Libenu is proud to announce the opening of our newest home for women. The home is located in the heart of the Skokie Jewish community, which has welcomed and embraced the residents. The ladies moved during the first week of February and are in the process of settling in and unpacking.
“I love my new house and my new room!” exclaimed Lizzie.
“It’s great,” agreed Aliza. “We have lots of space. We can hang out with friends or relax in our rooms.”
“The house is beautiful! I love it” concurred Samantha.
Dr. Shana Erenberg, the Executive Director and co-founder of Libenu notes that it took a while to find the perfect home for the women. “We wanted a home that was in the Skokie Jewish community, which has been wonderfully inclusive of our residents. We looked for a home that was walking distance to synagogues, and close to shopping, recreation, and public transportation. We also needed something spacious, with sufficient bedrooms and common spaces to accommodate the residents. Most importantly, the home had to be comfortable and familiar for the ladies.”
“The community has been so generous in its support of Libenu and we are very grateful,” said Alderman Debra Silverstein, co-founder of Libenu. “All of the beautiful furniture, Judaica, and artwork were donated. The new home is warm and inviting, and the ladies are very happy.
Founded in 2009, the Libenu Foundation is a 501 ( c )3 not-for-profit organization that enables people with disabilities to live their best lives, with dignity and respect, as fully included members of the Jewish community. Libenu, from the Hebrew word meaning “Our Hearts”, reflects a heartfelt commitment to enabling Jewish children and adults with developmental disabilities to maximize their level of independence and self-determination in an inclusive community setting.
Predicated on a philosophy of inclusion and person-centered programming, Libenu provides the gold standard in kosher residential services, vocational training and social enterprise, and recreational activities for Jewish adults with developmental disabilities. Libenu also offers after school care for children with special needs through the Lev Chicago Respite program, operated in conjunction with Jewish Child and Family Services. In addition, Libenu shares its expertise through educational programs and consultative services across the United States and in Israel. Last year, Libenu was selected by Upstart Accelerator as one of the most innovative Jewish organizations in the world.
“Libenu has accomplished a great deal in a relatively short time,” notes Sharyl Ross, president, “but there is still much to do. Libenu is the pioneering organization for Jewish residential and vocational services in Chicago, and we continue to address critical, unmet needs in the community. That is our commitment to individuals with special needs and their families. We are here and you are not alone.”
You can help support Libenu’s important work at the 8th Annual Share the Dream Gala on April 25, 2018, honoring Mitch Dayan and Danny Hechtman. For more information please visit our website at www.Libenu.org, or call 847-213-0514.
