JNS.org – The city of Jerusalem announced the establishment of the “Jerusalem Unity Prize” in memory of the three Jewish teenagers who were kidnapped and murdered by Hamas last June.

The prize of up to 100,000 shekels (about $25,600) prize, which was conceived by the city in partnership with the families of the murdered boys and the Jerusalem-based organization Gesher, will be awarded in three separate categories: individuals or organizations, social initiatives, and Israel and the Diaspora. A committee including the mayor of Jerusalem, the boys’ parents, and other dignitaries will choose the winners of the prize, which will be a way “to perpetuate the spirit of unity which existed across Israel and around the world during the days following the boys’ kidnapping,” according to a press release.

“While grappling with the unknown question of the fate of their sons, the Yifrach, Shaar and Frenkel families taught the entire world a remarkable lesson in courage and showed us that unity is a value that enables us to overcome even the greatest challenges,” said Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat.

The mothers of victims Eyal Yifrach, Gilad Shaar, and Naftali Frenkel came together for a video to mark the prize’s launch.

“For many years, Eyal talked about unity and connecting to others,” said his mother, Iris Yifrach. “The most appropriate way to pay tribute to his life is to commit ourselves to these ideals.”