Like we always say, there's no place better to be on Shabbat than Chicago Jewish Day School. At last Friday's Kabbalat Shabbat, we were treated to a performance by the incredible band, Special in Uniform, which is part of an Israeli organization that helps people with disabilities and special needs serve meaningfully in the IDF and thus become part of Israeli society. A well-known and talented choir, they even performed at Omer Adam's concert in front of a crowd of thousands. Our CJDS community was just as enthusiastic to hear their talented voices and understand the vision driving this important project. We also heard from Lieutenant Colonel (Res.) Tiran Attia speak about the band's impactful work. 

We thank CJDS Parent Assaf Grumberg (Moriah Bradley) (Avia, Grade 5, and Eitan, Grade 3), who serves as the Jewish National Fund Executive Director in Illinois, for bringing this inspiring performance to us. JNF-USA works to develop population growth in the north and south of Israel and rebuild the communities affected by the October 7 attack.

As Assaf explains, "Our support of the people of Israel means all Israelis. We choose to see people's abilities and how they can best contribute to Israel's society. Special in Uniform embodies that vision. They help people with special needs serve in the IDF, a crucial piece of being an Israeli, according to their abilities. It was important to show our CJDS community the many aspects of Israel, including some that they may not have met before, and we invite everyone to be a part of this important work by supporting Special in Uniform."