Migdal Ohr: A Cause Worth Sweating For At Philly’s Tough Mudder Endurance Event

This past weekend, a team of passionate, driven (and somewhat crazy) individuals woke up early, laced up their sneakers, and headed out to the rolling hills of Coatesville, PA to take on the “Tough Mudder,” an endurance event in which participants attempt 5 to 15K obstacle courses filled with mud, climbing walls, and grueling obstacles.

They didn’t do it for the trophies, photo ops, or the adrenaline. They did it to inspire thousands of orphaned and underprivileged children in Israel that they can overcome the various challenges and obstacles they are facing.

Particularly after October 7, there have been many opportunities to help Israel, and now people are looking for ways to make a difference beyond donations. Our incredible ambassadors embraced the “Tough Mudder” as the ultimate opportunity to get down and dirty while championing a cause close to their hearts.

Migdal Ohr is one of Israel’s most respected networks of social welfare institutions that raise over 10,000 at-risk youths, children who come from broken homes, poverty, and trauma. The network is made up of over 24 different organizations, from youth villages to family-style dorms, schools, youth groups, career training programs, and more.

The money raised by the Tough Mudder team is already hard at work, creating opportunities for children who will become the future soldiers, business owners, parents, and leaders of Israel. Migdal Ohr provides everything from room and board to emotional support, schools, extracurriculars, and even mentorship once the graduates get married. The funds raised by the team will go toward paying for the essentials, education, and empowerment that children need to grow into successful, capable adults.

{Creating a Better Future for Israel with Each Muddy Mile

What made the Tough Mudder experience truly unique wasn’t just the mud (though there was a lot of it), it was the unity, the encouragement, and the sense of shared purpose between the team members, many of whom didn’t know each other before the race.

“I left the day on such a high. It was unlike anything I’ve ever done and a way to feel the plight of kids in Israel. It’s such an amazing cause and doing the Tough Mudder with a team solidified my desire to be more active and tell others,” Yehuda Marcus, 38, of Teaneck, NJ, shared.

The team members pushed themselves beyond their limits, and in doing so, helped kids halfway across the world. Noam Rothner, 23, a participant from Touro College, captured the day beautifully: “It was awesome—exhilarating even! From the group experience to the great food to the energy, Migdal Ohr took care of every detail. I can’t wait to tell others about it and to continue to be involved!”

From the opening pep talk to the final muddy hugs, the day was a testament to the impact we can make when we come together, proudly and visibly, as Jews supporting Israel.

You don’t have to train for months. If you’re open to pushing yourself, the team will encourage you through the obstacles. It’s a meaningful way to get the word out and to get involved in a cause that is changing children’s lives every day.

Mickey Flaumenhaft, Director of Development at American Friends of Migdal Ohr, said, “This was the first time we’ve ever done something like this, but it’s definitely not the last! It was amazing to see the energy that people brought and how their passion grew after going through something like this together.”

He continued, “We’re building a community of support for children in Israel and looking for new and different ways to help you show your love for Israel. Thanks to everyone who came out to get muddy! You made a real difference to children who are counting on us! We’re already planning for Tough Mudder in the spring of 2026. You too can get dirty to make a difference for Israel.”

To learn more or sign up, reach out to Mickey Flaumenhaft at [email protected]. You can learn more about American Friends of Migdal Ohr at MigdalOhrUSA.org or call 212-397-3700. n