Ohav is deeply committed to helping each person and family to grow Jewishly. Ohav Shalom strives to be a fully accessible community. We welcome everyone who wishes pray and learn with us to join our kehillah – sacred community. We are a community where people of all abilities are valued equally and can participate fully.
We offer the following:
Large Print Books – In every service, we have large print copies of the Lev Shalem Siddur for Shabbat and Holidays and the Lev Shalem Mahzor for High Holidays. These are available in the anteroom to the main sanctuary.
Dietary Information at Kiddush – In sensitivity to our members and guests with special dietary needs, our Kiddush foods are clearly labeled, and gluten-free, nut-free and other special items are delineated.
Accessible Building and Sanctuary – The sanctuary has several features to accommodate our community. For example, the following are available:
Assistive Hearing and Reading Devices – Assistive hearing devices and magnifying reading glasses are available in the anteroom to the main sanctuary.
Low Sensory Accommodations
Comfort Room – A Comfort Room is available for congregants with disabilities in the event that they become overstimulated or overwhelmed. It is located in the school wing and a key can be obtained from the Parnas Committee. Please note: children needing this room must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Community Awareness – Ohav Shalom celebrates Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month every year in February, in addition to accessibility-themed programs throughout the year and hosts an annual Passover Seder for individuals with developmental disabilities. We participate in the USCJ-Ruderman Family Foundation Inclusion Action Community.
Strong Scents – Any time a large group of people gather together, sensitivity to conditions that affect others is crucial. Medical evidence suggests that strong fragrances can trigger asthma, migraines, nausea, headaches, COPD, seizures and other issues for people who have these conditions. We at Ohav Shalom ask that you please avoid using strongly scented products when you come to shul. Thank you for respecting other people’s needs.
Accessibility Committee – The Inclusion Committee meets regularly to ensure that everyone has access to worship and the many activities and services Ohav offers. To get involved, send an email to inclusion@ohavshalom.org.
