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2026

Program Report Prepared for Jane, Leslie, Rich, & Mitchell

Program Report 2026 | ITEC

INDEX Celebrating ITEC’s 50th Anniversary ITEC CEO Director of Social Impact Girls Empowerment Program Structure Center Manager Program Coordinator Program Photos Partner School Yoga Component Success Stories Program Photos

5 6-7 8-9 10-11 12 13 14-15 16 17 18-19 20-21

Program Report 2026 | ITEC

Celebrating ITEC’s 50th Anniversary For 50 years, ITEC has been transforming lives and strengthening communities across Israel—and you are an important part of that story. Your partnership helps ensure that children have access to the opportunities, supportive relationships, and safe spaces they need to grow, build confidence, and thrive. As we celebrate this milestone year, we are deeply grateful to have you alongside us. Your support not only makes a difference in the lives of children today; it helps carry forward a legacy of opportunity, resilience, and belonging for generations to come. 50 YEARS of transforming lives through the power of sports and educaiton – using life skills learned through tennis to help children grown and thrive on and off the court 20,000+ CHILDREN participate in the wide range of social impact programs we offer that build self-confidence, empower the disadvantaged, and build bridges between disparate communities. 25 STRATEGIC LOCATIONS across Israel with an emphasis on forging deep community roots in underserved areas. $4.5 MILLION IN SCHOLARSHIPS delivered annually help ensure that financial circumstances never determine whether a child can participate, grow, and pursue their potential.

500,000+ OF ISRAEL’s CHILDREN have graced our centers, discovered new pathways through tennis and education, and carried forward valuable life lessons along the way. 500+ GRADUATES have received full scholarships to U.S. colleges and universities, opening pathways to higher education and future opportunity. 50+ COMPETITIVE CHAMPIONS have risen through ITEC to compete on the national and international stage, proudly representing Israel around the world. ZERO TOLERANCE FOR BIGOTRY means every ITEC center is a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where children can flourish regardless of social status, religion, ethnicity, or background.

Eyal Taoz Global CEO Dear Jane, Leslie, Rich, & Mitchell, In my role as CEO, I have seen firsthand the impact of your support on the lives of children and families across Israel. I personally cherish and deeply appreciate your partnership in the Girls Empowerment Program since 2019. Your longstanding commitment is reflected in the confidence, resilience, and hope we see in the girls who participate in this program. As we reflect on the recent two and half years, we have navigated unprecedented challenges. Facing the realities of an ongoing war, we have been called upon to operate not just as a sports organization, but as a critical pillar of support for our community. This has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging periods in

our organization’s history. From the sudden disruption of daily operations and the necessity of closing centers in high-risk areas, to the personal toll taken on our staff members, some of whom lost their homes, we have faced challenges that threatened our continuity. Yet the resilience of the ITEC community has been our hallmark. By prioritizing safety and adaptability, we have ensured that our centers remained beacons of stability, providing a vital sense of normalcy to thousands of children and families during a time of extreme uncertainty. The most significant sign of our success is that children continue to show up at our centers. We have maintained high attendance rates where it is safe to do so and continued to provide tennis education alongside critical social

Program Report 2026 | ITEC

impact programs and mental health support. This adaptability has proven that our infrastructure is resilient and that our staff is capable of extraordinary performance under pressure. We are not just surviving; we are upholding our commitment to excellence. Our mission to use tennis as a tool for social development, fostering coexistence, and empowering youth from all backgrounds is more urgent today than ever before. In a society currently grappling with division and trauma, ITEC serves as a rare, neutral ground where values like discipline, inclusion, and mutual respect are cultivated daily. We are building the next generation, equipping them with the confidence needed to overcome challenges that extend far beyond the court. This sustained impact is directly tied

to the unwavering commitment of our donors and partners. Your support is the vital resource that allows us to expand our operations, provide emergency relief to our affected staff, and ensure that no child is left behind due to the crisis. With your partnership, we are ensuring that ITEC remains a national asset, capable of meeting current needs while laying the groundwork for longterm growth. As we move forward, we are strengthened by your trust. Thank you for standing with us, believing in our purpose, and helping us turn obstacles into opportunities for growth. With deep gratitude, Eyal Taoz Global CEO

Shuki Rajman Director of Social Impact Programs Dear Jane, Leslie, Rich, & Mitchell,

Girls Empowerment Program Program Overview & Scope Currently, the program serves approximately 200 girls, ages 11–14, across 13 tennis centers nationwide. Participants attend activities twice a week, engaging in a structured program that combines sports training with a values-based life skills curriculum. In addition to regular training, the girls participate in weekly life skills workshops led by professional facilitators, focusing on key areas such as: • • • • •

Self-confidence and selfimage Leadership and personal responsibility Teamwork and communication Goal-setting and perseverance Healthy lifestyle

This integrated approach allows participants to experience success, build resilience, and develop essential life skills.

