In a remarkable display of courage and determination, 23-year-old Channi, who lives in one of Kisharon Langdon’s Supported Living homes in Golders Green, completed a tandem skydive, raising £3436 for the charity that has helped her transform her life.
Together with Georgia, one of her dedicated support workers, Channi leapt from a plane at Brackley Airfield on Tuesday 1 July, soaring 13,000 feet through the air to raise money for Kisharon Langdon, supporting people in the Jewish learning disability and autism community.
Since moving into her newly-renovated, fully-adapted home in December 2021, Channi has transformed from a shy, introverted young woman into someone bubbly, confident and full of life. She shares a strong bond with her four housemates and support workers, who have become true friends. Together, they support each other and enjoy all the fun of shared living, including baking, games nights and plenty of laughter. With the help of staff who nurture her independence and self-belief, Channi has built a life filled with creativity, friendship and purpose.
Channi has flourished in the environment provided by Kisharon Langdon; she has part-time work at a local nursery, a growing passion for painting and ceramics, and an active social life to name just a few ways that her life has transformed.
The skydive marked a major personal milestone for Channi and this fundraising challenge was an extraordinary way to give back to the organisation that has supported her journey. The event was captured on film and will serve as a powerful testament to the capabilities and achievements of people with learning disabilities when given the right support.
Channi said after the jump “I’ve always wanted to do this, a once in a lifetime experience. I love Kisharon Langdon and living in my home, we feel like a family! I am so grateful for everyone there. Me and Georgia decided together that we wanted to do the sky dive. I love the challenge. I was really excited before the jump, more excited than nervous. I just went, I didn’t want to overthink. I was the first to jump! It was really amazing, it was awesome! We did a flip too! I want to do it again!
Georgia, a Support Worker at Kisharon Langdon for 4 years, said “We love to challenge each other, we like to do these things together! I am so proud of Channi and what she has achieved, it was an amazing experience!”
To date, Channi and Georgia’s skydiving challenge has raised significant funds to help Kisharon Langdon continue its mission of empowering individuals in the Jewish learning disability and autism community to live independently and achieve their full potential.
Kisharon Langdon’s newly established Young Kisharon Langdon Committee celebrated a successful launch with its first event – a high-energy Padel Tournament on Sunday 29 June, raising in excess of £8,000. The much-anticipated event brought together 50 enthusiastic players who competed across five groups, showcasing the excitement of the UK’s fastest-growing sport.
The tournament, held in a spirit of friendly competition and community engagement, was sponsored by the Maurice Hatter Foundation, with refreshments generously sponsored by Lev Tov Match. Spectators and participants alike enjoyed an afternoon filled with camaraderie, sporting excellence and a deeper connection to Kisharon Langdon’s mission of supporting individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people.
A highlight of the day was the presence of three people supported by Kisharon Langdon – Marcus Bean, Lucy Ronson-Allalouf and Robyn Freedman – who assisted throughout the event. Marcus delivered a heartfelt speech, sharing his personal journey and how Kisharon Langdon continues to play a pivotal role in his life. His words were met with warm applause and further reinforced the event’s charitable purpose. By a heartwarming coincidence, the tournament was won by Daniel Bean and Mitch Gold – with Daniel being Marcus’ brother. Congratulations to them both on a well-deserved victory!
This event marked the vibrant debut of the Young Kisharon Langdon Committee, a new initiative aimed at engaging Jewish young adults aged 20 – 35. The committee is co-chaired by James Doffman and Ruby Cole, with members Izzy Flitterman, Leanne Houri, Lauren Levin, Rosie Myers and Josh Denton bringing energy, creativity and passion to the cause.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better launch,” said Young Kisharon Langdon Committee co-chair Ruby Cole. “The Padel Tournament was not only a fun and energetic way to bring people together, but also a meaningful opportunity to introduce a new generation to the work of Kisharon Langdon.”
