History of Libenu
Dr. Shana Erenberg’s article, Beyond Inclusion: The Case for Belonging, is published in eJewish Philanthropy.
Libenu is a featured organization of the Righteous Crowd, a National Jewish Giving Circle.
Libenu graduates from Upstart’s Venture Accelerator.
Libenu receives a major Breakthrough Grant from the Jewish Federation to expand Lev Chicago Respite to include teenagers with disabilities.
Slingshot Fund selects Libenu as one of the most inspirational nonprofits in Chicago.
Clients move into the new Libenu Women’s Home in Skokie.
Libenu opens Lev Chicago Respite in conjunction with Jewish Child and Family Services, providing afternoon services for families with younger children with disabilities.
Libenu finishes renovations on an apartment building in West Rogers Park and opens the fourth residence to accommodate clients on the waiting list.
Libenu launches Cupful’s of Love, making hot cups featuring the clients’ artwork and providing gainful employment for clients. Cups are featured in local coffee shops in Metropolitan Chicago.
Libenu is selected by Upstart Accelerator as one of the six most innovative Jewish not-for-profit organizations in the world.
Young Leadership Board is initiated, offering inclusive social and recreational activities for Libenu clients.
Libenu cosponsors an inclusive Purim costume party with Yachad, Friendship Circle, and Hillel.
Libenu opens its third home, serving a group of men from the waiting list.
CHOICE Vocational and Day Program opens as a collaboration between Libenu and Clearbrook.
Libenu hosts inclusive social events and holiday celebrations.
The first Libenu Women’s Home opens in Skokie. Libenu is featured on the front page of the Chicago Tribune.
The Libenu Men move to their brand new, fully accessible home in West Rogers Park.
Libenu breaks ground on the Mozart Men’s Home, a first of its kind in the Chicago Jewish community.
Dr. Shana Erenberg is selected as a 2011 Jewish Community Hero by Jewish Federations of North America, bringing national recognition for Libenu.
First Libenu Men’s Home opens in Skokie.
Libenu lobbies the State Legislature to bring awareness of the pressing needs of adults with disabilities.
Libenu is established as a 501(c)3 not for profit organization; elects first executive board of directors; develops mission and vision; and creates a five-year action plan.
Dr. Shana Erenberg, Alderman Debra Silverstein, Baruch Schur, and Senator Ira Silverstein discuss the need to develop housing for Jewish adults with disabilities in Chicago.