Creating An Inclusive Community For All

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Sha'arim has given us a whole new idea of what our children are capable of.

Adam C.

Who we are

Sha’arim was established in 1999 to address the unmet need of inclusion of children and adults with special needs in the Minneapolis Jewish community. The program has expanded both in the area of education and guided social activities to include children and young adults with moderate to severe special needs.

About Us

Sha'arim Programs

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Partner Schools

By partnering with Jewish schools, synagogues, and other community agencies, we provide services and support that focus on the unique needs and learning style of each individual.

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Darkaynu

The Youth Darkaynu program offers students who learn best in self contained or side stream environments the opportunity to enjoy a Hebrew School experience. Our Adult Darkaynu program provides a space for our adult participants to continue their Jewish education and involvement in a fun and engaging environment.

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Friends ‘N Fun

By partnering with youth groups and young adult volunteers from the community, the Friends ‘N Fun program provides Jewish youth and adults with special needs the opportunity to be a part of inclusive and meaningful guided social experiences within our Jewish community.

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Thrift Shop

The Thrift Shop is a non-profit provider of vocational training, job placement, and meaningful employment opportunities for adults with special needs.

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Upcoming events

Session 1 - Adult Darkaynu

October 6, 2021 | 07:00 PM - 07:45 PM
Virtual Darkaynu

Adult Darkaynu Friends N' Fun

October 27, 2021 | 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM
(Tentative Event)
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From the gallery

An inclusive Jewish community experience.

Guided social interaction for all ages.

Education that meets the needs of every child.

Meaningful employment opportunities for adults with disabilities.

Personalized attention from qualified staff.

Jewish inclusion at its best!

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Recent News

October 26, 2020

Thrift Shop/ Vocational Training – 2020

Many things have changed in our world over the past several months and we have all needed to adjust; the Gateways Thrift Shop and Vocational Training Program is no exception. Although both the Thrift Shop and our in-person training had to be put on hold briefly, that didn’t mean that…

Darkaynu – 2020

There isn’t anything that can stop our Darkaynu program! Although we have not been able to meet in person, our weekly zoom meetings have still been a fun and interactive way to connect with each other in a positive and meaningful way. With music sessions, game nights, cooking tutorials, and…
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January 13, 2020

Sha’arim Auction Benefit 2019

Sha’arim has become known for its annual Auction Benefit fundraiser. The organization was founded 21 years ago to support the needs of the Jewish special needs community in the Twin Cities. Sha’arim works tirelessly, year-round to support these families with a multitude of varying services and programs. But once a…
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Our Grand Opening!

After 5 long years of research, hard work, and determination, we are so proud to announce the Grand Opening of the Gateways Thrift Shop that took place on Nov. 17th! Opening our retail space was the final stage in completing our vision for the Gateways Vocational Training and Employment program….

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Become a Volunteer

Our volunteers come from across the Twin Cities Jewish Community. Friends ‘N Fun allows them to share their passion, unique talents, and abilities with our youth and adults.

Volunteer

Become a Donor

Become an integral part of the world of inclusion and make a difference in the life of someone with special needs. An inclusive community starts with you!

Donate

Join Our Staff

Our staff is made up of the best group of passionate, dedicated and knowledgeable individuals with experience in the world of special needs. Would you like to be one of them? Let us know!

Join