Kfar Shimon

Introduction:

Kfar Shimon is a unique community in Israel that provides a supportive living environment for 28 adults on the autism spectrum. Founded in 1966, the village offers a personalized approach that focuses on individual strengths and fosters a sense of belonging.

The community is run under the auspices of the Ministry of Welfare and Social Services and is also funded by private donations.

Kfar Shimon bears the name of the late Prof. Shimon Sachs Z”L, who was the head of the special education department at Tel Aviv University and who founded the special education department at the Ministry of Education. His unique approach, which focused on each individual’s personal development, is the guiding principle behind our community.  

We are not here to change or correct a person, but to enable him or her to develop and change at their own pace by designing and adapting a diverse and challenging occupational and community environment, with an emphasis on artistic expression, communication, a sense of being a valued member of a community and lifelong learning.

Based on an awareness of the residents’ constantly changing needs, we continually adapt the infrastructure and activity in Kfar Shimon. This approach is validated by the change we all go through together, by the development and inspiration we absorb from each other – the residents and the staff. 

A Tranquil Environment:

Nestled amid a 10-dunam natural grove near Beit Shemesh, Kfar Shimon offers a peaceful and scenic setting. Residents enjoy single rooms with bathrooms, promoting privacy and respect for personal space. There is a swimming pool and a gym on the grounds, as well as an organic garden where residents and staff work together to grow flowers and vegetables. A Snoezelen space provides relaxation therapy.

Focus on Individuality and Growth:

Kfar Shimon goes beyond traditional special-needs residences. The emphasis is on creating a home-like atmosphere where residents can thrive. The staff works to identify individual talents and preferences, fostering a sense of self-discovery and purpose.

We pride ourselves on retaining staff for many years, and about half of them have worked here for over a decade. Our staff get to know each resident and build trust with them over time. Kfar Shimon is also proud to welcome volunteers from Israel and abroad, who work with us to enrich our community.

Creative Expression and Socialization:

The residents are involved in arts workshops and other work activities every day. We are a holistic framework in which the residence, workshops and athletic and leisure activities are all in the village itself. We create an environment that balances group work with individual work, always fostering personal expression and communication.

The restorative occupational system was built with the understanding that every person needs to feel valuable and to contribute to the environment. Therefore, a system was built whose goals and means are as similar as possible to those used in mainstream environments.  

Practicing art allows the residents to express their feelings and their thoughts, and to explore the external world. As they create, their internal world opens up for the staff and those around them, providing an essential window into this rich and complex inner world.

Workshops and Activities:

The village offers a variety of activities that encourage self-expression and social interaction, through workshops in the arts and other employment. The workshops allow residents to learn new skills and to work on a piece over time from inception to completion. These programs allow residents to connect with others and develop their creative potential.

The workshops include:

• Music Therapy, including piano, drums and singing
• Drama and Movement classes
• Arts and Crafts, including painting, ceramics, mosaics and weaving
• Woodworking, where residents learn to use tools and create wooden toys, holiday decorations, rocking horses, games and puzzles
• Physical Fitness activities, including swimming
• Organic Gardening
• Computer, Academics and Current Events Classes

Respectful Communication:

Kfar Shimon acknowledges that many residents have difficulty with traditional communication methods. The staff utilizes various tools to bridge this gap, such as:

• Visual aids
• Structured routines
• Alternative communication methods like music and art

A Collaborative Approach:

The staff works collaboratively with residents to create a supportive and enriching environment. This includes:

• Adapting the physical space to residents' needs
• Organizing shared experiences, such as overnight trips and community events
• Encouraging resident participation in planning activities and decision-making

Lifelong Learning and Development:

Kfar Shimon believes in lifelong learning and development. Residents are encouraged to explore their interests and discover new skills through activities and workshops, as well as through interacting with each other and with the staff.

A Supportive Community:

Kfar Shimon fosters a strong sense of community. Residents and staff share experiences, participate in events and holiday celebrations, and celebrate achievements together. This supportive network contributes to a sense of belonging and well-being. The focus on individual needs, creative expression, and community empowers residents to reach their full potential.