Yachad | National Jewish Council for Disabilities

26th Annual Yachad Family Shabbaton!

Yachad's Family Shabbaton has been a flagship event every year for the last 26 years.

This incredible and inspirational program is schduled for May 4-6, 2012, will be held at the Hudson Valley Resort and Spa in Kerhonkson, NY.

Our much anticipated annual Family Shabbaton is a yearly highlight. This weekend retreat will allow parents, siblings, and individuals with developmental disabilities alike to join for a weekend of fun, games, learning, sharing and togetherness. Parents attend sessions which provide up-to-date information on the disability world, problem solving strategies, and the opportunity to share experiences. Siblings enjoy workshops unique to their needs, while participants with developmental disabilities have sessions, games, and activities of their own, similar to our famous "Yachad Shabbatons." Mealtimes are special, with singing, "talks" by the Yachad members, and families basking in the glow of their children's pleasure and success.

For more information or questions about this wonderful event, please contact Chani Herrmann, at herrmann@ou.org.

Fees include 2 nights in the hotel, meals from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning and a weekend that you will never forget:
Adults (12+) - $245
Teens (7-11) - $125
Children (3-6) - $75
Infants (0-3) - FREE

As always, Yachad is committed to working with families in order to allow as many families to attend as possible. Subsidies available upon request.

Yachad Family Shabbaton invades the Midwest!

Yachad's Family Shabbaton has been a flagship event every year for the last 26 years.

In March 2012, thanks to the partnership with the Hartman Family Fund, Yachad/The National Jewish Council for Disabilities is proud to announce that a Family Shabbaton is being planned for March 16-18, 2012 at the Renaissance North Shore Hotel in Northbrook, Illinois.

Our much anticipated annual Family Shabbaton is a yearly highlight. This weekend retreat will allow parents, siblings, and individuals with developmental disabilities alike to join for a weekend of fun, games, learning, sharing and togetherness. Parents attend sessions which provide up-to-date information on the disability world, problem solving strategies, and the opportunity to share experiences. Siblings enjoy workshops unique to their needs, while participants with developmental disabilities have sessions, games, and activities of their own, similar to a famous "Yachad Shabbaton." Mealtimes are special, with singing, "talks" by the Yachad members, and families basking in the glow of their children's pleasure and success.

For more information about this wonderful event, please contact Zahava Gutstein, at midwestfamilyshabbaton@gmail.com

All fees include 2 nights in the hotel, all meals from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning:
Adults (19+) - $195
Teens (12-18) - $125
Children (6-11) - $75
Infants (0-5) - FREE

As always, Yachad is committed to working with families in order to allow as many families to attend as possible. Scholarships available upon request.

To download an application: 2012_Midwest_Family_Shabbaton_Application.pdf
Completed applications should be mailed to: Zahava Gutstein 7029 N. Kenton Lincolnwood, IL 60712
or scanned and email to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Our Way for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing

Our Way offers opportunities to participate in the member’s local Jewish community by offering signed interpretation for synagogue services, interpreted classes, and a Megillat Esther Power Point Presentation for Purim. To download Perek 3 of the Migilat Ester PowerPoint Presentation click here.

Our Way offers a Torah by email program weekly. The weekly Torah reading is discussed and a calendar of upcoming events is included. Please email us if you would like to be added to the recipients of this service at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Our Way works closely with Jewish schools offering seminars, educational materials, and ongoing consultation to help schools include deaf and hard of hearing students into their educational programs. The Association of Jewish Deaf Parents provides information, guidance and support services for families through seminars, workshops and newsletters. As deaf young adults prepare to enter the workforce, Our Way offers a network of support services, such as computer classes in ASL, job placement, and job coaching in order to maximize their chances for long-term success.

Our Way offers ASL interpreted trips to Israel so that the deaf and hard of hearing members can connect with their Jewish roots and learn about our heritage hands on while exploring the State of Israel.

The Jewish Deaf Singles Registry

JDSR was established in response to the growing assimilation rate in the Jewish deaf community. The registry provides a unique opportunity for Jewish singles to meet one another, a service not otherwise available to this community. Through JDSR, deaf and hard of hearing singles have the opportunity to meet and correspond with each other, with the goal of matrimony in mind.


For more information about Our Way or the Jewish Deaf Singles Registry, please contact Rabbi Eliezer Liederfeind, Batya Jacob or Moshe Lehmann.

Social Skills Training & Relationship Building

The Relationship Building Course (RBC) includes topics such as listening, initiating and continuing conversations, decision making, exercising self-control when angry, understanding our bodies, developing good hygiene, and recognizing and dealing with unsafe situations. These are just a few of the topics covered in the course and as the participants learn new skills, we continue to review the ones completed previously and build upon them.

RBC uses the Circles Program as a guide for teaching individuals to distinguish between various types of relationships. This curriculum allows an individual to decide who is a close friend or family member, who is simply an acquaintance, who to share personal information with, who we can appropriately touch and who we can trust.

Each week practice sheets are sent home with assignments to be completed for the next class. This is done in order to emphasize the importance of working on social skills at times and in various settings. We firmly believe that while we can introduce certain principles, the most important work takes place at home.

Each semester meets once weekly for 10 weeks and is taught by trained individuals ranging from graduate students in related fields to professional social workers and psychologists.

There is a Fall and a Spring session of RBC in New York and New Jersey, largely based on the academic calendar.

Price:$190 for one semester
$360 if you sign up for two semesters
Current locations: Brooklyn (2 groups), Queens, Teaneck, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

Upcoming Session

The date of the upcoming semester will be announced shortly.

For information on our national RBC programs, please refer to our National Yachad page, or contact the coordinator.

If you would like to sign up for RBC, please contact Amanda Levy at 212-613-8172, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

To download an application,click here.



Team Yachad 2012 - Smashing Success

Team Yachad 2012 had an incredible run in the ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon.

2010 - 29 Runners
2011- 77 Runners
2012 - 135 Runners

The tremendous growth of Team Yachad is evident by the increase in the size of the team as well as Team Yachad fever spreading to the Jerusalem Marathon as well! To find out more information about Team Yachad and how you can get involved, sign up to run, and sponsor other runners, please visit our Team Yachad site at www.teamyachad.com.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Yachad DayHab teams with Kosherbyte!

Yachad is thrilled to be partnering with Kosherbyte.com to help families celebrate Rosh Hashanah!

To visit the Kosherbyte.com website and make a purchase, please visit www.kosherbyte.com

Yachad serves individuals with developmental disabilities throughout the country. We provide educational, social, and vocational training to those with special needs through a variety of schools, programs, and training sessions. At our DayHabilitation program in Brooklyn individuals work with staff on learning to live independently and improve social interaction through a variety of different activities.

Over this past year, our participants have been working hard on creating apple magnets and Rosh Hashana themed trays to help celebrate Rosh Hashanah 5772. kosherbyte.com has been working with us to help our participants put together Rosh Hashanah baskets filled with our apple magnets and trays. Our Day Habilitation participants have been hard at work, and they are happy to present to you our Rosh Hashanah baskets.

By purchasing one of these baskets, you are not only receiving a beautiful, festive item to help celebrate the New Year. You are also helping to bring a sweet new year to others. All profits that Yachad receives go directly to funding programs for our participants and helping them achieve their goals for the New Year.

To visit the Kosherbyte.com website and make a purchase, please visit www.kosherbyte.com

Pride and Reflections on Yachad Birthright Visit to the Western Wall

Yachad/Flatbush Play 2011 : A Whole New World of Inclusion

Yachad: 25 Years of Inclusion, a Video Presentation



"Without Yachad, I'd be lonely" - Caryn P.,Brooklyn, NY

To make a gift of tzedakah in support of Yachad and the full range of OU programs and services, click here.

Yachad’s NAIM 2011 : A Retrospective

Yachad's North American Inclusion Month (NAIM) was a great success; more than 200 synagogues and schools participated in events emphasizing inclusion of those with disabilities in the Jewish Community

A collaborative article by Eli Hagler, NAIM Project Coordinator and Assistant Director of Yachad, and Dr. Joe Goldfarb, Yachad Director of National and Summer Programs was recently featured on the OU Homepage.


Click Here for the Full Article

Sensitivity Training for Students

April 06, 2011
Sensitivity Training for Students
By Batya Graber

Last month, the Orthodox Union’s Yachad | The National Jewish Council for Disabilities (NJCD) sponsored North American Inclusion Month (NAIM). Communities, schools, and organizations across America worked with Yachad staff to educate and focus on promoting the Inclusion of individuals with physical and developmental disabilities within the broad Jewish community.

To meet the interest and needs of Jewish day schools, The National Association of Jewish Schools Serving Special Children (NAJSSSC), a division of Yachad, created “Sensitizing your Students to the Learning Challenges of their Peers” -- quickly becoming a popular training workshop for both students and educators, including summer camp programs.

More than 1,400 students from Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, Southern Florida and the New York Metropolitan communities have already participated in the workshops, which are held in the schools. Yachad staff and local educators facilitate the workshops.

According to Batya Jacob, Director of NAJSSSC, “Every child is entitled to a Jewish education alongside their peers. Each child learns differently and their individual needs deserve attention so that they can learn to their fullest potential. At the same time, we believe that being socially accepted is the key part of the positive development and growth of all students. This experience enables students from the broader population to return to class with a new understanding, sensitivity, and patience with their special needs peers. In turn, we hope that this will lead to greater social Inclusion of their special needs friends into their daily activities.”

The program has the students divided into groups in order to perform hands-on activities demonstrating specific learning issues such as hearing loss; hand and walking impairments; dyslexia and reading disorders; autism; speech disorders; and ADD/ADHD. Activities may include spelling tests presented in “Deaf Speech;” looking through various materials to see how vision can be restricted; and performing various challenges in reading and writing while being exposed to distracting stimuli.

