Note: This episode is the first of three recorded on a new platform. Some growing pains were expected, and the final edit is a bit rougher than I’d like. Thanks for your patience as we refine the process — future episodes will appear smoother. - JS.

For 45 years, non-profit Beit Issie Shapiro has been a pioneering leader and innovator in the field of disabilities, and championed equal opportunity, full community involvement, and improved quality of life for people with disabilities.

They believe in the ability of people with disabilities and provide “innovative services, programs, knowledge-sharing models, and policy advocacy” to help them lead a full life and be actively involved in every part of Israel and globally.

Ahmir Lerner is its CEO. He joined The Spiro Circle to share his experience in the defense of Israel and his transition to social resilience, focusing on the work of Beit Issie Shapiro. He discusses innovative therapeutic techniques, the organization's response to the recent war, and the importance of addressing mental health needs for people with disabilities.

The episode was recorded as we approach the two-year mark of Israel’s ongoing war with Gaza following the Hamas attack on October 7. Since then, thousands of soldiers have been injured in war, with many of them facing life-changing recoveries. Like many other sectors in Israel, it adjusted its strategies and has since offered 1,500 free hours of therapy.

In our talk, Lerner emphasized the impact of their work on society, the legislative changes they have initiated, and the future initiatives aimed at improving inclusion and accessibility in Israel.

Some takeaways from our conversation:

* The organization provided over 1,500 hours of free therapy during the war.

* It aims to change societal attitudes towards disability and inclusion.

* Mental health services for people with disabilities are crucial and often overlooked.

* Legislation is a key tool for creating societal change.

* The organization is working on early intervention for children with disabilities.

* Community involvement and support are essential for success.

You can learn more about Beit Issie Shapiro and consider making a donation to its cause via its website: https://beitissie.org.il/en

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