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The center offers a full range of vocational training, life skills development, and day program services
Yachad is launching a new adult day program for adults with emotional, intellectual, and developmental disabilities in Baltimore. The program, in partnership with JUF, aims to fill a significant gap in services for families in the area, providing essential day services and vocational support for individuals ages 21 and up.
Yachad is an international organization run through the Orthodox Union that’s dedicated to enriching the lives of Jewish individuals with disabilities and their families, via social, recreational, educational, and vocational programs in 10 regions across the United States, Israel, and Canada.
The Jewish Union Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities, connecting them with Jewish life through a range of health and human services.
The need for an adult day services program in Baltimore has been evident for years, as many families have voiced their concerns about finding services for post-high school aged individuals.
“We hope to support and serve families in the greater Baltimore area with all aspects of our new day program,” says Dena Cooperman, Executive Director of JUF in New York, who has been active in the new center’s development.
“Yachad is excited to offer Adult Day Services to Baltimore,” says Michael Appelbaum, Yachad’s Assistant Director. “We believe that coordinating with the many great organizations in this community will foster a true sense of belonging for our Yachad participants.”
The new program aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can develop essential life skills, social skills, and self-advocacy training.
“We’re so happy to be here and play an active part in the Baltimore Jewish community and to build our connection in a meaningful way,” Cooperman adds.
With a focus on Yachad participants who are working or pre-vocational, the day program will offer training in areas such as communication skills, friendship building, time management, and computer skills.
The program will also offer job readiness training, and opportunities to engage in community service, field trips, and various classes.
“This is an exciting next step,” says Sima Levine, Director of JUF at the new center. “Yachad has been a part of Baltimore for many years, and now adults have a day program to call their own.”
The program currently has ten participants, allowing for a familiar and supportive atmosphere as they transition into this new phase of their lives. “It’s really nice for individuals to be able to come to us all day and attend events at night. We hope to feel like their home away from home.”
Yachad’s day program is not just about providing services; it is also about building connections.
As the center begins its journey, the support and involvement of families and community members will be crucial.
“We’re looking to partner with schools, shuls, organizations, and local libraries to create more inclusion opportunities within the community,”says Levine.
Yachad’s new program in Baltimore represents a significant step forward for adults with disabilities, and invites the local community to play an integral role in fostering opportunities for inclusion. Together, the hope is to create a more supportive and empowering environment for all.
