Adults

At Keshet, our programs are designed to provide choice, giving adults with disabilities the same rights, freedom to make their own choices and deserve to have their voices heard just as anyone else. Adults at GADOL have recently joined advocacy groups, where they spend time learning what their rights are and how to express those rights. As a result, our adults have become more equipped to self-advocate and independently make their own choices, allowing them to spend their days exactly how they want to.

This past weekend, my friends and I made the trip up to Camp Chi and Perlstein Retreat Center for the Fall Shabbaton. The Shabbaton is a weekend away for adults within the Keshet community to participate in all kinds of fun activities, celebrate Shabbat and hang out with friends and staff. Although this is only my second time going, I look forward to the Shabbaton every year and this year’s was so much fun.

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which celebrates the positive contributions of workers with disabilities and inclusive employment policies. As an organization, and with the generous support of two grants, we’ve responded to the challenges surrounding employment head-on, resulting in more opportunities for our adults to grow their skills and find meaningful job opportunities.

While most people walk through a day camp and see the activities, campers and counselors, at Keshet, we see something more. Through our lens, day camps are outdoor, unconventional voc skills labs with endless work and natural supports.

Experiencing GADOL’s book club gave me a lot of insight into the ways that our programming helps Keshet adults continue to live meaningful lives and create community in unexpected ways.  

As we continue living in the pandemic, encouraging mental health and wellness is a priority in all Keshet programs. A new coping skills group for adults provides practice and tools for managing emotions and feelings as life keeps changing.

Everyone in the Keshet community is invited to contribute a painted rock in memory and honor of Justin Coe.

Supporting people to return to work is the next phase of Keshet’s work during the pandemic.

GADOL took on the challenge of making matzah from scratch.

Jewish Disability, Awareness and Inclusion month should shine a light on other important features in our community — Advocacy and Belonging.

All of Keshet’s programs are making the most of visiting far-off destinations through virtual travel and tours.

Keshet’s Adult Programs, GADOL and MY Life, have offered programs focused on how participants can VOICE THEIR CHOICE.