March, 2009
The Association for the Commemoration of Bat-Chen Shahak was founded by Tzvika and Ayelet Shahak, the parents of Bat-Chen, in order to commemorate the memory of their daughter who was murdered on her 15th birthday, during Purim, on March 4, 1996, in a terrorist attack in Tel Aviv, as she and her three girl friends were having a fun-day in the "big city."
Below you will find a short description of some of the presentations and projects which the Association offers at this time:
*"For me, writing is a wonderful thing." A look at Bat-Chen's diaries. The presentation is given by Bat-Chen's mother, Ayelet. Ayelet is a teacher and holds a master's degree Bat-Chen's diaries and "diaries as a genre."
*Bat-Chen's legacy for peace." Presentation is given by Bat-Chen's parents.
*"From war to peace." Tzvika Shahak's personal story as a warrior in the Yom Kippur War and his transformation into a warrior for peace. Lieutenant Colonel (reserves) Shahak was awarded a medal of honor.
*" Yitchak Rabin and Bat-Chen's joint dream for peace." As a result of a letter which Bat-Chen wrote to Lea Rabin, the widow of the slain Prime Minister, a relationship develops. Presentation is given by Bat-Chen's parents.
*"Gift packages for children in the south." The hostilities in Gaza ended however thousands of children living in the southern part of Israel are still troubled by the years of shelling and rockets. This project provides special gift packages which consist of BAT-CHEN'S DIARIES along with an empty diary and a presentation by Bat-Chen's parents before school aged audiences in schools located in the south. The children are encouraged to begin writing their own diary. This project has received considerable support and encouragement from many Jewish communities in the USA, England and Israel.
*"Hospital visits." Many children were wounded during the recent hostilities in Gaza. These children have been hospitalized and their parents are at their bedside. Ayelet and Tzvika Shahak have made several visits to Tel Hashomer Hospital and met with families of wounded children. They are giving the families a copy of BAT-CHEN'S DIARIES in hope that they will read it and share segments with their hospitalized child. The personal contact has been positive and meaningful to the families.
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These gatherings offer an example how to deal with grief and loss; how a personal tragedy can be transformed into positive projects and initiatives. A message of optimism and hope is transmitted to the audience. Feedback received has included significant comments such as, "you have given us hope," "this has been a moving experience," "no one can remain apathetic after hearing such a presentation…we recommend it!"
These presentations can also be delivered in English.
PREFERRED AUDIENCES include people from ages 8 to 88! School children, youth, soldiers, college students, community and social workers, educators, parent-child groups as well as the over 60's.
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS include: a room which can be darkened, screen or white wall. We bring our own computer and equipment.
LENGTH OF PRESENTATION 1 hour. After the presentation and questions, it is possible to arrange purchase of The Bat-Chen Diaries at a reduced price.
The Association for Commemoration of Bat-Chen Shahak is a non-profit organization. All funds go towards the numerous activities of the Association including the above mentioned activities, scholarships, printing additional copies of the Diaries and the translation of the Diaries into other languages.
All contributions are tax-exempt; receipts will be provided for every contribution.
We will be happy to provide additional information and details as needed. Please check our internet site: www.batchen.co.il or write us at ofri1@inter.net.il.
