Local Jewish News

In response to increasing demand and growth within our community, Cleveland Yachad is excited to announce the launch of a Junior Yachad division!

Junior Yachad will serve individuals ages 10-15, offering inclusive social/recreational programming to Jewish children with special needs together with their typically-developing peers. Our unique inclusive model, with an emphasis on collaborative community programs, encourages acceptance and feelings of belonging while reducing loneliness and stigma. This is accomplished by fostering the development of organic friendships between individuals with special needs and their same-aged peers, a model that benefits both groups immeasurably. Yachad serves individuals with a wide range of disabilities and from all Jewish backgrounds and levels of affiliation.

Yachad seeks to partner with local organizations, schools, and synagogues and is invested in minimizing duplication or overlap of services in the community. To that end, open communication with other community agencies is ongoing to reduce scheduling conflicts between organizations and to ensure that the Junior Yachad programming continues to address unmet needs within our community.

Junior Yachad plans to run bi-monthly programs, offering an exciting variety of recreational, therapeutic, creative, and fitness programs, in addition to events with Jewish themes. Programs are under the supervision and direction of Penina Sauber, a seasoned professional with experience as a special education teacher, community habilitation supervisor, and an intervention specialist. High school and college-aged students will provide additional support at events to ensure the safety, well-being, and meaningful integration of all participants.

Please spread the word and help refer neighbors, family, and friends. To apply, for more information, or if you would like your synagogue, school, or group to partner with us, please contact Penina Sauber at SauberP@ou.org or 732-864-7693.

Junior Yachad programs are already underway. Contact Yachad today to get involved!