Hope Maissner was recently honoured by Beit Halochem Canada as their Volunteer of the Year, and was profiled in the 2004 Volunteer Recognition Project supplement of the Canadian Jewish News. The following article is an excerpt from the upcoming Aid to Disabled Veterans of Israel - Beit Halochem newsletter.

Hope has been involved in Beit Halochem since her work as a committee member for the first group visit to Holy Blossom Temple in 1987.  In addition to serving on our National Board for many years, Hope served as the chair of our outreach committee.  She took our message to schools, synagogues, Israel Day activities and interest groups all over the Greater Toronto Area.  Most recently, Hope has acted as the liaison between the Montreal Chapter and National Office.

Hope's input and wisdom are felt with every opinion she gives - her reasoning is sound and her love for our organization is evident.  As the daughter of a disabled American veteran, the work done by Beit Halochem in Israel has always resonated with Hope.  She and her husband Beny have opened their home for many of our functions - evenings of music and laughter that are treasured and remembered by all who attend.  We are very lucky to have her ongoing commitment and dedication.

Hope sums up her feelings this way. "Volunteering for Beit Halochem has helped me understand the price, in human terms, that building and maintaining a strong Israel has cost.  Whatever time and money we give these disabled, they give so much more."   

Beit Halochem Canada raises funds to help support the disabled veterans in Israel, and establishes meaningful relationships between the veterans and the Jewish community in Canada.  As of August 2004, the National Offices moved to their beautiful new premises at 1600 Steeles Avenue West in Concord.   For information, contact (905) 695-0611, or email info@advi.ca.