“[The workshop] enabled the students to have a valuable learning experience and an opportunity to enhance their sensitivity to those who have various challenges,” wrote an administrator from Brauser Maimonides Academy in Fort Lauderdale.

“The kids’ workshop was awesome. Our fourth through eighth graders really got into the activities, and the teachers were wonderful,” declared an educator from the Hillel Academy in Milwaukee.

The workshops have already been scheduled for faculty training before the next school year begins. All necessary materials are provided. Yachad staff also provides an introductory package for students to bring home and follow-up ideas for schools to reinforce the experiences from the workshop.

To schedule the sensitivity training workshops at your school, or for further information, contact Batya Jacob at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or call (212) 613-8127.




At workshops held at the Hillel Yeshiva in Ocean, NJ, Batya Jacob (on right) oversees activity on fine motor disabilities.


Subscribe to Shabbat Shalom.



Dallas Yachad

Dear Families,
We wanted to thank you all for an amazing first event. We had a great time learning about Rosh Hashanah, hearing the shofar, making cards for the elderly and enjoying apples and honey. Here is a link to all of our event photos so you can see how much fun we had!
We also attached the learning packet from the event so you can see the fun facts we went over about Rosh Hashanah.

Here is the link to our photos. Only those with this link are able to view these images.
Yachad- Photos from our event!


We hope to see everyone at our next Yachad program.

Our next event will be
Sunday, September 26 at the JCC- more details to follow

We hope you all have a very happy and sweet New Year!

-Anna and Rabbi Mike


Click Here to Watch the Cleveland Yachad NAIM Video

Part 1
Part 2


National Yachad

National Yachad provides ongoing Jewish programming and experiences in educational, recreational and social settings throughout the US and Canada. National events share the inclusive design for people with disabilities that makes Yachad programming so unique.

Yachad is privileged to have a talented group of coordinators on staff who work diligently to coordinate activities and weekend retreats on an ongoing basis. To find out about the activities of some of our national chapters, read below. For contact information of a Yachad chapter in your area, click on About Us.

Yachad is always looking to expand and to bring its programs and services to new locations. If you are interested in becoming involved in an existing chapter or know of a region that is in need of ongoing Jewish programming for individuals with special needs, please contact Deborah Rockoff at 212-613-8269 or at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or Dr. Joe Goldfarb at 212-613-8368 or at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Los Angeles Yachad

Florida Yachad

HELLO, SOUTH FLORIDA…

Please mark these dates on your calendar. We look forward to seeing you all.

February 12, 2012 – February is NAIM Month! Spend Sunday evening with us at our “Taste of Kosher Boca”, and sample the many delicacies that our kosher restaurants in South Florida have to offer. The cost is $18 per person and all monies go to supporting programs in our area. ATaste of Boca

February 27, 2012– Donna Klein Mitzvah Day at the Regents Park Nursing Home in Boca…

March 9th-10th, 2012 Miami Beach Shabbaton with Scholar in Residence: Rabbi Dovid Cohen, Esq.


UPCOMING EVENTS
April 20 – 21, 2012 - HOLLYWOOD Shabbaton (and a very special program is being planned that EVERYONE will want to attend).
May, 2012 – Our annual outing to the BALL GAME.
- - - - -
Yachad of South Florida currently encompasses the areas of West Palm Beach south to Hollywood and North Miami. We are in the process of starting an inclusion program for teens in the Miami/Kendall area. If you, or someone you know, is interested in becoming a Yachad member, please feel free to contact our Director, Tzippi Rosen, at 347 239-5703.


Toronto Yachad

Yachad Torah High


What is it?

A free weekly integrated Jewish studies class is provided to Yachad members (teens and young adults with developmental disabilities). In the class the students (Yachad members) learn to read and understand Hebrew. We study Torah, Siddur and prayer. We also learn about the Jewish holidays and special days as we celebrate them throughout the year.

Who attends?

Like all of Yachad this class is integrated. Students from Ulpana Orot High School join us each week to learn one on one with the Yachad students. Many lasting friendships have developed over the years of this class as the students have the opportunity to interact with one another on a regular basis.

Our Yachad students have both public school and day school backgrounds. With one to one tutoring we gear each Yachad student’s learning to his/her level. Both the Yachad students and their peers at Ulpana have benefited from this class.

More details:

The class is taught by Howard Gertz, a certified special education teacher with many years of experience. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7 to 8PM at the NCSY centre located in the shopping plaza at Bathurst and Steeles. There is no fee for this class. Transportation is the responsibility of the students and/or their family.

Contact:

To find out more please contact the teacher:

Howard Gertz
905-731-2904
hgertz @rogers.com



Boston Yachad

Cleveland Yachad

Columbus Yachad

Houston Yachad

Omaha Yachad

NAIM_article_feb2012.doc

Signs of the Seder

Our Way thanks you for your generous donations! To donate to our 2009 Pesach campaign, please click here.

In preparation for Passover, Our Way is republishing “Signs of the Seder,” a pamphlet for the Jewish deaf and hard of hearing, celebrating the Seder in sign language. Like the recently published “Shabbat Manual in Sign,” which presents the signs for various Hebrew terms related to Shabbat, “Signs of the Seder” includes key signs for the Passover Seder such as the Order of the Seder, the Four Questions, and the blessings recited on wine, hand washing, Matzah, and Maror (bitter herbs).

Our Way for the Jewish Deaf and Hard of Hearing is a division of the National Jewish Council for Disabilities (NJCD), an agency of the Orthodox Union, which provides social, educational, and recreational programs for Jewish youth and young adults who are deaf and hard of hearing. The reprinting of “Signs of the Seder” is being sponsored by LifeLinks, a premier on demand video interpreting and relay service offering a live translator in over 180 languages as well as sign language for deaf and hard of hearing. For more information about LifeLinks visit www.LifeLinks.net .

“Signs of the Seder” was originally printed in 2001 under the direction of T’chia Kastor. It was in high demand and thousands of copies were distributed. Through its illustrations and comprehensive explanations, the booklet’s goal is to enhance the religious observance of the Jewish Deaf Community and to enable them to play a more active role in their family or community Seder.

Copies of the pamphlet can be acquired through OUR WAY - suggested contribution of $5 each - Our Way, Orthodox Union, 11 Broadway, New York, NY 10004, or by contacting Rabbi Eliezer Lederfeind, National Director of Our Way, at 212.613.8234 or atourway@ou.org. A descriptive campaign e-mail can be found byclicking here.


Yachad goes to an Army Base in Brooklyn, NY

Yachad Photo Gallery

Click here to see pictures from many Yachad events!

Yachad Oscars

You are cordially invited to attend the
Yachad Oscars
A Benefit and Awards Ceremony
Monday, December 17, 2007
at the
Hudson Theatre
Millennium Broadway Hotel
145 West 44th Street
New York City




Orchestra Seating Only: $250 per person

Yes, I/We will get in on the act!
I/We are unable to participate but wish to make a contribution to support Yachad programs.

Number of reservations:
Contributions of $500 or more will be entitle you to a minimum of two reservations

Yachad Playbill Rates Yachad Playbills will be distributed to each patron entering the theater.  Your tribute messages and advertising dollars enable us to explore new challenges and meet new expenses that are not covered by ticket sales.

Playbill rates are for black and white ads only.

$10,000 - Back Cover
$7,500 - Inside Cover
$5,000 - Parchment
$3,600 - Diamond
$2,500 - Emerald
$1,800 - Gold
$1,000 - Silver
$750 - Full page
$500 - Half Page (two reservations)*
$250 - Quarter Page (1 reservation)*
$100 - Greeting

Your own amount
$

Deadline for ads:
December 7, 2007

Playbill text:
Included with one or two reservations




Already signed up?! Here’s more information!

Yad B'Yad Israel Experience 2010

Sample Itinerary

Forms
Medical Forms

Travel Information
Register online for your flight at www.arieltours.com/yachad.
Registration is due by May 17th.

Information and Policies

Yad B’Yad: Israel Experience

Summer 2012 registration and information newly released!


Yachad members can fill out an online application here or get cost and date information by emailing Nechama Braun at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Check out our 2011 Yad B'Yad brochure- 2012 brochure!

Click to access the online High School Application Here!

High Schoolers can download copies of our recommendation letter here.

The Yad B’Yad Israel Experience brings high school students together with Yachad members (adults and teens with special needs) on a fabulous Israel adventure. Participants form strong bonds of friendship and undergo personal growth as they experience the Jewish homeland, Israel, in a new and unparalleled way.

With safety always our first priority, our group enjoys time in Jerusalem, on an Israeli army base, at the Kineret and Dead Sea, and many other fantastic locations. They ride camels, hike up Masada, and participate in special Shabbat programs. Participants also give back to the residents of Israel by helping out in a soup kitchen, visiting underprivileged children, and so much more.

Yachad members experience Israel just as their peers do, forming incredible relationships with their new friends. High school students benefit from a unique opportunity to give to others while gaining introspective insight. The program begins with a three day orientation, where our high school students receive background and preparation for (interacting with our Yachad members on) our Yad B’Yad program. The orientation is followed by a Shabbaton in the New Jersey area where the high school students meet up with the Yachad members and enjoy Shabbat. The group will depart for Israel, together, on Sunday, July 15th.

Dates: Tuesday, July 10- Sunday, August 12, 2012*
Cost: $6950 + $350 application fee **
Grades: Currently in grades 10-11

Click to access the online High School Application Here!

High Schoolers can download copies of our recommendation letter here.