James Doffman, co-chair, added, “This is just the beginning. Our committee is committed to creating engaging, purposeful events that connect our peers to a cause that truly matters.”
Adam Overlander-Kaye, Director of Fundraising at Kisharon Langdon, commented, “It’s inspiring to see the next generation stepping up with such passion and creativity. The success of this event is a testament to the power of community, and we’re incredibly grateful to the newly formed Young Kisharon Langdon Committee for their hard work and commitment.”
Plans are already in motion for future events, promising more opportunities for young supporters to get involved, have fun and make a difference.
A determined team of 25 cyclists, including four people supported by Kisharon Langdon, completed an epic 318km cycle ride from Porto to Lisbon over the course of 4 days, from 22-25 June, raising in excess of £70,000 in support of people with learning disabilities and autistic people.
The annual Velo ride took participants through Portugal’s challenging mountainous terrain and fertile landscapes, testing endurance and celebrating ability in all its forms.
Four Kisharon Langdon members – Talya Jacobson, Marc Butcher, James Manton and Ted Morris – joined the team this year, each playing a vital role in the event’s success.
Talya Jacobson rode tandem with her mother, Bev Jacobson, former Chief Executive of Kisharon. Marc Butcher and Ted Morris partnered with long-time charity supporters Lee Clements and Ben Miller on their tandems, while James Manton achieved the remarkable feat of riding independently alongside the other dedicated cyclists.
Kisharon Langdon members undertook a rigorous training programme in the lead-up to the ride, attending spinning classes at the Village Hotel in Elstree and joining Sunday road rides with regular Velo participants.
Marc Butcher, Velo cyclist and Kisharon Langdon tenant, shared a video update part way through the cycle, where he commented:
“Today was one of the greatest days I’ve had with Lee – great climbing, knackered the chain, the headwind…the whole day was really good. Tough, but good.”
Director of Fundraising, Adam Overlander-Kaye, said:
“This year’s Velo was nothing short of inspirational. Seeing our members achieve something so physically and emotionally demanding is a testament to their resilience and the power of community. We’re incredibly proud of everyone involved and grateful to all who supported the team.”
Kisharon Langdon extended heartfelt thanks to Velo’s fundraising committee led by Lynne Gilbert and Warren Dagul, as well as the jersey sponsors – Fusion Group, Enable Technology, Kings Crown Group, and Aston Chase – whose generous support helped make the ride possible.
Funds raised will go towards Kisharon Langdon’s vital work supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people to thrive, live independently and achieve their ambitions.
As part of an inspiring ongoing partnership, pupils at Wohl Campus, Kisharon Noé School, a Loftus Learning Centre are taking part in a transformative two-year music programme in collaboration with national charity Electric Umbrella and with funding from Youth Music. This innovative partnership brings a unique, person-centred music experience to 30 pupils, culminating in each student receiving a recognised music qualification from Trinity College London Awards and Certificates in Musical Development.
Importantly, Kisharon Noé School is the only Jewish school in the country to be selected for this prestigious programme and receive funding through Youth Music, which is a testament to the school’s pioneering work in inclusive education.
Having worked together for several years through Electric Umbrella’s ‘Music Machine’ broadcasts and creative workshops, this new phase represents a deepening of the relationship between Kisharon Noé School and Electric Umbrella. The programme is tailored specifically for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), with a focus on creativity, communication and confidence-building.
Throughout the two-year initiative, Electric Umbrella’s professional team, which includes both professional and learning-disabled musicians, will deliver regular, interactive music workshops at the school. The sessions are fully inclusive, built around the musical interests and developmental needs of each child, and designed to engage pupils in a joyful and empowering way.
“I’m so proud to be partnering with Electric Umbrella to deliver their Youth Music programme at Kisharon Noé School,” said Adina Collins, Headteacher at Kisharon Noé School and trustee of Electric Umbrella. “The pupils gain so much from seeing the EU members thriving and leading their sessions and being absolute role models to the SEND community. It’s also been amazing to have the opportunity to enhance our music provision, as it’s something that so many of our pupils benefit from – both from an educational and therapeutic perspective.”
