Shutaf
Creating Inclusive Spaces for All Abilities
“Our kids couldn’t just join activities at the local community center, so what were they supposed to do after school and during vacations?” Beth Steinberg and Miriam Avraham — mothers of children with developmental challenges — asked that very question as they identified a glaring societal void and then moved to fill it.
Shutaf, the Jerusalem-based organization they created, practices an inclusionary model of informal programming mixing kids, teens and young adults across the spectrum of developmental abilities. Beginning with a summer camp attracting 10 participants in 2007, Shutaf now offers year-round programming serving more than 300.
In the process, Shutaf (Hebrew for “partner”), is elevating inclusionary programming in Israel and beyond. The organization recently released a best practices guide for formal and informal educators who, Beth says, “share our mission to make the world a more inclusive place for people of all abilities.”
Our funds support staffing and a summer music program.
What Good People at Shutaf Are Saying
“I became almost grateful for the chance to step back from the frenzy of the day-to-day work, and truly reflect on the future of Shutaf.“
— Miriam Avraham, Founding Director
Read More »