Save a total of $500!
-Attend one of our parlor meetings and receive a coupon for $150 in savings on full tuition.
Yad B’Yad Parent Information Meeting:
Sunday January 8, 2012 at 8 PM in the home of Mr. & Mrs. Friedman 257 Maple Street West Hempsted, NY]
Wednesday January 11, 2012 at 8 PM in the home of Mr. & Mrs. Yager [65 Lee Place Bergenfield, NJ]
Please RSVP to braunn@ou.org or 212-613-8369.
-Complete your online application by January 1st and receive another $150 off of tuition.
-Pay in full by March 1st and receive an addtional discount of $200.

*Please note: All dates are subject to change without notice. **Cost of program is subject to change. $100 of the application fee is refundable until March 1, 2012, $250 of the application fee is non-refundable.

For more information, or to receive a brochure, please contact Nechama Braun at 212-613-8369 or email to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)



Check out Cultural Arts Program (CAP) with New Jersey Yachad!

NJ Yachad & Kol Kehilaseinu bring Yachad's Cultural Arts Program (CAP) to New Jersey beginning October 18th!

For children with special needs ages 4 through 15
One Sunday afternoon each month
Choices of sports, art, dance, yoga, drama, singing, and learning about Jewish holidays and customs!


Interact with staff, junior-high and high school volunteers, and eachother!
Application deadline: October 12th, 2007

Where:The Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jersey,
666 Kinderkamack Road, in River Edge, NJ

Costs:
Cost for the year: $150
Cost for half of the year: $90
Cost per session: $18
There are discounts available if you have more than one child with special needs who will be attending. Limited scholarships available; please inquire if you need one.

Click here to find out more about Yachad's CAP Programming!

Click here for the 2007-08 NJ CAP Registration Forms

Click here for the NJ CAP Schedule 2007-08

A light snack will be provided for all participants.

For more information or to register please contact Chani Herrmann at 201-833-1349 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). You can mail registration to NJ Yachad, 1345 Queen Anne Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666 or fax it to 201-862-0914 (Attention: Chani Herrmann)

The IVDU Schools

Yachad/NJCD's Individualized Vocational Development Unit (IVDU) Schools, located in Brooklyn, New York, offer Jewish students with special needs (ages 5 to 21) a comprehensive and nurturing educational environment.

Our mission is to provide the core academic, social, and life skills needed by our students to achieve their highest potential and develop into productive citizens in their communities. IVDU’s small student-teacher ratios allow for differentiated instruction to best meet your child’s individual needs. Each IVDU school specializes in developing social skills as an integral part of everyday life.

Our teachers prepare students for peer interactions, communication in society at large, and future job placements. IVDU Schools provide students with a quality education to help them grow and flourish, we welcome the opportunity to discuss our programs with you.

Click here for more information about the IVDU Elementary School

Click here for more information on the Marilyn David IVDU High Schools


For more information, please contact Deborah Mann 212-613-8397, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

New Jersey Yachad

A Support Group for Mothers of Special Needs Children ages 0-5 years old

Raising a child with special needs can be a difficult journey and an overwhelming experience. This group offers support to mothers of children ages 0-5 who are looking to meet other families facing similar challenges and be able to express their thoughts and feelings in a warm and safe environment. Topics may include stressors in family life, advocacy, early intervention, looking for a school placement, sibling issues, and inclusion. This group meets twice a month and there is no cost to join but advance registration is required.
Relax & Renew, a Support Group for Mothers of Special Needs Children (all ages)

Yachad in Partnership with Nesheemah Yoga Center offer this unique program that combines relaxation and calming techniques led by Nesheemah Director Nancy Siegel followed by a support group with Chani Herrmann, Director of NJ Yachad. Mothers with children of all ages, include adult children, participate in this program and support each other through their various experiences. Topics may include stressors in family life, school-related issues, advocacy, the importance of making time for you, future planning, transition and overall experience of being a parent of a special needs child. This group meets on Wednesday mornings and costs $160 for a 10 week series.

Father to Father, a Support group for fathers of children with special needs

Being a parent of a special needs child can be an overwhelming experience. It can also create additional stress, both emotionally and financially, and affects the entire family. This group offers a unique opportunity for fathers to meet with one another and build a support network to help them through each stage of the journey. This group meets once a month and is free of charge. Advance registration is required.
Am I My Brother’s Keeper? a Support Group for Adult Siblings ages 20+
Having a sibling with special needs can present adult siblings with unique challenges. This group is designed to connect adult siblings with one another 4 times a year and encourage ongoing communication throughout the year. This group is for siblings ages 20+. Spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend. Schedule of events is given at time of registration.

Cultural Arts Program for Junior Yachad Members

NJ Yachad & Kol Kehilaseinu bring Yachad's Cultural Arts Program (CAP) to New Jersey. The program takes place one Sunday afternoon each month. Choices for the program includesports, art, dance, yoga, drama, singing, and learning about Jewish holidays and customs. CAP gives the Yachad members an opportunity to interact with staff, junior-high and high school volunteers, and each other. Click here for schedule and registration forms. To read more about the CAP program, click here.

For more information on any of these programs, or to register, please contact Chani Herrmann, Director of NJ Yachad, at 201-833-1349 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). For upcoming dates of these programs, please see our events page.

Training Opportunities for Professionals

Yachad/NJCD provides ongoing trainings for agencies, schools, students and its own staff throughout the year. If you are interested in putting together a training program for your organization and tailoring it to your specific needs, please contact Mrs. Amanda Levy, Family and Clinical Services Coordinator, at 212-613-8172 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

The following is a list of trainings that have been offered by Yachad/NJCD:

• Improving Critical Thinking Strategies for Individuals with Special Needs
• Transition from School to Work
• Mental Retardation: A Pediatric Perspective
• Positive Behavioral Supports
• Social Skills Training for People with Special Needs
• Recognizing the Signs of Families in Crisis
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder- An Introduction
• Nutrition & Weight Management
• The Vineland- How to interview and score the Vineland
• Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse
• Autism Panel: Diagnosis, Education and Ongoing Intervention
• Coping with Stress and Getting through difficult life events
• Working with Difficult People
• Help a child learn & grow; The Feurestein Approach
• Going Beyond the “Time-Out”
• Self Advocacy
Schools can also set up a program for their students to partake in a sensitivity workshop and learn more about inclusion.


Yachad/NJCD Staff

National Director
Dr. Jeffrey Lichtman
212-613-8224
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Assistant Director
Eli Hagler
212-613-8285
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Assistant Director
Dr. Joe Goldfarb
212-613-8368
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Director, National Programs
Deborah Rockoff
212-613-8269
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Administrator, Summer Programs
Nechama Braun
212-613-8369
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Director, Our Way
Rabbi Eliezer Lederfeind
212-613-8234
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Prog. Director, Educational Services & NJ Association of Jewish Day Schools
Batya Jacob
212-613-8127
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Executive Director, JUF, Day Hab
Jack Gourdji
212-613-8104
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Director, Day Hab
Michael Applebaum
718-859-5402
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Family & Clinical Services
Amanda Levy, LCSW
212-613-8172
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Social Work InternCoordinator, Intake & Service Coordination
Deborah Berman
212-613-8190
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

School Psychologist, IVDU Schools
Dr. Deborah Mann
212-613-8397
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Principal, IVDU Elementary School
Robin Wahrsager
718-758-2999
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Principal, Marilyn David IVDU Upper School
Boys & Girls Division
Chavie Kahn
718-677-4279
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, IVDU Elementary and Upper Schools
Baila Spira
718-758-2999
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator of Special Events
Sara Pollak
212-613-8301
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Director, NJ Yachad
Chani Herrmann
NYC Office: 212-613-8373
NJ Office: 201-833-1349
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Program Director, Rayim Yachad
Nicole Bodner
212-613-8266
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Program Director, Senior Yachad
Rebecca Schrag
212-613-8223
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Program Director, Junior Yachad
Jillian Schutkin Scheer
212-613-8238
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Office Manager
Abby Ravski
212-613-8229
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Administrative Assistant
Shani Finn
212-613-8156
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Administrative Assistant, Summer & National Programs
NAIM and Travel Coordinator
Ahuva Stern
212-613-8376
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Bookkeeper
Paivi Samlihan
212-613-8151
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Office Assistant
Mordechai David
212-613-8267



National Staff


Coordinator, Los Angeles (CA) Yachad
Perri Tabak
323-228-4191
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Toronto (Canada) Yachad
Galya Ouanounou
416-638-6235
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, South Florida Yachad
Tzippi Rosen
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Chicago (IL) Yachad
Efrem Popel
773-764-6353
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Boston (MA) Yachad
Peshie Rubin
347-882-1512
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Baltimore (MD) Yachad
Mira Labovitz
410-358-2342
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Omaha (NE) Yachad
Karen Gustafson
402-330-2024
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Cleveland (OH) Yachad
Sarah Taub
216-371-9341
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Columbus (OH) Yachad
Halle Schwartz
614-561-7150
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Dallas (TX) Yachad
Rabbi Michael Friedman
972-896-0519
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Houston (TX) Yachad
Gina Fass
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Coordinator, Silver Spring (MD) Yachad
Amy Werbin
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

IVDU (Beacon) Lower School

The IVDU (Beacon) Lower School offers its students:

General Studies Curriculum
The reading, writing, and arithmetic program offered by our staff provides both whole group and individualized instructional to support the academic needs of our students.
Judaic & Hebrew Curriculum
Students are introduced to the study of Judaics and Hebrew language through classroom instruction and experiences that encourage the joy of Jewish learning.Social Skills & Growth
Staff members work with students individually and in small groups to address social, emotional, and behavioral needs which may impact their daily functioning. Topics such as initiating and maintaining conversation, interpersonal relationships, problem solving techniques and decision making strategies are covered. We help our students to recognize their strengths and to build their academic and social self-esteem.
Enrichment Activities
Art, music, technology, physical education, and interactive field trips enhance the curriculum and reinforce classroom instruction.

