(Courtesy of OU) The Yachad New Jersey Gala, held on Motzei Shabbat, January 4, was an evening filled with support, appreciation and inspiration. Attendees gathered at the Teaneck Marriott at GlenPointe to celebrate the ongoing commitment to inclusivity and opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

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.

As one of Yachad’s fundraisers, the gala centered around the organization’s three core pillars: education, employment and relationships – highlighting Yachad’s IVDU schools as the educational component, the Jewish Union Foundation (JUF) for employment, and the relationships fostered through Yachad’s summer and regional programs.

The event brought together a vibrant community that honored distinguished guests and expressed gratitude to the many individuals who graciously dedicate their time and resources to benefit Yachad participants.

Among the honorees were Dr. Aliza Frohlich for Women’s Leadership; Aliza and Gershi Adler for the Young Leadership/Alumni Award; Dov and Gayle Katz for the Keter Shem Tov Award; and the Kooijmans family for the Yachad Family Award. Jus By Julie and Sharon Herenstein were recognized for vocational and employment opportunities for the Yachad community with the Lev Business Award. Additionally, the High School Senior Leadership Award honored students for their impactful relationships with participants. The event was well-attended by staff and leadership, including Yachad’s international director Avromie Adler.

“Each of our honorees represents Yachad’s core values and reminds us of the powerful impact the organization has on creating an inclusive community,” said Raquel Selevan, director of Yachad New Jersey. “We depend on volunteers, local businesses, and community institutions to help us carry out our mission.”

Yachad expressed gratitude to the gala chairs and participants for a successful event, highlighting the importance of community involvement, and the dedication of all honorees in fostering meaningful connections and opportunities for the Yachad family.

“Our annual Yachad NJ Gala is a celebration of the work being done by Yachad year-round in the New Jersey community,” said Chani Herrmann, associate director of Yachad. “The community’s participation is crucial to our success, and all of our honorees have made significant contributions to the mission of Yachad. Their impact is felt continuously.”

There is still time to make a contribution to support the work of Yachad New Jersey. Donate now at yachad.org/njgala.

Yachad, a division of the Orthodox Union, holds an annual event highlighting the essential role of community support in enhancing opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities statewide.