Lauren Shemtob / Kalms - Team Shalva - Running for hope 2025

Inclusion. Equality. Dignity. The words that stood out to me as I visited the Shalva centre in April. I got to see first hand the incredible work they do in supporting individuals with disabilities - from infancy to adulthood - and their families. Their commitment to making the world a more inclusive place is an inspiring lesson in the power of focusing on abilities, not disabilities. Shalva supports what individuals can do and helps them reach their full potential, as equal and valued members of society. Shalva provides parent-child therapy sessions at infancy, inclusive daycare and pre schools, after school programmes, respite and family support, summer camps, and sports and wellness programs amongst its services. All whilst promoting opportunities for children with disabilities to play and engage with the wider community, helping to break down barriers and promote inclusivity at a young age. Shalva has incredible adult programs that train individuals in vocational skills to help them lead independent lives. They provide employment opportunities, such as leading craft workshops, working as teaching assistants, sous chefs, and helping in the Shalva café. Community based apartment residences enable adults to live independent and fulfilling lives, full of dignity, respect and community. Shalva’s mission rises above race, religion, faith, financial capability and nationality. It leads the way globally in how the world understands, embraces and supports disability. It’s committed to sharing its knowledge and expertise through training, so individuals can return to their own countries and communities with best practices. Shalva means Hope. And that’s exactly what it does - it’s a beacon of hope for individuals, parents and families who desperately need support navigating incomprehensible challenges. I’m so proud to be running my first marathon for such an inspiring and worthwhile cause. Any donation will go towards enabling them to continue to break down barriers and transform the way the world sees and approaches disabilities. Thank you so much for your donation. Lauren x