IDF Mothers of Lone Soldiers Community Leader

HI,

My name is Lisa Herman Tofler and I am a mother of a lone soldier (MOL). My daughter serves in the Israel Defense Forces as a Krav Maga Instructor. Each year Momentum brings mothers of lone soldiers (MOLS) on a trip to Israel to create a support network for these fantastic mothers who are proud and fearful for their children. The Mothers of Lone soldiers come from all over the world and represent a diverse cross-section of women. These women are proud that their children are choosing to serve in the Israel Defense Forces and defend Israel and the Jewish people. Most Israeli soldiers go home every week. Their moms are there to do laundry and feed and comfort the soldier. Mothers of Lone soldiers are not there to care for their soldiers and sometimes are not in contact with their soldiers for several weeks and cannot help them navigate the Army experience.

The Momentum trip for MOLs is unique and empowering for these women. We visit important sites all around Israel. The MOLS can speak with Commanding Officers in the IDF and ask questions and voice their concerns. The trip culminates with a Shabbat experience in Jerusalem with the lone soldiers.

This year I am volunteering to be a community leader for the group. I will be helping the women as they explore not only the land of Israel but also interact with each other and become a cohesive group. The program gives the women the tools to become advocates for their children and Israel and the Jewish people.

I am a resource for these women. I will be there to listen to their concerns about their child's experience and issues as a lone soldier. I also am helping organize the trip logistics.