A Journey of Learning, Inspiration, and Partnership
Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting a delegation from the ETTA organization in Los Angeles as part of the Louis Levine z"l Professional Staff Exchange Program, following the warm and inspiring hospitality we received during our visit to Los Angeles this past May. The program is designed to strengthen the partnership between our organizations, promote the exchange of knowledge and best practices, and learn from one another through our shared commitment to expanding opportunities and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities. Throughout the week, the delegation visited a wide range of Israel Elwyn's programs and services, met with the people we support, staff members, and leadership, and took part in meaningful professional discussions.
A highlight of the visit was the dedication of the Louis Levine Barista Training Room, attended by Louis' sister, Nina Paul of the United States, together with his niece, Malki Cohen, who lives in Israel, her husband Eli, and their son Nadav. Louis, who was a devoted coffee lover, would no doubt have appreciated having his name associated with a space that provides people with disabilities the training, skills, and opportunities to build meaningful careers. It was a deeply moving moment that beautifully connected his personal passion with a legacy of generosity, opportunity, and inclusion.
Thank you to Josh Taff, Leah Schachter, and the entire team at the ETTA organization in Los Angeles for a week of learning, collaboration, and strengthening the bond between our organizations. Special thanks also to Dr. Michael Held, ETTA's Founder and CEO, and Scott Saliman, Executive Director, for their vision, trust, and commitment to advancing this meaningful partnership between the ETTA organization in Los Angeles and Israel Elwyn. We look forward to many more opportunities to learn, grow, and create impact together. 💜
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At the Hearing Area of the Sensory Garden, established in memory of Katie Manson z"l, we celebrated her birthday with great joy, love, and excitement.
Participants enjoyed lively music, dancing, and a warm, energetic atmosphere that made the day especially meaningful and memorable. Special thanks to KKL-JNF for their generous support and partnership, and to Etzion, our musical entertainer, who brought incredible energy and brought joy to everyone.
The spirit of connection, community, and celebration that filled the event reflected Katie’s special legacy. 💜
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When art brings people together, something special happens 🎨🖌️🧑🎨
Congratulations to the graduates of the "Creating Art Together" course, participants from the Ra’anana, Lavi, and Ilan Gilon Adult Day Centers, who today completed a semester of studies at the Midrasha School of Arts at Beit Berl Academic College, alongside education and art students.
A special thank you to the Shalem Fund and to Timna Gabay Markovitz, Director of Professional Development, who initiated, funded, and supported the program through the Zrakor Grant.
Many thanks to Ronit Ettinger, Head of the Education Department at the Midrasha Faculty of Arts, Beit Berl Academic College, for another year of meaningful partnership.
To Tziki Eisenberg, our wonderful instructor, who brings us all together with sensitivity, care, and creativity.
To the amazing Beit Berl students who learned alongside us. We looked forward to our weekly meetings with you!
And to the Israel Elwyn Adult Day Center staff - Yael David Fried, Rahab Altititi, Daniel Salomon, and Erez Amit - for their dedicated and professional support throughout the program.
See you next year! ✨
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A late autism diagnosis can be life-changing, but it is only the first step.
An opinion piece published in The Jerusalem Post explores the experiences of people with autism who are diagnosed in adulthood and highlights the importance of support services, employment opportunities, and community inclusion following diagnosis.
The story of Evyatar Lugasi, a participant in Israel Elwyn's Job Placement Program, demonstrates how greater self-understanding, combined with the right support and opportunities, can help people build meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Read the full article:
www.jpost.com/opinion/article-899700
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When People Meet Without Labels 💛
People meeting without masks, without preconceived notions, without labels, and without distance.
Just people, bringing with them their voices, stories, emotions, and a genuine desire to get to know one another.
Members of our Adult Day Center in Kfar Yona recently visited the Lev HaSharon Democratic School in Hadassim as part of a collaborative project through The Musical Project course.
During a moving musical encounter led by our music therapist, Limor Azaria, participants sang and played music for one another and performed songs together.
But beyond the music, something even deeper took place.
Through a joint activity, participants created a space for questions, listening, learning, and meaningful, respectful dialogue between members of both groups.
The visit also included a tour of the school's animal corner and a fun arts and crafts activity, but what remains in our hearts is the connection that was formed.
The understanding that when every voice is given a place, a shared melody emerges.
Thank you to the Lev HaSharon Democratic School in Hadassim for your warm, open-hearted, and meaningful hospitality.
We're already looking forward to the next gathering 💛
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A Heartfelt Thank You to Dr. Melissa Schwartz and Congratulations to Jonathan (Jonny) Klahr 💙
After a meaningful four-year term, Dr. Melissa Schwartz is concluding her role as Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Israel Elwyn.
Throughout her term, Melissa led the Board with dedication, professionalism, and a deep commitment to Israel Elwyn’s vision of promoting full community participation and independent, meaningful lives for people with disabilities.
We thank Melissa for her important contributions, her thoughtful and determined leadership, and her genuine partnership along the way. We are pleased that Melissa will continue to be part of Israel Elwyn’s leadership as a member of the Board of Directors.
At the Board meeting held this month, Jonny Klahr was elected as the new Chairperson of the Board.
We warmly welcome Jonny into this role and wish him great success, meaningful impact, and many years of inspiring leadership as he works alongside Israel Elwyn’s management, staff, people we support, and partners.
Thank you, Melissa, and best of luck, Jonny! 💙
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