The Israel Tennis & Education Centers (ITEC) is building a stronger and more peaceful State of Israel, where every child, regardless of background, ethnicity, or life circumstance, can thrive, leaving a positive imprint for generations to come.

For so many children whose young lives have been marked by unimaginable hardship, adversity, and suffering, ITEC is a beacon of hope. Our 23 locations are intentionally situated in under resourced communities where young people struggle to find a path forward. Using the powerful combination of sports, education, and social programming, ITEC engages tens-of-thousands of children each year, many who reside in the fringes of Israeli society where social services may not reach them. No child is ever turned away, be it for financial need or any other reason.

This year’s event is in support of a unique ITEC program for displaced children from Kiryat Shmona, the largest city in northern Israel (3.5km from Lebanon’s border).

Over 22,000 residents from this city have been evacuated from their homes since Oct. 7^th. They are facing an uncertain future, and with the likelihood of an imminent war in that region, tens of thousands of families are not expected to return to their homes for many months to come. Displaced children are experiencing fear, loss of routine, community separation, interrupted education, and significant mental health issues. ITEC is mitigating these impacts by offering these children enriching and structured programming, providing tennis, fitness, and resilience-building activities to support their mental health and to help them disconnect from the turmoil surrounding them.

All proceeds from the event will support ITEC’s programs for displaced children from Kiryat Shmona, enabling more children to participate in this critical program, providing them opportunities to find moments of normalcy and joy during this time of adversity.