Service to highlight exceptional children

CELEBRATION—From left, Rabbi Paul Kipnes, Brandon Kaplan, after whom Brandon's Village in Calabasas was named, and the synagogue's past president Michael Kaplan lead Congregation Or Ami's Shabbat service celebrating special needs children. Congregation Or Ami will present a Shabbat service celebrating children with special needs at 7:30 p.m. Fri., Jan. 16 at the synagogue, 26115 Mureau Road., Ste. B, Calabasas.

Brandon Kaplan and other children with special needs will lead the service.

The congregation creates an environment which encourages the participation of children with special needs and their families in all aspects of synagogue life, including full inclusion in educational programs, religious services, community outreach and social programs.

Children with special needs are mainstreamed in Or Ami's educational programs with the aid of experienced and specially trained educators.

Bar and bat mitzvah preparation is adapted to the individual needs of children in a manner that will allow them to understand the Torah to the best of their abilities.

The congregation, in coordination with the K.E.N. Project, sponsors a support group for parents of children with special needs. The group, facilitated by special education attorney Dina C. Kaplan, provides parents a forum to discuss their issues and challenges, learn of the latest updates in the law affecting the special needs, and address ways to enable the community to appreciate special children.

The congregation is also a sponsor of Brandon's Buddies, a monthly playgroup where typical children and children with special needs interact through games and arts and crafts.

For more information about programs, call (818) 880-4880.