Yachad New York, a division of the Orthodox Union, will proudly mark a significant milestone at its upcoming annual gala: the 25-year partnership between Yachad and Camp Morasha, an enduring collaboration that has transformed the landscape of inclusive summer programming for individuals with disabilities.
The gala will take place on Wednesday, April 29th at 6:30 PM at The Sands Atlantic Beach, bringing together community members, families, participants, and supporters to celebrate those who have made a lasting impact on the mission of inclusion.
As part of the evening’s program, Camp Morasha will be recognized for this milestone anniversary. The award will be accepted by Camp Morasha Director Jeremy Joszef together with the Wahrhaftig family, in memory of Rabbi Abraham Wahrhaftig z”l, whose visionary leadership laid the foundation for this transformative partnership.
Twenty-five years ago, Rabbi Wahrhaftig, then Director of Camp Morasha, partnered with Yachad to open the camp’s doors to youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities. At a time when inclusive programming was far less common, this initiative was groundbreaking. Together, Camp Morasha and Yachad created a thoughtfully structured environment that ensured every camper could participate in the camp experience while receiving the individualized support they needed.
From dedicated bunk spaces to specialized staff support, the program was designed to foster not only accessibility, but genuine belonging. Yachad participants became integrated members of the camp community, forming friendships, building confidence, and sharing in the joy and growth that define the summer camp experience.
Over the years, the partnership has continued to evolve and expand. Today, Yachad members at Camp Morasha engage not only as campers alongside their peers, but also as contributors to the daily life of camp through meaningful vocational opportunities. Whether assisting in the dining hall, working in the canteen, or supporting various camp functions, participants develop and gain valuable life and job skills under the guidance of dedicated staff, fostering greater independence and self-confidence.
This past summer, camp director Jeremy Joszef marked the program’s 25th anniversary, celebrated in a way that captured the essence of the partnership. During Camp Morasha’s beloved annual Shiria sing-off, the theme “We Can All Sing” reflected the unity, joy, and inclusivity that have become hallmarks of the Yachad presence at camp. The moment served as a powerful reminder that the strength of the Morasha community lies in embracing every individual.
Under the continued leadership of Director Jeremy Joszef, the partnership has not only been maintained but strengthened. His commitment ensures that Camp Morasha remains a place where inclusion is not simply a program, but a core value woven into the fabric of camp life. As Jeremy expressed, “Hosting our Yachad campers each summer is the privilege of a lifetime. Celebrating the program’s 25th summer reminded all of us how blessed we are to partner with such an incredible organization.”
For Yachad, serving thousands of individuals and their families across the globe, partnerships like the one with Camp Morasha are essential to advancing its mission. By listening to the evolving needs of the community and developing innovative programming, Yachad continues to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to live, learn, and thrive as valued members of the Jewish community.
As Yachad honors this 25-year milestone, it celebrates not only a partnership, but a legacy. One built on vision, compassion, and a shared belief in the power of inclusion.
Community members are invited to join the celebration and support Yachad’s vital work at the upcoming gala. For reservations or more information, please visit yachad.org/newyork/gala or contact Rebecca Shatz at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
