Hello, my name is Max Riviello and my Bar Mitzvah will be in February 2025.

When I first heard about the Israel ParaSport Center, I was amazed that so many Jewish athletes like me are supporting this organization. As soon as I saw it, I knew this was the organization I wanted to support. I wanted to make a financial donation to help people with disabilities that want to have the same amount of joy playing sports as kids like me. I believe that we can do anything in this world, and this organization helps kids and adults do something that they might have thought they couldn’t have done.

Ever since the war in Israel started, I wanted to do something to help people in Israel. This organization lets me do that by giving people things they need to play sports and have joy during such a hard time. I think that even if times get hard, you can still find joy in the world. I have chosen to donate money to this organization so people can play sports. The money will help the organization purchase special equipment, provide transportation, purchase uniforms and help to rebuild Israel. During my bar mitzvah year, I also volunteered to help children with disabilities play baseball. In my life, sports are something that make me a better person, gives me confidence, and finally makes me happy. I am glad my bar mitzvah project has given me the opportunity to give people with disabilities a chance to play sports in the States and in Israel.