The new signs are part of a joint project with Beit Issie Shapira, the Hop Channel and the Sesame Street Workshop, designed to spread the message of the importance of accepting those who are different, tolerance, friendship and highlighting the things all children share in common – rather than their difference.”

Chaverim Park has become one of Raanana Park’s prominent trademarks which promote these values.  It is the first park of its kind in Israel to offer unique playground equipment suited to children with special needs, helping them to integrate into the community in an equal and complete manner.

Chaverim Park is part of a long list of Raanana Park’s special features, along with:  the Aromas and Sounds Garden – the first garden of its kind in Israel built for the sight impaired, offering a wide variety of spice plants, signs with explanations in Braille and accessible ramps;  the “Everyone Cycles” project - in operation for the past three years and offering dozens of cyclists, with special needs, an opportunity to ride special therapeutic bicycles with the help of special counselors.  This is an opportunity for them to take part in an athletic mind body experience, it is empowering and improves their self image as well as their various motor abilities.

The unveiling of the new signs was attended by Mayor Nahum Hofree; Welfare Minister Yitzchak Herzog; City Councilwoman Bella Tzur (Welfare); Beit Issie Shapira President Naomi Stuchiner; Managing Director of Beit Issie Shapira Jean Yudes; Hop Channel Representative and Sesame Workshop representative Sima Tulchis and other guests.

Mayor Nahum Hofree:  “Raanana strives to promote tolerance and to encourage its residents to take part in various volunteer projects.  These signs reflect the important social and educational values we promote from an early age in our community.”

In the photos:  The mayor with one of the characters from Sesame Street. The mayor and the Welfare Minister unveiling one of the new signs at the Chaverim Park.   Photographer:  Avishai Klein.