our story
The "Growing as Winners" Association serves as a center for physical and mental growth for warriors dealing with mental health challenges and post-trauma. It provides a full, holistic, and personalized professional support system with the goal of reintegrating participants into society and the workforce.
The association offers a professional home framework for those seeking to improve their personal situation, overcome difficulties, and build a meaningful and successful life while gaining essential coping tools for present and future challenges.
board of directors
Daniel Winer
Citymedia Advisor and Board Member
Nadav Shtraichler
Strategy and Public Relations
Rani Ben Best
Committee member
Noam Pardes
accountant
Bar Saraf
High-Tech Programs
Management and Fundraising
Yosef Hadad
Advisory Committee
Avihai Hollender
Advisory Committee
Dr. Paula Roshka
Accompanying Psychiatrist
Management
Tzuriel Friedman
CEO
Partners on the journey
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About the Heroes
The Story of A
A fought in the Iron Swords War and came to us about six months ago in a difficult mental state after experiencing traumatic events during combat in Gaza. He reached a point where he couldn’t even afford to buy a carton of milk, stopped going to work, and saw his dream of becoming independent vanish. He had zero trust in therapeutic frameworks. Following a recommendation from a friend who had been with us, A arrived, and after a few personal mentoring sessions, he started leaving the house again, training in a running and boxing group, attending social events—and needless to say, buying milk as well. A has returned to a work routine and is currently developing his own business. Perhaps the greatest achievement of all—A has actively returned to reserve duty!
The Story of G
G came to us after completing his first round of reserve duty, in a fragile mental state, following the tragedy in which 21 soldiers were killed in a building collapse in Gaza. He had seen many therapists but never stuck with any of them. We explained to G that we are not a substitute for therapy, but we can provide support on a mental, physical, social, and career level, as well as help connect him with professional therapists. G began a mentoring process, regained trust in life, and started psychological treatment at the Adler Institute following our recommendation and connection. Today, G trains at our center, regularly attends events, and most importantly—has started smiling again despite the hardships. His greatest achievement? He is about to complete a tech training program!
And just last month, G also returned to reserve duty.
The Story of R
R was injured at the beginning of the war and is recognized as a disabled IDF veteran. He came to us seeking tools to cope with PTSD and to find a supportive community. For a long time, R was in a suicidal state, desperately searching for a place that would embrace him, understand him, and most importantly—accept him as he is. Today, R is connected to a strong group of friends, smiling, and, above all, feeling more at ease. His greatest achievement? Without a doubt, the smile that has returned to his face and his decision to embark on a personal mentoring journey!
Join our community
Join us on a powerful and moving journey, filled daily with inspiring and courageous stories of incredible people who have faced difficult moments or experiences — yet chose to take ownership of their lives and embark on the most meaningful journey they could, for themselves.
IN THE PRESs
Ending another session with you, and I just want to say — from the bottom of my heart — how grateful I am for this journey that, day by day, brings me insights and strength to live my life in a much better way, even with my challenges and limitations.
Today, I truly understand why you chose the name 'Growing as Victors' for the organization.
Hi Itzik, good afternoon!
Just letting you know I left the meeting with Zuriel about an hour ago. It was absolutely amazing — and truly moving! Zuriel is such an incredible person, and the whole project is just unbelievable. I’ll definitely keep coming to the events, activities, and gatherings — and being part of the beautiful support system and community. Thank you so much, Itzik — you’ve helped me so much, and thanks to you, I found and got to know this special place. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart!
To the organization "Growing as Victors" and to Zuriel,
A few months ago, we came to you after having lost all hope when it came to our son, who was severely injured and suffering from intense PTSD. The incredible journey he’s gone through with you is nothing short of moving and miraculous. From a place where he saw only darkness — now, there is light in his life. (I’m writing this and still can’t believe it.) I just want to say a huge thank you.
You saved my child.