In 2024, we opened our hearts and our doors wider than ever before, creating opportunities and building brighter futures for children, adults and families in our community. Thanks to you, Keshet continued to grow, innovate and make a lasting impact on countless lives. As we begin this new year, I am filled with gratitude for your support.
When I think of all the wonderful things that happened last year, one of my favorite moments was something that happened at our high school. Students did an “All About Me” assignment, sharing their life stories and future dreams through pictures and mementos. Whether they spoke, used AAC devices or wrote, each student displayed incredible pride and confidence as they told their stories. Our team ensured that each student had the individualized support needed to shine as they presented in front of their loved ones, Keshet staff and friends from Ida Crown. Many have been with Keshet since elementary school, and seeing them grow into independent young adults with big dreams for the future was remarkable.
For 2025, we want to create more moments like this where people are empowered to be their best through Keshet programs. There’s a lot on the horizon at Keshet this year, including:
Heading to overnight camps: Keshet remains committed to ensuring that kids and teens with disabilities can experience sleepaway camp. For Summer 2025, we’ve grown our camp partnerships to include 5 different overnight camps in Wisconsin, Iowa and Indiana. We believe our expanded offerings will meet the needs of many campers who rely on Keshet to have incredible summers.
Introducing a parent-tot program: We’re creating a welcoming space for parents of babies with disabilities, whose journeys may look very different from their friends. By connecting families early, this program provides support, resources and a sense of community to navigate this experience together. Keshet received $38,000 from JUF to launch this new initiative that is based upon the highly-regarded Mommy and Me program from Shalva Israel.
Providing more opportunities for more adults: As the need for adult services continues to skyrocket, we have a responsibility to expand our programs. Just a few weeks ago, Keshet received a transformative $1,000,000 gift from Harriette and Ted Perlman. Over the next three years, these funds will support increased enrollment at GADOL, our adult day program, and expanding adult social and recreational programs.
Getting closer to Keshet’s community center: In a few weeks, construction will begin at Keshet’s future home in Highland Park. We’re adding a central staircase, creating classrooms for transition, building a café, raising the roof for a gymnasium and so much more. Although we won’t be moving to the space until 2026, keep an eye out for community events in support of the new center throughout 2025. You can learn more about what the center will offer and the One Community Campaign at keshet.org/home.
These plans are just the beginning of everything there will be to share in 2025, and I want you to be part of it. Mark your calendars for Keshet’s Rainbow Banquet on Sunday, March 9, where will we celebrate our community and impact.
Wishing you a 2025 filled with happiness, good health and belonging.
Best wishes and Happy Hanukkah,
Jen Phillips
CEO & President
