Etgarim is a nonprofit Israeli organization founded in 1995 by disabled IDF veterans and rehabilitation professionals with the mission to empower and socially integrate people with disabilities through outdoor challenge sports.

The effectiveness of Etgarim's activities has been studied and proven to be a tool for personal empowerment, for strengthening self-confidence and self-esteem, and for expanding abilities in all aspects of life.

Our unique and inspiring activities are made possible thanks to the generosity of our many friends from all around the globe.
We invite you to join the Etgarim family and be our partners in leading social change in Israel.

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People served
Etgarim serves all people with physical, cognitive, communication, mental and sensory disabilities from all ages in Israel.

National Scope

Etgarim’s activities reach communities all across Israel, including the major cities and smaller distant communities. Approximately 5,000 children and youth and 1,000 adults take part in our activities each year accompanied by 1,200 volunteers.

Sailing

Etgarim operates sailing clubs with unique sailing equipment adapted to all types of disabilities. The activity is suitable for children and adults from age 7.

Cycling

Etgarim has cycling clubs across the country from the south to the north, including mobile clubs that reach remote communities. Cycling is done by hand bikes, tandem bikes, singles or tricycles.

Ropes Course

Educational activities on cable structures and zip lines for children and youth in special needs schools and kindergartens, help strengthen the self-confidence and sense of capability of each participant

Hiking

The Gilgulon is a special auxiliary equipment which allows children and adults with physical disabilities to join field trips with family and friends.

Scuba diving

Etgarim Diving Center, the first of its kind in Israel, conducts diving courses, activities for certified divers in Eilat throughout the year, professional training courses and group meetings.

Running and Walking

Etgarim operates dozens of running and walking groups nationwide, which participate in a variety of runs and national sports events. The activity is suitable for adolescents and adults from age 15.

Surfing

Etgarim operates this activity weekly at the beach in Tel Aviv. The activity is open for people with different disabilities.

Water skiing

The activity takes place at Ein Gev beach in the Kinneret during the summer months. The beach is accessible and adapted for the activity, and the skis are suitable for surfing either standing or sitting.

Kayaking

Etgarim operates two kayaking clubs at Olga Beach in Hadera and in Tel Aviv. The activity is suitable for people with movement in upper limbs and basic swimming ability.

Off-Road Vehicle Driving

A club for people with and without disabilities with Off-Road Vehicles, which takes place on weekends in off road excursions throughout the country.

Karting

The Karting Club, operated by Etgarim, has unique vehicles equipped with hand gear that enable participants to enjoy motor sports and even participate in competitions.

The Integration Field Trip

A joint project with the Ministry of Education, which enables children with physical disabilities to go on class field trips and join the rest of their classmates by using The Gilgulon (Special auxiliary equipment).

The Boat is Sailing

A rehabilitative sailing program in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense for IDF veterans and war prisoners coping with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which greatly improves the functioning and quality of life of the participants.

Etgarim for Life

An educational program which uses a variety of challenging sports designed for people coping with mental disorders as part of the rehabilitation basket in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

Summer Camp

The Etgarim summer camp allows all children and youth with special needs to enjoy an empowering and challenging summer experience, to sleep in an outdoor camp, and to participate in various unique challenging and social activities.

Climbing Up

A groundbreaking program for youth at risk throughout the country, based on challenging activities and volunteering to nurture leadership, social responsibility and preparation for meaningful military/national service.