Celebrating Memory and Generosity: Two Heartfelt Events in Petach Tikvah

This past Tuesday marked a day of profound emotion and inspiration at Amal Alef School in Petach Tikvah, as two significant events unfolded, highlighting the enduring power of memory, community, and giving. The day began with the inauguration of a newly dedicated music room, commemorating Shani Harel, a vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short nearly 30 years ago in a car accident at the age of 20.

Shani’s father, Yossi Harel, an Amal Alef graduate from the Class of 1966, led this heartfelt initiative alongside his classmates. The group, which has remained deeply connected to the school since their graduation, has consistently championed efforts to improve opportunities for students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

In his emotional speech, Yossi shared how Shani’s music continues to live in his family’s heart. He revealed that his son, Oran, named his own daughter after Shani, ensuring that her legacy carries on. Despite living in Australia, Yossi returns to Israel every year to support the school and personally deliver scholarships to students. “This music room is a place where Shani’s melody will never fade,” he said, “and I hope it becomes a space where young souls find their own rhythm and voice.”

The room, equipped with guitars, drums, a piano, and other instruments, will offer students — many of whom are new immigrants or independent youths without family support — the opportunity to explore music and creativity during their leisure time. The dedication ceremony was attended by the head of education from the Petach Tikvah municipality and Karen Tal, Director General of Amal, who expressed deep appreciation for the Class of 1966. She highlighted their unwavering support and dedication to the school, calling them “a shining example of alumni engagement that we aspire to replicate in other schools.”

Later in the day, the annual scholarship ceremony for students from both Amal Alef and Amal Beit schools took place under the inspiring slogan: “The graduates of the past for the graduates of the future.” A total of 24 students received scholarships, each presented personally by members of the Class of 1966 alongside the educational staff. The event was filled with touching moments, including when Israel Blum, another proud member of the Class of 1966, celebrated his daughter’s recent return to Israel after years in New York to join the teaching staff of Amal Alef.

Karen Tal spoke about the importance of these scholarships in providing students with hope and motivation. “This gathering is a testament to the enduring bond between generations,” she said. “It shows that even decades after graduation, the values of giving and caring continue to thrive.”

The events at Amal Alef School on this remarkable Tuesday embodied the network’s vision for education grounded in memory, community, and compassion. With initiatives like these, Amal continues to build bridges between the past and the future, fostering a spirit of resilience, generosity, and inspiration for generations to come.