Inclusion Weekend 2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Bear Givers' 5th Annual Inclusion Weekend! Our weekend began with our sponsored kiddush at The Hampton Synagogue, where we were honored to present an award to Eli Beer, founder and president of United Hatzalah of Israel. Eli's extraordinary vision has helped build the world's largest volunteer emergency medical response organization, providing free emergency care across Israel.

Guests were treated Saturday evening to a dessert reception and concert by acclaimed Israeli singer Harel Skaat. One of the highlights of the night was Joe Sprung and Rabbi Marc Schneier's annual tradition of singing “My Way” together. They were joined by Harel, earning a standing ovation and creating a performance that quickly became one of the weekend's most talked about moments! During the evening, guests wrote heartfelt notes to accompany the teddy bears that Bear Givers will gift to children receiving mobility trainers from Tikkun Olam Makers.

We concluded the weekend with a Sunday tailgate in support of United Hatzalah, where Joe, Michele and Diane, on behalf of Bear Givers, dedicated an ambucycle in memory of our dear friend and longtime Bear Givers supporter, Nobel Laureate Dr. Edmund “Ned” Phelps. It was especially meaningful to Ned’s devoted wife Vivana that the dedication occurred on what would have been Ned’s 93rd birthday. After the dedication, everyone was inspired by motivational words from former NCAA Super Coach, Bruce Pearl. The ceremony concluded with Bruce presenting Bear Givers an award for all their communal efforts. 🧸🧸