How do we ensure that our children, regardless of their abilities, will embrace Judaism in the future? Women’s Philanthropy supports services within our community that fully integrate children with disabilities into all aspects of Jewish life. Only with these inclusive programs can we build continuity for the next generation of all Jews.
April 2016
How We Care: Providing an Accessible and Inclusive Jewish Community
by Jody Caplan, Vice President, Community Engagement
One of my favorite Purim memories is of spending time at JESPY House with Women’s Philanthropy friends and JESPY clients packing mishloach manot, Purim gift baskets. Together, we recalled our favorite Hamentaschen flavors and Purim costumes, heard a dramatic retelling of the Purim story, and worked side-by-side decorating and filling bags of treats to share with friends. We learned that JESPY House is a beneficiary of Jewish Federation of Greater Metrowest NJ that enables adults with learning and developmental disabilities to lead independent lives. But on that March morning, we were all volunteers fulfilling a Purim mitzvah and building Jewish community. more
Newsletter volunteer staff:
Editor: Laura Queller
Staff Writers: Jane Gomez, Beth Manes Lax
WP Staff: Beth Levin
WP VP: Jody Caplan
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How We Care for Adults With Disabilities
Artist. Wage earner. Jewish scholar. Wife. These are only some of the roles that adults with disabilities in Greater MetroWest can assume. Women’s Philanthropy supports programs that nurture individual expression and independence, while also building an inclusive Jewish community for all its adult members, regardless of ability.
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Words Worth Repeating
Marcia Wiener, whose son Jonathan has autism, was the keynote speaker in June 2015 at an event for Jewish Family Service of Central New Jersey, a Federation-supported agency. Her words, which describe the myriad of services that Jonathan receives to help him fully participate in the Jewish community, are worth repeating. Make sure to read the postscript at the end to learn what Jonathan is doing today; his proud mother Marcia is beaming!
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President's Message
Caring for others is the core value of our Federation and the unifying force that drives the energy and passion of our Women’s Philanthropy. The scope of support and services we provide for those who are most vulnerable in our local, Israeli, and global Jewish community truly defines who we are.