content, these barbecues include a generous meal of grilled meats and all the accompaniments, plus a stand-up comedian and musical performances that raise the soldiers’ morale and send their spirits soaring.
1716
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
2.2 Estimated mitzvotThe main mitzvot that are fulfilled at BBQ for the Soul events are: tefillin, brakhot before and after meals, listening to a Jewish identity lecture - learning Torah, reciting verses from the Torah, the joy in fulfilling a mitzvah and reciting Shema Yisrael. At events held close to Jewish festivals, there are additional seasonal mitzvot. All in all we anticipate the fulfillment of over one million mitzvot, at an average cost of $3.20 per mitzvah.
Table 7 | Estimate of Annual Mitzvot from BBQ for the Soul Events*
Number of Mitzvot Proportion of TotalBrakhot on food 198,000 19%Lectures on Torah / Jewish identity
198,000 19%
Reciting Torah verses 198,000 19%Joy in fulfilling mitzvot 198,000 19%Reciting Shema Yisrael 198,000 19%Putting on Tefillin 59,400 6%
Total 1,049,400 100%
* Not including seasonal mitzvot
2.1 Annual Programming PlanThe Annual Programming Plan for 2015 assumes an annual average of at least eight events a week (33 events a month), with 500 participants and at an average cost of $8,500 per event. The implementation of this project in full will bring Or Lachayal’s programming and a great many mitzvot to some 200,000 soldiers over the course of the year, as detailed below.
The planning of these events in conjunction with the Jewish calendar will make it possible to increase the number of seasonal mitzvot that can be added. In addition, the drafting of the annual events plan in coordination with the army will make it possible to increase the average number of soldiers at each event.
The program is operated by a staff of employees comprising an operations officer and two event management teams, each consisting of a driver and three operations workers. The overall annual salaries of the events management teams is approximately $250,000. The cost of each event, per soldier, not including the aforementioned salaries, is $15.70.
Table 5 | BBQ for the Soul
Program of Activities for 2015
Details Unit measure
Costs in US$Monthly Annual
Number of Events Events 33 396Average Number of Soldiers at Event Soldiers 500 N/ATotal Number of Soldiers Soldiers 16,500 198,000Direct Cost US$ 249,951 2,999,417Logistics and salaries US$ 30,544 366,526
Total Cost US$ 280,495 3,365,943Average Cost per Event US$/event 8,500 N/A
Table 6 | Typical Structure of Costs per Event
Details CostMeat 3,081Salads 501Carbohydrates 383Drinks 350Disposable Products 345Total Cost of Food 4,660Musicians 2,200Entertainer / comedian 714Personnel and Logistics 926
Total per Event 8,500
1918
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
3. Tefillin Bank“The Jewish People’s Secret Weapon” – for IDF SoldiersPutting on tefillin is a segulah for a long life and is the only mitzvah that is compared to the observance of the entire Torah. In a discussion of tefillin, the Talmud states, “Anyone who lays tefillin; his days and years are extended.” The Talmudic sages also teach us that the verse in the Torah, “And all the peoples of the earth shall see that the name of G-d is called upon you; and they shall be afraid of you.” (Deuteronomy 28:10) is a reference to tefillin.
A well-known story relates that during the Yom Kippur War, the Syrian troops on Israel’s northern border surrendered to IDF soldiers without any battle, despite the fact that they had military supremacy. When the Syrians were asked for a reason for this, they claimed that they saw a “black box” on each Israeli soldier’s head and thought that this was a new secret weapon developed by the Israeli military … the truth is that they were not wrong...
Since 2011, Or Lachayal has distributed thousands of pairs of tefillin to IDF soldiers who do not own a pair of their own and wish to fulfill this important mitzvah every day. These soldiers also receive a copy of the book “The Way to a Life of Meaning,” which presents the Jewish approach to various life situations.
This is one of the most important and most extensive projects in the history of the IDF.
In 2015 we plan to distribute 100 pairs of tefillin each month, for a total of 1,200 over the course of the year.
2120
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
3.1 Annual Programming PlanAs noted above, Or Lachayal plans to distribute 100 pairs of tefillin per month. An Or Lachayal employee will be in charge of this program, from the process of ordering the tefillin through to distributing them to the soldiers. The cost of each pair of tefillin is $472 (including VAT). The total cost of purchasing and distributing 1,200 pairs of tefillin is $590,000 per year.
Table 8 | Annual Costs of the Tefillin Bank Program
Item Cost per Unit ($)
VAT ($) Cost per Unit, inc. VAT ($)
Monthly Cost ($)
Annual Cost ($)
Tefillin Boxes, including Straps
180.00 32.40 212.40 21,240 254,880
Tefillin Parchments
190.00 34.20 224.20 22,420 269,040
Embroidered Bags
10.00 1.80 11.80 1,180 14,160
High-Quality Checking (inc. computerized)
10.00 1.80 11.80 1,180 14,160
Book – “The Way to a Life of Meaning”
10.00 1.80 11.80 1,180 14,160
Manpower 19.52 0 19.52 1,950 23,420Total $419.52 $72 $491.52 $49,150 $589,820
3.2 Estimated MitzvotWith the help of this program, every month an additional one hundred soldiers will lay tefillin each weekday morning. This means that there will be an additional 27,900 mitzvot per month by the end of the year. We expect to add a total of 178,200 mitzvot during this year, at an average of 15,000 mitzvot every month.
The average cost per mitzvah is expected to be $3.30.
2322
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
4. Shabbat experienceThe Shabbat experience is a relatively new addition to the Or Lachayal projects that focus on spiritual content, with the aim of connecting IDF soldiers and officers to Judaism and strengthening their Jewish identity. The Shabbat experience program brings the soldiers for a unique Shabbat in one of three locations: Jerusalem, Tiberias or Mitzpe Ramon. The enrichment programming over the course of the Shabbat focuses on different aspects of this special day and includes uplifting Friday evening Kabbalat Shabbat service, Klezmer songs, a walking tour of the city, Havdala program with musical accompaniment, and lectures on a variety of topics: positive thinking, the officer’s role as an educator, leadership in Judaism, combat heritage, the importance of a sense of mission in our lives, etc. This Shabbat experience is designed to leave a strong, and lasting impression that will deepen the connection between the soldiers and their commanders to their roots and will increase their sense of belonging to the Jewish People. This experience will hopefully also increase their motivation to protect Am Yisrael and maximize their feeling of unity and mutual responsibility.
2524
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
4.1 Annual Programming PlanThe IDF and particularly the Education Corp view the Shabbat experience program as a first-rate educational tool. The director of the IDF Education Department has given her wholehearted support for this program. The current plan includes six such events each month – two in each location - with 90 soldiers participating in each event.
As noted above, this program includes edutainment activities, accommodation, and six meals/snacks for each soldier, with coffee, cake and fruit available throughout the entire Shabbat. The direct cost for each soldier per Shabbat is estimated at $105. The monthly salary for the project manager is $3,904.
Table 9 | Annual Costs of the Shabbat experience program for 2015
Item Monthly AnnualNumber of Shabbat programs 6 72Average number of soldiers per event 90 N/ATotal number of soldiers participating in program 540 6,480Direct programming costs 56,700 680,400Project manager salary cost 3,900 46,800Total $60,600 727,200
Accumulated Value of MitzvotMore than 7,800 IDF soldiers and officers are expected to experience a Shabbat in Jerusalem. Most collected mitzvot relate to the observance of Shabbat, and close to 200,000 mitzvot will be collected; at an average cost of $4.36 per mitzvah.
Table 10 | Details of direct costs for a Shabbat experience program
Item Cost ($)Accommodations 25Food (six meals/snacks) 60Edutainment activities 20Total direct costs 105
Table 11 | Estimated Annual Mitzvot from Shabbat Experience programs
Mitzvah Annual TotalShabbat Candles 1,944Kabbalat Shabbat 6,480Kiddush 12,960Shabbat Meals 19,440Torah Verses 19,440Happiness in Keeping Mitzvot 19,440Learning Torah 6,480Brakhot on food 77,760Total 163,944
2726
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
5. Torah & Heritage ProgramThe Torah & Heritage Program is designed to introduce soldiers to Jewish educational content, including Jewish philosophy and traditions, national unity, and the love for the Land and the People of Israel. This program includes shiurim, lectures, and workshops at army bases around the country. Classes are conducted in small groups, so that each soldier can enjoy personal attention.
The program’s structure enables each soldier to choose a discussion group matching his or her needs and interests. The program brings the gems of Judaism to IDF soldiers, who wish to learn more about their heritage.
2928
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
6. Study Days and two-day SeminarsOver the past few years the IDF Education Corps has been dedicating substantial resource to Israeli-Jewish identity, with the aim of strengthening this identity among IDF officers and soldiers. To this end, the Education Corps invites various organizations from a variety of ideologies and streams of Judaism to visit IDF bases and bolster the Jewish identity of the soldiers, in keeping with their world view and based on the presentation of an appropriate programming plan. Or Lachayal is one of the organizations that have been chosen to participate in this important mission of strengthening the soldiers’ Jewish identity and the connection to Eretz Yisrael. The instilling of values and this goal will be achieved via one- and two-day seminars that combine positive experiences and content.
A one-day seminar consists of a field trip in the geographical region that is the focus of the seminar; a hot meal, a lecture and/or workshop and a storyteller with musical accompaniment.
A two-day seminar consists of 4 lectures and/or walking tours, 5 meals, a workshop and a musical performance, plus a Chassidic experience gathering with time for questions and answers. The unique component of the two-day seminar is the 24-hour period that the soldiers spend in a Chassidic environment, with in-depth exposure to the Chassidic world. This exposure is a golden opportunity for the soldiers to be inspired by the Chassidim who are running the program.
5.1 Annual Programming PlanThe work plan for the 2015 is based on an expanded series of shiurim and workshops, of 260 per month. The monthly cost for this program is $26,000 including salaries and travel expenses for teachers and lecturers, refreshments and salary for the project manager, who is an Or Lachayal employee.
Table 12 | Estimated Costs for the Torah & Heritage Program
Item Monthly cost ($) Annual Cost ($)Payment to lecturers 11,440 137,280Travel expenses 5,980 71,760Refreshments 7,280 87,360Project Manager salary 1,307 15,686Total 26,007 312,086
5.2. Estimated Annual Mitzvot from the Torah & Heritage ProgramAn average of 25 soldiers participates in each shiur or workshop. Throughout the year 78,000 soldiers are expected to listen to shiurim and merit the mitzvah of learning Torah and reciting brakhot on food, for a total of 156,000 mitzvot at an average cost of $2.00 per mitzvah.
3130
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
7. Home Away from HomeAs its name implies, this is a place where soldiers can rest, renew their energies, find someone to talk to, and enjoy refreshments. While visiting the Home Away from Home the soldiers are offered an opportunity to lay tefillin and on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays women soldiers are offered Shabbat candles. This facility is open from 07:00 to 17:30 on Sunday through Thursday, and from 07:00 to 13:00 on Fridays. The Home Away from Home is run by two full-time employees.
In the summer of 2011, the first such facility was inaugurated at the entrance to the IDF base in Tzrifin. This site was chosen for its strategic location at the largest training base in the IDF, serving more than 18,000 soldiers.
Or Lachayal’s plans for 2015 include the opening of three additional Home Away from Home facilities, similar to the one in Tzrifin.
6.1 Annual Programming PlanThe work plan for 2015 is based on 4 one-day seminars per month, with 80 soldiers participating in each seminar and 2 two-day seminars, each with participation of 50 soldiers. These seminars will reach a total of some 5,000 soldiers per year, at an overall cost of about $280,000.
Table 13 | Estimated Costs for the Study Day and Two-day Seminar Program
Item Monthly Annual Study day 4 48Two-day seminar 2 24Total number of soldiers 420 5,040Average variable costs $22,057 $264,686Management costs $1,394 $16,731Total $23,451 $281,417
Table 14 | Cost Structure for Study Day and Two-day Seminar Program
Item Study day Two-day seminar Meals 1,371 3,857Lecture 286 571Walking tour 143 286Fuel 143 143Edutainment program 571 1,143Subtotal – variable costs 2,514 6,000Management costs 174 349Total $2,689 $6,349
6.2. Estimated Annual Mitzvot from the study day/seminar program The mitzvot that the IDF soldiers and officers will fulfill during the one- and two-day seminar programs are learning Torah, making brakhot before and after eating, and the joy of fulfilling a mitzvah. Over the course of the year this program will add a total of 32,000 mitzvot at an average cost of $7.60 per mitzvah.
