This past summer I had the opportunity and privilege to take part of a team dedicated to addressing important needs within the Jewish community and world at large. The team consists of supervisors, co staff, and participants, all working in conjunction with one another in creating a shared community in which each individual is recognized and embraced. The journey of Yad B’Yad which includes, the formation of a group of unconnected individuals to the becoming of an interconnected, unified group, I believe, is a testament to Yachad’s slogan that “everyone belongs”. I have witnessed the authenticity of this statement both, because of an ideological view that everyone belongs, but more importantly, because everyone CAN belong; every individual has the capacity and potential to belong. Through this, my teammates and I have been empowered to further this mission, within the doors of Yad B’Yad as well as beyond the walls of Yad B’Yad and  Yachad home, to the Jewish community at large. Participants are empowered to embrace themselves, for who they are and for who they can become – all while having a fantastic time, creating longstanding friendships, and building memories for a lifetime.  I hope to G-d-willing take part of this exciting and fun filled journey this summer and I hope that you can join me!