Springtime – Executive Director’s Message

JSDD is always looking forward to the arrival of spring, and still this was a very busy winter. The expansion of residential opportunities which will support ten (10) additional men and women is just one of the newest agency highlights. This new supervised apartment project in West Orange is the result of the collaboration for which we honored developer, Rocco Varma at JSDD’s Annual Gala in November 2023.

The WAE Center always melds connection, celebration and relevant curriculum within their class offerings. Most recently programming included:  MLK Day, Black History Month, Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month, Valentine’s Day, and so much more.

Heidi Gallery welcomes a new Gallery Manager, Jeremy Moss. The expanding calendar of events, exhibits, juried art shows, and workshops held in the Gallery are fully inclusive of the entire community and is a source of pride and inspiration for our member artists. The most recent Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest Centennial Exhibit opening reception was attended by nearly 300 people who expresses awe of the Heidi Gallery space. We are so proud to be partnering on this incredibly special endeavor.

The most exciting for us is always the opportunities for residents and members to come together for special occasions… a showcase of performing artists held in the Gallery highlighting talent and ability, the 2nd  Annual JSDD Prom held at a local catering venue with a focus on friendship and fun, and a Centennial Shabbat celebration in the WAE Center Social Hall fostering spiritual connections… were just three of the most recent of those occasions. Stay tuned…our calendars in April, May, and June are jam packed! Always looking forward to what comes next and hope you will continue to be a part of it.

B’Shalom,

Linda Press