At Etz Chaim, we are committed to accessibility and disability inclusion, grounded in the belief that all are created B’tselem Elohim, in the image of God.
B’tselem Elohim reminds us of the importance of equal access and equal opportunity. Inclusion is a mindset, an attitude, and a way of thinking. The Inclusion Committee aims to make Etz Chaim a more welcoming, accessible, and inclusive community by raising awareness of the needs of congregants with different abilities and by reducing barriers to full participation for everyone.
We recognize that inclusion is a process and a journey we take together.
Accessible Parking: Expanded options including support for those without placards.
Electronic Entry: Power-assisted entry doors for easy access.
Sanctuary Seating: Preferred seating available in the sanctuary and classrooms.
Bima Accessibility: Ramp access and height accommodations (including a step) for the bima.
On-site Equipment: Wheelchairs available for use on-site.
Restrooms: ADA-compliant bathrooms with extra bars for caregivers and those needing assistance.
Live Interpretation: Live Captioning and ASL interpretation available upon request.
Assisted Listening: Sound amplification headsets and real-time device streaming for all video produced.
Meeting Support: Microphones and closed captioning provided during all meetings and programs.
Audio Quality: Professionally improved audio system for crystal clear sound.
Enhanced Lighting: Increased sanctuary brightness for those with vision limitations.
Large-Print Materials: Large-print books available for all services.
Visual Aids: Magnifying lenses and book lights available for use.
Virtual Worship: Live streaming of all worship services.
Remote Meetings: Committee meetings held remotely to support families with childcare or time constraints.
Multi-Access Programs: Hybrid options for Lunch and Learns, Torah Study, and more.
Community Transportation: Carpool coordination for those unable to drive.
Tech Assistance: Registration help for programs and membership renewals.
Physical Outreach: Mailings available for those who prefer physical paper over email.
Dietary Inclusion: Dietary accommodations provided at all programs.
Fair Share Dues: A model allowing congregants to contribute what they can, when they can.
Education for All: Tuition-free religious school and waived B’nai Mitzvah fees.
Scholarships: Financial help for almost all programs, including meals, classes, and supplies.
Immersive Experiences: Camp scholarships available for deeper engagement.
Crisis Support: Assistance with housing and meals for congregants in financial need.
Membership Definitions: Expanded household definitions to include adult children with disabilities or those acting as caregivers.
Resource Room: Dedicated space for pull-out sessions for children with specific learning needs.
Sensory Support: Quiet sensory activity tables in the Sanctuary.
Young Families: Highchairs and booster chairs available.
Unified Accounts: Joint accounts for extended and divided families.
Learning Support: Dedicated assistants for students with distinct learning abilities.
B’nai Mitzvah Flexibility: Adaptable requirements to ensure success for all ability levels.
Flexible Schooling: Virtual mid-week Hebrew and “Chug” programming for different learning styles and movement needs.
Community Groups: Social groups and task forces for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
Gender Neutrality: All-gender restroom located in the office.
Pronoun Visibility: Name tags with pronouns provided.
Inclusive Lifecycle Events: Ceremonies for interfaith and LGBTQ+ couples.
Affinity Gatherings: Specific gatherings for LGBTQ+ community connection.
Transliteration: English transliteration provided for Hebrew texts and prayers.
Introductory Courses: Judaism 101 courses to increase comfort levels.
Ritual Access: Increased access for Jewish-adjacent family members in lifecycle events.
Visual Tefilah: TV displays to help with new songs and prayers.
Staff Training: Inclusive language training for non-Jewish staff.
Interfaith Gatherings: Specific affinity groups for Interfaith and “Jewish+” families.
Matt is passionate about supporting neurodivergent youth and adults as they navigate living in a neurotypical society. He helps students and families find inclusion, social-emotional support, and advocacy at school, home, and work. A Psychology graduate with experience supporting children and adults, Matt develops strategies to help manage daily challenges. Contact him to discuss accommodations.
A proud CEC member since 1979, Rachel served as an inclusion specialist here and mentored Jewish institutions across the country on how to provide inclusion opportunities. Her legacy includes establishing language lab resources for learners with differences, CART captioning systems, and a framework for inclusive religious education that continues to guide our work today. The Rachel Wood Memorial Inclusion Fund supports JDAIM Weekend activities and inclusion education for staff and leadership.
