SYDNEY SOLOMON Seventeen year-old Sydney Solomon may have a few challenges that most of us can't relate to, but that does not limit the opportunities she encounters.

Sydney, a resident of Cherry Hill, has cerebral palsy and is hearing impaired. She is a fourth year student at the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf. Her mother, Paula says that Sydney enjoys a wide range of activities including swimming, horseback riding, dancing and participating in arts and crafts. She also participates with Cerebral Palsy of New Jersey and the Archway Program both of which in activities such as movies, field trips and social dinners.

Many of Sydney's after-school activities are provided through the Katz JCC's ACHaD Department. ACHaD (Achieving Community Hopes and Dreams) serves individuals with special needs, from children through the elderly with a wide variety of physical, developmental, neurological and learning challenges. Sydney is an active member of the ACHaD Spirit Group, as well as the Open Hearts, Open Doors summer program at the JCC Camps at Medford.

"ACHaD is a huge part of Sydney's life," said Paula Solomon. "The Open Hearts, Open Doors program offers wonderful stimulation for my daughter, and the JCC's ACHaD Department programs enhance the Jewish aspects of her life."

Sydney and her mother participate in the holiday celebrations held at the JCC, coordinated by the ACHaD Department. Some of Sydney's favorite holiday memories include Purim parties and the Pesach Seder where Sydney signs several parts of the ceremony.

It is very heartwarming to experience all of the holidays here," said Paula.

"We are so grateful to have the JCC and the ACHaD program available for Sydney, so that she can be a part of the community."

The Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey is proud to give financial support to the Katz JCC each year from contributions made to the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign. The Annual Campaign also supports other local and overseas agencies that provide vital programs and services to people in need here in South Jersey and around the world.

Please help us to continue to support these programs by making your contribution today to the 2009 Jewish Federation Annual Campaign. Donate online at www.jewishsouthjersey.org or call 751- 9500. .