Sagiv Avitan - Team Shalva| NY 2026

The Journey of the Heart: Running Forward for the Children of Shalva 🏃‍♂️💙 ​Hello, my name is Sagiv Avitan. ​If you had met me a while ago, you would have probably heard me talking mostly about kilometers, paces, and personal records. Running has always been an inseparable part of my life, but recently, this journey has taken on a whole new, profound meaning. ​After going through a challenging period of personal struggle—an experience I emerged from filled with deep gratitude, appreciation for life, and a strong sense of purpose—I realized it was my turn to give back. I wanted to take the strength I gained, the energy, and my passion for running, and channel them into something that could truly transform someone else's life. ​Connecting with Shalva was immediate and natural. Shalva is not just a center; it is a true home for everyone. It is a place where these incredible, brave children are given the opportunity to smile, break barriers, and genuinely integrate into society. These kids face their own personal marathons every single day—a complex and demanding marathon of life—and they do it with a level of resilience and joy that inspires us all. ​This coming November, when I stand on the starting line of the New York City Marathon, I will no longer be running just for the physical challenge or for myself. Every single step, every mile, and every ounce of effort on that course will be dedicated entirely to them—to the beautiful children of Shalva. ​I have set a goal to raise 30,000 ILS, all of which will go directly toward providing these children with the vital tools, therapies, and supportive environment they deserve to succeed and thrive. ​I invite you to join me on this mission and become my partners. The running is mine, but the impact on their lives belongs to all of us together. Every donation, no matter the size, and every share of our journey means the world to these children and their families. ​Let’s open our hearts and cross this finish line together, for them. ​Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your partnership and generosity, Sagiv 🙏✨