‘We prepare for the tragedies we pray will never come’

ZAKA Search & Rescue, an Israeli volunteer organization, reflected on its extensive work in the past year (5786) as Rosh Hashanah approaches. The organization responded to over 10,000 incidents in Israel, including terror attacks and natural disasters, and internationally in places like Sydney, Switzerland, Venezuela, and Maryland. ZAKA emphasizes that its mission extends beyond search and rescue to ensuring "Kavod HaMeit," the dignity of the deceased, and providing answers to grieving families. The organization highlights the importance of continuous, often invisible, preparation, training, and international partnerships to effectively respond to emergencies. As ZAKA looks to 5787, it aims to strengthen its capabilities in Israel and expand its international response, while hoping these capabilities will be needed less frequently.