In Netanya, Israel, author and special needs advocate Jacki Edry has launched a pilot program aimed at fostering a genuine sense of belonging among young adults with disabilities. The initiative, called Side by Side: Building Community, Together, seeks to address the social isolation experienced by many disabled individuals after they leave the formal education system at age 21.

Edry, who has firsthand experience through her 29-year-old son on the autism spectrum, emphasized the distinction between inclusion and belonging. “Belonging means that you’re part of the community. Everybody looks after you, and you look out for everybody else,” she explained. She noted that many individuals with disabilities fall between the better-known extremes—those highly functioning enough for elite military service and those requiring constant supervision—yet often lack adequate community support or social programs.

After schooling, disabled adults frequently encounter a sharp drop in structured activities and social opportunities, leaving them vulnerable to isolation. Edry’s son, despite working part-time at an Aroma café, has limited interaction with peers outside of work. This gap in social engagement was a motivating factor behind Side by Side.

The program is being developed in partnership with Et La’asot, a nonprofit organization that supports children and young people with disabilities through recreational, family, and volunteer programs. While Et La’asot currently works primarily with high school students, Edry’s initiative focuses on young adults, expanding the organization’s reach to an older demographic.

Side by Side will bring together disabled and non-disabled young adults for meaningful joint activities such as volunteering with the elderly, assisting in food distribution, and participating in agricultural or animal care projects. The program also includes social events and excursions designed to build community ties through shared experiences. To accommodate the schedules of students who must balance work and studies, participants will receive grants for their involvement.

Currently reliant on private donations—with an initial $10,000 grant matched by a pledged additional $10,000—the program does not receive government funding. Edry hopes to expand the pilot beyond Netanya to a national scale in Israel.

Edry’s background adds depth to her commitment. Originally from a secular family in New York, she relocated to Israel, gradually embraced an observant Jewish lifestyle, and became deeply involved in advocating for her son’s educational and therapeutic needs. Thirteen years ago, Edry herself underwent brain surgery for a benign tumor, resulting in disabilities that inform her empathy and approach to neurodivergence.

Looking ahead, Edry envisions Side by Side incorporating professional apprenticeships akin to programs such as Colorado’s TACT, which prepares individuals with disabilities for skilled trades. However, the immediate focus remains on social integration, creating environments where friendships can flourish through shared, purposeful activities.

For more information on the program, visit Et La’asot’s website at www.etlaasot.org.il/BuildingCommunity.