When Maya was diagnosed with Williams syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes global developmental delay, intellectual disability, and a wide range of medical problems, we never dreamed that Maya would one day be able to have a typical summer camp experience like other kids.
In 2017, we attended our first Rainbow Banquet for Keshet. We met parents of children with disabilities whose lives were greatly enriched by Keshet's inclusive camps, schools, and programs. We sat with siblings of those children who became close friends with eachother, Junior Board members, great advocates for their loved ones with a disability, and even Keshet employees. We watched videos of Keshet kids having the most amazing time at day camp, overnight camp, special events, school, and even living independently as adults in apartments. It was an overwhelming evening to say the least, but we knew in our hearts that Maya was forever welcome to the Keshet family.
Maya is currently attending her third summer camp with Keshet, the first two were at Apachi Village and the current is at Z Frank Apachi! To us, Keshet is the organization that makes it possible for an individual with a disability or complex medical needs like Maya to integrate into the general community. Keshet makes sure Maya has a safe experience at camp by providing her with a 1:1 counselor, but none of the other campers know that the extra group counselor is meant for Maya. Maya's counselor also helps facilitate friendships, as well as with things like feeding, potty, swimming, clothing changes, OT skills during art projects, and taking sensory breaks. We are forever grateful to Keshet for giving Maya the best summer, just like any other kid could have, year after year.
The Keshet Forward 2021 campaign is a fundraising effort to raise money for Keshet so that they can continue to offer incredible programming for individuals with disabilities, unlike anything else around. This campaign also helps to provide scholarships so that other kids can attend Keshet's camps and schools. Our family and families like ours appreciate every dollar you can contribute to Keshet!
With love and so much gratitude,
Jenna, Scott, Maya, and Noa Ottenheimer