“This was the best Shabbos of my life.”
For many of the girls at Yaldei’s Sibling Shabbaton, this realization came with a sense of wonder – because they’re not usually the ones in the spotlight. They’re not the children with special needs, or the parents carrying the daily challenges. They’re the siblings behind-the-scenes, giving so much, yet at times overlooked.
And this Shabbos, the Yaldei Sibling Shabbaton was all about them.
From the moment the fifteen middle-school girls from six states arrived, they felt embraced. Personalized welcome signs, beautifully prepared gift bags, Yaldei sweaters before candle-lighting, and cozy blankets at the Motzoei Shabbos bonfire – every thoughtful touch sent a clear message: you matter, and this weekend is yours.
A highlight of the weekend was the Friday-night farbrengen with Rabbi Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin and his family. They spoke openly about raising a child with special needs, and their children shared their experiences as the sibling. The Rubashkins offered the girls validation, strength, and a relatable perspective.
Throughout Shabbos, experienced educator and Shlucha Doonie Mishulavin led group sessions with intentional activities that created a safe space for honesty and connection.
The Shabbaton wrapped up with a bonfire, kumzitz, and a lively dance party led by counselor Bracha Raichik, herself a sibling of a child with special needs.
By the end of Motzei Shabbos, phone numbers were being exchanged, laughter filled the air, and each girl left feeling understood, appreciated, and part of something lasting. “These girls come from homes on Shlichus, where they are very aware of other people’s needs. Yaldei’s Sibling Shabbaton gave them the chance to be celebrated for who they are,” explained Doonie.
But this Shabbaton is only a beginning. Plans are underway for a parallel boys’ program – because supporting a child with special needs means supporting the entire family. And Yaldei is committed to being there for every one of them.
Help Yaldei be there for everyone in the family – Shluchim, their special children, and their siblings. Donate today at yaldei.com/donate.
I grew up on shlichus with a special needs sibling. I am 40 years old and this article brought me to tears. Thank you Yaldei for recognizing this challenge as one deserving of support, and providing it in such a powerful way.
These girls are so lucky.
Much continued Hatzlacha!
The man, the myth, the absolute legend who makes this all possible. None of this would happen without his dedication and devotion to the shluchim around the world.
May he be zoche to only health wealth happiness and nachas from the children and arichus yomim veshanim