3332
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
7.1 Annual Programming PlanThe work plan for 2015 is based on Or Lachayal’s experience and the costs incurred in the operation of the Home Away from Home at the entrance to the Tzrifin army base. Most of the costs are constant: rent and salaries for workers.
Table 15 | Cost Structure for the Home Away from Home Project
Item Monthly Cost Annual CostRent (4 houses) 6,000 72,000Refreshments and activities 6,000 72,000Salaries 15,600 187,400Total $27,600 $331,400
7.2. Estimated Annual Mitzvot from the Home Away from Home ProjectThe Programming Plan assumes that the previous years’ success of the Home Away from Home can be replicated at all four facilities in 2015, multiplying by four the number of soldiers benefiting from activities and accumulating mitzvot. With the realization of these assumptions, we will accumulate over 800,000 mitzvot, at an average cost of $0.41 per mitzvah.
Table 16 | Estimated Annual Mitzvot at the Home Away from Home
Mitzvah No. of Mitzvot % of TotalBrakhot on food 345,600 43%Joy of fulfilling a Mitzvah 345,600 43%Putting on tefillin 86,400 11%Shabbat Candles 28,800 4%Total 806,400 100%
8. Morale and Tefillin Patrol - Mobile Units on BasesAs part of the Morale and Tefillin Patrol Program, teams of two Or Lachayal emissaries visit army bases and roadblocks all over the country and along the borders, every day of the week except Shabbat, bringing the soldiers with refreshments, treats, and gift packages. These visits are a real morale booster for the soldiers’ who also get an opportunity to perform the mitzvah of tefillin.
These activities are conducted on a regular basis at IDF bases and roadblocks in Judea and Samaria, as well as among units of soldiers in the Gaza Division. In 2015 Or Lachayal plans to expand this program to additional regions around the country.
3534
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
9. Silver CandlesticksFor many generations the hour of Shabbat candle lighting has been considered a very special time for the Jewish woman; a time when the gates of heaven are open to her prayers. The Silver Candlesticks Program is a unique project for providing IDF servicewomen with candlesticks and enabling them to reconnect to a time-honored tradition and create a sense of home wherever they may be.
8.1 Annual Programming PlanThe expansion of these activities in 2015 includes 10 full-time tefillin patrol teams, with three employees each, working throughout the year.
Table 17 | Costs for the Patrol Program
Section Monthly Cost Annual CostRefreshments 20,000 240,000Travel 12,000 144,000Salaries 39,000 468,000Total $71,000 $853,000
8.2. Estimated Annual Mitzvot from the Morale and Tefillin Patrol Program As this name implies, the Morale and Tefillin Patrol program focuses on bringing the joy of the mitzvah of tefillin to IDF soldiers. Additional mitzvot that accumulate through this program are the reciting of Torah verses, the study of Torah, the joy of fulfilling a mitzvah and brakhot on food. Based on past experience, the estimated total number of mitzvot that will be added through this program and its 10 patrol teams is nearly 2,000,000, at an average cost of $0.41 per mitzvah.
3736
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
10. Shabbat HospitalityIDF soldiers are engaged in operational activities 365 days a year; many operations are also conducted on Shabbat. The Shabbat Hospitality project arranges the hosting of soldiers on operational duty, for a traditional Shabbat meal, in the glow of the candles and will all the delicacies from the Jewish kitchen, Shabbat melodies, words of Torah and stories from the weekly Torah portion. A family Shabbat experience in a relaxed and uplifting home atmosphere raises the soldiers’ spirits, eases the longing for home, and enables them to unburden themselves of anything that is bothering them.
The Shabbat Hospitality Project is part of Or Lachayal’s welfare programs, with soldiers being hosted in the homes of civilians throughout the country, where the soldiers are warmly welcomed and can enjoy a genuine Shabbat experience, with meals and meaningful conversations that continue throughout the day. This hospitality is fully funded by Or Lachayal.
9.1 Annual Programming PlanEvery month 830 ornate candlesticks are distributed to women soldiers, one for each woman. Each candlestick costs $15. No salaried employees are hired specifically for this project. The candlesticks are distributed by Or Lachayal volunteers and administration workers. A total of 10,000 candlesticks will be being given out in 2015, at a cost of $ 150,000.
9.2 Estimated Annual MitzvotEvery month an additional 830 Jewish young women will light Shabbat candles on Friday afternoon. Over of course of the year we can accumulate over 240,000 mitzvot, at an average cost of $0.63 per mitzvah.
3938
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
11. Or Lachayal Monthly Newsletter We live in a generation of mass communication, a time when messages need to be transmittable via the mass media. This fact has both positive and negative aspects, but this is the reality in which we live.
Or Lachayal publishes a newsletter that meets the needs of this reality and recognizes the limitations in face-to-face meetings with large audiences. Keeping in mind the importance in a high quality means of communication, we have produced this newsletter, which presents the values of Judaism in an enlightening and heartwarming way to broad swaths of the public. The fact that IDF soldiers serve in army bases throughout the country, from the Golan Heights in the north to Eilat in the south, exacerbates the need for a high-quality communication tool.
The Or Lachayal newsletter is published on a monthly basis, and printed on high-quality paper in full color. The newsletter is written in direct language on eye-level with the soldiers; the content is geared to the moods and attitudes in the army, and addresses issues relevant to military service.
The articles are written by leading IDF Rabbis and contemporary religious thinkers, offering discussions of topics such as the connection between military leaders and Jewish spiritual leaders – the revered rabbis; Jewish current events that affect the lives of the soldiers, and stories of bravery throughout the generations.
The newsletter is currently distributed in 30,000 copies and we hope to increase the number in 2015, in order to reach many more army bases.
11.1 Annual Programming PlanSixteen newsletters are published throughout the year – 12 monthly newsletters and 4 for the Jewish Holidays (Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur & Sukkot; Chanukah, Purim, and Pesach).
The cost of this project totals $ 96,000, for personnel, including one salaried employee who is in charge of production, editing, printing and distribution. The main expenses are for his salary and the cost of printing.
Table 19 | Expenses for Producing the Or Lachayal Newsletter
Item Monthly Cost ($) Annual Cost ($)Writing and editing 400 4,800Graphics 240 2,880Printing 3,000 36,000Mailing and Distribution 2,360 28,300Holiday Newsletter 2,000 24,000
Total $8,000 $96,000
10.1 Annual Programming PlanEvery month, hundreds of combat soldiers are hosted by families throughout the country. The costs of this project are based on an estimate of $15 per soldier per each meal. In 2015 we are planning to arrange home hospitality for 3,500 soldiers. With a total anticipated cost of $105,000.
