The Yachad Alumni Network
This year, Yachad launched its new Alumni Division, to reconnect participants from across generations.
Alumni spanning more than two decades of programming gathered for Yom Yachad at Goldschein's Homestead in Liberty, New York, celebrating with trivia, reminiscing, and laughter. On Labor Day weekend, 50 Yachad alumni families and more than 800 attendees joined the Yachad Alumni Carnival, a joyful day filled with rides, games, face painting, and the spirit of belonging that defines Yachad.
As the alumni program grows, we hope past participants and staff will continue to re-engage, spread the word, join events, and embody Yachad's message of inclusion and connection.
J.U.F.’s New Brooklyn Location
An exciting moment this year was the opening of Yachad's new J.U.F. (Jewish Union Foundation) Job Training Facility at 1950 Ocean Avenue in Brooklyn, New York. This modern, thoughtfully-designed and decorated space — complete with a model kitchen, mock office, and even a mini CVS store for hands-on retail training — gives participants real-world job readiness experience.
J.U.F. supports nearly 150 individuals, including more than 80 in job training and 30 who have been placed in paid positions thanks to partnerships with more than 20 employer partners dedicated to inclusivity in the workplace.
On September 17, OU President Mitch Aeder, OU EVP and COO Rabbi Dr. Josh Joseph, and International Director of Yachad Avromie Adler joined J.U.F Executive Director Dena Cooperman at the Chonukat HaBayit celebration alongside participants and families. They spoke on behalf of the OU and underscored its love of Yachad, and recognized J.U.F. as a model for what inclusive employment can look like in Jewish communities.
IVDU Expands to Lakewood and Beyond
Yachad's network of IVDU Schools continues to grow, offering a warm, supportive educational environment that celebrates the unique potential of every learner.
Lakewood Expansion: This year marks an exciting milestone with the opening of IVDU Lakewood Mesivta in Lakewood, New Jersey. The new school currently serves 14 high school boys and plans are underway for continued expansion. With over 30 families applying for these limited spots, it's clear that the Lakewood community has a strong and growing need for IVDU's specialized programs.
Brooklyn Expansion: Additionally, the Marilyn and Sheldon David IVDU Upper Boys School in Brooklyn, New York, has launched an innovative partnership with the ICA Institute, a local technical institute offering hands-on, college-level training in architecture and design. Through this collaboration, students can now work toward earning a college-level architectural certificate.
In response to community needs, the Marilyn and Sheldon David IVDU Upper Girls School has expanded to include both middle and upper school programs. This addition will ensure that students are better prepared academically, emotionally, and socially as they transition to the upper school, allowing them to take full advantage of IVDU's robust learning opportunities and career-readiness training.
At a Glance
Yachad Extends Impact Into South Florida
Yachad is expanding its reach throughout North Miami and Hollywood in addition to its impact in the Boca Raton community. Under the leadership of Regional Director Tzippy Richmond, Yachad is launching new inclusion opportunities, partnering with local schools and synagogues, and engaging families new to the region.
Already, 40 participants attend weekly Yachad South Florida programs and the region has hosted 10 major events, including a well-attended Orlando Shabbaton. Their efforts are building a more connected and inclusive Jewish community across southern Florida, with a focus on increasing social and recreational opportunities for children and young adults.
Twenty-Five Years of Inclusion at Camp Morasha
This summer marked 25 years of partnership between Yachad and Camp Morasha, a milestone celebrated with a Shiriya concert and dinner honoring decades of shared commitment to inclusion. On the stage, we saw the beauty of collaboration and the richness of diversity. The songs and stories shared by Yachad participants and Morasha campers remind us that inclusion is not a one-time achievement; it is built every day through respect and teamwork.
Last summer alone, Yachad's summer programs welcomed 582 participants across 26 programs in 18 locations, including 459 individuals with developmental disabilities. The Morasha celebration captured what Yachad stands for — community, joy, and the belief that every person deserves a place to shine.
Voices of Impact
"Yachad and J.U.F. helped me get my first real job. I love being a greeter at CVS. I feel proud every time I put on my uniform. For the first time, I feel independent."
"Since joining Yachad and attending the after-school programs, Shabbatonim, and summer camp, my son has grown more confident, made friends, and found his safe space. Seeing him smile brings me peace of mind."
"Hiring through Yachad's J.U.F. has been one of the best decisions our company has made. This team member brings positivity and an incredible work ethic. Our workplace and our team is better for it."
"I thought I was signing up to give my time, but I've received so much more in return. The joy, resilience, and determination of the Yachad participants inspires me every single day. Yachad also has great trips and super awesome swag!"
"Yachad, through all of its various programs, doesn't just change lives it strengthens our whole community. Seeing children, teens, and adults with special needs thrive in inclusive environments shows what's possible when we create opportunities for everyone."