For six years I have been the acting chairman for the Friends of the National Council for the Child in Israel. I must admit that children’s advocacy is a challenging cause; in today’s society, there are still so many children and youth that need the help of the NCC in order to have even the basic rights. No matter how much we educate or advocate for children and youth, there is always so much more to be done.
Realistically, I know there is a limit to how much I am able to help as only one person, and every time I think about stepping down as chairman, I think of Dr. Yitzhak Kadman, the Council’s Executive Director, and how his ethics, passion and determination has already made such an incredible impact on the lives of children in Israel.
Dr. Kadman is a role model for how to run an effective not-for profit organization. The NCC is an independent, non-governmental organization, involved with every aspect of the child’s life and is one of the few voluntary organizations in Israel that does not receive governmental funding in order to retain its independence and freedom to act on behalf of all children under any circumstance.
I joke that despite my treatment of my children (being a working mom means that I am not always home) that all four of my kids are successful, happy, working and living all over the world. Although my schedule is hectic, I do get credit for being a "Quality Time Mom." I always make sure that we have a healthy dialogue and they know that they will always have my encouragement, love and support. Sadly, there are many children who do not even have these basic rights of being loved, of experiencing a carefree childhood and having support.
I am thankful to the National Council for the Child, and especially Dr. Kadman, for giving me the opportunity to make a mitzvah. At this time of year, when we think of freedom and renewal, this cause is particularly important. Every child deserves to be free because he was not born a slave. Pesach is about renewal, just as children renew our lives.
This Thursday evening, on April 14, the National Council for the Child will be honored at an art event entitled “Childish” where over 35 Israeli artists will address this idea of freedom, childhood and being childish. A percentage of the proceeds will go to the NCC and help continue to nourish this incredible organization.
Chag Pesach Sameach,
Galia Albin
‘Childish’ Event Info:
What: Opening Event and Art Sale for “Childish”When: April 14, 2011 @ 20:00Where: Space -3 Rothschild 65, Rothschild 65, Tel AvivAdmission: Free