The Koby Mandell Foundation

The Koby Mandell Foundation runs therapeutic healing programs for those who have lost a mother, father, sister, brother, or child to terrorism. Overnight camps and retreats provide individuals and families with the tools to translate the pain and suffering of tragedy into positive personal growth, deeper interpersonal relationships, and active community leadership. Programs employ affirmative life experiences, relevant informal education, and emotional and psychological support in formal group discussions and informal interactions. All of our programs are provided free of charge, and combine formal, informal, and recreational therapeutic techniques to foster an environment of emotional support. Group therapy activities include music, art, and sports therapy. Participants draw strength from each other and their shared experiences, creating long-lasting bonds of friendship and a community of survivors. Our innovative methods for dealing with grief are based on the personal experiences of Rabbi Seth and Sherri Mandell, who established the Foundation in 2001 after their 13-year-old son Koby was murdered by terrorists while hiking near their home in Israel. Their first hand knowledge of loss and bereavement engenders a high level of trust from the affected families. who would not otherwise seek help.