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When two organizations dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities join forces, something extraordinary happens. In honor of the recently celebrated Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM) let’s take a closer look at one such partnership between Israel Elwyn and ETTA, two nonprofit organizations on opposite sides of the world—one in Israel and the other in Los Angeles. Together, they have built a meaningful partnership that transcends physical distance, fostering connection, mutual support, and joy through shared activities and experiences.
This partnership blossomed out of a shared vision: to connect individuals with disabilities across continents and strengthen their ties to one another and to Jewish values. Following the devastating events of October 7th in Israel and the fires in Los Angeles, this collaboration has become even more significant, providing a sense of community and resilience.
Bringing Communities Together
The program began with a simple idea: create opportunities for individuals from Israel and Los Angeles to meet via Zoom for monthly activities. These virtual gatherings have evolved into joyful experiences where participants engage in cooking sessions (like making falafel), learning Hebrew, celebrating holidays such as Thanksgiving and Pesach (including a chocolate-themed Seder), and even gardening together.
ETTA program participants expressed how important these sessions are for them, giving them the opportunity to feel deeply connected to the participants in Israel. Although Israel is far, seeing their Israeli friends on Zoom makes them feel close.
Each meeting begins with introductions and cheering for each other. When a holiday is around the corner, each group makes a toast, expressing their hopes for the upcoming occasion and celebrating friendship.
Racheli Kaplan, Support Coordinator, Supported Living Services at Israel Elwyn, describes the impact of these meetings well, “Meetings involving joint activities have evolved into personal social connections…Beyond the enjoyment they provide, these activities broaden horizons, enhance self-confidence, and strengthen participants’ sense of capability. These activities foster language learning, interpersonal and social skills, as well as solidarity around Jewish holidays and milestones throughout the year.”
Clients in both organizations feel that they understand each other, even when staff has to help translate English or Hebrew.
Naftali, a program participant at Israel Elwyn, shared: “It’s nice to learn a new language and hear about their lives in America. We celebrate holidays together. We also tell them about Israel—what we’re going through now during the war and how we’re coping. They care about us, encourage us, and sing songs with us. I dream of flying to meet them one day.”
The ripple effect of this partnership extends beyond the participants. Brittany, a staff member of ETTA, noted her favorite aspect of these joint Zooms was “to see how excited the clients are every single time and to learn more about a culture our clients know so well.”
Looking Ahead
As this collaboration continues to thrive, both organizations are exploring new ways to deepen the connection. Upcoming plans include more interactive cultural experiences and even exploring the possibility of an exchange delegation of program participants and staff.
As Leah Schachter, ETTA’s Director of Volunteers and Special Programs, put it: “I believe that when we bring our incredible clients with special needs together, we unlock amazing potential to grow.”
Israel Elwyn and ETTA remind us that distance is no barrier to connection, and the bonds of community, love, and support can transcend borders. Together, they are creating a brighter, more inclusive future for individuals with disabilities worldwide.
Leah Schacter is Director of Volunteers and Special Programs for ETTA. Sharon Ehrnwald is Assistant CEO for International Relations for Israel Elwyn.