10.2 Estimated Annual Mitzvot As noted above, over the course of the year, thousands of soldiers will enjoy Shabbat hospitality and meals and fulfill over 26,000 mitzvot; with an average cost of $4 per mitzvah.
Table 18 | Estimated Mitzvot from Shabbat Hospitality
Shabbat Candles 1,750Kabbalat Shabbat 1,750Kiddush 3,500Shabbat Meals 3,500Reciting Verses 3,500The joy in fulfilling mitzvot 3,500Learning Torah 1,750Brakhot on food 7,000Total 26,250
עלון חודשי לחשיבה יהודית
ב"ה
[email protected] | www.orlachayal.com יוצא לאור על-ידי ארגון אור לחייל
כסלו תשע"ב | דצמבר 2011
בין חג החנוכה לשירות צבאי, משקף בתקופת השילוב שהתרחש מה את רבה הינו במידה החנוכה, חג של סיפורו בשני החשמונאים. פוסקת בלתי התמודדות של חתירה סיפור ורוחני־ערכי. צבאי־מדיני המודרנית, ונסיון לשמר את הייחודיות של העם ימים, לצד התמודדות מול התרבות העולמית, של המעצמה הגדולה ביותר בעולם של אותם לוחמי גרילה העומדת בגבורה כנגד צבא אדיר לעצמאות מדינית, במאבק הירואי של קבוצת מישורים: היהודי.
במסגרת החנוכה חג ציון כאמור, זה ימי בהיבט את רבה במידה מזכיר הצבאי, המסמלות אחד הגנה על עם ישראל מפני האויבים הבאים החשמונאים המופלאים והמסובכים כאחד. מצד השרות החג מצוות שני, ומצד להרגו, את הניצחון הרוחני, של פך השמן הטהור. עליו
התחיל מאבק ערכי לא היוונים כנגד החשמונאים מתוך מאבק הגיח הוא מדינית. לעצמאות למנוע משאיפה שביקשו היוונים גזירות בשל מגמתם מצוקה ואמונתו. לדתו נאמן להישאר את מהעם להפיג היתה החשמונאים של מהם הלחץ הזה, וכנגד הגזירות הללו הם קראו תיגר. העיקרית שנשללת העובדה כנגד התקוממו גם עצמאות מדינית. אך זו היתה תוצאה שלא האפשרות לקיים מצוות. בסוף העימות הושגה הם נצפתה מראש.
מציינים בה בדרך היטב משתקפת זו קנה־מידה, את נס החנוכה וניצחון המכבים. נצחון המכבים, תפיסה בכל מדהים צבאי הישג ו'מעטים' שהיה 'גיבורים' על גברו 'חלשים' 'רבים', אינו בא לידי ביטוי במנהגי כאשר הדלקת החג העיקריים. אמנם הוא מוזכר בתפילת 'ועל עמדו כנגד – העיקרית החג מצוות אך הנסים',
הנרות, שמה את הדגש על אירוע אחר לחלוטין – נס מציאת פך השמן.
שעיקר בהכרתנו לקבוע חכמינו ביקשו הרוחני, בכך במישור היה חנוכה של והנצחונות המאבק המלחמה השמן. פך מסמל הטהור', אותו השמן 'פך מכוח באו במלוא שבעקבותיה, שהתפרצה בקב"ה, הלוהטת האמונה עוזה.
אלפיים חג לדורות כמעט חלפו כבר הנס התרחש בשמחה מאז נחוג החנוכה וחג שנים, העם ומאתיים של המכריע רובו בקרב לא שרדו היהודי. זאת בניגוד לחגים רבים נוספים שציינו ובהתלהבות אלו אך ניסיים שהתרחשו, היהודי. אירועים העם של והגלות החורבן תקופת לאחר שתועלתה כבר לא קיימת?וכי יש לשמוח על ישועה שעמדה לעם ישראל, בית המקדש השני, לאחר חורבנו של אותו בית. אכן אין כל טעם לחגוג הצלה שאירעה בתקופת את צלח אך חג החנוכה, למרות שאף הוא קשור לתקופת הכובשים, בידי נחרב שכבר השני את תקופות החורבן ומממשיך להתקיים.הבית
הזמן חנוכה –אקטואלי תמיד מרחק שלמרות היא לכך הסיבות הדילמות אחת את להפליא משקף הזה החג חג הרב, זהו כיום. ניצבים אנו מולן היום התפור ממש למידותיו של היהודי בימינו. אותו וההתמודדויות גם לבטים. ואותם שאלות אותן המורשת כוחות מסויימים מנסים למשוך אותנו לאימוץ מאבק, זניחת תוך העולמית, כעם התרבות אותנו המייחדים הסממנים קיימים אף היהודי. לכן, גם כשסיפור ניצחון המכבים חלף, וטשטוש ניתן להפיק ממנו, אותם הלקחים כיום, ובמלא העוצמה.
שווה ציטוט
נרות החנוכה מלמדים שאת החושך מגרשים דווקא על-ידי אור. בתחילה מאירים מעט, אבל לא נשארים באותו במקום, אלא בכל יום מוסיפים עוד מעט אור.
)הרבי מליובאוויטש(
נצנוציאור
3
ימי הישג מדיני כתוצאה ממאבק רוחני את רבה במידה מזכיר הצבאי, השרות במסגרת הנחוג החנוכה החשמונאים. שילוב בין ניצחון צבאי להצלה רוחניתחג ערכות חנוכה לחיילים
ימי חג החנוכה בפתח, ובארגון 'אור לחייל' במהלך רבה. פעילות בסיסי מתוכננת את הארגון פעילי יפקדו שמחת החג את ויביאו השונים, לחיילים צה"ל יעניקו הם ללוחמים. ונרות, החג חנוכיה הכוללות חג, ומנהגיו ערכות הפעילות עלון המסביר את מצוות החג טעימה. סופגניה נעשית בשיתוף ה'אגודה למען החייל' וכמובן והרבנות הצבאית.
טקסי הדלקה בבסיסיםבמבחר אי"ה יתקיימו החג של במהלך מרכזיים הדלקה טקסי תוך בסיסים יתקיימו אלו החנוכה. בליווי להקות תזמורת, החיילים ישמעו ההדלקה ושירת מבחר פזמוני החנוכה התכנסויות החיילים ומפקדיהם. לאחר נרות
דברי הסבר על החג ומשמעותו.
