At CJP, we believe that everyone deserves to feel included and connected in Jewish life. This Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM), we are proud to highlight the incredible work of our partners who make that vision a reality. Every year, CJP provides grants and funding to our partners in this space, helping to ensure that they can continue to transform lives and foster inclusion and belonging for everyone.
Yachad New England is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families by fostering meaningful communal participation. Through social programs, educational opportunities, and support services, Yachad empowers individuals with a wide range of disabilities to connect, grow, and thrive.
For members like Matthew, Carla, Elena, and Beth, Yachad is more than just an organization—it’s a community. Whether it’s cooking, bowling, or celebrating Jewish traditions like Hanukkah and Passover, Yachad provides a space where friendships flourish and everyone feels truly valued and included.
Watch the video above to hear their stories and keep reading to learn how Yachad New England creates bonds that last a lifetime.
Yachad New England
Creating a vibrant, welcoming space where people with disabilities find genuine belonging in the Jewish community, Yachad New England serves over 200 adults with disabilities through daily programs and monthly outings that foster friendship, growth, and connection.
“We have a space for people with disabilities to feel at home and have a community that helps them feel like they belong somewhere and have friends,” explains Yachad New England regional director Laura Butler. “We create a warm community with people who recognize everyone’s ability and champion each other.”
Each social recreational program begins with an optional lounge hour, where members can engage in board games, guided conversations, or simply hang out with their peers. “Last week, someone asked for a conversation on boundaries,” Butler notes. “Our trained staff is available to help talk them through day-to-day challenges or escalate to additional help if needed.”
The organization’s signature programs include a Monday night bowling league, “Musicals and Melodies” on Tuesdays, and a weekly art group. Special programming caters to different age groups, including dedicated activities for young adults aged 18-30 and an arts-based Sunday program for young women designed to foster community and friendship.
Yachad’s commitment to inclusion extends into local Jewish high schools through active clubs at Gann Academy, Maimonides School, and Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael, where students interact with Yachad members and engage in community activities and holiday parties. “You can’t opt out of being in community with people with disabilities,” Butler emphasizes. “Starting with kids, we want to give them the tools to learn how to be respectful and welcoming.”
This focus on community integration is particularly crucial for adult members. “Adults are often busy after work with social, family, or personal responsibilities like meeting friends for dinner, homework with kids, or a class at the gym,” Butler says. “Our program provides that social and recreational structure for our members once they finish their workday or day program at 3 p.m. These programs help them feel included and engaged.”
Looking ahead, they’re planning a Yom Chesed (Day of Kindness) on March 2, bringing together various organizations for community service projects.
“It’s so special that we focus on the Jewish community while welcoming everyone,” Butler reflects. “When we see members making friends and finding community, that makes the work that much better.”