For over two decades, Simona has dedicated her life to one single purpose: restoring hope to the lives of those who sacrificed their bodies and souls for the security of the state. Her vision has become a life-changing reality for hundreds of fighters.
The story of Tikvot Association is inseparably woven with Simona's life story. Growing up in a home where Zionist values and love of the land were guiding principles, the connection to the IDF and security forces was natural for her from a young age. However, it was one defining event, a chance encounter at a rehabilitation hospital with a group of young IDF wounded, that changed the course of her life forever.
The story of Tikvot Association is inseparably woven with Simona's life story. Growing up in a home where Zionist values and love of the land were guiding principles, the connection to the IDF and security forces was natural for her from a young age. However, it was one defining event, a chance encounter at a rehabilitation hospital with a group of young IDF wounded, that changed the course of her life forever.
In that encounter, Simona identified a huge and painful gap. While the medical system provided excellent physical treatment, the souls of the fighters were often left bleeding. She understood that true rehabilitation of IDF wounded does not end with healing bones or mending physical scars, but requires rebuilding the sense of capability, self-confidence, and hope for the future. This understanding was the spark that led to the establishment of the organization.
From then until today, Simona leads the association with a firm hand yet with endless sensitivity. She believes that challenging sports are a first-class rehabilitation tool. Through activities like skiing, mountain climbing, and cycling, she enables terror victims and rehabilitated fighters to rediscover the powers within them. For her, every smile of a fighter who has returned to stand on their feet (literally and figuratively) is a whole world.
The belief that there is no limit to human capability. Simona pushes IDF wounded to face complex physical challenges, not just as sport, but as a way to rehabilitate the self-confidence that was damaged following the injury.
For Simona, the association is not an institution but a home. Every fighter and every terror victim who joins the activities becomes part of a supportive, embracing, and understanding family that accompanies them throughout the entire journey.
Love of the land and gratitude to those who protect it are the foundation of all activities. The deep connection to IDF values and Israeli combat heritage is present in every activity and every meeting of the association.
This phrase, often heard from Simona, serves as the central motto of her work. She sees each IDF wounded soldier as a hero who needs the right tools to return and triumph again – this time in the arena of civilian life.
The unique approach she developed combines uncompromising demands for excellence with a warm and loving embrace. She knows when to push the fighters to the edge of their ability so they can prove to themselves they are capable, and when to provide quiet and supportive care during difficult moments.
Beyond physical rehabilitation, Simona places great emphasis on reintegrating terror victims and wounded soldiers back into society, studies, and the workforce. She works tirelessly with government and private entities to open doors for those who have paid such a dear price.
Even after years of blessed work, Simona doesn't rest for a moment. The complex Israeli reality continues to create new challenges, and the family of IDF wounded soldiers unfortunately continues to grow. Her vision for the coming years includes expanding the activity center, establishing additional support groups for wounded families, and deepening cooperation with various IDF units.
She works to raise public awareness of the importance of mental rehabilitation alongside physical rehabilitation, and leads campaigns for recognition of the rights of terror victims and fighters. For Simona, as long as there is a soldier who needs help to smile again, the mission is not yet complete.
The work of Simona and Tikvot organization is made possible thanks to good people who understand the magnitude of the hour. We invite you to take part in this wonderful journey and be partners in the path.
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