The Keshet Difference

All the difference in the world

From the very start, Keshet has had a different approach to providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities and special needs. As we continue to grow, adding more programs, residences and services in the future, the things that make us different will make all the difference in the world to our participants, their families and the communities around us.

Keshet is truly one-of-a-kind

Keshet grows alongside children and families.

We’re one of a few organizations in the country where a child can start in programs at 3 years-old and continue throughout adulthood.

Keshet doesn’t have specific criteria to be accepted into our programs.

We find ways to provide services to people with complex and complicated needs, who have often been turned away from other programs. It’s what we’re built for. Keshet is expanding to serve an increasing number of people with social and emotional disorders as well as intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities.

Keshet’s therapeutic day schools work within larger schools.

This allows us to foster inclusion, one of our main values, in academic and non-academic classes, as well as extra-curricular activities.

Keshet is a national leader in inclusive summer camp.

We partner with established camps to make sure that camp is available to children of all abilities. We’re also regularly asked by the Foundation for Jewish Camp, JCC Association and American Camp Association to consult with them and provide expertise in creating fully inclusive camp programs.

Family members of people with disabilities comprise over 50% of Keshet’s Board of Directors.

Originally established as an organization for families by families, having this representation on the Board is a way to ensure we retain our family orientation.

Keshet has a high staff to participant ratio.

Our average ratio is 1:3 with many programs, schools and camps specifically, operating at 1:1.

At Keshet, we meet challenges head-on.

Our philosophy is not to dwell on if something can be done, but, rather, on how we will do it.

Keshet’s grown into an increasingly diverse and welcoming community.

Originally founded as a Jewish organization, we’ve grown in scope and diversity, all while staying true to our original inspiration, tradition and beliefs.

Keshet supports our staff to continually learn and grow.

As research and best practice in the disability field is always changing, we encourage knowledge and growth by providing tuition reimbursements for courses towards degrees and certifications.

Keshet’s programs, especially for teens, adults and staff, emphasize service and volunteering.

We believe it’s important for people to give back to the communities that give us so much.

Every program at Keshet involves participating in the broader community.

This provides real-life experience and independence for our participants, while helping to remove the stigma often present when people with disabilities are in public spaces.

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