OU Our Way Trip To Israel for the Deaf and Hearing Impaired Takes Place as Planned, August 13

28 Jul 2006

OU OUR WAY TRIP TO ISRAEL FOR THE DEAF AND HEARING IMPAIRED TO TAKE PLACE AS PLANNED, DEPARTING AUGUST 13

Even as Israel fights its two-front war, Our Way/JDSR (Jewish Deaf Singles Registry), the Orthodox Union’s program for the Jewish community’s deaf and hearing impaired singles, is prepared and ready to leave August 13 on its long-planned 12-day tour of Israel. Our Way’s determination reflects the commitment of the OU to maintain its summer tour programs in Israel, including a variety of trips of the National Conference of Synagogue Youth, despite the situation, but with constant attention to security.

Our Way is a program of the OU’s National Jewish Council for Disabilities.

“We are proud that our summer programs already in Israel are flourishing,” said OU Executive Vice President Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Weinreb, “and that those scheduled to travel to Israel are continuing with their plans. We wish them well, and know that they will return home enriched by their experience and ready to spread our nation’s message to all of us in this Diaspora.”

Taking all the necessary safety precautions, the OU Our Way program will provide a round-the-clock body guard/medic as participants explore the New and Old City of Jerusalem, tour the Kotel tunnels, swim in the Dead Sea, climb (or proceed via cable car) Masada at sunrise, kayak down the Jordan River, and meet with deaf and hard of hearing Israelis.

”We will be in constant contact with a special security desk, in case the situation calls for a change in the itinerary for that day,” says Our Way Program Director Batya Jacob. “They can contact us as well, 24 hours/7 days a week.”

Standing by its goal of full inclusion of the deaf and hearing impaired into Jewish society, Our Way moves full speed ahead in giving its single members the opportunity to experience Israel together while showing their solidarity with our besieged brethren. “Our Way’s commitment is an indication of its love for our people and our Land,” said Rabbi Weinreb. “It’s a powerful message of encouragement and support for our brothers and sisters in Israel at this time of crisis.”