Additionally, related services such as speech/language and occupational therapy are available on site on an as needed basis.

The IVDU (Beacon) Lower School staff is dedicated to creating an environment in which each student can reach their full potential. We welcome the opportunity to further discuss our program with you.

For more information, please contact:

Director of School Programs, Eliana Porath at 212-613-8397, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Program Director of the IVDU (Beacon) Lower School, Robin Wahsager, at 718-758-2999, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Job Training and Placement

Yachad/NJCD aims to both prepare individuals for work and to find appropriate work placements through the Day Habilitation "Without Walls" and Vocational Services programs.




The Day Habilitation "Without Walls" (Day Hab) program provides individualized work readiness training for each client. Day Hab clients are taught skills such as typing, filing, or customer service based on their abilities and work goals. They are then placed in volunteer settings so that they can gain experience in the work field and experience different jobs before they begin to work in one specialty or discipline.

The Vocational Services (Voc) department serves individuals who are ready to work in competitive employment, but need some help finding jobs or learning their job responsibilities once they gain employment. Voc clients receive assistance with job hunting, coaching and support for job interviews, and on site job training once they get a job, so that they can stay employed and work successfully.



Marilyn David IVDU High Schools

The Marilyn David IVDU High School program includes:

• A caring, warm and dedicated staff
• Social and life skills training, which are key for success in life
• Counseling
• Individual and small group speech and language therapy
• Pre-vocational training with job placements and job coaching
• Academic studies, including math, reading, writing and computers
• Gym activities
• A warm environment with Jewish cultural experiences
• Mainstreaming activities with local yeshiva high schools

IVDU strives to enhance the life skills and opportunities of special needs students and to insure their participation in the full spectrum of communal life.

For more information, please contact:

Director of School Programs, Deborah Mann at 212-613-8397, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Principal of the Marilyn David IVDU High School, Chavie Kahn, at 718-677-4279, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

The Marilyn David IVDU High School at 718-372-7203.



IVDU's Simcha Bags!


The Marilyn David IVDU High School is resuming sale of their Simcha Bags! Please click here for more information.


Day Habilitation “Without Walls”

Day Habilitation "Without Walls" provides the additional time and targeted training which can help each individual to reach their own unique goals with regard to living and working more independently.




The program includes:

• Social Skills development
• Life skills training
• Individual and Group counseling
• Pre-vocational training
• Job placements
• Job coaching provided by highly skilled and caring staff
• Inclusive activities with community members and organizations
• Jewish cultural experiences
• Meaningful recreational activities

Day Habilitation "Without Walls" meets daily, Monday to Thursday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm and Friday, 9:00 am to 2:00pm. The program provides transportation and travel training, as well as fitness activities. Committed to meeting the individual needs and desires of participants and their families, the Day Habilitation "Without Walls" program promotes self-esteem, self-determination and choice through activities which offer skill development, independence, and community inclusion.

The goal of the Day Habilitation "Without Walls" program is to help each person be the most they can be; to live and function as independently as possible within the community. Over time, participants move from home to more independent living, and access competitive jobs in the workplace, becoming proud, contributing members of society.

Additionally, Supplemental Day Habilitation is available upon request.

For more information about these programs, contact Michael Applebaum at 718-859-5402, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Taglit - Birthright Israel

Vision Statement

The vision and concept of the educational tour is grounded in National Jewish Council for Disabilities' fundamental belief that the Jewish community is obligated to include all people with disabilities in any opportunities that are offered to its members. This trip is one of those opportunities that we feel that Jews with special needs, must be included in.

The program is designed as an introductory level program where Israel history and culture is presented at a basic level. One of our central foci is that which concerns experiential education. Our participants do not learn through frontal presentations or by reading written texts. Our vision is one where the participant is able to experience Israel in a way where they learn from what they touch, feel, hear, and eat. This is the most effective approach for our participants who tend to be concrete thinkers, and we believe it is these types of experiences which will have the deepest impact on the participant.

Additionally, much thought and deliberation has been given to staff training due to the multiple types of diversity that can be found with our participants. Our staff is trained to respond to the needs of a group with a wide array of cognitive and physical challenges. We also train our staff to meet the needs of the wide array of participants with different religious beliefs and practices. This trip will enable a unique group of young people to have a personally-tailored experience of one of the unique treasures of the Jewish people - the contemporary State of Israel

The next trip will be in June.
The group will be departing from NY. Participants are responsible for getting themselves to and from NY.

Go to: www.israelfreespirit.com
Click on “Register Now” and choose Yachad/NJCD as your trip option. Registration opens February, 2012.
Fill out the application on-line

For more information, please contact Nechama Braun at 212-613-8369 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Taglit-Birthright Israel is an innovative partnership between the people of Israel through the Government of Israel, private philanthropists through the Birthright Israel Foundation and Jewish communities around the world (North American Jewish Federations through the United Jewish Communities (UJC); the Jewish Agency for Israel; and Keren Hayesod.

This trip is a gift of Taglit-Birthright Israel.

Family Services

We provide individualized guidance and support to families, including siblings and parents, who have family members with disabilities.

Accessing resources for those with disabilities

Conferences and workshops
Our conferences and workshops provide parents with vital information, and a wonderful chance to network with parents of other special needs children. Some of the workshops that we have previously conducted include behavior management, navigating the school system, preparing to access employment, social skills training, and travel training. For more information on upcoming events, see our calendar of events.
Annual Family Shabbaton
Our much anticipated annual Family Shabbaton is a yearly highlight. This end-of-year retreat takes place in a hotel in the Catskill Mountains, where parents, siblings, and individuals with developmental disabilities alike join for a weekend of fun, games, learning, sharing and togetherness. Parents attend sessions which provide up-to-date information, problem solving strategies, and the opportunity to share experiences. Siblings enjoy workshops unique to their needs, while participants with developmental disabilities have sessions, games, and activities of their own. Mealtimes are special, with singing, "talks" by the Yachad members, and families basking in the glow of their children's pleasure and success.
Sibling services
We provide support to siblings (whose brothers and/or sisters have disabilities) individually and through workshops and sessions which facilitate networking between siblings.

For more information on any of these resources, please contact Amanda Levy, Coordinator of Family Services,
at 212-613-8172, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Information Referral/Advocacy

Yachad/NJCD provides resource information, referral services, consultation and direct services to individuals, families and agencies regarding disabilities.

Through a quarterly newsletter, we update parents and professionals regarding current programming and services that we offer. To be added to the newsletter mailing list, enter your email in the available box above.

Individuals calling our office will receive guidance, support and information regarding disability issues from professional staff providing absolute confidentiality.

Conferences and workshops provide parents with vital information and a wonderful opportunity to network with other parents. Workshops in the past have included topics such as behavior management, navigating the school system, accessing employment, job readiness skills training, social skills training, futures' planning, quality assurance in residential programs, and sibling issues.

For more information on any of these resources, please contact Amanda Levy, Coordinator of Family Services, at 212-613-8172, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Computer Courses

Yachad/NJCD Vocational Services offers a periodical 12-Week Computer Class, which focuses on learning data entry and vocational computer skills.



Students will work at their own pace, under close supervision and instruction.

Dinner, included in the cost of the course, will be served each week.

Courses will be scheduled in accordance with the number and schedule of registered students. If you are interested in receiving more information about the next computer course, please contact Michael Applebaum at 718-859-5402 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).


For the Employee (current and prospective)

Yachad/NJCD staff meet with each potential employee individually to determine his or her unique abilities and employments goals. Job development is then geared specifically toward every individual, so that they find the job that is right for them.

After employees are placed in their jobs, Yachad/NJCD continues to provide intensive support for the first 3 months they are working, and ongoing support for as long as they stay working. Yachad/NJCD clients are encouraged to call our staff at any time. We is committed to making sure that their clients not only find jobs, but continue to work successfully.



Yachad/NJCD Vocational Services Admission Criteria


Yachad/NJCD does not discriminate based on race, religion, or creed. All members must have a documented disability. For OPWDD programs, onset of disability must be before age 21. In order to be accepted to the vocational services department, the individual must meet the following standards:


• Individuals must be 18 or over
• Individuals must have a documented disability
• Individuals must live in New York State and be willing to work in or near New York City
• Individuals must be able to travel independently or be willing to be travel trained
• Individuals must demonstrate a motivation to work, as assessed by the Vocational Services staff
• Individuals must be willing to get a job that requires traveling
• Individuals must be open to more than one type of job
• Individuals must have realistic expectations in terms of the job that they are able to get based on their education and experience
• Individuals must have a realistic salary expectation

Yachad/NJCD strives to enhance the life opportunities of people with special needs and to insure their participation in the full spectrum of communal life.

For more information on how the Department of Job Placement and Vocational Resources can help you find a job to meet your unique needs and abilities, please contact Michael Applebaum at 718-859-5402 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).


For the Employer

At Yachad/NJCD we recognize that in order to create a successful working relationship, there must be mutual benefit. In hiring an individual with disabilities, you are bringing a motivated and loyal employee into your organization. You will be creating a more diversified workplace while taking advantage of government tax credits. You will also benefit from a public perception that applauds sensitivity to people with disabilities. Entering the workforce represents the ultimate validation to our pool of qualified candidates. Yachad/NJCD professionals are there to support and assist you throughout every step of the job placement process; they are on site initially and are available at any time in the future..

The job placement process is streamlined to create a win-win scenario.



The Job Placement Process




1. Identify job opportunities
2. Screen applicants
3. Identify a suitable match
4. Provide on-the-job coaching to ensure a smooth transition
5. Consistent checkpoints with NJCD clients and employers to ensure mutual satisfaction and increase the probability of success
Result: Win for YOU the employer
Win for the individuals with special needs


For more information on how the Department of Job Placement and Vocational Resources can help provide you with a hardworking, valuable employee please contact Michael Applebaum at 718-859-5402 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).


