Equity and Inclusion
Jewish for Good was founded with inclusion as a core value. From the design of our physical spaces to our programmatic initiatives, we strive every day and in every way to fully include people of all abilities and identities. What sets us apart is our fierce commitment to inclusion of all kinds. It’s baked in, not bolted on.
It starts with our beliefs:
You belong here. Because everyone — regardless of ability, gender, sexuality, identity, background, religious affiliation, race, or anything else that makes you you — belongs here. We are committed to recognizing and celebrating the diversity of our community.
Inclusion permeates our core values. It’s why we have a barrier-free environment, inclusive policies for programs, and our LGBTQIA+ Inclusion and Accessibility Initiatives.
It shows in all our actions:
Inclusion is infused into everything we do. Our staff and support team all undergo disability and LGBTQIA+ inclusion training. Our AfterCrew and Camp Shelanu Summer Camp staff work closely with families to modify programs and activities to celebrate diverse types of participation. If anyone expresses a different gender identity, we are intentional about showing our support, including using their preferred pronouns. We’re proud of our many all-gender bathrooms for people and their families to feel safe and comfortable.
In our Events Calendar, you can see an Inclusion marker on certain program entries. This indicates that the program or service has built-in support to create enjoyable, sucessful experiences for those with disabilities. Not on our mailing list? Email us to be added!
EXPLORE JEWISH FOR GOOD’S INCLUSION PROGRAMMING:
Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM)
Each February, Jewish for Good celebrates the unique contributions of individuals with disabilities and raises awareness for inclusion efforts within our Jewish community. All JDAIM events are presented free of charge. Join us for a monthlong collection of curated, inclusive programs:
JDAIM ART SHOW: GALLERY OPENING
Sunday February 1, 10am-12pm
Showcasing art from local artists with disabilities. Refreshments provided.
We are currently accepting submissions of art by artists with disabilities or art that deals with the topic of disability.
Artists are invited to submit up to three pieces priced for sale (if they choose) and provide an artist statement. All profits will go directly the artist. Artwork should be dropped off at the Jewish for Good (1937 W. Cornwallis Rd, Durham 27705) by January 23rd.
Here is a link to tell us about your submissions: https://jccfed.wufoo.com/forms/z1722a4a0u2o400/
JDAIM SONG AND DANCE PARTY
Sunday February 15, 4:30-6pm
Come shake your tailfeather at an event designed to bring people with and without disabilities, together on the dance floor.
JDAIM FRIENDS FOR GOOD: VIDEO GAME TOURNAMENT
Tuesday February 17, 2:30-4pm
Sign up to compete in a Mario Kart Tournament hosted by our monthly social group that connects adults with and without disabilities.
JDAIM PARENT PANEL: THE ROLE OF COMMUNITY CENTERS FOR FAMILIES RAISING CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES
Sunday February 22, 12:30-2:30pm
Parents raising children with disabilities of all ages and stages will share stories, insights and challenges. Breakout groups will follow the panel. Childcare will be provided.
Good, Good, Good Music Collective
Good Good Good is a community-powered music collective organized by Jewish for Good that brings together adults with and without disabilities to make music. We focus on movement, percussion and vocal music games and activities that help us learn to make music together. All levels are welcome!
The group meets on Tuesday afternoons from 2:30–4pm on these dates:
January 13 • January 27 • February 10 • February 24 • March 24 • April 7 • April 21
Friends for Good
Our inclusive social program fosters meaningful relationships between adults with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities through casual social meetups. This group explores hobbies and interests introduced by group members.
The group meets on the third Tuesday of each month, from 2:30-4pm:
December 16 • January 20 • February 17 • March 17 • April 21 • May 18
Questions? Email our Inclusion Program Manager, Danny Lighthearted at dlightheart@jewishforgood.org
Inclusion Advisory Council
The Inclusion Advisory Council advises Jewish for Good on how to meet our goal of making all programs and services accessible to all community members regardless of ability, gender, sexuality, cultural background, religious affiliation, or race. The committee is composed of active Jewish for Good members.
Interested in participating? Contact Danny Lightheart at dlightheart@jewishforgood.org
Inclusion at Camp Shelanu
We believe that every child can succeed, every child can participate, and every child can make friends. We believe that inclusion is good for everyone – kids with and without disabilities, families, staff, and our community!
We are accredited by the National Inclusion Project and are a legacy partner to implement the Let’s ALL Play program model for inclusion of campers with disabilities.
Camp Shelanu received grant funding from NIP from 2012-2014, and is now funded through individual donations, program revenues, and the BRIDGES Foundation. We are committed to not passing program expenses along to families of campers with a disability.
To learn more about Camp Shelanu Inclusion Program, click here!
Sensory Swims
Indivduals with autism and other sensory needs and their families are invited to join us for sensory-friendly swim times each month this summer, with low capacity, delayed spray features, and lifeguard whistles used in emergencies only. Our Sensory Swim events are FREE and open to the public.
These events take place 2-3 times during the summer months. Check out events calendar or aquatics page for more info!
For more information, to request accommodations, or to give input or feedback to our Inclusion Advisory Council, contact Danny Lightheart, our Inclusion Program Manager at dlightheart@jewishforgood.org
Want to support our inclusion mission year-round? Make a donation today!