Civic responsibility and philanthropy strengthen Israeli society - opinion

OCTOBER 26, 2026 20:00In the months prior to election day, public debate naturally focused on politics, parties, and the future direction of the country. Elections matter. They are one of the most important ways citizens shape the character and priorities of their nation. But democracy does not begin and end with voting.If the events following October 7 taught us anything, it is that a healthy society depends not only on governments and elected officials, but also on ordinary people who choose to take responsibility for one another.In those difficult days and months, countless volunteers, non-profits, and community initiatives stepped forward to support vulnerable populations and strengthen the country’s social fabric. They demonstrated that while governments govern, citizens build society.Every one of us has opportunities to shape the world around us, not only through the choices we make at the ballot box, but through the causes we support and the people we help. Volunteerism and philanthropy allow us to transform our values into action.However, we must not forget that government action alone is generally not enough. Reimbursements and public budgets often cover only part of what is truly needed to sustain essential human services, nurture community health, and support vulnerable groups.THE ALYN hospital’s ‘Wheels of Love’ five-day bicycle ride has become a national institution. (credit: HAGAI SHMUELI)Philanthropy and civic participation make it possible to bridge that gap, sustain essential care, and create opportunities where none existed before.This spirit is embodied whenever dedicated volunteers and community partners give their time, energy, and financial resources – not for personal gain, but to ensure that members of our society facing extraordinary challenges receive the support they deserve.These initiatives show what becomes possible when people refuse to be mere passive observers, and instead choose to become active participants in building their community.For many active citizens, grassroots engagement represents an Israel they are proud to support: an Israel that respects the dignity of every human being, harnesses cooperation for the benefit of society, and builds shared resilience.A clear reflection of this commitment can be seen in the upcoming Alyn Hospital Ride – “Wheels of Love.” The hospital’s annual event will take place from November 8 to 12 and includes hundreds of cyclists, hikers, and volunteers from Israel and around the world.Former Alyn patients ride for othersAll of them devote months to training and fundraising to ensure that children facing extraordinary challenges receive the care and opportunities they deserve. Among the most inspiring participants are members of The Swift & The Bold, a cycling team made up of former Alyn patients.These children and teens are not merely beneficiaries of rehabilitation services; they are active participants in the ride itself as riders and fundraisers – a powerful demonstration of how civic action fosters independence and shared solidarity.With election day behind us, dedicated volunteers, donors, and grassroots initiatives remind us that democracy is about far more than choosing leaders. It is about actively choosing values, taking mutual responsibility, and standing alongside one another.A ballot may help shape the political direction of a nation, but it is our daily commitment to volunteerism, civic responsibility, and caring for others that truly defines its soul.To learn more about the Alyn Hospital Ride or support its participants and the children of Alyn Hospital, visit www.Alynride.orgThe writer is deputy director of resource development for Alyn Hospital Friends. Alyn Hospital Pediatric & Adolescent Rehabilitation Center in Jerusalem is a global leader in the active and intensive rehabilitation of children and adolescents with congenital and acquired conditions. Alyn Hospital Friends supports Alyn’s mission to maximize their abilities, foster their independence, and open the door to a life full of possibilities.Follow us on Google