HTC Welcomes Back Simcha Wechsler Through Innovative Partnership with Keshet’s GADOL Program

Skokie, IL —

Simcha Wechsler is ready for his sophomore year at college, in a manner of speaking. 

During the 2024-25 school year, Hebrew Theological College (HTC) proudly welcomed Simcha Wechsler to its facilities team through a partnership with Keshet’s GADOL Program. As a member of HTC's facilities team, Simcha assisted with the clean-up of the dining room and main floor facilities, while becoming a beloved presence on campus. HTC is pleased to welcome him back for a second year. 

Simcha was no stranger to HTC prior to his joining the facilities team. A former camper at Yeshivas HaKayitz, HTC's overnight camp, Simcha is the son of Rabbi Seymour Wechsler  HTC Musmach (HTC ’65 and Semicha ’72) and Chair of the Accounting Department, and Hedy Wechsler, longtime members of the HTC family.

“Simcha brings a contagious energy to our halls,” said Rabbi Shmuel Schuman, CEO of HTC. “His work ethic, attention to detail, and warm interactions with students and staff have made a lasting impression.”

The collaboration with Keshet’s GADOL Program, which provides adults with disabilities opportunities to lead meaningful and productive lives, has been a natural fit for HTC, which, in addition to its formal educational mission, has a strong focus on community. 

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to partner with Keshet and Libenu to welcome Simcha,” said HTC Facilities Director, Igor Shneyderman. “He’s become a true part of our team.”

Simcha is a resident and active participant at Libenu, a Chicago-based organization that provides inclusive housing and support services for individuals with disabilities. Libenu's vision is to build a Jewish community where all individuals are valued for their unique strengths and contributions, and can live with dignity, independence, and joy.

“It has been heartwarming to see how quickly Simcha became part of the rhythm of the facilities team,” said Wendy Lacey, Keshet’s Vocational Coordinator. “This is what true inclusion looks like.” 

Keshet, a national leader in disability services, supports more than 600 participants annually through 75 programs, including GADOL, its Adult Day Program. GADOL provides engaging and inspiring opportunities tailored to each participant’s strengths and interests, ensuring that adults with disabilities are connected, valued, and empowered.