Inspiring Inclusion in Jewish Community Programs

 

Every February since 2009, North American Jewish communities have celebrated Jewish Disability Awareness Month. Now known as Jewish Disability and Inclusion Month (JDAIM), it is an opportunity to highlight our commitment to removing barriers, celebrating diversity and connecting with our Jewish values. Locally, there have been a number of programs and professional development activities that have been offered over the years. This year, Jewish Federation has established the new Inspiring Inclusion grants.

 

As part of the 2020 Strategic Priorities, we consulted with community members, organizations, volunteer leaders and communal professionals. In answer to their feedback, we committed to providing more flexible funding options that could support grassroots initiatives.

 

The one-time Inspiring Inclusion grants will help to foster greater access and participation in Jewish community life and to expand academic and employment opportunities for children, youth and young adults who currently face barriers due to their physical, emotional or developmental challenges.

 

Funding of up to $2,500 will be granted to organizations to pilot a new idea, program or event, or adapt an existing program or event, to facilitate the physical and social inclusion of young people and their families into Jewish community life. Events or activities can range from recreational, cultural, spiritual or educational opportunities to programs related to employment or pre-employment training.

 

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit or grassroots organizations not currently receiving Federation funding for inclusion activities that are committed to promoting and incorporating inclusive programming as part of their overall mandate, such as:

  • Day or supplementary schools, synagogues or other Jewish community organizations;
  • Grassroots or informal groups of young adults, family members or volunteers; or
  • Individuals with expertise who are committed to inspiring physical or social inclusion in Jewish community programming.

 

Completed applications should be submitted electronically to sberger@jewishvancouver.com by January 15, 2018. Find the application form here.

 

Announcement of successful projects will be made in early February as part of the 2018 Jewish Disablility Awareness and Inclusion Month. Proposed activities must be completed by December 30, 2018.

 

For more information or program ideas, please check the Jewish Disability and Inclusion Month website: inclusioninnovations.com/jdaim.