I would like to express our sincere gratitude for your tremendous ongoing and meaningful support of our unique program for at-risk girls. This program provides a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where girls can develop self-confidence, a sense of capability, and belonging. Many of the participants face significant emotional and social challenges, and the program serves as a stable and meaningful anchor in their lives. In response to the ongoing emotional challenges faced by the girls due to the prolonged security situation, we expanded our program this year. As part of this effort, 6 groups (73 girls) across 6 centers are now participating in dedicated yoga sessions. These sessions are led by certified professional instructors and are designed to support emotional regulation, stress reduction and inner balance and resilience. This component has become a significant addition to the emotional support framework we provide—currently reaching over onethird of program participants. In closing, thank you for your trust and partnership. Thanks to your support, hundreds of girls are given a real opportunity to grow, strengthen, and build a better future. Sincerely, Shuki Rajman Director of Social Impact Programs

Program Report 2026 | ITEC

Ongoing National Challenges Over the past year, the ongoing security situation has significantly impacted daily life in Israel. Many girls experienced instability, social isolation, and emotional stress. Within this reality, the program provides a safe and consistent space, with a strong emphasis on emotional support, open dialogue, and resilience-building.

Use of Funds Your support enables us to: • Operate activities across 13 centers • Employ professional staff and facilitators • Deliver life skills workshops and yoga sessions • Provide equipment and enrichment activities

Outcomes and Impact We continue to observe meaningful impact on the participants: • Increased self-confidence and sense of capability • Improved consistency and commitment • Stronger social connections and sense of belonging • High engagement and regular attendance The consistent participation—twice weekly—reflects the program’s importance in the girls’ lives. Looking ahead, we aim to expand the program’s reach, deepen its impact, and provide support to more girls in need of a meaningful and empowering framework. 9

Girls Empowerment Program National Reach Program Scope 13 Centers Nationwide | 192 Girls Served Implemented across diverse communities, including peripheral regions and high-need populations

Center

Coordinator

Participants

Jaffa

Uriel Lobsia

Haifa

Shahar Kama

Arad

Genia

Jerusalem

Ephraim Fine

Ashkelon

Raz Hershovitz

Tiberias

Eran Sabi

Beer Sheva

Rinat

Ofakim

Rinat

Yokneam

Shahar Kama

Sajur

Naram Assad

Akko

Zehava Aharon

Kiryat Shmona

Shlomi

Kochav Yair

Ravid Dorin

Program Report 2026 | ITEC

Girls Empowerment Program Curriculum The Girls Empowerment Program is a structured, multi-month journey designed to strengthen confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being among young girls. Through 25 guided sessions, participants develop practical life skills, build a strong sense of self, and learn how to navigate challenges in a complex and often overwhelming environment.

Laying the Foundation

The program begins with an initial assessment, allowing each participant to reflect on her current sense of confidence, resilience, and ability to cope with challenges. This baseline helps guide the process and measure meaningful growth over time.

Building Personal Resilience (Sessions 2–5)

Participants engage in a combination of physical activity and guided discussions to strengthen both mental and emotional resilience. They learn how to cope with setbacks, manage stress, and navigate conflicts at home and in social settings—gaining tools that help them remain grounded even in difficult moments.

Developing a Healthy Self-Image (Sessions 6–9)

In a world heavily influenced by media and social pressure, girls explore topics of body image, self-perception, and the changes that come with adolescence. Through open conversations and supportive guidance, they develop a healthier relationship with themselves—both physically and emotionally—while learning to set appropriate personal boundaries.

