by Lauren Berndt, Keshet Chief Development Officer
When I think of a friendship created through Keshet, I think of my daughter and her friend Jess. Royce and Jess met at Keshet choir practice. Jess had been participating in choir for many years, but it was Royce’s first time. When Royce was hesitant to enter the choir room on the first day, Jess tapped her on the shoulder and gestured for her to follow. Royce looked at me, then Jess, then followed her into choir practice. From that moment on, they sat next to each other. Jess doesn’t communicate verbally, but Royce understood everything she said. They formed the most special bond.
I had the unique opportunity to watch all of this unfold. Reflecting upon that moment, I realized we all need a place to belong. Jess welcomed Royce into her community and Royce felt a sense of belonging. As a seven year old, she couldn’t express what she was feeling but she talks about her friend Jess all the time!
You have the opportunity to support lasting friendships and a sense of belonging for all Keshet participants no matter their ability. In honor of International Friendship Day on July 30, all donations to Keshet’s summer campaign will be matched dollar-for-dollar thanks to an anonymous match!
Double your impact and build new friendships by donating to Keshet today. Go to keshet.org/smores.
