As the massive scale of the wildfire tragedy evolves, JFEDLA continues to provide vital help to our many neighbors who have suffered unimaginable loss. Concurrently, we remain committed to serving everybody in our community who needs our love and empathy.
February is Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month (JDAIM), which always holds a special place in my heart. JDAIM offers all of us a chance to put the Jewish value of inclusion in action. A story I was recently told by our Caring for Jews in Need team beautifully captures the impact we are proud to make on this treasured part of our community.
Susan is a single mother with a 22-year-old son, Jake, who has Down syndrome. Jake is very personable. After he graduated from high school, Jake really wanted to find a job to help his mom. Susan called JFEDLA to find out if there was any way to help Jake gain skills that would lead to employment. The Federation introduced Jake to an internship program where he learned to greet customers, take orders, and fill them. Jake was so good at his internship that he soon found work at a food shop filling coffee orders. Jake loves his job and looks forward to going there twice a week. Susan is so happy the connection from JFEDLA turned into an experience that has brought Jake confidence, joy, and independence.
Stories like Jake’s inspire us to keep building a Los Angeles where everybody can thrive. Every February, I’m freshly reminded that Jewish tradition says: “Teach each person according to their own way.” (Proverbs 22:6). This is the essence of inclusion, a foundational Jewish value that encourages us to recognize and honor each person’s unique path through life. Inclusion also means helping those who need more guidance find the path that works best for them.
Times of chaos and crisis like our region is currently enduring amplify the challenges faced by individuals with diverse abilities. Now, more than ever, is the time to actively support one another. Now is the time to take action.
How? By visiting our Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month website you can:
- Advocate for inclusion and spread awareness
- Read inspiring stories from community members, volunteers, and professionals
- Participate in inclusive programming
- Learn ways to include and support people with disabilities
- Access resources through the Los Angeles Jewish Abilities Center (LAJAC)
Together, we are putting the value of inclusion in action. Your support makes this vital work possible — not just in February but every day.
R’ Noah