עלון הסבר לחג מבית 'אור לחייל'
מרהיב לקראת ימי החנוכה הפיק אגף ההוצאה חנוכה עלון לחייל' 'אור לצד של ומהותו, החג על הסבר דברי מצוות ובו קיום אודות מעשיות וכתוב הדרכות לחיילים מותאם העלון שהוא החג. תוך לליבם, הקרובה הצבאי. ב"שפה" התחום מן במוטיבים למייל שזור לפנות ניתן העלון שכתובתו: [email protected]לקבלת
4140
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
D. Holiday ProgrammingWith the approach of and during the Jewish Holidays, Or Lachayal brings light, happiness and encouragement to IDF Soldiers, in the spirit of each holiday and its customs. As noted above, the seasonal programs are in addition to the ongoing programs.
The following is a summary of the seasonal programs planned for 2015
Table 20 | Summary of Seasonal Programs for 2015 (in Thousands of Dollars)
Name Description Units Number for 2015
Budget for 2015
High Holiday AwarenessPre-holiday educational event
Events 30 45
Shofar ProjectDistribution of Shofars at IDF bases
Shofarot 300 20
Sukkot Bank Building Sukkot at IDF bases Sukkot 100 200
Four Species (Arba Minim) campaign
Distribution of the Four Species Sets 10,000 120
Simchat Beit Hasho’eva events
Simchat Beit Hasho’eva events Events 30 90
Chanukah Program Chanukah Candle lighting Events 50 100
Chanukah Program – Items
Distribution of Chanukah Items Items 177,000 169
Mishlochei Manot for IDF soldiers
Distribution of Mishlochei Manot
Food parcels 250,000 750
Matza Project Distribution of Shmura Matza
Shmura Matzot 250,000 750
Total 2,244
The esis basethey reaccum Table 2Name High HShofar SukkotFour SSimchaChanuChanuMishlocMatza Total
stimated nued on past epresent thulated. The
21 | Estim
Holiday Awar Project t Bank pecies Arbat Beit Haskah Prograkah Prograchei ManoProject
umber of mexperienc
he minimume actual nu
mated Mitzv
areness
ba Minim) csho’eva evam am – Items
ot for IDF s
mitzvot thate. In most
m scope ofumber of m
vot from S
campaign vents
s oldiers
t will be fulcases the
f each progmitzvot will
Seasonal P
filled durinse are caugram and tprobably b
ProgramsMitzvot
78,7,
700,50,
168,170,240,500,500,
2,414,
g these seutious estimthe mitzvotbe higher.
s Co
000 500 000 000 000 500 000 000 000 000
easonal promates sucht that could
ost per mitz
ograms h that d be
zvah ($) 0.58 2.67 0.29 2.40 0.54 0.59 0.70 1.50 1.50
4342
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
1. Rosh Hashanah and Yom KippurOr Lachayal holds two types of activities before Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur: High Holiday awareness gatherings and the distribution of Shofarot.
The High Holiday season of heavenly mercy and forgiveness is a time of spiritual elevation. Our High Holiday awareness gatherings, held at bases throughout the country before Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, are attended by thousands of soldiers. Each event includes refreshments and a full meal, a comprehensive lecture on the significance of Rosh Hashanah, and a spirited Chassidic musical program, aimed at raising the soldiers’ spirits. The high point of these events is the outburst of true joy that brings down all barriers between Jews from different backgrounds. This year Or Lachayal is planning 30 High Holiday awareness events, at a total cost of $45,000.
To ensure that not even one soldier misses hearing the blowing of the Shofar, a large-scale project will be held to distribute 300 high quality Shofarot to army bases, at a cost of $20,000.
The cumulative mitzvot from the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur programs totals over 85,000, at an average cost of $1.62 per mitzvah.
The estimated number of mitzvot that will be fulfilled during these seasonal programs is based on past experience. In most cases these are cautious estimates such that they represent the minimum scope of each program and the mitzvot that could be accumulated. The actual number of mitzvot will probably be higher.
Table 21 | Estimated Mitzvot from Seasonal Programs
Name Mitzvot Cost per mitzvah ($)High Holiday Awareness 78,000 0.58Shofar Project 7,500 2.67Sukkot Bank 700,000 0.29Four Species (Arba Minim) campaign 50,000 2.40Simchat Beit Hasho’eva events 168,000 0.54Chanukah Program 170,500 0.59Chanukah Program – Items 240,000 0.70Mishlochei Manot for IDF soldiers 500,000 1.50Matza Project 500,000 1.50Total 2,414,000
1. Or LacHigh H The Hielevatiocountrysoldieron the aimed true joyyear O$45,00 To enslarge-sat a co The cuover 85
Rosh Ha
chayal holdHoliday awa
gh Holidayon. Our Hiy before Rors. Each evsignificancat raising ty that bring
Or Lachaya00.
sure that noscale projecost of $20,0
umulative m5,000, at a
ashanah
ds two typeareness ga
y season ogh Holidayosh Hashavent includce of Roshthe soldiergs down all is plannin
ot even onct will be h
000.
mitzvot froman average
and Yom
es of activitatherings a
of heavenlyy awarenesanah and Yes refreshm
h Hashanahrs’ spirits. Tl barriers b
ng 30 High
e soldier mheld to distr
m the Rosh cost of $1
m Kippur
ties beforeand the dis
y mercy anss gatherinYom Kippuments andh, and a spThe high pbetween Je Holiday aw
misses hearibute 300
h Hashana1.62 per m
r
Rosh Hastribution of
nd forgivenngs, held aur, are attend a full meapirited Chaoint of thesews from dwareness
aring the blhigh quali
ah and Yomitzvah.
shanah andf Shofarot.
ess is a timat bases thnded by thal, a comprassidic musse events idifferent baevents, at
owing of thty Shofaro
m Kippur p
d Yom Kip.
me of spiritroughout t
housands orehensive sical progris the outb
ackgroundsa total cos
he Shofar,ot to army b
programs to
ppur:
tual the of lecture am,
burst of s. This st of
a bases,
otals
4544
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
2. SukkotOr Lachayal programming before and during Sukkot addresses three aspects of this festival: the erection of Sukkot on army bases – what we call the Sukkot Bank – the distribution of Arba Minim (lulav and etrog sets), and Simchat Beit Hasho’eva musical events.
