Creative Arts for Israel hosted an inspiring event in Los Angeles, drawing over 500 individuals from the arts and philanthropy worlds to support American Friends of NATAL, an organization dedicated to trauma preparedness and recovery, and their mission to aid NATAL’s vital work in Israel. Led by Committee Chair Tammy Stavinsky, the event raised significant funds and amplified awareness of the essential assistance required to ensure the ongoing health and well-being of Israel, demonstrating the community’s deep commitment to healing and resilience.

“Trauma knows no boundaries. Following the events of October 7th, the ripple effect extends beyond Israel’s borders. Our teams are leading the efforts in treating hundreds of Nova Festival survivors, families of hostages and victims, offering hope alongside healing,” said Maayan Aviv, Executive Director and CEO at American Friends of NATAL, who was in attendance and addressed the audience.

Artist Tomer Peretz Shares His Harrowing Story

The event included the presence of notable personalities, like Tomer Peretz, a renowned Israeli conceptual artist and painter based in Los Angeles. Peretz shared his chilling story with guests. “I have been fighting PTSD for almost 20 years. I was working with ZAKA (a rescue organization of highly-skilled volunteer emergency services) for the entire week and I was helping to pick up the dead bodies at Kibbutz Be’eri. I was one of the first people to release footage from the kibbutz. People have no idea what is waiting for us as far as mental health.”

Art Auctions for Healing and Hope

The event was a remarkable gathering, marked by moments of heartbreak and deep support for an important cause, that featured both live and silent auctions, offering an exquisite array of jewelry, art, and memorabilia. Dr. Dity Brunn, a clinical psychologist and board member of American Friends of NATAL, shared her thoughts, “NATAL is the golden powder that transforms a broken person into a HEALTHIER one. Just as the scars of trauma may be imperceptible, the golden fragments serve as testimony to the pottery’s resilience and enhanced beauty despite the damage inflicted on it.”

NATAL and American Friends of NATAL Work in Healing Trauma and PTSD

NATAL is a leading organization in Israel, providing comprehensive support services to those affected by trauma, including a 24/7 telephone helpline. American Friends of NATAL’s mission is to strengthen NATAL’s critical initiatives, providing vital assistance and know-how to over 450,000 Israelis suffering from trauma primarily due to terrorism and war. AFN actively supports collaborative efforts with US organizations, bringing NATAL’s proven methodologies to aid Americans grappling with trauma and PTSD.