Choosing Life

Support and empowerment program for combat survivors and their families through yacht sailing

About

"Choosing Life" is based on a weekly sailing group, in which combat veterans coping with trauma participate under close professional guidance – a certified sailing instructor and a licensed emotional therapist. Throughout the sailing sessions, participants experience an empowering rehabilitation journey that includes: Weekly sailing – maritime learning, group bonding, and a break from daily routine. Group processing sessions – guided emotional work, fostering personal and collective resilience. Family support groups – accompaniment and support for family members as an integral part of the rehabilitation process. Ongoing evaluation and research – in collaboration with the Center for the Study of Society at the University of Haifa.

Why Sailing?

The marine environment has a profound therapeutic impact: the sea offers tranquility, open space, gradual exposure to challenges, and a sense of freedom and control – all of which contribute to emotional relief and a stronger sense of capability.

Professional and Organizational Framework

The program is operated and managed by the Rotary Haifa Foundation, a registered non-profit organization, run entirely by volunteers. Rotary brings vast knowledge and experience in managing community projects and delivering social impact.

Currently, several active groups are running in collaboration with the Ma’ale HaCarmel Mental Health Center and the IDF Disabled Veterans Organization, including a dedicated group for female combat veterans. A new sailing group is now being launched for veterans not officially recognized by the Ministry of Defense.

The leadership team includes professionals, academics, and senior executives – all driven by a deep sense of mission.

Our Mission

Empowering PTSD survivors – strengthening the participants' mental and physical resilience. Systemic intervention – treatment and rehabilitation from a family perspective, including spouses. Increasing the number of patients – expanding the program to accommodate the maximum number of participants. Holistic approach – integrating psychological therapy with challenging activities.

Target Audience

Combat veterans and their families, recognized by the Ministry of Defense, who suffer from post-traumatic symptoms affecting their functioning and quality of life.

Advanteges

Successful track record with 5 years of experience in treating post-trauma survivors through sailing. The project manager and skippers are combat trauma survivors in recovery. Emphasis on strengthening and focusing on the survivors' strengths. Professional psychological support for both the survivors and their families.

Expected Outcomes

Reduction in post-traumatic symptoms
Improvement in daily, marital, and familial functioning
Enhancement of social connection abilities
Return to the workforce and effective integration into employment
Significant contribution to the community and engagement in volunteer activities

Home Marina

A Support and Empowerment Center for Combat Survivors

At Shavit Marina in Kishon, overlooking the open sea and sailboats gliding in the wind, a unique and innovative center is currently being established for combat survivors coping with PTSD.

The location, surrounded by the calm and soothing marine environment, provides a sense of freedom, serenity, and reconnection with nature.

The center spans approximately 200 square meters and is designed to be a second home – a safe, warm, and supportive space where one can find community, therapy, and real tools for rehabilitation.

What Awaits at “Home Marina”:

Spaces for workshops and lectures
Creative studios
Individual and group therapy rooms
Community activities
Parent-child programs

"Choosing Life" assists with a unique program integrated into the treatment plan of the ״Ma'ale HaCarmel״ Mental Health Center for treating combat PTSD victims who have been referred for day treatment by the Rehabilitation Department of the Ministry of Defense.