Sukkah Bank – Sukkot requires large-scale logistic preparations, including purchasing the sukkot, delivering them and erecting them at the various bases, which lack sufficient sukkahs, and erecting them on site. Or Lachayal volunteers help in building the sukkot or in supplying equipment and construction materials, all in coordination with the IDF and according to its needs. With these sukkahs, IDF soldiers can enjoy the wonderful atmosphere of Sukkot, and feel at home.
In preparation for Sukkot 5775, Or Lachayal plans to erect 100 gigantic Sukkahs on army bases throughout the country.
Arba Minim Project – the Arba Minim are one of the most prominent symbols of Sukkot. In order to complete the holiday atmosphere, Or Lachayal distributes sets of lulav and etrog to soldiers on army bases. We plan to distribute 10,000 sets to IDF soldiers prior to Sukkot 5775.
Simchat Beit Hasho’eva events are customarily held in evenings the of the Chol Hamoed days (intermediate) of Sukkot, with singing, dancing and music, as the Talmud tells us: “He who has never seen Simchat Beit Hasho’eva has never witnessed true joy.” Or Lachayal brings top Israeli musicians and bands to Simchat Beit Hasho’eva festivities at army bases. The happiness radiating from the faces of the soldiers fills us with energy for the entire year.
Table 22 | Summary of Sukkot Activities
Activity Unit of measure Quantity Annual
cost ($)Number
of MitzvotAverage cost
per Mitzvah ($)Sukkot Bank Sukkot 100 200,000 700,000 0.29Arba Minim Sets 10,000 120,000 50,000* 2.40Simchat Beit Hasho’eva gatherings
Events 30 90,000 168,000 0.54
Total $410,000 918,000 1.07* Each lulav and etrog is used throughout the holiday and is used by several soldiers.
4746
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
3. ChanukahThroughout the eight days of Chanukah, Or Lachayal volunteers and employees dedicate themselves to bringing light to IDF soldiers, providing them with everything needed for the holiday and holding large-scale candle-lighting ceremonies at army bases.
Thousands of sufgania jam-filled doughnuts, chanukiyot, and wind guards (to enable soldiers to light candles out in the open, in field training and combat regions) are distributed to the soldiers at army bases. The sparkle in their eyes says it all. Nothing beats the feeling of a soldier sitting at some isolated outpost, exposed to the wind and the cold, when all of a sudden a car pulls up, seemingly out of nowhere, blaring happy music, and a smiling Or Lachayal volunteer gives the soldier a warm jam-filled sufgania doughnut and lights Chanukah candles with him.
Main Chanukah events include candle lighting, fire displays, Chassidic music, and warm sufganiot.
Or Lachayal’s programming plan for 5775 includes 50 Chanukah events on army bases, with the participation of over 27,000 soldiers. We expect to facilitate 410,000 mitzvot during Chanukah, at an average cost of $0.65 per mitzvah.
Table 23 | Activity Program for Chanukah
Item Quantity Total cost($)
Number of Soldiers
Candle Lighting Events 50 100,000 27,500Distributing sufganiot 150,000 75,000 75,000Distributing Chanukiyot 25,850 42,000 25,850Distributing wind guards 2,000 44,000 2,000Total $269,000 *100,000
*There is an overlap as some soldiers receive Chanukah items and sufganiot
4948
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
5150
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
E. Special projectsThe special projects include a variety of activities for the physical and spiritual welfare of IDF soldiers and their commanders. Some of the activities are specifically for individuals, while others are for the benefit of the IDF in general.
distributhat thePurim,
5. PasOr Lacbases. night. TOr Lacprogramof $750
E. Sp The spwelfarefor indi
ution of 250ese Mishloat an aver
ssover: chayal distr
The matzoThis is onechayal distrmming pla0,000 and
ecial pro
pecial projee of IDF soviduals, w
0,000 Mishoach manorage cost o
Matza Caributes pacot are distr
e of the largributed clos
an for 2015an averag
ojects
ects includeoldiers and hile others
hloach mant will lead tof $1.50 pe
ampaignckages of Sributed in sgest projecse to 70,00
5 includes te cost of $
e a variety their comm
s are for the
not, at a toto the fulfiler mitzvah.
n Shmura Maspecial boxcts run by O00 boxes, the distribu$0.5 per m
y of activitiemanders. Se benefit o
otal cost of lment of ov.
atza to solxes of 3 maOr Lachaytotaling so
ution of 250itzvah.
es for the pSome of th
of the IDF i
$750,000.ver 500,00
diers on nuatzot, specal. Prior tome 210,000,000 matz
physical anhe activitiesn general.
. We antici00 mitzvot
umerous acifically foro Passover00. Our zot, at a to
nd spirituals are spec
ipate during
army Seder
r 2014
otal cost
cifically
1. Taglit hospitality at a BBQ for the Soul eventThe Taglit (Birthright) project makes it possible for all Jewish young adults, aged 18 to 26 who were born and raised in the Diaspora, to come to Israel for a 10-day educational tour and initial acquaintance with the country. During their visit, Taglit participants tour the major sits in the history of the Jewish People and the State of Israel and meet with their Israeli contemporaries who speak their language – students and mainly IDF officers and soldiers in active service. Taglit encourages participants to discover new meaning in their personal Jewish identity and in their connection to Jewish culture and history.
The inclusion of Taglit participants in a BBQ for the Soul event and the unmediated meeting with soldiers in the field are expected to increase the impact of the spiritual experience during their visit to Israel, and their positive attitude toward their Jewish heritage.
Simultaneous translation will make it possible for Taglit participants who do not understand Hebrew to fully absorb the spiritual content in the event.
5. Passover: Matza CampaignOr Lachayal distributes packages of Shmura Matza to soldiers on numerous army bases. The matzot are distributed in special boxes of 3 matzot, specifically for Seder night. This is one of the largest projects run by Or Lachayal. Prior to Passover 2014 Or Lachayal distributed close to 70,000 boxes, totaling some 210,000. Our programming plan for 2015 includes the distribution of 250,000 matzot, at a total cost of $750,000 and an average cost of $0.5 per mitzvah.
5352
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
and the Eretz Yisrael.
It is not an exaggeration to say that this project has the potential to change the course of Jewish history by giving our soldiers an extra measure of success in their holy mission of defending the Land and its people.
