(Courtesy of Yachad) Families from across the northeast gathered for an unforgettable experience at the Yachad Family Shabbaton. Held at the Stamford Hilton in Connecticut, this special event brought together 650 participants for a Shabbat filled with warmth, support and spiritual nourishment.

Yachad participants, siblings and parents enjoyed an incredible experience and benefitted from valuable programming which included inspirational lectures, engaging support group panels, Torah shiurim, fun activities, lively singing and dancing, and unique opportunities to bond with others in similar circumstances. The shabbaton also included Yachad’s annual eighth grade leadership shabbaton, where Yachad welcomed over 50 eighth grade students who participated in sensitivity trainings and team building activities, and heard from some of the speakers on the topic of leadership. Shabbat concluded with the Havdalah service, where harmonious melodies created a magical atmosphere of togetherness and reflection.

Participants and families left the shabbaton with an invigorated sense of belonging, bound by feelings of chizuk and community support. Organizers expressed their gratitude for the volunteers, donors and sponsors who made this heartwarming event possible, and families eagerly look forward to next year’s shabbaton.

For more information on how to get involved with Yachad, visit www.yachad.org. To make a donation, visit www.yachad.org/newjersey/donate.