Mission and Message from the CEO
The mission of the Atalef Foundation is to provide the necessary support to every warrior and their family and to serve as a platform upon which each commando can develop and grow personally with a view toward greater engagement with the State of Israel and the Zionist dream.
In order to accomplish our mission, the Atalef works in several arenas and operates a variety of programs. The programs are designed with the unique commando qualities in mind: integrity, daring, strength and adherence to Jewish values.
The Foundation acts in 3 main arenas:
- Service to soldiers with special needs; fostering of the Shayetet’s legacy; providing medical and psychological support to Shayetet 13 (Israeli Navy SEALs) alumni and active service members; including general support during the commandos’ demanding military service.
- Transition to civilian life, including: scholarships, professional guidance, mentoring, personal consulting, business and social networking, help to find a job, social events, and overall co-op type benefits club.
- Social impact – we believe that the Shayetet 13 veterans are our greatest resource. We seek to impact Israeli youth through the educational initiatives led by our veterans, built on the unique qualities of Shayetet 13 warriors. We also reach out to the Jewish communities overseas, offering them to connect with Israel via Atalef Ambassadors.
BEHIND THE SCENES
Our Board of Directors brings a wealth of experience from the political, social and economic arena to our shared purpose.
Our work relies on funding from the Foundation’s members, and national and international donors. These are the people that stand behind our mission and enable us to make it happen.
Thank you, Atalef’s supporters and SEA(Lions), for being much more than donors. Thank you for volunteering time and resources and for giving us guidance. You are part of our shared mission, part of the Atalef family.
CEO Message
The Israeli army has a powerful screening criteria for Shayetet 13. The commandos who pass the final screening procedures and qualify to undertake Naval Commando training, begin service at age 18. They go through an intense 84-week training. Afterwards, they serve for an additional three and a half years in an intensive atmosphere and under demanding circumstances. This service is characterized by the highest professionalism and moral standards.
It is my privilege to lead The Atalef Foundation, I am honored to serve these unique people. My vision is to build a community that will serve as a home for every Shayetet 13 commando who seeks to have a greater impact on the Jewish world and to be a significant contributor to the Israeli society.
The most important resource The Atalef Foundation has is the commitment and talent of its community the commandos, the Navy personnel, our Board of Directors, donors, volunteers, and the Atalef team.
We will continue to garner support and increase our activities nationwide. On behalf of The Atalef Family I thank you for your endless giving and for your loyalty for our shared goal.
Udi Israeli,
CEO, The Atalef Foundation