FRIENDS OF AKIM USA 30TH ANNIVERSARY “GALA OF HOPE”

Friends of AKIM USA, the American fundraising arm of AKIM Israel, will be honoring Lois Pope with their prestigious International Humanitarian Award at its 30th Anniversary “Gala of Hope” on Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. at The Breakers of Palm Beach.

Herme de Wyman Miro will be the International Humanitarian Honorary Chairwoman and Elayne Flamm will serve as Honorary Dinner Chairwoman. AKIM is an acronym for the Hebrew words which, translated, means "Association for the Habilitation of the Mentally Handicapped in Israel."

AKIM, founded in 1951, is the largest organization in Israel caring for mentally handicapped, Down Syndrome and developmentally disabled children and adults. More than 30,000 mentally handicapped and 120,000 members of their families benefit from these services. AKIM cares for all Israelis, including Christians and Moslems in need of AKIM services. They operate 64 facilities throughout the country, including group homes (called “hostels”), dental clinics, day care centers, kindergartens, social clubs and apartments. For more information, call 561-479-4634