The evening of March 4 marked a significant milestone for the community as the Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center (JCC) hosted the 15th annual Grabelsky Family Special Night for Special Needs, also known as the “Dream Builder” celebration. This special occasion brings together over 125 community members and local leaders, all united for a noble cause: supporting the diverse programs offered by the Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department of the JCC. According to The Coastal Star, the event was a resounding success, demonstrating the compassion and commitment of Boca Raton’s residents to those with special needs.
This year’s gathering, led by Linda and Ralph Behmoiras and Diane and Fred Fiddle, featured a heartwarming speech from Mimi Norman, a dedicated mother of a participant. She emphasized the deep significance of community support for parents raising children with special needs. Celebrating a decade and a half of the Dream Builder programs, the evening underscored how much progress has been made since the event’s inception, as noted in Boca View.
A Celebration of Community and Support
The ambience at The Addison in Boca Raton was filled with joy, laughter, and a shared mission to enrich the lives of those within the special needs community. In addition to the heartfelt speeches, the night was peppered with recognitions, including the honorable mention given to the Boca West Children’s Foundation for their unwavering support of the Schwedelson Special Needs Department. Notably, Marli Buchalter was awarded the Yad B’Yad Teen Leadership Award, showcasing the talent and leadership that exists among young community members.
Among the attendees were various local figures, including Dana and Steven Clarfield, Cindy Bergman, and Heidi Cohen, showing that this cause resonates far and wide within the community. The essence of a strong community was vividly illustrated as friends and family came together to support a shared goal.
Programs That Change Lives
The celebration marks the ongoing efforts of the Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department, which offers an extensive variety of programs catering to children and adults alike. These include the Marleen Forkas Camp Kavod for educational recreation, the Fit and Fun Program aimed at fitness training for youth, and the newly established Project L.I.F.E., focusing on life skills for young adults.
- Marleen Forkas Camp Kavod: Summer, winter, and spring programs for Pre-K to 12th grade
- Fit and Fun Program: Fitness and social skills for age groups 3 to 22+
- After School Enrichment: Afternoon activities for ages 3 to 22+
- Paul Markhoff Otzar Sunday School: Jewish education for K-12
- Parents’ Night Out and Kids’ Night Out: Supervised programs for children, allowing parents a breather
- Schwedelson Young Adult Social Scene: Activities for ages 18-29 and 30-50+
- Project L.I.F.E.: Life skills program for adults 18-30+
- Move & Mingle Adult Fitness Program: A fitness program for ages 16+
- SAVVY: Self-defense and safety program tailored for girls and women aged 16+
Moreover, there are year-round support groups for parents and caregivers facilitated through the Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services, which highlight the commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for everyone. The Levis JCC stands as a beacon of hope and inclusion, proving that there’s something to be said for a community that comes together in support.
As we reflect on the night’s celebration and the invaluable programs that persist, it’s clear the bond between community members, families, and supporters will only strengthen. This is not just about one night but a collective journey toward creating a brighter future for all, where individuals with special needs can thrive in every way possible.