This post is part of a series written in recognition of Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month by members of our community with a disability describing ways they feel included in our community.
Hey! I am Jacob Haimovitz and I am 18 years old. I live with my mom, my dad, my twin sister, and my grandma is here just for a visit.
Today I went to school like every day at Van Nuys High. I learn there about the Americans. I like learning about WWI the most, because I like the action, and knowing that it actually happened. There are lots of kids in my class. I meet new people and eat with them and we watch videos on the phone. I like to hang out with Jack Schneider, who is not from my class. Our families are good friends.
After school, I go back home, watch TV and read books. When I hang out with friends, we usually go to watch a movie, like with Carlo. I met him in social group at Encino. I used to go there a lot but I graduated. I like watching movies, especially action and comedy movies.
I read Harry Potter, and I’m almost finished with the fourth book. I have a list of books I would like to read, and when I’m done I am going to get more books to read. I like to read books in public places. If we go to a restaurant, I like to read while they’re cooking the food.
I like making my own food and cooking. I enjoy making French toast for my family on Saturdays.
I like to listen to rock, pop, and bands like Nickelback and Maroon 5. My favorite song is “Good Times” by Owl City.
My favorite places are movie theaters and amusement parks. I like good rides that make me sick. I don’t like horror movies because they give me nightmares and make me sick too.
I go to the Israel Scouts every Sunday. I like to go there and make friends. I like the hikes and the other guys there. I’m a senior at Scouts so I’m going to graduate this year. I’m graduating school this year too.
I believe in God, and I like to go to synagogue. When I was 13 I had a bar mitzvah. I did a service and had a party. Lots of people came, friends and family.
I believe in heaven too. Heaven is in the clouds, and God is there. He has angels there, and people with auras above their heads. You should always believe in heaven and be good to get to heaven. Everybody should be good.
Jacob Haimovitz is a senior at Van Nuys High School who is diagnosed with autism. He enjoys attending the Israeli Scouts activities, going on and hikes regularly.
Jewish Federation Los Angeles believes that everyone in our community should have the opportunity to experience and celebrate our shared values, history and traditions. Making Jewish life more accessible for all is one of our top priorities, which is why we are part of a national effort to raise awareness about members of the Jewish community with disabilities. Go to www.JewishLA.org/Inclusion for more information.
