"People here find worth and meaning,” said Ron as he turned to me. I looked around me; people of all ages, capacities, and walks of life sat intently and diligently working. I watched several men and women expertly do jobs faster than I could blink. It was amazing to watch. But before I continue, let me stop and back up to give you some history.
David Ross, founder of Shalva Tea, found his passion for tea in 2014 when he began experimenting with creating excellent herbal teas using only ingredients from the land of Israel. His vision for what he could accomplish grew as his business grew. David realized a need in Israel that government programs and care specialists could not satisfactorily fill. That need was the ability to provide special needs people with good paying employment—a job that could provide a living wage and the ability to move on in life for those often ignored and ostracized from much of society. That is where Ron comes in.
Visiting with Ron after picking up a load of tea!
Ron worked as a specialist for people with special needs here in Israel for 12 years. However, he never felt fulfilled until he stepped in to help run the Shalva tea operation. He saw what it meant to the people he was working with when they felt they had a place as productive members of society. They were no longer outcasts; instead, they felt like they had a role to play through their work. When talking with Ron, he felt one of his most significant accomplishments was the ten people who had moved on from the Shalva Tea production into other industries. The work of Shalva was showing others in Israel that it is possible to accomplish much through people who are often forgotten or sidelined. His dream is to continue showing Israelis the great work of the special needs community and to help them grow their possibilities. So, we should think not only of them as valuable members of society but also of the fact that “these people have dreams too.” Let’s help them to realize their dreams… simply by drinking tea, one cup at a time!
Laurel Olson
August 19, 2024
I was in Jsrael during Oct 2016. I bought 2 different blends of tea. I still have some I use, it does last well! I love the flavors and tastes so good! I hope to buy more when able.