Annual Support Program for the Givati Brigade Lone Soldiers
This program is meant to respond to the lone soldier’s basic need for a warm, loving and supportive security net, as close as possible to family. Beit Kobi accompanies lone soldiers of the Givati Brigade at all ceremonies that celebrate high points of their combat training.
Beit Kobi Organization volunteers arrive at ceremonies with light refreshments and gifts for the soldiers, and develop a warm and ongoing relationship with the soldiers. The organization is positioned as a place to turn to for the diverse needs of the lone soldier for the duration of his Army service. The staff attending to the brigade comprises volunteers from the civil and business communities.
Scope of the Activities
Every year there are three recruitment cycles and for each call-up the following ceremonies are held:
- Parents Day – A month following recruitment. Parents Day is the first time parents of combat soldiers become acquainted with the unit and base where their son is serving. With the absence of family, it is a difficult day for the lone soldier. On this day the soldier is exposed to Beit Kobi and its volunteers as a loving and supportive family for the duration of their Army service. On this day the soldiers first arrive at Beit Kobi, become acquainted with the volunteers, are exposed to the organization’s operation and spend a day that is a real experience.
- Swearing In Ceremony – Two months after the call-up the combat soldiers are sworn in to the IDF and the State.
- Beret Ceremony – Four months after the call-up. The ceremony is held at the conclusion of basic training and is a meaningful event that strengthens the Givati fighter’s sense of belonging. The ceremony takes place at Metzudat Yoav and is attended by the Organization’s volunteers.
- End of Course Ceremony – Twelve months after the call-up. The End of Course Ceremony symbolizes the end of training as a combat soldier for the Givati Brigade.
In addition to these events the Beit Kobi Organization holds the following events:
- An annual jeep trip in memory of Kobi – held in the month of March in memory of Kobi Ichelbom. The journey is meant to strengthen the lone soldier’s sense of belonging to the land and acquaint him with its heritage and nature. For this purpose civilian jeep owners from all over the country volunteer to conduct excursions along the time-beaten paths and back roads of the country.
- Distribution of gift vouchers for Rosh Hashana and Pesach from the Givati Brigade Commander.
Target Population
All lone soldiers in Givati Brigade
Goals
Develop a warm and supportive security net for the lone soldier throughout the high points of combat training.
Exposure of the soldier to Beit Kobi as an organization to turn to for assistance (referral made through the IDF’s welfare service).
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