For years, Helen Varon has hosted an event for the Israel Guide Dog Center in the desert in memory of her beloved grandson, Matthew.

After the horrific events of October 7, 2023, Helen thought it best not to have the annual event. Since then, her love for the Center has only deepened as she learned that the Center rescued abandoned animals from Israel’s south, comforted people in Israel with puppy love, and provided specially trained dogs to victimized Israelis. No other organization in Israel is doing what the Center does!

This year, in lieu of Helen’s traditional luncheon, join us in celebrating friendship and collective ability to help Israelis in need, by donating to the Israel Guide Dog Center.

Helen was born in England in 1925. Like so many English young women, she chose to serve her country as a nurse in World War II. During her time as a nurse, she said “I saw so many injured service members who faced difficult recoveries. I realized then how important tools for healing are.” Despite the tragedies she saw, she also found hope as she fell in love with her beloved husband, Morgan. After the war, Helen and Morgan moved to Los Angeles to raise their family.

Helen has always loved and supported Israel. She first heard about the work of the Israel Guide Dog Center in 1999. During one of her many trips to Israel, she visited the Center and was again inspired to help others—this time by providing the healing power of dogs to Israelis in need.

In 2009, Helen began hosting annual luncheons in memory of her late grandson, Matthew Varon. Since then, she and her friends have raised over $1,000,000 and transformed the lives of so many Israelis. Helen’s success is a testament to her passion, commitment to Israel, and love of her family and friends.

May she live and inspire all of us until 120 “ad me’ah v’esrim”!