Our Way Resources

Services



• Information and Referral Services
• Weekend Retreats
• Holiday Celebrations
• Jewish Heritage Classes
• Jewish Deaf Singles Registry
• Family Workshops
• Job Placement and Support Services
• Inclusion and Educational Support
• Publications in Sign Language



Sign Language Prayer Charts



• Shabbat Candle Lighting
• Brachot Booklet
• Signs of the Seder
• Chanukah Candle Lighting
• Shema Yisroel
• Hamakom (Mourner’s Chart)
• L’Shanah Ha-Ba B’Yerushalayim
• Signs of Shabbat



Publications



• Toras Hacheresh Guidebook-Part I: A Practical Guide to the Use of Electronic Hearing Devices on Shabbos and Yom Tov
• Halacha and the Deaf (various topics)
• The Hearing Impaired Child in the Jewish Classroom – A Handbook for Classroom Teachers



Greeting Cards



• Rosh Hashanah (New Year) Cards
• Chanukah Cards
• Purim Cards
• Tribute Cards
• Condolence Cards
• Thank you Cards
• Mazel Tov Cards


Please contact the Yachad/NJCD office for pricing and to order any of these items at 212-613-8229.


Yachad Shabbatons

At a Yachad Shabbaton, each Yachad member is matched up with a volunteer Advisor. The Yachad participants and advisors are hosted in homes within the community or college campus. The Yachad members participate in the tefilla (prayer) service with the shul by receiving aliyot and giving dvrei torah in front of the shul. This gives them the oppurtunity to participate in religious ceremonies with the community members.

Shabbat meals are eaten together as a community so that yachad members and community members can socialize and meet each other. Shabbat meals are filled with ruach (spirit) singing, dancing and Yachad traditions that encourage inclusion and practice social skills.

In some communities, a shabbat meal is hosted in individual community members homes, this allows the Yachad members and the hosts a more intimate setting to get to know one another. This also allows for community hosts with young children to participate with the Yachad shabbaton.

Some Shabbatons are held on College campuses, such as Columbia University and Yeshiva University, which allow the yachad members to experience what campus like is life from taking tours of the campus, to hanging out in Hillel Center, to staying in the dorms. The communities have a unique opportunity to get to know many of the Yachad members and to get to know their abilities. Many community members are often surprised by how impacted they are by the weekend shabbaton experience and how many of there preconceived notions about individuals with disabilities have changed once they have gotten to know the Yachad members on an individual level.

Inclusion is an important part of a Yachad shabbaton. Each Shabbaton begins with an ice breaker that the community members, advisors and Yachad members participate in together. The Ice Breaker provides a structured way to promote social skills and to encourage everyone to participate throughout the entire weekend. The tables at the meals are always made up of a mix of Yachad members, staff, and community members. Yachad advisors are trained to facilitate conversation and to encourage the Yachad members to socialize.

Each Shabbaton has a scheduled learning program where yachad members, community members and advisors learn about the Torah portion together in small groups. Each group is given a Learning packet that is written and created by experienced Yachad staff that is made to be interesting and appropriate for all different levels of learning.

The Yachad shabbaton culminates with a Saturday night activity that allows Yachad members to engage in age-appropriate activities some of which include magicians, concerts, casino night, luau, a Yom Hashoa Candle lighting ceremony, and Karaoke.

For more information on joining or hosting a Yachad Shabbaton, please contact the program directors for Junior, Senior, Rayim, or National Yachad.

Yachad Summer Staff Positions

NEW!! Yachad Morris Sandelbaum High School Fellowship Program

(click here to see brochure)

What is the Fellowship?
This program provides select students who will have completed their junior year of high school the chance to work (as a CIT) in one of Yachad’s various camp programs for one session (approximately three to four weeks) during the summer. You will gain intensive leadership training and hands-on experience working for Yachad. Fellows will be supervised by the fellowship program director as well as the individual camp program director, and will have junior counselor responsibilities within the larger framework of the Yachad camp program in that individual camp. The Fellowship will take place in the four Yachad camp programs: Camp Nesher, Camp Lavi, Camp Morasha, and Camp Moshava.

Fellows will also:
* Participate in one training Shabbaton prior to the summer (required)
* Attend periodic meetings and trainings during the summer together with other fellowship participants in other camp programs (required)
* Attend additional special programs
* Be invited to be a staff person the following summer*

What is the application process for the Fellowship program?
* Filling out an application- available here.
* Getting a recommendation letter- available here.
* An interview
* An essay
* Participation at a Yachad Shabbaton
* $500 application fee, returned at the end of the summer*

Applications are due by January 15th, 2012. Limited spots available, so apply now!

*for those who complete the program successfully

Click here to fill out our online application!



Yad B'Yad

Yad B'Yad is a unique touring program where we take mainstream high school students and our Yachad members on a tour of Israel. The program begins with staff orientation for two days, followed by a high school orientation in Reisterstown, MD. Orientation will includes training along with fun activities. Your responsibilities will include caring for our Yachad members, physically and emotionally, and mentoring our high school students. In addition, you may be assigned to some food preparation duties, or any other jobs that will help our trip. Staff for this position must be a minimum of two years post high school.



Camper Programs

Yachad offers a variety of camper programs at various sleepaway camps, including Morasha, Mesorah, Nesher, and Moshava. We are looking for counselors who enjoy going to a camp and working with Yachad members. Yachad members at these programs range in age from 9- 21 and have a variety of needs- both physical and emotional. Your responsibilities will include caring for our Yachad campers and facilitiating inclusion (or mainstreaming) with the mainstream campers. Staffing ages differ for these programs. Applicants for Moshava, Mesorah and Nesher can be finishing their senior year in high school and older, while staff for Morasha must be minimally one year post high school. In addition, we are planning a very limited counselor-in-training program at Moshava that will allow a few select people who are currently in their junior year of high school to go to camp as staff.



Work Programs

Many Yachad members are capable of being fully productive members of society. Therefore, we provide them with jobs at various sleepaway camps (Moshava, Mesorah, Morasha and Lavi) where they are assigned jobs that they do with great skill and dedication. We are looking for some patient job coaches who will act as a counselor/job coach within our work programs. Responsibilities will include overseeing the Yachad workers when they are working, making sure that they know what is expected of them, that there are no disagreements between boss and worker, in addition to supervising the Yachad workers when they have free time, i.e. ensuring that all are back in the bunk at curfew time. Staffing ages differ for these programs. Applicants for Lavi can be finishing their senior year in high school and older, while staff for Morasha and Moshava must be minimally one year post high school.



Yachad Getaway

This two or three week Getaway program, generally takes place the last week in June and first week of July. It is a chance for Yachad members to have a relaxing vacation without the pressure of a bus tour. Responsibilities for this program would include care of our Yachad participants, along with various jobs to help the program run smoothly, i.e. making beds, setting a supper table. We've added a third week of travel called the Getaway Travel program. This week can be an add-on week to the Getaway program or as a stand-alone program. Participants and staff will be traveling to upstate NY and the Boston area. Staff for this program need to be finishing high school or older.

Click here to fill out our online application!


If you have any questions regarding any of these programs, or you want to arrange an interview, contact Nechama Braun at 212-613-8369 or Braunn@ou.org .


Yad B’Yad

Our unique and highly acclaimed Yad B'Yad program is back and in high demand! The Yad B’Yad summer program brings high school students together with Yachad members in an inclusive environment.

To find out about the 2012 Yad B'Yad Israel Program, click here!





Who is eligible to join JDSR?

Each applicant must be considered Jewish according to Jewish law (Secular, Reform, Conservative, Orthodox). If you or anyone in your family is a convert, please send a copy of the conversion certificate. If you are divorced, please send a copy of divorce by Jewish Law. Any questions concerning this will be resolved by the rabbinical staff of the Orthodox Union. We reserve the right to disqualify if you are not halachically (lawfully) Jewish. We cannot be responsible for any applicant who misleads us or gives us untrue information.

What does JDSR offer

Personal ads


Now you can make contact through the Registry more then one way! When you receive your newsletter from JDSR, please look over the personal ads and choose any ads you want to write to.

You can also check the ads on our website by clicking here:
Personal Ads - Female and Male


Write a short, friendly letter and put it into an envelope with:

• Your ID # on top left corner of the envelope.
• Other ID# on the bottom left corner of the envelope (of the person you want the letter forwarded to).
• Forward this main envelope to our address: JDSR, PO Box 2005, New York, NY 10159-2005.
• If you write more then one person, put them in a manilla envelope and mail the package to us.
We will then do any of the following, based on your indication:

• forward your email through the internet
• mail your response letter
• forward your ttd, VP/IP number, fax, or email address
• forward your picture
If you have any other instructions, please include them.
If you need assistance, call of fax 908-352-7395 (no Saturday calls, please) or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Please send one email message per ten day period to someone whom you would like to contact and wait for us to confirm that we have received your email and have forwarded it. From the date we confirm receipt of your email: If you do not hear from the person within two weeks, it may mean that the person is not interested or is not available at this time. Please try someone else or try again later.

Please note that we are not responsible when you date or marry someone from the registry. We do everything possible to ensure that the members of the registry have given us truthful information and are Jewish by Orthodox law.

You must be a JDSR member to use this service. Join JDSR now or renew your membership if you have not already. Membership must be renewed yearly.

If you wish to update your ad, please send us the new ad so that it can be listed. You can email, mail, or fax it to us at the above addresses.



How To Join JDSR

Don't miss out on a single event! Meet new friends! Mix with old friends!



