Gratitude, Belonging, and Community
As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends, we are reminded of the importance of hakarat hatov, recognizing the good that surrounds us. Gratitude is not just a response to Hashem’s blessings; it is a way of seeing the world, a view that highlights connection, kindness, and purpose. At Libenu, we are grateful every day for the individuals we support, whose enthusiasm and joy inspire us; for the families who entrust us with the care of their loved ones; and for the volunteers, staff, and supporters who help make our mission possible.
Thanksgiving reminds us of the deep importance of community and belonging, of being an Am Echad B’Lev Echad, One People with One Heart. Our strength truly comes from our Achudt – unity. At Libenu, this value guides everything we do to promote inclusion and belonging. We create warm, welcoming kosher homes where adults with disabilities feel cherished and respected. Our robust Lev Respite programs, After-School, Lev Lilah, and Camp Lev, give families the chance to rest, recharge, and breathe. Our tireless legislative advocacy ensures that individuals with disabilities and their families have a strong, unwavering voice championing their needs.
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude for all of you whose generosity, partnership, and compassion make it possible for Libenu to provide life-changing services for Jewish children, teens, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community. Thanks to you, families experience relief, individuals grow in confidence and independence, and our community becomes stronger, kinder, and more connected.
May we continue lifting one another up, celebrating our shared blessings, and building a world rooted in inclusion, belonging, and hope.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Thanksgiving.
Shana Erenberg, CEO
We asked some of Libenu’s residents
“What are you thankful for this year?”
Samantha: I’m thankful for my family and to be able to hang out with my friends at Libenu! I’m really proud of my brother!
Jacob: I am thankful that I have been living at Libenu since 2011, which helped me become a leader in my home and community. I want to be an inspiration for everyone to come together.
Samantha: I’m thankful for my family and to be able to hang out with my friends at Libenu! I’m really proud of my brother!
