On October 25, 2026, five members of Ariela Aliphas’s family—her brother Ilan, her cousins Yael, Avner and Orly, and Yael’s husband, Jona—will run the Marine Corps Marathon in her memory. Ariela ran her very first marathon at this same event in 2010, making this race a particularly meaningful way to honor her life and legacy.
Ariela was an architect, dance teacher and choreographer, and mother of four who lived life with extraordinary energy, joy and generosity. She and her husband, Rafa, shared their time and resources with Christel House, where Ariela taught and choreographed dances for students and created memorable performances for celebrations and graduations. Rafa continues to be actively involved with Christel House today.
To honor Ariela’s legacy, we hope to establish an annual fundraising initiative through marathon running, with a simple but meaningful goal: to raise at least $6,000 each year to provide one child at Christel House Mexico with a full year of educational opportunity.
Through this scholarship, we hope to carry forward something Ariela cared deeply about: giving children the chance to learn, grow, discover their potential and build a brighter future.
As we follow Ariela’s footsteps for 26.2 miles, we invite our friends, family and community to join us in reaching this goal. Every donation, large or small, brings us one step closer to making a meaningful difference in a child’s life.
Every mile is for Ariela, and every contribution helps carry forward her spirit of generosity, joy and love for others.
Our Goal: $6,000 — One Child. One Year. Every Year. A Brighter Future.
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Christel House International is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity number 35-205-1932. The Christel House Registration number with the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services is SC 10875.
Christel House International
2960 North Meridian Street
Suite 170
Indianapolis, IN 46208