From a child’s first Braille storybook to a grandparent adjusting to low vision, we are here at every stage of life.
Special education
We speak up for children who are blind or visually impaired, to help make sure they have every opportunity to succeed.
We offer expertise and support so students with diverse learning needs can succeed in Jewish schools and take part meaningfully in Jewish life. We advise students, families, day schools, congregational schools, preschools, educators and institutions that want to become more inclusive.
Thank you so much for the large print siddur. Now one of the second grade students in my class will be able to pray more easily!
— Penny U., Hollis, NY
Care for the aging
As we grow older, many adults begin to lose their sight. We offer support and guidance through the change to life with low vision, and resources to understand vision loss and meet its daily challenges.
By empowering people, we hope to offer practical ways to improve daily life and ease the emotional strain that often comes with low vision. We help identify the resources available to each person, for their specific needs, where they live — and we keep building partnerships to expand what is available to older adults.
My mother-in-law suffered an eye stroke, leaving her blind in one eye and with difficulties in the other. The large print allows her to concentrate and daven. She was so troubled not to be able to do something she had done for over 70 years. Now she can. Thanks so much.
— Zvi M., Spring Valley, NY
Bar Mitzvah lessons
Reading from the Torah before the whole congregation is one of the most meaningful parts of becoming a Bar Mitzvah — and a real challenge for a child who cannot read small print.
We provide enlarged lesson materials for each child, taking into consideration the best course of study for each individual student based on the student’s background and previous Jewish or Hebrew education, to help them meet the goals they have set for their special day. It is our way of warmly welcoming them into an adulthood of Torah and Mitzvos.
Connect, Learn & Grow with Your Personal Torah Mentor
Chat and learn Torah with a partner for 30 minutes each week. Whatever your background or level, we will match you with a learning partner. Learn what you want, when you want, at your own pace — philosophy, Jewish thought, customs, whatever interests you.
It is not only about learning: these conversations build friendships that last a lifetime, and enrich the lives of students and mentors alike. Everyone has something to teach — perhaps you can be a mentor too.
Tell us a little about yourself and we will match you with a learning partner. You will learn by phone for 30 minutes a week, at a time that suits you.
Call us and tell us a little about yourself or your loved one. We will help you find what fits.
Thanks for your prompt, caring, compassionate help at a time when I was Chicken Little and the sky was falling. I was overwhelmed by a visual problem. It’s wonderful to know someone who cares and understands. There are no words with which to say thank you.
