Marc Hendel on Otzma
When I was a Professor at Wash U, our family lived for two years in a small apartment in a dorm on campus. During that time I met Marc Hendel, an undergraduate and an avid runner. Marc organized a student-running group and would berate me each day to join as they went on their morning run. Apart from the fact that I probably could not keep up with a bunch of undergrads, I find running to be a solitary, meditative activity. (I also find it really annoying to try to talk when I’m just huffing to get through my 4 miles!) I was, however, very appreciative of his efforts: anyone who can get a group of undergrads up before 7am deserves all of our support!
In April of 2009, Marc invited me to run in a benefit 5K run that he was organizing. Against my better judgment I agreed, paid my fee, and turned out for the race. On that beautiful morning, I joined hundreds of others just outside of Brookings Hall for a race around campus.
Much to my surprise: I came in second! (More on the race in a moment…)
Marc has remained in touch, particularly as I took on my new role at Federation 6 months ago. He is now a volunteer in Israel working on Otzma, a volunteer program for young adults, and is keeping a very interesting blog about his experiences, much of which has to do with running in Israel. Marc’s blog is filled with reminders of what a vibrant community Israel is: pluralistic, inclusive and, let’s not forget, really quite healthy!
The most recent posting has to do with “The Take Steps for Kids 5K” race that Marc organized in Netivot in Southern Israel. More on the race itself here. I encourage you to explore his updates. (The usual caveats: any views expressed there, now or in the future, are his and do not necessarily represent those of the Federation or any of its employees.)
The Jewish Light recently ran a great story on Marc and his quest to run from the northern tip of Israel to its far south. Click here to read.
Marc’s blog also demonstrates the multiple ways individuals can find points of access to Jewish life, a key part of Federation’s strategic plan. Otzma has been a premier volunteer engagement program that we have supported through our involvement in the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) and our funding for the Jewish Agency for Israel. It has recently been moved administratively from JFNA, but still remains a vibrant volunteer program for older-young adults.
If you or anyone you know is interested in Otzma, or other ways to engage in Israel—whether through Birthright (18-26 year olds) or the Rubin Israel Experience (27-45 year olds), contact Federation staff members Joel Frankel or Margo Newman for more information.
As for my first 5K run – okay, okay, I really should add: I came in second… in my age group… and there were only three people in my age group! (It sounds so much better just to say I came in second!)
Have a great week!