Annual Dues
Regular: $18.00
International: $10.00
Student’s fee: $10.00 (up to age 26)



First Time Membership Special: $10.00!!!

To become a new JDSR member, please click here.
To renew your JDSR membership, please click here.



Brooklyn

New York

Yachad Local Events

Yachad local events always take place in collaboration with a school or synagogue in order for mainstreaming and inclusion to take place. In the past, we have had Purim carnivals, BBQs, day trips, Torah learning nights, and lots more.

These events usually take place in a more intimate setting than our large shabbatons, and allow our Yachad members to form deeper bonds with the people they are meeting on our programs. We are always looking to add to our local events, so please let us know if you have any ideas for future programs.

For more information please contact the program directors for Junior, Senior, or Rayim Yachad.

Chicago Yachad

Our Programs


RBC Program

This weekly program, similar to Metro NY Yachad's Relationship Building Course, meets every Tuesday night from 530-730 PM at Congregation Anshe Motele at 6526 N. California, Chicago, IL. Advanced registration is required.
Holiday Programs with Ida Crown Jewish Academy
Chicago Yachad has 4 programs annually focusing on the upcoming Jewish holiday with an emphasis on learning torah, a fun game or skit and a great supper!
Monthly Recreational Programs with NCSY
Yachad and local NCSY chapters get together for a fun Sunday or evening activities. Past activities have included Nickel City arcade, the IMAX at Navy Pier, miniature golfing, bowling and so much more.
NCSY Shabbatons
Yachad participates in four NCSY Midwest Regional shabbatons each year. Two of the shabbatons are in local Midwest communities, the other two are at a ski resort, and a summer camp. Yachad advisors enable the Yachad members to take advantage of this inclusive design with their NCSY peers.
Yachad Shabbatons
Yachad members and their High School friends get together in a shul in the greater Chicago area for a fun filled shabbaton. Yachad members are the stars!
Banim Atem L'hashem program at Skokie Yeshiva
The evening begins with Supper at the Yeshiva. Then, a weekly night seder with the senior class of Skokie Yeshiva followed by Maariv. This event takes place three Mondays a month from 6:30-8:15 PM. Advanced registration required! See below for contact information to register.
Special Events:
Throughout the year Yachad takes part in special city wide programming such as the Walk for Israel Parade, concerts and other fun events!

For more information about any of these programs, or about Chicago Yachad, please contact Efrem Popel at 773-764-6353 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).


Senior Sundays Program

Get geared up for this new program!


Each month the coordinators will call and let you know where the meeting point is going to be. It may be going out for a meal, going to a movie or a museum, or to play mini golf.

As part of Senior Sunday’s we will be having a major trip day in the middle of the year, look out for details to follow.

All activities for Senior Sunday’s will have a monthly cost. You can choose which month you wish to participate in based on the activity.

Click here for a Calendar for Senior Sundays!

For more information about Senior Sundays, contact Yehuda Charm at 212-613-8223, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

How To Become a Yachad Member

Make the Phone Call
Call the Yachad office at (212) 613-8190 to set up a time to meet with Emily Lieberman.
Come to a local event
The prospective Yachad member and their parent or guardian will then be invited to join one of our inclusive monthly programs offered at a location nearest to you.
Try out a Shabbaton
After the inclusive monthly program is attended, the prospective Yachad member might be granted the opportunity to try out one of our Shabbatons while being accompanied by our Yachad staff members.
Fill out Membership forms
If the Shabbaton was a good fit for the prospective Yachad member, membership forms will be sent out.
Become a Member
After the membership forms are filled out and sent back with membership payments to the Yachad office, the new Yachad member will receive mailings about all of Yachad's inclusive programming. The cost for Yachad membership is $250 ($195 if submitted before September 5), the cost per Shabbaton is $65. Scholarship and payment plans are available upon request.

We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming programs and events!

Questions about Membership or Scholarships?
Please contact Emily Lieberman at (212) 613-8190 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).


Rayim Trips Program

The TRIPS program takes place one Sunday a month for the school calendar year. All participants meet at drop-off/pickup locations, and from there go to Brooklyn. From Brooklyn, those participating in the TRIPS program will travel together to the destination site.

The Trips program allows the Rayim members to take advantage of wonderful activities and opportunities that come with living in the New York Area. Some of the Trips include the Brooklyn Aquarium, Bowling, visiting the Sony WonderLab, participating in Earth Day activities, pedal boating, and a Rayim banquet.
Rayim members also have a chance to spend time with each other and participate in fun activities with their friends.



The tentative 2007-2008 Rayim Trips Calender:



• October 28th
• November 18th
• December 16th
• January 27th
• February 24th
• March 16th
• April 13th
• May 4th
• June 1st - Join Yachad marching in the Israeli Day Parade

For more information on the Rayim Trips Program, please contact Ruthy Israeli at 212-613-8238 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Baltimore Yachad

Our Programs


Torah and Dinner
Torah and Dinner meets at Tov Pizza from 5-7pm on the first Monday of every month (unless that Monday is a holiday). Learn about the weekly Parsha (Torah portion), Jewish holidays, Israel, and more while enjoying delicious food. Our first Torah and Dinner will be September 11th. There is a $6 charge that covers dinner (two slices, fries, and a soda), as well as any activities.
Good Sports
Good Sports meets at Beth T’filoh once a month on Sunday afternoon from 1-3:45pm. Play a variety of sports, games, and recreational activities under the instruction of our talented sports coach. Socialize afterwards with friends over refreshments. Celebrate holidays throughout the year with special Good Sports events at other locations. FREE!
Food, Fun, and Friends at Beth T’filoh
This program meets in the multi-purpose room or youth lounge from 5-7pm on Mondays, once a month. Enjoy a delicious dinner and join in an activity with Beth T’filoh middle school students. Cost is $6 to help cover the cost of food and supplies.
Bagels & Buddies at Beth Israel
Bagles and Buddies meets at Beth Israel in Owings Mills, 3706 Crondall Lane from 6:30 – 8:00pm once a month on a Tuesday. This program is in conjunction with the Bar/Bat Mitzvah class at Beth Israel Hebrew School. This program usually starts up after the Yomim Tovim (October or November). You can arrange to meet us locally for drop off at 6 and pick up at 8:30 if you choose, just let us know in advance. Cost is $6 to cover cost of dinner and activities.

Kitchen Club
The class is now at its second year at Yeshivat Rambam! It meets once a month. This past year it met on Tuesdays from 5:30-7:30pm. Learn creative and fun bake and no-bake cooking and food decoration, while socializing and meeting new friends and enjoying the company of old friends. Kitchen club will continue to be led by our talented culinary instructor. $6 per session, and pre-registration is necessary. Please contact Mira Labovitz or Miriam “Bunny” Rosenberg if you are interested.
Crafts
The Crafts prgoramwill continue to meet at the Park Heights JCC. Participate in a variety of craft activities and skills in a unique class taught by a talented instructor. $6 per session and pre-registration is necessary, and there are limited spaces still available. Each group will meet once a month on Wednesday from 6:30-8:30. Please contact Mira Labovitz or Miriam “Bunny” Rosenberg if you are interested.
Banim Atem La’Shem
A Boys learning program at Talmudical Academy (TA). The Jewish Big Brother Big Sister League, a division of the Associated, has now become a third partner in this wonderful program. Meets weekly when there is Mishmar, every Thursday night from 7:15 to 8:15. Join TA High School students and learn, play a little ball, and daven Ma’ariv, (Mincha also depending on time of year). FREE!
Bais Yaakov
Girls only program at Bais Yaakov High School. Meets several times a year either Sunday afternoon or an evening. Crafts, food, music, and more.
Special Events
Stay tuned for details throughout the year for special events, holiday parties, and more!

Work Programs

Is your son/daughter just entering the work force and in need of some vocational training? Is he/she already working but would like some time away doing something different during the summer? Well, here's your chance!

Yachad/NJCD offers, on a limited basis, full time work positions in a sleep-away camp setting. Participants, both male and female, are supervised by a job coach/counselor, and are placed in a position suitable to their abilities and needs. Our workers enjoy the camp atmosphere and change of scenery, while learning important life and vocational skills. Positions can include (but are not limited to) working with sports programs, in the kitchen, helping in the dining room, or in the day camp. There is a cost to participate and staff members are paid for their work.



Work Programs
Length of program and cost varies subject to specific camp placement.
Ages: 22-30



Early Bird special does not apply to these programs.

Interested in applying or finding out more information? Click here to fill out our inquiry form and we'll get right back to you!

For returning participants: Please click here and fill out the required inquiry form. We will then send you a link for the full application. Please help us as we set up our new online registration sytem. Creating a new account will allow you to come back next year and register without needing to go through a tremendous amount of paperwork- saving you lots of time!


For more information on work programs, please contact Nechama Braun at 212-613-8369 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Yachad Getaway & Getaway Travel

Looking for a relaxing two-week vacation? Want to get away from the city and have a good time? The Yachad Getaway is for you! The Getaway takes place in a large retreat center in upstate NY. Participants choose from daily activities which include swimming, arts & crafts, dancing, sports, baking, and much more. Half-day and day-long trips are planned throughout the two weeks. Want to sit on the porch and play games with friends? Would you rather take a nature walk and then go for a swim? Either way, this is a program to be enjoyed by all.



Yachad Getaway
Dates: Monday, June 25th - Sunday, July 8th, 2012
Cost: $3200 + $250 registration
Ages: 18-45.



Continue the thrill of Getaway with a one-week adventure touring part of the East Coast! Participants will enjoy visiting new locations and seeing new sights while having a blast with their friends. This is an optional add-on for Getaway participants and is also a stand-alone program for those who want to sign up only for Getaway Travel.



