Ester Rosenberg Tarandach introduces Grupo Chaverim – the latest group to join ICJW Brazil. This inspiring initiative reflects our shared commitment to inclusion and community.
Over 60 years ago, when I began my professional life, I chose my path: to work with people with intellectual disabilities and their families. Throughout this journey in civil society and Jewish community organizations in São Paulo, one question always unsettled me: why were so few people from the Jewish community present? This concern was shared by the board and volunteers like Yara Finkelstein. Where were these families? Why weren’t their children reaching us?
We decided to seek answers. At the Oficina Abrigada of Shalom Liga Israelita, we conducted a survey and began meeting with four families with whom we already had a connection. We welcomed them with care and respect, creating a space to listen. We learned about their stories, challenges, dreams, and, above all, their deep concern for their children’s future.
Gradually, we began to understand a silent reality. Many of these families felt excluded—or excluded themselves—from the social life of the Jewish community and, often, from society itself. From these meetings and this shared desire for change, Grupo Chaverim was born in March 1995—a space for friendship, socialization, and participation in the Jewish community and broader society. A place of belonging for individuals and their families.
Grupo Chaverim is a non-profit community association that welcomes, connects, and transforms the lives of youth and adults with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities within the Jewish community of São Paulo. Its work focuses on strengthening autonomy, emotional bonds, and active community participation, offering a safe and welcoming space for personal development.
Our participants include young people and adults with diverse needs, all affected by intellectual and psychosocial challenges that impact their independence and integration. The institution offers structured programming including socio-educational workshops, cultural activities, life skills training, and social experiences. These initiatives respect individual pacing while encouraging self-esteem, communication, and autonomy.
Stories of growth are part of the group’s history. Friends who arrived with social challenges have strengthened relationships, expanded their autonomy, and taken on more active roles within their families and communities. The work also supports family members, offering guidance, listening, and support. More than providing activities, Grupo Chaverim reaffirms its commitment to inclusion and to building an environment sensitive to differences. By ensuring real opportunities for participation, it contributes to a more diverse, just, and inclusive society.
Today, 30 years later, I see Chaverim as a dream that took root, grew strong, and overcame many challenges while remaining faithful to its purpose. With a dedicated team and programs that value the protagonism of each “friend,” Chaverim strengthens lives, defends rights and duties, and contributes to a more just, humane, diverse, and inclusive society.
Looking back, I feel this is also part of my legacy. As the founder, I have served in many roles, including President, while continuing the work I love most: technical advising and institutional management. This year, I received the honor of being named Honorary President, and I remain committed to strengthening our methodology, learning, and sharing knowledge.
Chaverim is much more than an organization; it is a commitment to people with disabilities and to building a society that embraces diversity and inclusion—creating a place where everyone can belong, find true friends, and build their own life stories.
Their website is https://www.chaverim.org.br/
