Focus on service Sarah Cehelyk and Maya Kurzman met when they joined JTeam Teen Philanthropy, one of the Federation’s teen leadership development programs, to learn how to make a difference.
tively, wanted to find a way to work together.
tion’s JTeam – to people with special needs: Horsing Around With Yachad.
Maya said, “One of the aspects of JTeam and the entire Jewish Federation that I admire so much is
Now, during Yachad’s monthly visits to Special Strides’ 200-acre farm, individuals ride horses, go on
As part of their JTeam activities, each had to research an area social
service program, and then explain to the rest of the group why the program they chose deserved financial support. Sarah chose Yachad, a national program with an East Brunswick chapter that encourages inclusion of people with special needs in Jewish community activities and programs. Maya chose Special Strides, a therapeutic equine center in Monroe that also works with special needs individuals and families. While both Yachad and Special Strides are Federation partners, neither one knew of the other. Sarah and Maya, from East Brunswick and Marlboro, respec-
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. nthropists Teen Phila m a e T J e Th
that it empowers us to think out Horsing Around W ith Yacha d at Spe of the box, to break away from the cial Strid es . norm.” cart rides, groom horses, and play Sarah added, “We were excited in the balance park, supervised by about our programs, and licensed therapists. thought that maybe we could combine the two in some way, and get more money for them.” These clever teens introduced Tobey Karpel, Coordinator of Yachad’s East Brunswick chapter, to Laurie Landy, Founder and Director of Special Strides, and came up with an entirely new offering available for free – thanks to a grant from the Federa-
Your gift helps people in need and makes the community stronger. Whether you make an annual pledge, create a legacy for future generations, pledge by phone or mail, your donation makes a difference – in the heart of New Jersey, in Israel, and around the world. Contact 732-588-1800 or jewishheartnj.org/donate
Participate Meet new people, gain new perspectives, and have fun at programs in our area. Find them at jewishheartnj.org/calendar
For Tobey, the collaboration has introduced Yachad to families that might not otherwise have known about their programs, which include Mom’s night out and siblings gatherings. Laurie is thrilled that Special Strides is expanding its reach and helping more people with special needs strengthen their bodies and their ability to communicate. These teens leveraged partnerships, dollars, and contacts to make the most of a service opportunity.
You ARE the community! Volunteer Together, we care for people in need, advocate for Israel, and strengthen the Jewish future. On March 19, volunteer at J-SERVE to work with teens on the international day of Jewish youth service. For details and other volunteer opportunities, contact lauras@jewishheartnj.org or 732-588-1800.