Getaway Travel
Dates: Sunday, July 8 - Monday, July 16, 2012*
Cost: $1650 + $250 registration*
Ages: 18 and up



Special!
Sign up for both Yachad Getaway and Getaway Travel at a discounted price of $4950 for both!

Interested in applying or finding out more information? Click here to fill out our inquiry form and we'll get right back to you!

For returning participants: Please click here and fill out the required inquiry form. We will then send you a link for the full application. Please help us as we set up our new online registration sytem. Creating a new account will allow you to come back next year and register without needing to go through a tremendous amount of paperwork- saving you lots of time!

*Please note that all dates and costs are subject to change without notice.
*All prices are in addition to a $250 registration fee. Please note that $150 of this fee is refundable by March 1st. The additional $100 is NON-REFUNDABLE.

Early Bird Special! If application and registration fee are received before January 1st, receive a discount of $150 off total tuition cost!
NEW!! Receive an additional $150 discount if tuition is paid in full by March 1st!

For more information on Yachad Getaway, please contact Nechama Braun at 212-613-8369 or email to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Camper Programs

Yachad/NJCD provides unique and inclusive sleepaway camp programs. Our campers enjoy swimming, boating, sports, arts & crafts, drama, learning, and so much more together with their mainstream peers. Each day, on an individual or group basis, they participate in camp activities with other bunks and campers. Our members form special friendships within their bunk, and, more importantly, with other campers throughout the camp. Our participants have the support of trained, highly motivated staff and sleep in their own bunkhouse. A complete camping experience, filled with warmth and care, and a focus on the development of social skills, fostering socialization, friendship, self- esteem and independence within a safe, secure environment.



Yachad B' Nesher Program
Dates: Monday, July 23- Monday, August 13th, 2012
Cost: $4100 + $250 registration fee SAME PRICE FOR THE PAST TWO YEARS!
Ages: 9-15





"MY" Program (Morasha/Yachad)
Dates: Wednesday, June 27- Thursday, August 16, 2012
Cost: $7700 + 250 registration fee
Ages: 12-21



Looking for something even more inclusive? Check out our shadow programs for maximum inclusion!

Campers are FULLY integrated into a typical bunk together with supportive 'shadow' staff to facilitate and promote meaningful socialization and inclusion. In these programs campers typically have learning disabilities, Asperger's syndrome, with mild to moderate social skills deficits, and, while not able to function in the bunk independently, they can do well in the typical bunk with the support of our superb staff.




Yachad B'Moshava, A Shadow Program for Maximum Inclusion
Dates: Wednesday, July 25th- Tuesday, August 21st, 2012
Cost: $4350 + $250 registration fee SAME PRICE AS LAST YEAR!
Ages: 9-15

And NEW for Summer 2012!
Yachad @ Mesorah, A Shadow Program for Maximum Inclusion
Dates: Wednesday, June 27th- Thursday, August 16th, 2012
Cost: $5200 + $250 registration Low introductory rate!



Interested in applying or finding out more information?
Click here to fill out our inquiry form and we'll get right back to you!

For returning participants: Please click here and fill out the required inquiry form. We will then send you a link for the full application. Please help us as we set up our new online registration sytem. Creating a new account will allow you to come back next year and register without needing to go through a tremendous amount of paperwork- saving you lots of time!




Early Bird Special!

If application and registration fee are received before January 1st, receive a discount of $150 off total tuition cost!



NEW!

Receive an additional $150 discount if tuition is paid in full by March 15th!

*Please note that all dates and costs are subject to change without notice.

* all prices are in addition to a $250 registration fee ($300 for Yad B'Yad). Please note that $150 of this fee is refundable by March 1st. The additional $100 (or $150) is NON-REFUNDABLE.


Yachad/NJCD Summer Programs

Summer Programs include a variety of summer experiences for youth and adults with developmental disabilities.

The Yad B' Yad (hand-in-hand) program is a summer tour that mainstreams high school students with their Yachad member peers. Students in grades 10 through 11 join Yachad members ages 18-35 on a fun-filled journey that develops the minds and hearts of the participants and promotes leadership skills, all while enjoying new and exciting experiences on tour. Yad B' Yad Israel Experience features time on a kibbutz, exciting day trips exploring the Land, time in Jerusalem, historical tours, archaeological digs, visiting Israeli Army base, special Shabbat programs and more.

A number of camp experiences are available for youth in an inclusive environment at camps in the Poconos and Catskills in upstate New York. In addition, work programs have also been developed to provide vocational opportunities for individuals with disabilities at various camp settings.

The Yachad Getaway, provides young adults with the opportunity to spend a two week vacation relaxing and enjoying fun and easygoing activities!

Interested in finding out more or applying? Click here to fill out an inquiry form. We'll get back to you right away!

For more information contact Nechama Braun at 212-613-8369 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Chicago Yachad

• Weekly RBC Program RBC meets every Tuesday night from 530-730 PM at the NCSY office. Advanced registration is required.


• Holiday Programs with Ida Crown Jewish Academy Together, we have 4 programs annually focusing on the upcoming Jewish holiday with an emphasis on learning torah, a fun game or skit and a great supper!


• Monthly Recreational Programs with NCSY Yachad and local NCSY chapters get together for a fun Sunday or evening activities. Past activities have included Nickel City arcade, the IMAX at Navy Pier, miniature golfing, bowling and so much more.


• NCSY Conventions Yachad participates in four NCSY Midwest Regional shabbatons each year. Two of he shabbatons are in local Midwest communities, the other two are at a ski resort, and a summer camp. Yachad advisors help each Yachad member mainstream with their typical NCSY peers.


• Yachad Shabbaton Yachad members and their HS friends get together in a shul in the greater Chicago area for a fun filled shabbaton. Yachad members are the stars!


• Special Events Throughout the year Yachad takes part in special city wide programming such as the Walk for Israel Parade, concerts and other fun events!

Our Way Resources

Our Way offers the following services on an ongoing basis:

• Information and Referral Services


• Weekend Retreats


• Holiday Celebrations


• Jewish Heritage Classes


• Jewish Deaf Singles Registry


• Family Workshops


• Job Placement and Support Services


• Inclusion and Educational Support


• Publications in Sign Language


Our Way Sign Language Prayer Charts include:

• Shabbat Candle Lighting


• Brachot Booklet


• Signs of the Seder


• Chanukah Candle Lighting


• Shma Yisroel


• Hamakom (Mourner’s Chart)


• L’Shanah Ha-Ba B’Yerushalayim


• Signs of Shabbat


Our Way Publications include:

• Toras Hacheresh Guidebook-Part I: A Practical Guide to the Use of Electronic Hearing Devices on Shabbos and Yom Tov


• Halacha and the Deaf (various topics)


• The Hearing Impaired Child in the Jewish Classroom – A Handbook for Classroom Teachers


Our Way Greeting Cards include:

• Rosh Hashanah (New Year)


• Chanukah


• Purim


• In Tribute


• In Memorial


• Thank you


• Mazel Tov


Please contact the office at 212-613-8229 for pricing and to order any of these items.


Educational Support Hotline

Yachad and Our Way/NJCD has established a telephone hotline to address concerns of parents and teachers of special needs children.

Responding to concerns that are particularly acute at the start of the school year for parents and teachers of special needs students, we have set up a 24 hour telephone hotline to provide information and counseling services.

The Hotline number is: 212-613-8127

Yachad/NJCD experts in the education of children with learning and developmental disabilities, as well as the physically challenged and hearing impaired, will respond to the questions. Messages left in non-business hours will be promptly returned during office hours. The children involved attend not only Jewish Day Schools, but in some cases public schools with special education programs.

Typical questions asked by parents include issues concerning:

• Speech therapy
• Board of Education Issues
• Individual Education Plans
• Accessing grants and scholarships
• Medication issues
• Social skill development
• Classroom modifications
• Instructor modifications
For further information, contact Batya Jacob, Coordinator, at 212-613-8127 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Principal Council of New Jersey

Co-chaired by Dr. Ruth Katz, Hillel Elementary School, and Rabbi Eli Rubin, Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School, the Principal Council of New Jersey meets twice a year, or as needed, to give our principals and heads of school the opportunity to meet and discuss issues and concerns related to our schools in New Jersey. These meetings give us the opportunity to share information about programs that our schools are eligible to participate in, and address special needs of our school communities. This forum also gives our school leadership the opportunity to interface with each other on a regular basis.

Active Committees of the Principal Council include:

• Government affairs
• Staff Development
• School Communication
• Special Services
• Group Purchasing/Group Medical Insurance
For more information or participation, please contact Batya Jacob at 212-613-8127, 551-404-4447, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

New Jersey Association of Jewish Day Schools (NJAJDS)

Who we are

We are a coalition of schools located throughout the state of New Jersey, working together to ensure that every student meets their maximum educational potential.
What we do

Staff development conferences are held throughout the year, enabling educators to stay abreast of the newest pedagogical advances. As members of the New Jersey Advisory Committee to the State Department of Education, we represent our school members’ needs and update them with the latest developments in New Jersey Educational Law. We work together with the Department of Education to ensure that our schools and their students with special needs receive all services to which they are entitled.
Why we are there for your school?

By working together, our collective voice is heard when trying to effect change in policy and law in the state education department. Our coalition of schools enables us to access more services and funds for our students. Together, we can enhance staff development and networking between schools and their teachers.
Where we are located?

Although our home office is located in Essex County, we service schools throughout the entire state of New Jersey. Similarly, our conferences are held in various locations throughout the state.
When are the Associations services available?

We offer continuous assistance to New Jersey schools throughout the year. Our main staff development conference takes place each year on Election Day, the first Tuesday of November. In addition we provide monthly sessions through our “Focus of Education: Educating the Educator” program. We are available throughout the year for consultations with schools and resource rooms, and we assist families looking for appropriate school placement for their children.
How do we meet these goals?

