Michelle Shapiro Abraham, MAJE, RJE

Michelle Shapiro Abraham (she/her) is the Executive Director of JBI Library, a Jewish organization supporting individuals who are blind, have low vision, or live with print disabilities. A 2015 Covenant Award recipient, she has spent nearly 30 years building inclusive Jewish communities through her leadership, writing, and innovation. Michelle previously led Gather, Inc. and served as Executive Director of Strategic Innovation and Program at the Union for Reform Judaism, shaping transformative programs for Jewish youth. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to creating Jewish spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and at home.

Wine glass exploding against a black background

Shards of Glass: A Poem for the New Year

Michelle Shapiro Abraham, MAJE, RJE
Remind my tired soul, I beg You / My kitchen is far too clean and the china is still in the basement / Remind me how to stop the mourning / for tables that don’t need extensions / quiet synagogues with no children to be shushed...
Teen wearing Converse and holding backpack against a brick wall

4 Ways to Talk to Teens after the Pittsburgh Shooting

Dr. Betsy Stone, Michelle Shapiro Abraham, MAJE, RJE
On Saturday night, I asked my 15-year-old son how he was doing. Was he scared? Overwhelmed? As I listened to him, my heart broke – but I couldn’t deny his reality. For him, this act of hate was terrible. And heartbreaking. And normal.
Helping Children Deal After Acts of Terror

After Terror: 5 Jewish Ways to Help Kids Deal

Michelle Shapiro Abraham, MAJE, RJE
Jewish tradition provides wisdom on how to handle these moments – both as parents and as individuals: Don’t be afraid to learn. Take large actions. Embrace small acts. Tell the stories to your children, and know when to let it go.

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