New network connects Jewish disability services

Representatives from across Sydney’s Jewish communal sector have come together for the inaugural Inclusion Network meeting, a new collaborative effort aimed at strengthening support for people with disability and their families.

The meeting, hosted by The Choice Foundation, brought together leaders and practitioners from Masada College, Moriah College, Emanuel School, Jewish Care, Jewish House, Friendship Circle, Maccabi and The Choice Foundation itself, with the organisations collectively running programs spanning early intervention, in-school support, social connection, sport, employment and family respite.

The Choice Foundation, a family foundation approaching its 10th year, has funded around 20 programs across the community to date, working alongside JCA constituent organisations to build out the support network available to Jewish families living with disability.

The Choice Foundation manager Danielle Wakerman said the network was designed to encourage organisations to pool knowledge and resources.

“Our hope is that this becomes a space where we can share resources, learn from one another, better understand each organisation’s strengths, and make it easier to connect families, children and young adults with the support that’s right for them.”

A key theme of the discussion was the challenge many families face navigating what attendees described as the “post-school cliff”, where structured support can fall away after schooling ends without a clear transition plan. Participants agreed on the importance of reaching families earlier and more proactively to help bridge that gap.

The conversation also focused on the value of connection, both between organisations and between the families they serve. While each group brings distinct expertise, the consensus was that a coordinated approach would create a stronger safety net for community members with disability.

“Your openness and curiosity was very much appreciated, and we are feeling very hopeful that we can begin the real work towards ensuring no one in our community with disability is left with their needs unmet,” organisers told attendees following the meeting.

Collaboration has been a central part of The Choice Foundation’s mission since its establishment, with a particular focus on working across JCA constituent organisations to drive innovation and raise awareness around disability inclusion.

The Inclusion Network is intended to become an ongoing forum, giving participating organisations a regular space to coordinate efforts, identify service gaps and ensure families can be connected with the right support.