This project, which we anticipate will take two years to complete, will entail the affixing, checking, repair and replacement of up to 150,000 mezuzot at an average cost of $50 per mezuzah. Or Lachayal will start by affixing mezuzot on the doorposts of rooms and buildings that lack a mezuzah altogether. We will then check and repair or replace those that are longer kosher. Each mezuzah will be encased in a durable cover to ensure adequate protection from the elements, so that the new mezuzot will remain kosher for as long as possible. The total cost of this project is $7.5 million, with half of this sum applicable in 2015.
3. Tefillin cabinetsIn addition to the Tefillin Bank project for distributing pairs of tefillin to IDF soldiers on an ongoing basis, Or Lachayal has launched a special project to install 400 tefillin cabinets at IDF bases and outposts throughout the country, with 10 pairs of mehudar tefillin in each cabinet.
This project is part of Or Lachayal’s effort to ensure that any soldier who does not own tefillin will be able to fulfill the mitzvah of tefillin every day. The cost of each cabinet, including the tefillin, is $4,870. The total cost of this project in 2015, for 400 cabinets, is $1.95 million.
4. Food Vouchers for Needy SoldiersSince 5772, Or Lachayal has channeled part of its resources to helping needy soldiers. The liaisons officers for each battalion give Or Lachayal a list of names. In the coming year, Or Lachayal will distribute NIS 200 vouchers to 3,500 needy soldiers. These vouchers are distributed twice a year, before Rosh Hashanah and before Passover, at a total cost of $200,000.
5. Brit MilahIf there’s one mitzvah that the Jewish People has kept throughout the ages more than any other mitzvah, the mitzvah of Brit Milah holds this distinction. Even under the most difficult circumstances, at times faced with the threat of death, Jewish couples have kept this mitzvah. Avraham Avinu was the first person in the world to fulfill this mitzvah, following a direct order from G-d.
Various decrees were imposed on the Jewish People throughout the generations, including the prohibition of Brit Milah. Even though this is not one of the mitzvot that the Talmudic sages declared that a Jew must die rather than violate, parents of newborn baby boys were always meticulous about upholding this important mitzvah, wherever possible.
The inclusion of BBQ for the Soul events in the Taglit itinerary has been approved by Taglit tour planners.
During 2015 some 200 Taglit groups of 50 participants each are expected to visit with Israeli soldiers in the framework of BBQ for the Soul events. The costs arising from the inclusion of Taglit groups in these events, such as the additional food, simultaneous interpreter and a small gift for the Taglit participants and the soldiers, amount to $468,000 for the year.
Table 24 – Costs for including Taglit groups in BBQ for the Soul events
Item Cost per event ($) Cost for the yearFood 475 95,000Gift for participants 1,650 330,000Simultaneous interpretation 215 43,000
Total 2,340 468,000
2. Mezuzah ProjectOr Lachayal has launched a unique project of historic proportions, to provide a kosher, mezuzah for every entryway at every IDF base and outpost.
In addition to its religious significance, a mezuzah affords physical and spiritual protection to everyone who lives in a house, while at home or away. In his Psalms, King David refers to the mitzvah of mezuzah with the words, “Hashem will keep you in your goings and comings from now until eternity.” In fact, the Hebrew letters shin, dalet and yud, inscribed on every mezuzah, are an acronym for one of the names of G-d – Protector of the Doors of Israel.
“Check the tefillin and mezuzot,” was the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s frequent response when people came to him for advice, encouragement or a blessing of in many types of crisis situations. It is hard to believe, but the last time the IDF undertook to check and affix mezuzot on a large-scale basis was almost 40 years ago, in the wake of the raid on Entebbe in 1976.
At that time, the Lubavitcher Rebbe instructed his emissaries to check the mezuzot at the homes of all the hostages on the hijacked plane, as well as the mezuzot of the Sayeret Matkal (General Staff Reconnaissance Unit) soldiers taking part in the rescue operation. Incredibly, all of the hostages had mezuzot that were not kosher.
Following the rescue operation and upon the Rebbe’s recommendations, and his personal donation of 40,000 mezuzot to the IDF, the IDF Rabbinate checked and either repaired or replaced all of the mezuzot throughout all the buildings at all IDF bases and outposts. That was the last time this was done.
Since then, there has been no thorough inspection of mezuzot. There is a great need to provide new mezuzot for the army. Furthermore, there are tens of thousands of places at IDF bases that have no mezuzot whatsoever! Due to budget constraints, the IDF Rabbinate has not been able to undertake such a project.
Or Lachayal view this as a project of strategic significance, since kosher mezuzot are critical to the safety of every single soldier, on the ground, in the air, and at sea. Providing our servicemen with Heavenly protection afforded by the mezuzah is crucial not only for the safety of the soldiers, but for the security of the Am Yisrael
5554
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
own Sefer Torah (…) and if he does not know how to write, others shall write for him. Anyone who proofreads even a single letter in a Torah scroll is considered to have written one in its entirety.”
Over the course of 2015 Or Lachayal will sponsor the writing of two Sifrei Torah for the merit of IDF soldiers, such that every soldier and commander, whether in compulsory service or reserve duty, will have the merit of one letter in a Sefer Torah. The cost of each Sefer Torah is $36,000. The total cost of this project is $72,000.
9. Field Relaxation VehicleThe IDF soldiers who are defending Israel’s borders are deployed throughout the length and breadth of this country. Many of the soldiers are involved in exhausting jobs and/or training programs under difficult field conditions. The arrival of a mobile club room vehicle to the operations area, providing soldiers with the chance to relax and be pampered will cheer up the soldiers and give them the extra
strength they need to complete their work and training. A large highly maneuverable vehicle, outfitted with comfortable armchairs, a library, and plentiful refreshments that can travel to the training areas will give the soldiers a well-needed break.
The cost of this vehicle is $180,000.
10. Off-road VehicleOne of Or Lachayal’s goals is to do everything possible such that no IDF soldier is geographically beyond the reach of the organization’s programs and the joy that they bring.
In order to improve Or Lachayal’s accessibility to soldiers everywhere throughout Israel, we are planning to purchase a highly maneuverable off-road vehicle that will enable Or Lachayal workers to reach every army base and outpost, in all field conditions.
The cost of this vehicle is $100,000.
11. Special ProjectsEach year Or Lachayal sponsors a special project or event. The nature of this event and its content are decided based on events within the organization and current events affecting Am Yisrael and the IDF. A large event is usually held in a main convention hall somewhere in Israel, with the participation of thousands of soldier, and includes plentiful refreshments, spiritual content and cultural content, provided by top-rate entertainers.