Adina Collins became a trustee of Electric Umbrella following the school’s partnership with the charity. She was introduced to the organisation by Paul Lewis, a Kisharon Langdon parent and Head of Marketing at Electric Umbrella. Paul’s son, Max Lewis, is a supported living tenant at Kisharon Langdon and also a proud member of the Electric Umbrella band – reflecting the deep and meaningful connections between the charity and the wider Kisharon Langdon community.
The Trinity College qualifications are based on observed developmental progress rather than formal exams, making them accessible to all students, including those with profound and multiple learning disabilities. As students engage with music in workshops and performances, their growth is recorded and submitted as evidence toward their certification.
“This programme is not just about music – it’s about meaningful engagement, self-expression, and celebrating achievement in a way that has rarely been possible for learning-disabled young people,” said Claire, Electric Umbrella’s Head of Education. “It’s music education reimagined, and we’re honoured to be delivering it at Kisharon Noé School.”
Jonathan, one of Electric Umbrella’s learning-disabled musicians, said: “I love introducing the students to the different instruments and giving them the chance to play them. We can get people out of their comfort zone and that builds confidence.”
The partnership with Electric Umbrella and Youth Music reflects Kisharon Langdon’s ongoing commitment to innovation, inclusion, and empowering every pupil to realise their full potential.
Kisharon Langdon is delighted to announce the phenomenal success of its matched funding campaign, which raised an incredible £1,030,049 in just 36 hours to support people with learning disabilities and autistic people throughout their journey of a lifetime.
The campaign ran from 8-9 June, galvanising support from across the community through an online platform, with all donations doubled thanks to the generosity of match funders and with 159 Kisharon Langdon Champions hosting their own fundraising pages. The funds raised will directly support Kisharon Langdon’s vital services, including supported living, education, employment opportunities and community inclusion programmes.
The campaign featured people supported by Kisharon Langdon at different stages of their lives and for others throughout their lifetime, for example, Eli, who started at the Wohl Campus, Kisharon Noé School, and then stayed with Kisharon Langdon for college, and now lives in supported living accommodation and has found employment through the charity. Eli says, “Kisharon Langdon is a home. It’s a great place to be. They have helped me to get work and thank you for supporting me.”
The campaign also featured Wohl Campus, Kisharon Noé School pupil, Jordyn, whose mother, Tami, was told when Jordyn was born that she would likely only live for 28 days, and if she did survive, she would be blind, deaf and never mobile. Today, with our support, Jordyn is thriving at school, walking independently, does Makaton signing, is into fashion and like a little teenager. Tami says, “Thank you for giving me my little girl and letting her be the best version she can be, and thank you for giving us our family, our home and the lives that we have.”
The campaign received enthusiastic backing from across the community, including a special appearance from Lev the Lion, Kisharon Langdon’s new mascot. In the lead-up to the campaign, Lev made many appearances across North West London to share Shabbat candles and spread awareness about the vital work the charity does.
The funds raised will ensure Kisharon Langdon can continue delivering high-impact services that promote independence, dignity, and inclusion for the people it supports.
Richard Franklin, Chief Executive of Kisharon Langdon, says: “We are absolutely thrilled to have reached our £1 million target. This campaign was more than just a fundraiser. It was a celebration of our community’s belief in the value and potential of every person we support. We are profoundly grateful to everyone who donated, championed, and shared our message.”
Adam Overlander-Kaye, Director of Fundraising at Kisharon Langdon, says: “This was a true community effort. Thanks to our amazing champions and generous donors, we can continue to provide life-changing support and opportunities to the people who rely on us. Every gift, large or small, has helped us to reach this milestone.”