By working together, leveraging our collective support, we help expand the knowledge and skills of our educators, access services for our schools, and enrich the education of all of our students. In this way, we are afforded the opportunity to ensure successful and appropriate education for all of our children.
Services offered by NJAJDS include:

• Staff development
• Resource availability
• Training sessions
• Curriculum modification
• Communication between Schools throughout the state to foster improved transition between grade levels
• Inclusion of students with learning challenges/special educational needs
• Accessing state services and funding
• New Jersey Principal Council
• Technology Plan approval through the State of New Jersey Department of Education


For more information or participation, please contact Batya Jacob, Coordinator at 212-613-8127, 551-404-4447, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).


The National Association of Day Schools Serving Exceptional Children (NADSEC)

The National Association of Day Schools Serving Exceptional Children (NADSEC) is an association of yeshivot and day schools across the United States and Canada providing programs for students with varying special needs.

Schools service students with:

• Mild to Moderate Learning Disabilities
• Dyslexia
• Asperger’s and the Autistic Spectrum
• Hearing Impairment
• Visual Impairment
• Mobility Impairment
• Developmental Disabilities
We offer the following services:

• Resource Guide of programs throughout the United States and Canada for families looking for the appropriate educational setting for their child
• Staff development opportunities
• Shared curriculum materials and guides
• Networking for both schools and families
We host staff development conferences in the Fall and Spring each year on a national level.





For more information or participation, please contact Batya Jacob, Coordinator at 212-613-8127, 551-404-4447, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).




Educational Services

Yachad/ The National Jewish Council for Disabilities (NJCD), offers resource and support for families, students, and the schools that they attend, fostering inclusion in the appropriate educational setting for each child. Special attention is focused on including students with a variety of educational challenges into a Judaic school setting.


The Educational Service Division of Yachad/NJCD offers:


• Staff Development
• In-service training at individual schools
• Placement recommendations for families
• Parent Support Groups
• Government Affairs Support
• Information regarding access to local funding and grants that may be available to students and their families
The Educational Service Division of Yachad/NJCD sponsors the following programs:


• IVDU Upper School
• IVDU (Beacon) Lower School
• National Association of Day Schools Serving Exceptional Children (NADSEC)
• New Jersey Association of Jewish Day Schools (NJAJDS)
• Educational Support Hotline at 212-613-8127
• Training Opportunities for Professionals



For further information, please contact Batya Jacob, Educational Director, at 212-613-8127 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).


Cultural Arts Programs (CAP)

These programs are generally organized in coordination with a school, synagogue or community. The content of these programs varies widely. From arts and crafts and sports to movies and socializing, CAPs provide an opportunity for Yachad/NJCD program participants to get out, hang out and have fun. On the flip side, these programs also represent an opportunity for a school, synagogue or community to open up their doors and break down barriers. But while greater purposes may be served, at the end of the day everyone has a great time!

If you are interested in attending or organizing a CAP in your community please be in touch with Yehuda Charm at 212-613-8229 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Looking forward to seeing you soon!


Chat Group

In addition to our Relationship Building Courses (RBC), we offer a weekly meeting for individuals who possess basic social skills but are in need of a safe environment to polish these skills and work on reading social situations. The Chat Group also represents a place where the participants can discuss any challenges they have been facing, raising specific points that they feel they need to work on or would simply like to discuss. Finally, this group is a great place to meet other people facing the same challenges, serving as a warm, friendly environment in which to meet people, have dinner, and gain from the conversation.

For more information on Chat Group, please contact Amanda Levy at (212) 613-8172 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Junior Yachad

Yachad provides individuals with developmental disabilities an opportunity to socialize and to be included within the Jewish Community.

Junior Yachad, for participants ages eight through fifteen, provides inclusive social and recreational programs, including Shabbatons, for children and teenagers, together with typically developing peers from local junior high school programs in Yeshiva Day Schools throughout New York and New Jersey.

Junior Yachad has chapters in Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, Monsey, Staten Island, Westchester and New Jersey.





Advisory Staff

The Junior Yachad staff are trained to work with children/teenagers with developmental disabilities. The advisors are responsible for the Yachad members overall care and safety throughout the weekend including distribution of medication. The majority of our staff are volunteer college students from throughout the Tri-state.



Local Events

Every month Junior Yachad runs a local event for each of its chapters in their home town. Please contact your Chapters Coordinator for more information.



Click here to read an update on Junior Yachad happenings!

For more information about Junior Yachad programming, please contact Jillian Schutkin at 212-613-8238, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Interested in Starting an RBC?

There are currently four groups of RBC that meet throughout the New York area and a growing number taking place across the country from Chicago to Los Angeles.

If you feel that your community could benefit from such a course please contact Amanda Levy at (212) 613-8172 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Our Way - Experience Megillat Esther in a new way on Purim this year!

Don’t miss out, sign up now to include your deaf, hard of hearing, visually challenged, learning disabled, and elderly members of your community in this wonderful opportunity. Experience Megillat Esther in a new way on Purim this year!

Visit the Our Way Page for more information!

Click Here to download a sample of the presentation!

Order now! Contact Batya Jacob at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 212-613-8127.

Job Placement

The Vocational Services Department serves a broad spectrum of individuals to meet a broad range of employment needs, including full-time and part-time positions.

Yachad/NJCD has placed individuals in a variety of settings, including:

• Mailroom services
• Law Firms
• Stocking and Warehousing
• Clerical Services
• Food and Restaurant Services
• Libraries
• Supermarkets
• Local Community Businesses
All employees start out with full time, on-site Job Coaches.

Job coaches are members of the Yachad/NJCD staff who are trained to:

• Support Yachad/NJCD employees in new work situations
• Support new employers of Yachad/NJCD clients
• Facilitate the overall transition process
• Build natural supports that ultimately enable Yachad/NJCD clients to succeed on their own
• Job coaches stay as long as is necessary
Yachad/NJCD Vocational Services currently provides services to individuals age 18 or over, that have a registered disability. Vocational Services currently serves individuals that live in New York City or in New York State and are able to work in or near New York City.

All clients of the Vocational Services department also have full access to a variety of other services provided by Yachad/NJCD.

For more information on how the Department of Job Placement and Vocational Resources can help you, please contact Michael Applebaum, Acting Director of Vocational Services at 718-859-5402. or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Rayim Yachad

Yachad provides individuals with developmental disabilities an opportunity to socialize and to be included within the Jewish Community.

Rayim Yachad, for participants ages 26 and above, provides inclusive social and recreational programs for adults B'Yachad, together, with typically developing peers from universities and synagogue communities. Rayim Yachad is comprised of Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, Monsey and New Jersey Chapters. Yachad members enjoy local events within their chapters as well as weekend Shabbatons. Rayim participants are given independence and choice during events to promote self-advocacy and independence. Rayim Yachad members also participate in the Rayim TRIPS program as well as the Rayim College Learning Program.





Rayim Advisors


The Rayim staff are trained to work with adults with developmental disabilities. The advisors are responsible for the Yachad members overall care and safety throughout the weekend including distribution of medication. Each advisor is about the unique needs of working with adults with disabilities, how to promote independence and self-advocacy. The staff learn how to interact with the Rayim members and to ensure that they are treated like adults and are taking part in age-appropriate activities. Rayim members are encouraged to make their own choices. Each Rayim member is given the individual attention and care that is needed for them by the highly qualified staff. Most of the Rayim Advisors are college students who volunteer to be Yachad Advisors.


For more information about Rayim Yachad Programming, please contact Nicole Bodner at 212-613-8266 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).


Senior Yachad

Senior Yachad provides inclusive social, recreational, and educational programs for people with disabilities ages 15-25.

Senior members enjoy Shabbatons (weekend retreats, where our participants stay in community members homes) every month with such schools and communities as Ramaz High School, Flatbush High school, The Hebrew Institute of Riverdale, and The Young Israel of Hillcrest to name a few. Senior members also enjoy a wide range of activities including weekly and monthly Torah Learning sessions, outings to Baseball games, Barbecues, and plays.

Senior Yachad has on average 1-2 shabbatons per month, events with local schools and communities, and participates in the Good Sports program.

This inclusive environment is what makes all of our programs so unique. Whether it's meeting new people at a Shabbaton or participating in a community wide sports day to raise money for Israel. Through Senior Yachad, members enjoy the opportunity to learn, grow and have fun, all at the same time.

There are local chapters in Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, Monsey, and New Jersey as well as chapters throughout the United States and Canada.

For more information about Senior Yachad programming, please contact Rebecca Schrag at 212-613-8223, or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).


What Yachad Does

Yachad is dedicated to addressing the needs of all individuals with disabilities and including them in the Jewish community.

Our membership is divided into three groups:

• Junior Yachad (8 to 15 years of age)
• Senior Yachad (16 - 25 years or age)
• Rayim Yachad (26 years of age and above)

Yachad members participate in several inclusive activities per month. There are Yachad Chapters located throughout the United States and Canada.

Yachad Activities



Yachad activities provide our members with opportunities for personal growth and enriched lives. The 'inclusive design' gives our special population their rightful place within the Jewish community, while helping to educate our community about our members' abilities and strengths.

Rayim College Learning Program

Rayim Yachad members learn together with Stern College and NYU students in small groups once a week. Rayim members learn together with Stern College and NYU students in small groups once a week. The Rayim members meet with their college learning partner for ongoing Torah study. This program is for Rayim members who are interested in a serious learning environment and who can travel to the college site independently.

For more information, contact Nicole Bodner at 212-613-8266 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Our Way Now Has Video Phone!!

To Contact us via video phone, please call 646-297-1973. Please leave a message and we will return your call.