In 2003 David Schottenfels, sports enthusiast and Chairman of AKIM-Jerusalem, suggested to the board that a sponsored trek to raise money for the organization take place.

“I was looking for a way to bring more people into contact with Akim-Jerusalem, to broaden our public exposure and, not-so-incidentally, to bring in some much needed donations.”

The last seven years have seen a large increase in the number of people trekking for AKIM-Jerusalem and the sponsorship funds they have brought to the organization have made a significant increase to the quality of life of people with mental disabilities in Jerusalem.

Continuing in this tradition the eighth annual trek will be "Southward Bound" following a 80+ km route from within the Zin desert to right inside the Makhtesh Crater. This adventure looks to be as exciting and challenging as the other seven and we look forward to welcoming back old trekking friends and welcoming new walkers into our midst!