You can continue to donate to the matched funding campaign here: kisharonlangdon.org.uk/donate/matched-funding-campaign
Seven incredible runners proudly represented Kisharon Langdon at the TCS London Marathon on Sunday, raising vital funds and awareness for the charity dedicated to supporting individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people in the Jewish community.
The dedicated team, including Yomi Cohen, Abe Eckstein, James Gordon, Michael Jaeger, Ronit Sklair, Sam Ucko and Sagi Mado, raised £34,000 in total for the charity.
Sagi Mado, who previously came 2nd in the Vienna marathon, completed the race in 02:56:30. He travelled from Israel especially to run for Kisharon Langdon, inspired by his sister-in-law Adina Collins who is Headteacher at Kisharon Noé School.
With the support of friends, family and members of the Kisharon Langdon community, the runners not only conquered the 26.2 miles but also inspired countless others with their determination and spirit.
As they crossed the finish line, Team Kisharon Langdon was surrounded by a vibrant support team, celebrating the hard work and dedication that goes into such an endeavour.
Adam Overlander-Kaye, Director of Fundraising, said: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported our runners through donations, encouragement and cheering along the course. Your contributions make a significant impact on the lives of those we support”.
Runner Ronit Sklair shared: “Running the London Marathon is more than just a race; each mile is a testament to the power of community and generosity. Fundraising for Kisharon Langdon and our community is what drives me forward and makes all the sweat worth it.”
In the lead-up to Pesach, the people we support were treated to an unforgettable experience that brought tradition and learning together in the most delicious way possible. Thanks to Chabad Golders Green, who kindly hosted and arranged a session with the Model Matzah Bakery, 40 individuals supported by Kisharon Langdon – along with staff from both our Golders Green and Edgware services – had the opportunity to roll up their sleeves and get hands-on with the ancient art of matzah making.
The workshop was a lively, sensory experience that engaged everyone from start to finish. Participants began by learning about the significance of matzah during Pesach, before diving straight into the process of making it from scratch. From manually grinding wheat into flour to mixing, kneading, and rolling the dough, everyone was involved at every step of the way.
Each person was given their own small ball of dough to shape into a matzah. They used a special tool to create the traditional pattern of holes that helps the matzah bake evenly and quickly, just as it has been done for generations. After shaping their matzot, participants gathered around the special matzah oven to see their creations baked to crispy perfection.
It was more than just a baking session – it was a powerful learning opportunity that deepened everyone’s understanding of the meaning behind the rituals of Pesach. The people we support left not only with a matzah in hand but with pride, knowledge, and a stronger connection to their Jewish heritage.
A huge thank you to Chabad Golders Green and the Model Matzah Bakery for making this meaningful event possible. We’re so grateful for partnerships like these that enrich the lives of those we support, making Jewish festivals more accessible, memorable and joyful.
April was a month of remarkable dedication and productivity for Kisharon Langdon’s Enterprise Team – a dynamic group of individuals with learning disabilities who work together to contribute meaningfully to the community through supported employment and volunteering.
The Enterprise Team tackled a wide range of projects with their trademark enthusiasm and attention to detail. Their work had a wide-reaching impact, benefitting individuals within our charity, the broader Jewish community and beyond.
In preparation for Pesach, the Enterprise Team packed:
• 132 packs of confectionery for Kisharon Langdon’s Gift & Homeware Store, Equal
• 555 Pesach kits for the charity Bedside Kosher, supporting patients in hospitals with kosher meals
• 95 bespoke parcels for the Armed Forces Jewish Community, which involved labelling wine, assembling spreadsheet data, and mail merges—each box thoughtfully filled with Pesach goodies
• 30 Pesach chocolate chip cookie kits, handmade and packaged for sale in Equal
In addition, the Enterprise Team played a vital role in supporting the wider Kisharon Langdon community during Pesach preparations by:
• Helping to prepare and make food items and Seder plate elements for mock Seders across the charity, serving over 120 people
• Assembling and delivering 5 full Seder plates to Supported Living homes for individuals celebrating Pesach at home
Enterprise Team member, Dov, said “’I enjoyed getting the bottles of wine and labelling the wine and putting the wine sleeves onto the wine to protect them’.”
