The Darash Ahava Foundation? Yes, it’s a bit unique, and here’s why. For any organization to be effective and truly impactful, it needs more than just a mission; it needs solid values and a clear vision. Let’s break it down.
Our mission at the Darash Ahava Foundation is to help build a healthier, more connected world by tackling issues like isolation, suffering, and disconnection.
We focus on creating safe, supportive spaces where people can come together for emotional healing, self-discovery, and to build personal spirituality in their own unique way.
To establish healing centers in major cities across the U.S. — communities where adults and children alike can make meaningful connections, build friendships, find purpose, and heal.
Now, where do our values come in? This is where the name makes sense. Inspired by the beloved Book of Psalms, central to many faiths, Darash and Ahava are two Hebrew words with powerful meanings.
Darash means “to search” or “to seek.” In passages like Psalm 105:4, it’s used to express a deep and ongoing search: “Search for the Lord; seek His presence constantly.” This idea of “searching” is a big part of what we do. It’s about compassionate curiosity — constantly inquiring about ourselves, our spirituality, and the world around us. Trauma healing experts like Gabor Maté have emphasized the importance of “compassionate inquiry” as a pathway to healing and growth. Darash is our way of staying open, curious, and always seeking understanding in our journey.
Ahava means “love,” but not just any kind of love. This isn’t about romance; it’s a spiritual love rooted in awareness and service. The word comes from hav, meaning “to give,” so true Ahava is about giving selflessly and leading a life of service and gratitude. In our foundation, Ahava reflects our commitment to helping others, creating connections, and leading with kindness and purpose.
When you put these two words together — Darash Ahava — you get the formula for our mission: a life of compassionate curiosity and loving service. We’re not here to promote any one religion; rather, we’re here to cultivate what all faiths and spiritual traditions ultimately strive for: a sense of wholeness, peace, freedom, and connection. These are the building blocks of a conscious, purposeful life filled with meaning and love.
And at the heart of it all is an attitude of Tikkun Olam — doing our part each day to help repair the world, one act of compassion at a time.
Our founder, David Widerhorn, embarked on a profound journey of trauma recovery and spiritual growth, navigating Complex PTSD while managing multiple businesses. He discovered that true healing came from developing a healthy sense of self, living authentically, and connecting with safe, supportive spaces.
An art therapy session, guided by a compassionate therapist, became a pivotal moment that inspired Brushstrokes of Emotion — a unique art therapy approach combining meditative painting, group sharing, and collective insights to foster deep emotional connection and healing.
David’s weekly classes evolved into the letsconnect.art platform, reaching a global audience and offering support to diverse groups, including children, people in recovery, and those facing anxiety. The foundation continues to grow, incorporating programs like breathwork and therapy with service animals to promote holistic healing.
Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, the Darash Ahava Foundation relies on generous support to make mental health services accessible to all. Your contributions help us bring transformative healing to those in need.
Guiding Principles that Illuminate Our Path to Impactful Change
Our volunteer board proudly governs the Darash Ahava Foundation.