The budget for special events and projects in 2015 is $180,000.
Over the past two decades, following the immigration of hundreds of thousands of Jews from the Former Soviet Union and other countries, thousands of Jews living in Israel were not able to perform this crucial mitzvah in its proper time. Many of these young men are combat soldiers who are giving their best years to the security of the Jewish People and the Land of Israel.
It is therefore only natural for Or Lachayal to take the initiative in this area, and for the past several years, we have been helping soldiers fulfill this mitzvah. This project has been undertaken in cooperation with the Brit Yosef Yitzhak organization, and in the coming year Or Lachayal plans to expand this project.
Due to the complexity of a brit milah in adulthood, Or Lachayal consults with top doctors at leading medical centers, where the Brit Milahs are held in professional, medically safe and pleasant surroundings. Or Lachayal organizes a festive meal, which is an integral part of the Brit Milah ceremony.
The cost of each ceremony is $1,800, including a professional surgeon, outpatient treatment and the traditional meal. Or Lachayal estimates that it will sponsor and help arrange 100 Brit Milah ceremonies every year, at a total cost of $180,000.
6. Tzitzit for combat soldiers“The greatest surprise for us, as army rabbis, was when we handed out tzitzit. ‘Rabbi, give me a bunch of tzitzit, the whole tent wants one.’ ‘Here, take this. It’s better than a ceramic vest,’ they shouted to one another. The entire bundle of tzitzit was snapped up as soon as we opened it. One young combat soldier who came to the synagogue was told that the tzitzit had all been distributed, that there was none left for him. He became despondent until one of the master sergeants, who was not going into battle, took off his own tzitzit and handed them to the soldier. “Take mine. You need it now more than I do.” (as related by a battalion rabbi).
Many religious and non-religious soldiers view tzitzit as an extra layer of protection during combat missions.
In 2015 Or Lachayal plans to distribute 50,000 khaki or camouflage fabric tzitzit that can be worn on the battlefield without attracting undue attention. The cost of each garment is $10, for a total project cost of $500,000.
7. Emotional Support for the Injured and BereavedDefending Israel’s borders claims a high price in injuries and fatalities. The Ofen brothers’ personal experience during their own recovery from the injuries they sustained in a terror attack have heightened their awareness of the importance of bringing happiness and encouragement to injured IDF soldiers and bereaved families. This project includes individual visits, gatherings, workshops and Jewish festival celebrations. These programs are held around the Jewish Holidays and throughout the year.
The budget for this program in 2015 is $100,000.
8. Sefer Torah The mitzvah of writing a Sefer Torah is the last of the 613 mitzvot in the Torah. According to the Rambam, “It is a positive mitzvah for each and every Jew to write his
5756
Or
Lach
ayal
- A
nnua
l Pro
gram
min
g Pl
an -
577
5 • 2
015 O
r Lachayal - Annual Programm
ing Plan - 5775 • 2015
G. Administrative and MiscellaneousOr Lachayal requires a permanent office and staff to maintain its current level of programming. In order to ensure that the maximum amount of money actually reaches the soldiers, Or Lachayal limits its administrative and miscellaneous expenses to the bare minimum. The anticipated significant increase in Or Lachayal’s activities in the coming year is expected to incur a similar increase in management overheads. According to the Programming Plan, overhead costs in 2015 will total $443,000. Salaries constitute 60% of these expenses and an additional 16% goes to cover car expenses.
Table 25 | Forecast of Administrative and Miscellaneous Expenses for 2015
Item Monthly ($) Annual ($)Management and administrative salaries 22,200 266,400Cellular telephone costs 250 3,000Car expenses 5,730 68,800Office rental fees 1,130 13,500Electricity 130 1,500Refreshments 130 1,500Office equipment 130 1,500Bookkeeping and Accounting services 1,150 13,800Computer services 250 3,000Communication 130 1,500Production and publishing 750 9,000Documentation and copying 500 6,000Contingency 2,920 35,800Professional consulting and oversight 1,500 18,000
Total 36,900 443,300
SummaryMany donors, private individuals and organizations, believe in the vital and successful work undertaken by Or Lachayal for the welfare of soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces. This recognition is expressed in the increased circle of donors who are making it possible for Or Lachayal to provide more and better services to the soldiers. Despite the impressive increase in activities and new projects, as described above, Or Lachayal is not focusing only on these and is already considering additional programs and projects that will be implemented when appropriate funding becomes available.
We pray that our friends and supporters will help us to raise the necessary funding for making all the programs and projects in the 5775 Programming Plan a reality, and that we can continue to develop new avenues for activities for the benefit of the IDF and ultimately for all of Am Yisrael.
F. Or Lachayal HouseOr Lachayal would like to purchase a building and refurbish it to suit the organization’s purposes. Or Lachayal House will be the main center for the organization’s educational programs and will have facilities for providing high quality hospitality for individuals and groups, as well as many large rooms suitable for hosting discussion groups and lectures for soldiers.
The establishment of Or Lachayal House will create a strong foundation for the continued expansion of educational programs in Jerusalem and throughout the IDF.
Or Lachayal views the establishment of Or Lachayal House as a golden opportunity to expand the organization’s hospitality programs and provide a home away from home for the soldiers, continuing the tradition of Avraham Avinu. Inspired by the holy atmosphere of Jerusalem, within sight of Old City, the soldiers will benefit from warm hospitality and spiritually uplifting surroundings.
Or Lachayal would like to provide overnight hospitality to some 50 soldiers a month, offering a home away from home to soldiers who need a meal and a place to sleep in Jerusalem. These soldiers, whether just passing through or whether they are lone soldiers who will be hosted at Or Lachayal House on a regular basis, will find good food, high standard shower facilities and comfortable sleeping arrangements.
Or Lachayal has found a suitable building in a strategic location, near the heart of Jerusalem, the Old City, the Jewish Quarter and the Western Wall. The purchase cost of this building is $8.5 million and the refurbishing to meet Or Lachayal’s programming needs will cost $1 million.
One of Or Lachayal’s generous donors has expressed his willingness to assist in the purchase and renovation of this building on a matching basis. The sum required for implementing this project is $4.25 million for the purchase of the building and $500,000 for the renovations.
The total cost of this project is $4.75 million.
