Disability Inclusion
We are proud to partner with the Ruderman Family Foundation, which advocates for and advances the inclusion of people with disabilities throughout our society. In 2015, we launched the USCJ Ruderman Inclusion Action Community, a program that provides consulting services on best practices related to inclusivity, helping affiliated kehillot develop comprehensive visions and action plans.
This effort aims to foster inclusivity within all aspects of congregational community:Â from the entryway to the bima (platform) of our buildings; from education programs to prayer services; from social activities to the perceptions and attitudes of congregants and leaders. Completion of the program allows kehillot to ensure that people with disabilities and their families fully and comfortably participate in congregational life.
After a little over a year of actual operation, wonderful things are happening ...the Inclusion Initiative is now developing new projects. We look forward to supporting our members in removing barriers to full and comfortable participation in synagogue life, in life generally. We are definitely on the right path!
Hospitality is temporary.  Inclusion is permanent.
Organizations to help your congregation on the path to inclusion:
Resources
Related Blog Posts
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Differently Abled at Ohev Shalom
October 31, 2018 22 Heshvan, 5779Read about Community! @ Ohev, Ohev Shalom of Buck County's program that makes their synagogue a more inclusive environment to people of all abilities.
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A House of Prayer for All People
September 27, 2018 18 Tishri, 5779 -
Beth El works toward inclusion with new sanctuary, streaming services
May 22, 2018 8 Sivan, 5778Beth El renovated its chapel to be more inclusive following participation in USCJ Ruderman Inclusion Action Community.
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How USCJ’s Inclusion Action Community Impacted an Entire Congregation
May 7, 2018 22 Iyar, 5778Inclusion leads to renaissance in synagogue culture at Congregation Beth Torah of Richardson, TX.
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Fourth Cohort of the USCJ Ruderman Inclusion Action Community Launches
February 9, 2018 24 Shevat, 577815 new congregations join the fourth cohort of the USCJ Ruderman Inclusion Action Community.