At the Nadav Merhav Democratic School, a moving ceremony was held to dedicate a garden in memory of Gili Adar z”L, a 13th grade graduate of the school, who was murdered at the Nova party on October 7th 2023, at the age of 24.
The late Gili was full of joy for life, and loved giving and doing. She was a good friend who swept everyone away and did a lot of good by volunteering in and outside of school, for which she was recognized when she received the Schechter Award as an outstanding volunteer. After the army, she chose to work with lone soldiers.
The school wanted to immortalize her image and her life story; and the idea of establishing a garden that would afford human dialog and connections.
In planning, the school staff envisaged trees and seating areas, where mentors, pupils, staff members and the community would grow and enjoy the flowering trees and the joy and light that so characterized the late Gili.
The team worked together with the students and the community throughout the year to establish the garden. Together, they created a mosaic of sunlight and colorful urns, children of different ages cleaned the area and planted plants, and they built picnic benches that were placed in the garden.
With the help of professionals, they also built signage, a pergola, irrigation lines and stepping stones, and during the establishment of the garden, the great spirit of giving and the desire to be partners stood out.
Since the garden was inaugurated, it has become a beloved space at the school. The children continue to work in the garden, sow wildflowers and take care of it. Teachers teach classes there, and it is full of children and adults sitting there at all hours of the day.
