The backbone of the agency was to ensure
anyone who wanted to become a bar or bat mitzvah had that opportunity.
We work with the religious school directors and teachers to provide suggestions for altering curriculum as well as work with the parents to provide accommodations for ways we have seen work to best learn Hebrew.
Training for teachers and helpers (madrichim) is available on the same or similar topics as provided in schools and camps. The goal is to help individuals be the best they can and achieve this very special time in life.
Created in 2007
Simchat Shabbat Services
Where does a child or adult who has developmental or severe learning disabilities and a short attention span go for a Shabbat morning service? Simchat Shabbat services are held once a month starting at noon in the chapel at Congregation Beth Israel. The Clergy leads the 45 minute service using a siddur (prayer book) specially designed for Simchat Shabbat services with Hebrew, English and transliterations in enlarged type accompanied by illustrations. There is active participation by everyone who attends. This is a “no shush” service at which all expressions of prayer are welcomed.
Hosted Once a Year
Model Seder
Culturally traditional events can be challenging to individuals with special needs. Our goal for bringing this model Seder to the community is for our participants to review the progression of the Seder service and meal, but at their pace. The story of Passover is shared, but with a special Haggadah prayer book produced by Gateways. For some of our participants, this will be the only Seder they attend, for others they will be ready to do it all over again with friends and family.