More than 100 parents of young people with ASD and mild disabilities gathered on Monday evening at the Shaarei Yerushalayim Hotel for “Planning for the Future,” a professional conference hosted by Darchei Chaim and Alei Siach. The event brought together rabbis, educators, and experienced professionals to address the challenges parents face as their children approach adulthood and to help them prepare for the transition to independent and fulfilling lives.
The evening was moderated by Rabbi Chaim Braverman, a senior member of Alei Siach, who emphasized the importance of early preparation for adulthood and the need to equip parents with professional knowledge and practical tools to navigate the challenges ahead.
The conference opened with remarks by Rabbi Chaim Perkal, Founder and Chairman of Alei Siach, who shared the personal story behind the organization’s establishment. He described how the organization was founded out of his own search for an appropriate framework for his daughter, at a time when very few suitable options existed. Rabbi Perkal reflected on the organization’s journey from those early days to its work today, supporting dozens of young people and their families, and expressed his appreciation to the dedicated team whose commitment has made this work possible over the years.
Rabbi Yisrael Yoskowitz, Head of Yeshivat Darchei Chaim, followed with remarks on the importance of educational and professional guidance for young people, highlighting the central role parents play throughout adolescence and in preparing their children for independent adult life.
Rabbi Ephraim Petchanik, an educational counselor, delivered a practical lecture addressing an issue familiar to many families: power struggles between parents and their adolescent children. He explored effective ways to navigate challenging situations, avoid unnecessary conflicts, and maintain healthy relationships and constructive communication between parents and their children.
The keynote presentation was delivered by Mr. Ami Lavi, a social worker, senior behavior analyst, and consultant. Focusing on the challenges of adolescence, he offered parents practical tools for guiding their children through the transition to adulthood and greater independence. He emphasized the importance of recognizing each young person’s individual needs and adapting approaches and support to their abilities and circumstances.
A central part of the evening was devoted to exploring the opportunities and support available to young people and their families as they plan for the future. Rabbi Chaim Braverman, a senior member of Alei Siach, presented the programs and pathways offered by the organizations, including residential options, employment opportunities, preparation for married life, relationship guidance, and assistance in accessing available rights and benefits. Parents gained a broader understanding of the options available and the importance of developing an individualized plan that reflects each young person’s abilities, needs, and aspirations.
One of the highlights of the evening was a professional panel moderated by Rabbi Yisrael Yoskowitz, Head of Yeshivat Darchei Chaim. The panel featured Rabbi Ephraim Petchanik, educational counselor; Mr. Ami Lavi; Rabbi Nati Braverman, clinical psychologist; and Rabbi Netanel Toker, a Torah studies instructor at Yeshivat Darchei Chaim.
The discussion addressed some of the most significant questions facing parents of young people with ASD and mild disabilities, including navigating adolescence, setting appropriate boundaries, fostering personal independence, emotional and social readiness for marriage, and preparing young people to establish a home and lead independent lives.
Drawing on their extensive experience working with young people and their families, the panelists explored these issues from educational, therapeutic, and professional perspectives. A recurring message throughout the discussion was that there is no single solution for everyone. Each young person requires an approach tailored to their individual abilities, needs, and circumstances.
The conference provided parents with a valuable opportunity to connect directly with professionals who work with young people with disabilities every day, raise questions, share concerns, and receive practical guidance on the decisions and challenges that lie ahead.
Through this joint initiative, Darchei Chaim and Alei Siach reaffirmed their commitment to supporting young people and their families as they navigate the transition to adulthood, with the knowledge, guidance, and opportunities needed to build meaningful and fulfilling lives.
