***Press Release*** AFOCI

The American Friends of Chimes Israel (AFOCI) continued their successful start with two events in the Atlanta area during December, 2009. AFOCI is a dynamic group of individuals who are committed to supporting the humanitarian and educational mission of Chimes Israel, a nonprofit organization that works to improve the lives of people with special needs in Israel.

Edwin and Louise Rothberg graciously hosted a parlor meeting in their home on the evening of December 13, 2009. Sammy Rosenberg, from the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta's Blonder Family Department for Developmental Disabilities introduced Evan Wertheim, the representative from Chimes Israel as the speaker. Despite rainy and cold weather, more than 30 attended the event, donating over $2,500.

Thirty-five Young Professionals gathered on December 16, 2009 at Eclipse di Luna for an evening of tasty tapas and Chanukah candle lighting to learn more about Chimes Israel's work with people with disabilities. In addition to raising hundreds of dollars in donations, participants volunteered to become active members of AFOCI, including redesigning the website, promoting events, and seeking partnerships.

In February, AFOCI will focus on Jewish Disability Awareness Month. Evan Wertheim will speak at Temple Emanu-El, Temple Sinai and Ahavath Achim Synagogue in Atlanta. Additionally, AFOCI will host parlor meetings in Atlanta, Columbus, Georgia and Tallahassee, Florida. For more information on how you can be involved with this great organization, please contact Evan at afoci.info(at)gmail.com or by phone at 770-828-8000.

Chimes Israel's mission is to improve the quality of life of people with special needs in Israel and to assist its clients in reaching their fullest potential, so that each may live the most independent and rewarding life possible. Chimes Israel operates 18 different programs for people from birth through senior citizens without regard to religion, gender, age or ethnicity. Chimes Israel has a strong focus on working with the adult population through sheltered workshops, supported employment, inter-social skills, leisure activities and other programs that are geared towards increasing independent behavior. Additionally, it operates several centers for infants with developmental delays as well as several after-school special education programs for school-aged children. Further information can be found on the Chimes Israel website at www.chimesisrael.org.il.