Yachad’s annual New York Gala at The Sands in Atlantic Beach brought together hundreds of community members for an evening of connection, inspiration, and shared purpose. The room buzzed with excitement as guests gathered, united by Yachad’s mission and their shared commitment to advancing inclusion and belonging for individuals with disabilities through Yachad’s three pillars: education, employment, and relationships. Throughout the night, the enthusiasm was palpable, fueled by powerful stories of impact and a proud, dedicated community.
Relationships and belonging are at the heart of Yachad, and no moment of the evening captured this more powerfully than the honoring of the Goldstein family. For more than two decades, Brenda and Stanley Goldstein, along with their son JJ, have been deeply connected to the organization. For their family, Yachad is a community where JJ feels included, valued, and deeply connected to Jewish life. Honoring the Goldsteins was especially meaningful, and JJ captured it best when he said, “Yachad is part of my mishpachah; it is my family.”
The future of Yachad’s mission was on full display as the organization honored an extraordinary group of high school students who exemplify youth, leadership, and inclusion. Throughout their high school years at Central, DRS, HAFTR, HANC, Magen David, MTA, Rambam, SAR, SKA, and the Yeshivah of Flatbush, these students devoted themselves to strengthening Yachad’s presence in their schools by orchestrating meaningful initiatives that brought their peers together with Yachad participants. As one student reflected: “Yachad’s motto is that everyone belongs, and working with Yachad truly brings that message to life. Everyone really belongs here.” The students’ influence extended beyond the classroom, as they participated in Shabbatonim, evening programs, and community fundraising efforts, building genuine friendships and a lasting impression while learning leadership skills. Each of the recognized students has been impacted and will continue to impact the community around them.
At Yachad, meaningful inclusion extends into the workplace as well. The Jewish Union Foundation (JUF), Yachad’s employment arm, provides individuals with disabilities the real-world experience needed to develop professional skills and participate in the workforce. Yachad was proud to recognize Duvi Taub of White Glove Consulting for his extraordinary commitment to creating these opportunities, including welcoming Zahava, an IVDU alumna, as a valued member of his team. Zahava shared: “Now that I have a job, I feel like I mean something in the world,” a reflection that captures the pride, sense of self-worth, and purpose she has gained through meaningful employment.
Yachad also celebrated Camp Morasha for 25 years of partnership and dedication to inclusive experiences. Through the visionary leadership of Rabbi Abie Wahrhaftig z”l and thoughtful collaboration, Camp Morasha created an environment where Yachad participants could thrive as campers and employees alongside their peers. David Savitsky, President of Morasha, Jeremy Joszef, camp director, and members of the Wahrhaftig family accepted the award. This enduring partnership has transformed summers, built independence, and reinforced the belief that everyone belongs. Reflecting on Morasha’s impact, Avromie Adler, Yachad’s International Director, shared that “hundreds of thousands of community members have been impacted by this incredible show of achdus.” Honoring Camp Morasha marked a meaningful milestone and served as a heartfelt acknowledgment of the profound impact the camp has had on generations of campers.
It was a night filled with joy, pride, and an unmistakable sense of togetherness. From celebrating long-standing partnerships to honoring those shaping the future, the evening highlighted what is possible when people come together with a shared purpose. Yachad extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who attended, supported, and helped make this Gala such a meaningful and memorable event ensuring everyone belongs!
For more information or to support Yachad, please visit www.yachad.org/newyork or reach out to Rebecca Shatz at
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