Here are some resources for parents of children with special needs.
Jewish Family and Children’s Services
Recently opened three new centers for children with special needs in Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo. Also launched monthly support group for parents with autistic children. Contact Peninsula coordinator Miranda Gabriel, (650) 688-3028 or San Francisco coordinator Amy Weiss, (415) 359-2466.
Friendship Circle
Palo Alto and San Francisco program that finds mentors and friends for children with disabilities. Both offer summer camps and family programs. Contact Miryum Mochkin in San Francisco, (415) 571-8770; Ezzy Schusterman or Nechamy Munitz in Palo Alto, (650) 858-6990.
Bureau of Jewish Education in San Francisco
Has a special education consultant who works with congregational and day school teachers. Also holds summertime Shabbatons with activities and “no-shush” family Shabbat and Havdallah services. Contact Flora Kupferman, (415) 751-6983 ext. 122.
Center for Jewish Living and Learning of the Greater East Bay
With funding from the Jewish Community Foundation, is starting a special needs initiative called Koach L’Lamed L’Kulam, or “The power to teach all.” Contact Rabbi James Brandt, (510) 839-2900.
Union of Reform Judaism
Published an education resource guide entitled “Al Pi Darco: According to Their Ways,” available online at www.urj.org/jfc/inclusion/lehiyot. Also has initiative called Lehiyot that promotes disability awareness and inclusion. Will hold a regional conference on the topic June 10 in Oakland. Contact Rebecca Schwartz, (415) 392.7080 ext. 29.
CopyrightJ, the Jewish news weekly of Northern California