Founded in 1979 House of Wheels began as a small weekend program. Miriam Schwarz Z”L a guidance counselor had a vision. She wanted to create a haven for children with physical disabilities. She worked tirelessly at the Tekuma School in South Tel Aviv. She organized recreational and social activities. Initially she focused on just eight children. For five years she dedicated herself. She used limited resources to achieve her impossible dream. House of Wheels blossomed from this humble beginning.
The unique bond between volunteers and children became the heart of House of Wheels. Miriam carefully selected volunteers. She looked for personal qualities not just expertise. This approach has continued. Volunteers often stay for years becoming part of the extended family.
The organization has expanded significantly. It now provides weekend weekday and summer camp activities. Multiple age groups benefit. Many graduates work at House of Wheels. Every board member began as a volunteer counselor. House of Wheels truly becomes a second home for everyone. It serves children youth and young adults both with and without disabilities.
House of Wheels serves approximately 470 participants. It operates six locations across Israel. It operates in the north south and center of the country. They serve a diverse population. Their participants are Jewish Arab Bedouin Christian Muslim and Druze.
House of Wheels offers various programs. Weekend groups allow participants aged 8-21 to spend a weekend together each month. They enjoy social interactions and discussions. Summer camps offer exciting activities like kayaking and rock climbing. A tennis club is available. The Rolling Forward leadership program helps teens prepare for adulthood. A young adults program assists those aged 21 and up with integration into society. A day center in Herzliya provides support for adults needing additional assistance. The Rolling Experience provides workshops allowing the public to experience life with physical disabilities.
The House of Wheels mission is to create a society where people with physical disabilities are fully included. They want to provide opportunities for growth and development. They believe everyone deserves the chance to reach their full potential. House of Wheels is a testament to the power of dedication and a community working towards a common goal. It continues to evolve and expand. It remains a beacon of hope for children and adults across Israel. It’s a place where dreams are nurtured and futures are built. House of Wheels is more than a program it’s a family a community a second home.