Taking it to the next level: Ari Ditkofsky

Ari Ditkofsky, a 26 year old volunteer participant of Hoops 4 Israel 2009 lead the charge placing first in personal fundraising, second in team fundraising, and finished as runner's up in bball competitive play in the one-day tourney. Ditkofsky recruited his entire team of 6 to pitch in and make contributions for the at-risk youth of Bat Yam, Israel and set an H4I record sporting the tallest collective H4I team since our inception tourney in 2007.

Ditkofsky taking it to the cup in the semi-finals Vs. the RioCan team (captained by Joseph Wise)

Team Ditkofsky Boys (L-R): Brandon Kaplan, Ari Ditkofsky, J.R. Bailey, Mark Ditkofsky, Kevin Shand, Dave Jankovic

What blew us away was Ari’s determined effort to help long after the charity event ended in late March. After his Birthright Israel trip to the Holy Land in late July 2009, Ari met up with social workers, Laura Kindler & Leah Biteolin to work with some of the at-risk youth to facilitate a mini basketball camp in early August 2009.

Ditkofsky teaching clinics in Bat Yam, Israel (August 2009)

Ari has joined the H4I volunteer committee and is now an active member of our team management division. The spirit of volunteerism and tikun olam runs deep with Ari. He’s a prime example of an H4I volunteer participant who not only wants to raise as much money as possible to support a variety of social infrastructure for these youth; but he wanted to have a hands on influence and experience with the kids themselves. To discuss with Ari further, reach out to him at arid@hoops4israel.com.