Fostering Personal Empowerment (Sessions 10–13)

The program places strong emphasis on self-awareness and recognizing individual strengths. Participants identify positive role models in their lives, begin to shape a personal vision for their future, and share their own stories within a safe and supportive group setting—building confidence and a sense of belonging.

Strengthening Social Skills (Sessions 14–17)

Girls learn how to communicate effectively, stand up for themselves, and build healthy, supportive relationships. Through practical exercises, they develop the confidence to express their opinions, set boundaries, and resolve conflicts constructively.

Tools for Coping with Challenges (Sessions 18–21)

Recognizing the pressures many children face today, the program introduces concrete tools for managing academic and emotional challenges. Techniques such as mindfulness, movement, and relaxation exercises help participants regulate stress and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Reflection, Growth, and Looking Ahead (Sessions 22–25)

The program concludes with a reflective process, where participants recognize how far they have come. Through group discussions and a final evaluation, they articulate personal insights, define future goals, and leave the program with a stronger sense of direction, confidence, and resilience.

Karen Shemesh Center Manager Dear Jane, Leslie, Rich, & Mitchell, On behalf of the Israel Tennis & Education Center in Ofakim, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your support of the Girls Empowerment Program. For many of the girls who participate, this program represents far more than a sports framework. It provides a safe space, a sense of belonging, practical tools for coping with life’s challenges, increased self-confidence, and a genuine opportunity to grow, dream, and believe in themselves. The impact of the program extends well beyond the participants themselves. We witness positive changes within families, stronger emotional resilience, healthier relationships, meaningful friendships, and the development of leadership, responsibility, and self-belief. This program reflects the very heart of our mission at ITEC: bringing together sports, education, and community with the belief that every girl deserves an opportunity, meaningful guidance, and a supportive environment in which to discover her strengths. Thank you for choosing to invest in the young women of Ofakim and in the future of this community. Because of your support, dreams become possibilities and meaningful change takes place every day. I would also like to take this opportunity and thank you for the extrodinary Ofakim Dream Project that you are so generously sponsoring. Wishing you and your loved ones a happy, healthy, and joyful new year! With gratitude and appreciation, Karen Shemesh Center Manager ITEC Ofakim

Program Report 2026 | ITEC

Rinat Morduch Program Coordinator Dear Jane, Leslie, Rich, & Mitchell, I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your partnership and trust in the Girls Empowerment Program in Ofakim. Since the events of October 7th and throughout the ongoing challenges faced by Israeli society, this program has become a source of stability, security, and hope for many of the girls who participate. Beyond sports activities, the program provides a sense of belonging, self-confidence, emotional resilience, and practical tools for navigating life’s challenges. At the same time, we are witnessing a growing need for emotional support and individualized therapeutic intervention. For some of these girls, such support is not simply beneficial, it has the potential to change the course of their lives. Your partnership allows us to continue guiding and supporting these girls, believing in them when they struggle to believe in themselves, and providing opportunities for growth, healing, and personal development. Thank you for your generosity, your trust, and your commitment to helping create a brighter future for the young women of Ofakim. With deep appreciation, Rinat Morduch Program Coordinator ITEC Ofakim

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Program Report 2026 | ITEC

Tennis Activities 15

Einav Cohen-Argaman Community Partner It is a privilege to accompany the girls participating in the Girls Empowerment Program for a second consecutive year. Over the course of this journey, I have had the opportunity to witness deeply moving and meaningful transformations - journeys of growth, resilience, trust, and hope. Many of the girls joined the program while struggling with the emotional impact of the events of October 7th. They faced sleep difficulties, anxiety, fear, insecurity, and a profound sense of loneliness. Throughout the year, we saw how the combination of emotional support, sports activities, and meaningful personal relationships helped them begin to heal. Anxiety levels decreased, sleep improved, and the girls gradually developed a stronger sense of confidence in themselves and the world around them. One of the most inspiring outcomes of the program has been the relationships that formed among the participants. Together, they built a community based on trust, respect, confidentiality, and mutual support. Their connections extended far beyond the program itself. The girls began organizing weekly gatherings on their own, formed a music group, sang and played instruments together, prepared for end-of-year events, and continued spending time together outside of the program. They learned to trust one another, express their emotions, navigate disagreements, respect different perspectives, and develop meaningful social and emotional skills. At the same time, each girl undertook her own personal journey - strengthening family relationships, overcoming personal challenges, and building a stronger sense of selfworth and confidence. Year after year, I see how the combination of sports, emotional support, and a safe, nurturing environment provides these girls with tools that will stay with them for life-tools they may never have received without this program. They are growing into stronger, more self-aware young women. They are learning to believe in themselves, to dream, to persevere, and to make choices that support their future. Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your investment in the future of the young women of Ofakim. With sincere appreciation, Einav Cohen-Argaman Psychotherapist & Social Facilitator ITEC Ofakim

