Thoughts of a Gesher Donor

As Jews, we believe that acts of generosity go beyond the mere transfer of goods or funds to those in need. Helping others—Tzedakah—is an act of justice, a sacred obligation to bring fairness and balance to the world as part of our covenant with G-d.

This month marks Jewish Disabilities Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM)—a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the needs of individuals with disabilities and advancing their full inclusion in Jewish communal life.

The JCC has long been a beacon of inclusivity in the Pittsburgh region; it’s a community where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. The JCC’s Gesher program provides an array of opportunities for differently abled adults to engage in enriching JCC activities and specialized programming aimed at fostering independence, facilitating social connections, and nurturing overall well-being. Just last month, the JCC broke ground on a multi-million dollar innovative project supporting inclusivity in summer camps. The expansion at the JCC’s summer camp site in Monroeville will help meet the needs of a growing number of neurodivergent campers and their families while at the same time ensuring a high-quality experience for all campers.

In Jewish tradition, we recognize that those who have been granted the means to give have an obligation. As outlined in Maimonides’ Laws of Gifts to the Poor, the highest form of charity is not simply providing financial support but empowering individuals—whether through gifts, loans, partnerships, or employment opportunities—to achieve stability and independence.

This belief is deeply embedded in our values and is why we are honored to partner with the JCC in launching a new transitional employment training pilot initiative—a comprehensive supported employment program—backed by a $100,000 matching gift to help ensure its success.

It is particularly meaningful for us to announce our support for this new pilot initiative now, building on the success of existing JCC programs like Gesher and its neurodiversity initiatives at day camps. Through our support, we aim to help the JCC expand its ability to create meaningful employment pathways.

For us, supporting this initiative is not just about giving—it is about receiving the immeasurable gift of knowing that we are helping build a more inclusive, just and compassionate world.

We encourage others to recognize the profound power of giving and consider joining us in supporting this initiative. Together, we can make a lasting impact—one that uplifts lives, strengthens our community, and honors the Jewish values that guide us.

If you’re interesting in supporting the Gesher Transitional Employment Training Pilot Initiative, please contact Fara Marcus, JCC Chief Development and Marketing Officer, 412-339-5413 or [email protected]