Inclusion

History

The Inclusion B’Kavod Comittee was formed in 2011 to explore ways to make Ohev Shalom a more inclusive community. The concept of kavod represents our purpose. Kavod is the Hebrew word for honor and respect. We believe that the essence of kavod encompasses all of the following: Kindness, Acceptance, Visibility, Opportunity, and Dignity... for all.

Many people experience the deep isolation that comes from feeling misunderstood or disconnected from the broader community. The Inclusion B’Kavod committee works to narrow those gaps—to create safe spaces (physical and emotional), build bridges, and facilitate solutions. The process is slow and imperfect, but with consistency and persistence, we will keep striving to do just that.

Mission and Vision

Our mission is to ensure that all members and guests of Ohev Shalom of Bucks County are able to participate meaningfully in the spiritual, educational, celebratory, and life event activities that take place within our sacred community.

Our vision is to ensure that the Inclusion B’Kavod Committee:

> Identifies and supports members of our community who require accommodations.

> Fosters an environment that promotes engagement, understanding, and a sense of community in a judgment-free zone.

Join Us! We want to meet you where you are, celebrate the fullness of who you are, and cherish where you come from. We encourage you to get involved in our efforts with your ideas and suggestions!

Initiatives in Place and Ongoing

• Amplified hearing systems (located near Rabbi’s podium)
• Magnified overlay sheets and non-prescription reading glasses to enlarge print
• Ramp from the sanctuary seating to the bimah
• Handrails to access the ark
• Pull-cord to open the ark without having to climb the stairs
• Live stream or Zoom of every service
• Facebook live presentations of special events and activities
• Chair lift to access and enter East Wing entrance from 2nd St. Pike (Spring 2026)
• Accessible parking
• Automatic doors with fob access at side and main entrances
• Additional lighting at stairway to main entrance
• Ramp at main entrance
• Gender neutral accessible bathroom in Gottesman Grand Hall
• Accessible bathrooms throughout the campus
• Designated “Pray and play” area at the rear of Sanctuary and Chapel
• Accessible mezzuzot (small, encased parchment scroll with religious text affixed to doorposts) throughout the building.
• Needs and Accommodations form available for every event to strive to meet individual needs

LGBTQIA+ Pride

• Gender neutral bathroom accessible in Gottesman Grand Hall
• Name tags with pronoun preferences
• Use of inclusive language

Recognition and accommodation of Neurodiversity

• Educational supports: Inclusion Facilitator supporting professional staff, families, and students from Pre-Gan (Pre-Kindergarten) through Tichon (Hebrew HIgh School)
• Professional development and support regarding inclusive educational practices and resources.
• The Shalom Room

Interfaith Inclusion and The Belonging Initiative 

Programming that provides alternatives to religious service for those who desire to engage in the community in ways other than religious practice. Some programs are alternatives to Shabbat services, while others are scheduled at various times throughout the year.

• Book club
• Meetups in the community
• Yoga and meditation
• Coffee and conversations
• Bingo and games
• Family Heirloom Story Circle 
• Ongoing specialized, creative, and inclusive programming

Food allergy and Gluten sensitivity Awareness

• Gluten-free food
• Nut-free facility
• Food allergy or food sensitivity signage
• Awareness of and attention to preventing cross-contamination

Contact Us!  InclusionBKavod@ohev.org