Or Lamishpachot is a non-profit organization for families of fallen IDF soldiers. The organization received the 2013 Presidential Award for Volunteerism for its unique contribution to social welfare in Israel.
The Or Lamishpachot Association was established to help bereaved parents in their long and continuous process of returning to an active and productive life. The Association's aim is to support these parents and lift their spirits, plant the seed of hope and optimism, and motivate them to choose life.
Irit Oren Gunders, Lieutenant Colonel (res.) founded the Association and serves as a Chairperson and CEO on a voluntary basis.
The Association offers activities conducted solely for the bereaved, enabling them to feel more comfortable in engaging in these activities. The loss of a loved one leaves a huge void in one’s life. One feels that life has lost its meaning and subsequently family life is disrupted. The grieving process is ongoing. A significant part of the rehabilitation process is returning to social activity. We provide the families with the opportunity to partake in and experience the happier and brighter moments of life.
The Association conducts broad-based and diverse activity for bereaved families from all over Israel, to ensure continuity and afford opportunities to gather and gain valuable experiences through enrichment programs. Over 1,000 families take part in the Association's activities, and their number is growing from year to year. We invest tremendous efforts to reach every family of fallen soldiers, both veteran and newly bereaved families. Irit is personally acquainted with these families, and is familiar with their stories, they have a very high regard for her in view of the great responsibility and commitment that she has taken upon herself.
