DAYENU? – Maybe Not Just Yet
This evening we will gather at the Pesach Seder with family and friends, read from the Haggadah and recount the story of our miraculous journey from slavery to freedom. We will sing Dayenu, reflecting on each step of our redemption and declaring that even one act of kindness would have been enough. If Hashem had taken us out of Egypt and not split the sea, Dayenu. If He had given us the Torah and not brought us into the Land of Israel, Dayenu. The song is an expression of gratitude, teaching us to pause and recognize each blessing along the way. It reminds us that each milestone is meaningful and that we are called to acknowledge the good even as the journey continues.
In many ways, Libenu’s story reflects this affirmation. When we opened the first kosher home in Chicago for Jewish individuals with disabilities, it was extraordinary. When we launched the first Lev Respite program for children and young adults to give their families a break, it changed lives. Could we have said Dayenu then? The truth is, we couldn’t. The need was, and still is, too great. Families continue to call. Waitlists grow. Jewish individuals with disabilities still need homes, families need support, and we all need the embrace of our community. So instead of saying Dayenu, Libenu’s song is one of gratitude and responsibility: Thank You Hashem for giving us the strength and opportunity to continue our important work.
Thank you Hashem, for the ability to open additional homes and welcome more residents into warm, loving environments of dignity and belonging. Thank you Hashem, for helping us grow Lev Respite, allowing us to expand into Lev Lilah and Camp Lev, and providing families with the support they need. Thank you Hashem, for increasing our advocacy efforts and helping us educate our legislators about the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring their voices are heard. Each step is meaningful and worthy of gratitude, and each step reminds us that our community is strongest when we move forward together, as an Am Achad B’Lev Achad – one people with one heart – committed to inclusion, belonging, and lifelong care.
May the time come when there are no waitlists for funding or services. When every individual who needs a home has one filled with warmth, friendship, and love. When individuals with disabilities enjoy meaningful work that promotes self-sufficiency. When every family is fully supported through robust respite services. When Lev Avigayil opens its doors to the community and expands what is possible. On that day, we will sing with full hearts both Thank You Hashem and Dayenu. Until then, we continue forward with tremendous gratitude for how far we have come, and with determination to keep building a community where everyone is welcome.
Best Wishes and Chag Sameach,
Shana Erenberg, Ph.D. CEO
ROCHELLE ZELL DEAP CLUB
Brings Joy & Connection
We are deeply grateful to the students from the DEAP Club at Rochelle Zell High School for spending time volunteering with the men and women of Libenu. Together they baked cookies, played games, and created colorful bracelets, sharing laughter and conversation throughout the afternoon. More than the activities themselves, the visit reflected the true spirit of meaningful inclusion, bringing people together in a warm and natural way. The students’ kindness, enthusiasm, and genuine engagement made the experience special for everyone involved. We are thankful for their involvement and for the connections they helped create within our Libenu community.
ICJA AND LIBENU TAKE THE STAGE
The Libenu women were thrilled to participate in ICJA Takes the Stage, an experience that made them feel truly celebrated and included. They were excited to model, enjoy hair and makeup, and prepare for their moment in the spotlight. Walking onto the stage was incredibly special, filling them with pride and confidence as they were cheered on by the audience. The warmth and encouragement of the ICJA students created a welcoming environment where everyone felt valued and embraced. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity for the Libenu women to participate in such a meaningful expression of inclusion, and for the thoughtful partnership that made the experience so memorable.
