As a pioneering leader in the special education field, Seeach Sod has implemented a groundbreaking program to promote physical activity and fitness among an adult special-needs population. We launched the preparatory phase in June 2014, which laid the grounds for the actual program, which started in September 2014. The program will run for 12 months and will conclude with a grand sports event to take place in September 2015, along the Israel National Trail (alluded to in the program’s name).   The Path to Fitness Program will engage 214 adults with special needs in methodical and consistent physical activity, while the impact on their health will be monitored by a nurse. Each member of the project was given brand new flashy colored Saucony sneakers and a clip-on personal pedometer to track their own steps each day.

To ensure success, careful planning is being devoted to facilitate motivation, ensure consistent follow-up and achieve measurable goals. Ultimately the goals are to: 1) educate the religious community on the importance of physical activity for special-needs individuals 2) improve the participants’ fitness including weight reduction, increased heart-lung capacity and enhanced daily functioning 3) enrich the adults with awareness of health and fitness.

Realizing the vital need to educate and encourage the special-needs population in the area of fitness, a group of professional staff members designed a plan that will unify our entire Residential Program and Vocational Program under this project. Seeach Sod currently maintains 30 group homes scattered throughout Jerusalem neighborhoods, consisting of a total of 214 adults, ages 18 – 60, with various disabilities. This program aims to raise the physical activity level and enhance the wellbeing of the 214 residents through stimulating and enjoyable activities. Yardsticks to measure success will be:

It is important to note that the impact and outcomes of this project will be carefully tracked and recorded by evaluation professionals from the National Insurance Institute.