Sasone (the Hebrew word for joy) is a program of the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City that works to ensure access to a Jewish education for students with disabilities. For almost thirty years, Sasone has worked to support Jewish education programs better include and accommodate all learners. Through block grants, community training and congregational support, Sasone partners with Kansas City's Jewish early childhood centers, religious schools, Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, and J Camp.
Sasone's vision is to create a more inclusive and accessible Jewish community for individuals with disabilities and their families.
For more information about Sasone, our inclusion grants, or professional development opportunities, please email Lindsey Lipsky, Sasone Director.
Parent Inclusion Survey
Sasone Statistics
- In 2024, Sasone helped support over 2,014 students receiving a Jewish education in Greater Kansas City.
- Of those students, approximately 252, or 12%, have some type of disability.
- We allocated approximately $195,000 to nine Jewish educational instiutions for inclusion efforts.
- We trained over 400 educators and community members on inclusion best-practices.
The 2023-2024 Sasone Teen Leadership Training Cohort.
The Sasone Sensory Space at PJ Library's Hanukkah Glow Party.
What Does Sasone Do?
Sasone's programs ensure all individuals with disabilities and their familes can access Jewish life and learning.
Sasone's work includes:
- Running workshops for educational institutions
- Supplying sensory kits and quiet zones for community events
- Facilitating educational events and trainings for parents, educators, and community members
- Teaching teens about disability inclusion and awareness at Teen Leadership Training
- And so much more!
See More From Sasone: