Every February, we celebrate Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM), which offers an opportunity to reflect on the value of our inclusive Jewish community. The Bender JCC is a place where connection — spiritual, emotional, and physical — nurtures the wholeness of every individual 365 days a year.
JDAIM reminds us that inclusion is not just an ideal — it’s essential to our community. At the Bender JCC, inclusion isn’t a choice; it’s a responsibility to ensure that everyone — regardless of ability, gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other factor — truly belongs.
The Bender JCC is committed to belonging at every age and stage of life, from infancy with our Bender Dosik Parenting Center to retirees with our Selma Sweetbaum Senior Nutrition Program.
I asked some of our families to share why this inclusive community is so important to them: Ilana Jolson is the mother of five-year-old Jordan, a camper at Lessans Camp JCC and participant in after-school enrichments at the Bender JCC. Ilana shares:“The inclusion program at the Bender JCC offers a comfortable, supportive space where each of us can try new things, make friends, and celebrate every part of who we are. Trying something new can feel daunting, especially for kids who find routines reassuring. But knowing that camps and classes are held in such a welcoming environment makes it easier for us. The Bender JCC’s commitment to inclusion helps create a true sense of belonging, where everyone is encouraged to explore and grow at their own pace through every phase of life.”
For young Emme, the after-school programs with her peers have been priceless. Her mother comments: “The Bender JCC is committed to a level of inclusion that should be seen as a national model. The level of enthusiasm and joy that Emme
expresses each week as she prepares to explore art with her friends makes me so happy and truly proud to be a Bender JCC member. Thank you to the fantastic team for the tremendous work you do every day!”
Creating a sense of belonging begins with our youngest friends in our athletic fields, camp, and classrooms and evolves with the individuals we serve as they mature trough every age and life stage. For young adults in our community, inclusion means increased access to professional, vocational, and social opportunities. As a young adult tells us: “Inclusion is important because if you see someone left out, you should always try to include them. The Bender JCC means a lot of things. I fit in; I make friends.”
These stories highlight the important role that belonging plays in our lives, and of the ongoing work needed to ensure our community remains inclusive and welcoming for all.
