Connecting Adults with Developmental Disabilities Through Friendship, Community and Jewish Life
We are deeply grateful to
our donors, whose support ensures vibrant programming,
our volunteers, whose devoted service lights up every occasion, and
our community partners, who graciously host Jeremiah Society or Mandel-Horwitz activities:
Temple Bat Yahm
Congregation Shir Ha-Ma’alot
Heritage Pointe
Hebrew Academy Community Day School and Rabbi Moshe Engel
Irvine Hebrew Day School
Merage Jewish Community Center JCC Cares Program
University Synagogue Chai Society Havurah
Beth Jacob Congregation of Irvine
Temple Beth Tikvah
Jeremiah Society
Jeremiah Society monthly gatherings are a space for social connection, learning, sharing, music, and recreation. Created in 1985 by Rabbi Moshe Engel, Rabbi Robert “Jeremiah” Bergman (z”l), and Rose Lacher, a distinguished community leader and mother of Amy (z”l) who had developmental disabilities, Jeremiah Society became part of Jewish Federation in 2017.
DonateOur Jeremiah Society Events
Sun., November 22 | FriendsgivingMerage, JCC | Irvine | 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Join us for a festive afternoon of friendship, community and gratitude! Adults with developmental disabilities, their families, friends, and community volunteers are invited to enjoy lunch, music, and meaningful connections in a warm and welcoming Jewish environment. Come celebrate together, make new friends, explore volunteer opportunities, and strengthen your connection to our inclusive Jewish community. RSVP
Sun., December 20 | Hanukkah CelebrationHeritage Pointe | Mission Viejo | 11:30 am - 4:00 pm Celebrate the light of Hanukkah with the Jeremiah Society! Adults with developmental disabilities, their families, friends, and community volunteers are invited to enjoy an afternoon of music, holiday treats, laughter, and connection. RSVP Coming Soon!
Contact Us
With deep appreciation to Hilary Lacher and Sheldon Lacher, our founding family and lead volunteer team, whose vision, generosity, and dedication have helped the Jeremiah Society create meaningful opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities to connect, grow, and build community. Their leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact, and we are so grateful that they will continue to be an important part of our events and community.
If you'd like to learn more about the Jeremiah Society and our programs, let's connect!
Jenna Gerstner
Senior Manager of Family & Community Engagement
Jewish Federation of Orange County
Residence Inquiry
If you have a loved one who is interested in residence at Mandel House or Horwitz Family House, please contact the Regional Center of Orange County or Momentum Innovative Disability Services, the licensed operator of the homes.