Restoring resilience and well-being in Israel through art-based methodologies, supporting those affected by the war
A Word from the Founder
Twenty years ago, I, artist Sasha Galitsky, began teaching woodcarving to residents of nursing homes in Israel.
Spending so much time in woodcarving studios with elderly people, I came to understand just how vital creative activity is for them.
I am convinced that people who are engaged and inspired cope more easily with the challenges that come with age—especially in these difficult times.
Not long ago, one elderly man told me, “I rely on two things to stay alive: my oxygen tank and you.”
Over the years, I’ve learned a great deal, and now it’s important for me to share that experience with anyone who feels the same calling to help others.
I know how to help.
Together with a group of like-minded individuals, we founded Baobab.
Join us in supporting the elderly through creativity, using our unique method to help them overcome adversity.
Touch wood - it helps :)
Every day, artist Sasha Galitsky and his dedicated team at Baobab Studios support Israelis affected by the war — displaced individuals, seniors, and other vulnerable groups — through creative activities that rebuild resilience and restore well-being.
By engaging in wood carving using Sasha's unique method, participants not only relieve stress but also regain a sense of purpose and control over their lives. As one participant, Yoram from Kibbutz Reim, said, “If I will not put this work on my wall at home – I have failed the entire game.”
Baobab Studios provides a lifeline during this difficult time, offering moments of joy, healing, and motivation to survive. To continue this critical work in 2025 and beyond, Baobab urgently needs your help!
What does BAOBAB do?
Baobab Studios is an Israeli initiative that supports vulnerable individuals, including displaced seniors, people with disabilities, and those struggling with trauma. Through a combination of artistic expression and physical activity, Baobab's wood carving and creative sessions help participants:
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Alleviate stress and anxiety
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Enhance cognitive abilities
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Restore confidence and pride
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Maintain vital social connections and skills
Baobab Studios is currently operating in 14 locations where displaced seniors reside, including Tel Aviv, Be'er Sheva, Hatzerim, Omer, Kiryat Shmona, and others, as well as in two permanent centers in Ramat Gan and Holon.
To meet the growing demand, Baobab has opened a free school to train educators, ensuring that more individuals can access its life-changing programs. As the displaced population faces long-term emotional and psychological challenges, Baobab is committed to expanding its centers and programs across southern and northern Israel.
Who Makes Up BAOBAB?
Baobab Studios is powered by a diverse and passionate team of professionals, including artists, educators, psychologists, and social innovators. United by a mission to restore resilience and well-being through creative expression, the team includes:
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Sasha Galitsky – Founder, artist, and creator of the methodology.
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Emil Guberman – CEO and Program Development Manager.
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Tatyana Tsytkin – Co-founder, art teacher specializing in ceramics and art history.
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Sergey Zakharov – Program Psychologist providing teacher support and expertise in elderly care.
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Raya Riger – Specialists in elderly care and social entrepreneurship.
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Marina Rayskin – Wood carving instructor.
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Yegor Berkovich – Wood carving instructor.
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Ekaterina Belenkaya – Wood carving instructor.
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Alexey Propiszkov – Wood carving instructor.
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Irina Sychev – Ceramics teacher.
Together, this dedicated team delivers programs that inspire creativity, healing, and resilience.
What Has Already Been Done?
Baobab Studios has made remarkable progress in its mission to restore well-being and support vulnerable individuals across Israel:
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Developed a proven creative methodology for healing through art-based activities.
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Established two fully operational centers in Ramat Gan and Holon.
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Launched long-term weekly support programs for displaced seniors from Re'im, Nir Am, Sderot, Kiryat Shmona, and Shlomi.
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Created a school for training educators, equipping teachers with the tools to support seniors and trauma-affected individuals.
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Currently operating in 14 temporary locations, reaching over 150 displaced seniors from war-affected regions.
These achievements highlight Baobab’s growing impact, but the need for expansion is urgent.
How Much Money is Needed?
Tools and Materials – $171,948
Programs for seniors and teachers – $432,960
Program backoffice – $141,000
Marketing – $84,000
Baobab Studios is launching ongoing programs in war-affected areas and creating permanent resilience centers for displaced seniors and vulnerable groups, helping rebuild resilience, ease anxiety, and strengthen social connections through creative activities.
At the same time, it is expanding the Baobab Educators' School to train more teachers, securing new spaces across Israel, and fully equipping centers for wood carving. To ensure the sustainability of these initiatives, Baobab also provides salaries for educators, psychologists, and coordinators.
How to support
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For tax-deductible donations in Canada, the US, France, Australia and UK please proceed here
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Bit in Israel 0526053635
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Bank transfer בנק הפועלים 12, סניף 661 רעננה, חשבון 501500 ע״ש תדי - תמיכה דרך יצירה
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For donation by credit card or PayPal, just go here:
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If you want to support us in any other way, please write to us at info@baobabstudios.org, Telegram or WatsApp +972 52 6053635, and we will arrange everything.
AND ONCE AGAIN - THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Thank you in advance for your help! Even small donations are very important to us, as they eventually add up to significant amounts.
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