Their creativity also shone through when they designed and crafted personalised keyrings and gifts for winners of the Above and Beyond staff awards, presenting them with pride at the awards ceremony.
The team’s commitment extended to educational initiatives as well. They volunteered with Etgar, helping to:
• Match names to envelopes for 16 schools, learning to alphabetise names efficiently
• Label over 1,000 sweets with the Etgar logo, supporting a fun and educational experience for participating children
This month’s incredible achievements are a testament to the Enterprise Team’s hard work, skills and community spirit. Every task completed not only supported others but also empowered each team member with purpose, pride and new abilities.
Pesach is the ultimate story of a journey to freedom. Kisharon Langdon helps individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people embark on their own personal journey towards independence, inclusion and a future full of possibility.
Deena is one of 500 people supported by Kisharon Langdon across a range of services and her story is a testament to a truly transformative journey. From Deena’s early years at our Tuffkid Nursery, she flourished in a nurturing and inclusive environment. At Kisharon Noé School on the Wohl Campus, she grew in confidence and developed academically.
Her aspirations only grew at Kisharon Langdon College, where she explored her passions and took her first steps towards greater independence. Today, Deena lives with her best friends in one of Kisharon Langdon’s fully-adapted Supported Living homes, embracing a life of autonomy, engagement and happiness. Her days are filled with activities she loves—bowling, arts and crafts and community events—thanks to the charity’s comprehensive social programming.
Her mother, Sylvia, expresses her gratitude: “It’s hard to keep up with her busy schedule! The Friday Night Dinners, where Deena and her friends prepare and host Shabbat, are truly heartwarming. Kisharon Langdon’s support is invaluable—we couldn’t imagine this journey without them.”
Kisharon Langdon supports individuals at every life stage, but providing high-quality, personalised support comes at a significant cost. The charity needs to raise £4.5m to fund the gap between the costs of running their vital services, the limited income received from local authorities, and contributions from families. Many essential services receive no government funding, and rising costs make the community’s support more crucial than ever before.
Kisharon Langdon is appealing to the community this Pesach to enable them to continue supporting others like Deena by providing specialist care, innovative programmes, and the opportunity for individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people to live fulfilling, independent lives.
To donate to the Kisharon Langdon Pesach Appeal, visit kisharonlangdon.org.uk/donate/pesach-donation or call 020 3209 1160
On Monday 31 March, Kisharon Noé School on the Wohl Campus transformed into a fully immersive biblical experience, as school pupils and adults supported by Kisharon Langdon across all services were invited to step into the story of Passover through an interactive 10 Plagues Exhibition.
Designed to engage the senses and bring the Exodus narrative to life, the exhibition featured ten unique stations—each dedicated to one of the plagues that befell Egypt. Participants watched water turn to “blood” with the simple addition of red food colouring, felt the weight of “hail” through giant balls of ice, and experienced “darkness” by donning blackout sunglasses.
The multi-sensory journey encouraged exploration through touch, smell and sight, making the ancient story accessible and engaging for all. To enhance understanding, each stage of the exhibition was displayed on a screen in an easy-read format, ensuring inclusivity for all attendees.
Following the exhibition, the Passover story was brought to life once more, as everyone gathered to listen to a vibrant reading from an oversized, colourful and pictorial Haggadah-style book.
This unique event exemplifies Kisharon Langdon’s commitment to making Jewish heritage meaningful and accessible, fostering a sense of connection and engagement for all.
Eitan Cohn, Kodesh Lead, said: “Our pupils had a fantastic time exploring the Pesach story in our immersive ten makkos experience, as part of our Pesach preparations in school. The Pesach story is so central to the Jewish story, that it is very important to us to engage our pupils with it in a vivid and experiential way that they can really understand.”
