The Orthodox Union’s Yachad Los Angeles held an event in Beverly Hills on March 12 to increase awareness of the services it offers to those with developmental disabilities. Yachad is an international organization dedicated to enriching the lives of Jewish individuals with disabilities and their families.

More than 75 people attended, including local community members, and Yachad families and participants. They watched a video showcasing Yachad’s work; enjoyed a wine and beer tasting; and viewed artwork created (and for sale) by Pesach Menkes, a 15-year-old Yachad member. Attendees purchased all of the paintings by the end of the evening. 

Rabbi Adir Posy, national director of the OU’s Synagogue Initiatives and associate rabbi of L.A.’s Beth Jacob Congregation, spoke about Yachad’s important role in the Los Angeles Jewish community. Yachad Los Angeles regional director Samantha Cymerint and Yachad associate director Chani Herrmann discussed Yachad’s impact on the local, national and global levels.

Cymerint described the event as both elegant and enjoyable: “One thing I hear over and over again from parents is that they are so appreciative of what we have to offer and how there is really something for everyone.” 

Yachad Los Angeles serves participants in two separate chapters catering to those in the city in the Pico-Robertson area and in the Valley. Approximately 25 to 30 individuals currently take part on a given night in Yachad Los Angeles programming with the city chapter holding events on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights, and every other weekend. Activities take place on Thursday nights in the Valley.

For more information, email: losangelesyachad@ou.org.