In the spring of 2005, Stanley and Rhoda Fischer took a leap of faith, moving to Israel and leaving their children, friends and careers in the United States behind so that Stanley could assume the role of Governor of the Bank of Israel. While Stanley worked diligently to stabilize the Israeli economy, Rhoda found her calling in the third sector, working with the leadership of ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran to advance disability care and inclusion in Israel.
Following her very first visit to our renowned residential and rehabilitative village in Israel’s south, Rhoda was eager to get involved and help give a voice to those who could not speak for themselves. As Honorary President of ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran (then ALEH Negev-Nahalat Eran) from 2008-2013, Rhoda was instrumental in raising awareness and funds for ADI internationally, helping our residents with severe disabilities receive the specialized care required to reach their greatest potentials. Though the impact of her passionate advocacy was always evident, the true depth of Rhoda’s legacy of caring became even clearer after her passing in June 2020.
At Rhoda’s memorial service, her children recounted episodes from her life that best highlighted her warmth, kindness and grace. Time and again, they returned to her love for the children of ADI, recalling how frequently she engaged friends, family and perfect strangers with inspiring tales from her beloved inclusive village in Israel’s south. As the service concluded, the family requested that, in lieu of flowers and gifts of condolence, those closest to the family should consider making a donation to ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran to honor Rhoda’s memory. The response from family and friends in the weeks that followed was not to be believed.
By the end of July 2020, more than $25,000 had been raised in tribute to Rhoda, funds that were put to use immediately shielding ADI’s immunocompromised residents with severe disabilities from COVID-19 and providing opportunities for their continued growth and development.
In addition to helping provide the continued high-level medical and rehabilitative care upon which the ADI residents depend, the funds also supplemented ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran’s innovative gardening program, which provides 26 gardeners with special needs with real and equal employment opportunities – a fair wage earned within a supportive social framework. For Rhoda, a lover of natural beauty and an advocate for the unrestricted growth of all people, this is the perfect homage and a natural extension of an unparalleled legacy of caring.
YOUR Legacy of Caring: Remembering ADI in your will or bequest will create a lasting impact by assisting in the ongoing rehabilitation and advancement of ADI’s residents with severe disabilities.