Program Report 2026 | ITEC

Girls Empowerment | Yoga The yoga sessions I lead for the girls create a special space where they can pause from the pace of daily life and reconnect with themselves. Through breathing, movement, and sound, they enter a state of calm and inner quiet. It is inspiring to see how open they are to the practice—they connect deeply to the sounds, the breathing, and the postures, and participate with great enthusiasm. During each session, a meaningful connection is formed between them. They learn to listen to their bodies, to be gentle and patient with themselves, and to give space to the emotions that arise. By the end of every session, the atmosphere is calm and uplifting. They leave with smiles, sharing how much they enjoyed it and how good it makes them feel—both physically and emotionally.

Impact Stories | Amira Amira, a 14-year-old eighth-grade student from Ofakim, has been participating in the Girls Empowerment Program for the past two years. Amira is an intelligent, sensitive, and responsible young woman who carries a great deal of responsibility within her family. During the events of October 7th, she remained at home with her younger siblings without access to a protected shelter while violence unfolded in close proximity to her community. The experience left a lasting impact. Amira struggled with anxiety, sleep disturbances, recurring fears, heightened vigilance, and emotional distress. Later, during the period of conflict with Iran, her emotional challenges intensified. In addition, she faced the trauma of sexual abuse, which deepened her fears and isolation and eventually led her to avoid leaving her home altogether. Through the support of the Girls Empowerment Program, including weekly tennis sessions, emotional workshops, and individualized resilience-focused guidance, Amira began a gradual process of healing. Little by little, she found the courage to talk about her experiences and express emotions she had carried alone for far too long. She opened up to her family and began sharing the challenges she had faced. Today, there has been a significant reduction in her anxiety. Her sleep has improved, nightmares have become less frequent, and she has regained the confidence to leave her home, engage with others, and see herself in a more positive light. Despite the many responsibilities she continues to carry at home and the complexities of her family situation, Amira consistently demonstrates extraordinary resilience, maturity, and inner strength. For her, the tennis court and the program community have become a safe space where she can simply be a teenager—to laugh, breathe, feel accepted, and experience moments of peace, confidence, and hope. Her story is a moving testament to the power of professional support, meaningful relationships, and a community that believes in a young person’s ability to heal, grow, and thrive.

Program Report 2026 | ITEC

Impact Stories | Elian Elian, a 14-year-old eighth-grade student from Ofakim, has been participating in the Girls Empowerment Program for the past two years. Growing up in a complex family environment as one of five siblings, Elian faced significant emotional and family challenges from a young age. When she first joined the program, she was considered at high risk. She struggled with consistent school attendance, spent late nights with negative peer influences, found it difficult to establish healthy boundaries, experienced frequent conflict at home, and had trouble maintaining positive relationships with family members. Over the past two years, the combination of emotional mentoring, resiliencefocused support, and regular participation in sports has led to a remarkable transformation. Through intensive work on life skills, emotional regulation, decision-making, and relationship-building, Elian began creating a new path for herself. She gradually distanced herself from unhealthy influences, became more accountable for her choices, and demonstrated significant improvements both at home and in school. Her academic performance improved, her relationships with her sisters strengthened, and she no longer runs away from home. Most importantly, Elian found a sense of belonging. She became involved in a music group, developed stronger friendships, and began approaching life with greater confidence, calmness, and joy. Today, Elian is more connected to her strengths and her future. She has chosen to leave behind patterns that once held her back and is actively building a healthier, more positive life for herself. Her story is a powerful reminder of what can happen when a young girl is given consistent support, trusted relationships, and a safe environment in which to grow. Despite facing significant challenges at a young age, Elian chose a path of resilience, responsibility, and personal growth, and we are incredibly proud of the journey she has made.

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Program Report 2026 | ITEC

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