We’ve known about Keshet and the amazing work they do for a long time. It wasn’t until we were searching for mitzvah projects for our kids that we began to take a closer look into this incredible organization and what they do. Our middle son, Charlie, immediately became interested and was eager to find a meaningful way to get involved even before his bar mitzvah. Last spring, Charlie started volunteering weekly at Keshet Baseball and has grown in his involvement since. The experience was transformative, significantly boosting his confidence and providing him with the opportunity to make meaningful connections. We also attended this past year’s banquet, when our friends Carly and Stephen Sear were the event chairs. Their story about the way that Keshet has impacted them strikes a very personal chord with us and makes us even prouder to support Keshet.
Our son Charlie has a unique level of empathy and understanding and can see the importance of a powerful community like Keshet even at a young age. Volunteering weekly at baseball, he immediately connected with one of Keshet’s participants, Trevor. Their friendship grew during other Keshet programs they attend together. Charlie doesn’t just see this as an opportunity to give back; it is a chance to build relationships and truly get to know the participants for who they are. Their enthusiasm and appreciation for life have left a lasting impression on him, and he feels equally grateful to be included.
Keshet stands out from other organizations we’ve supported due to its strong community presence. We feel that our contributions, whether financial or through volunteering, are directly making a difference. Keshet’s direct connection to its participants ensures that our support goes where it is most needed. The participants are actively involved in every single thing, whether it’s the choir performing at the annual banquet or advocating for their own needs at programming. Even small gifts can have a significant impact at Keshet, and it’s great to know that you can make a genuine impact at any level.
However, being involved with Keshet is not just about giving money; it’s about showing up for participants and supporting them through everything they do. The organization’s adaptability and commitment to supporting participants in any way possible is truly inspiring. One of the speakers at the Rainbow Banquet said something that really struck a chord with me: “You can always find the win.” Keshet always sees the “ability” in disability. They go above and beyond to meet the needs of its participants. They don’t say no; they say how.
Being part of Keshet’s community offers so much to those involved. It connects people who might never have met otherwise, like Charlie and Trevor. Charlie is continually surprised by how much he gains from these relationships. It’s even more vital for those who aren’t directly connected to Keshet to understand what the organization does and why the work is so important. A disability can affect anyone at any stage of life, and it’s important for people to know that Keshet is a safe and welcoming place for people to turn to when they need it.
Every organization has mission, vision, and values, but seeing how Keshet brings these to life is incredibly powerful. The joy, community, and connections that exist within Keshet’s community are unlike anything else. We feel fortunate to be able to support such a worthy cause and are excited for the future, especially with the new space in Highland Park. We look forward to seeing how Charlie and the rest of our family can continue to be involved and how Keshet will grow and thrive for many years to come. We are proud to be part of Keshet and to support its mission to create a more inclusive community for everyone.
