Acknowledging Champions of Disability Inclusion in the Jewish Community
About the Award
The Shore Whitehill Award, created in 1996, celebrates volunteers who promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in the fabric of Jewish life through advocacy or direct service to individuals and families. Named for Robert Whitehill and the late Barbara Shore, who cochaired a task force on special needs in the Jewish community, the award is given annually by the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh and The Branch.
Champions of Inclusion
Awardees are selected on the basis of two criteria:
- the value of their contributions as champions of inclusion; and
- the commitment of their nominating organization or group to publicly honoring them so they may serve as a springboard for change and inspire further action by others.
Organizations that nominate awardees receive a grant of $1,000 to help underwrite the costs of a recognition event and/or inclusion activities. Awardees receive an original sculpture by the late Sylvia Plutchok, a Pittsburgh based artist.
Nomination Process
Congregations, groups, organizations and individuals that are committed to publicly celebrating champions of inclusion are encouraged to submit a nomination.
Do you know someone who is a champion of inclusion of people of all abilities in the Pittsburgh Jewish community? Do you want to celebrate their contributions?
A person eligible for nomination can be:
- A volunteer working in the Jewish community
- A paid professional working in the Jewish community who has gone above and beyond to support inclusion outside of their working hours
- An individual who promotes inclusion within the Jewish community but is not associated with a specific organization (i.e. landlords, caregivers, first responders, business owners)
- Jewish or non-Jewish
If you have questions about the nomination process, please contact Alison Karabin at akarabin@thebranchpgh.org or 412-325-0039.
Submit your nominations here.
Recipients Throughout the Years
We continue to celebrate past honorees who have gone above and beyond to promote inclusion within the Jewish community. Whether as volunteers or professionals extending their impact beyond work hours, these honorable members have each played a vital role in advancing a more inclusive world.
2015 Winner- Jane Yahr
As co-trustee of the Solomon and Sarah Goldberg Fund, Jane Yahr recognized the need for adults with intellectual disabilities to remain in the Squirrel Hill Jewish community. She led the creation of the Goldberg House, partnering The Branch with Verland to establish the first community-based group home in the area. Jane’s compassion and leadership have made a lasting impact, helping individuals live with dignity while staying connected to their faith and community.
2016 Winner- Dan Leger
Daniel Leger, RN, chaplain, and lifelong advocate, has dedicated his career to improving the lives of children and adults with disabilities and those facing serious illness. With decades of service at The Children’s Institute, Forbes Hospice, and through programs like RN+WIN and the Jewish Health Care Foundation’s “Closure,” Dan has advanced pediatric disability care, pediatric palliative care, and spiritual support for vulnerable populations.
2017 Winner- Carol Tabas
Carol Tabas has dedicated her life to advocating for full community inclusion for people with complex disabilities. Inspired by her son Chet, Carol has worked tirelessly to make Jewish institutions, schools, and community spaces more accessible and welcoming. Her leadership with Friendship Circle, United Way’s 21 and Able Initiative, Jewish Family and Children’s Service, and The Branch has shaped inclusive practices across Pittsburgh’s Jewish community.
2018 Winner- Matt Keller
Dr. Matthew Keller is a dedicated advocate for disability inclusion and longtime leader in Pittsburgh’s Jewish community, currently serving as Board Chair of Jewish Family and Community Services. He has held key roles locally and nationally, including co-chairing the JFNA Disability Committee and spearheading the Rosh Pina initiative in Pittsburgh.
2019 Winner- Lisa Lederer
Lisa Lederer is the co-chair and founder of Temple Sinai’s disAbility & Inclusion Task Force, where she has led transformative efforts to make the congregation more inclusive of people with disabilities. Under her leadership, Temple Sinai launched a sensory-friendly Hebrew curriculum, monthly inclusive services, and impactful programming for Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month. Lisa has also brought critical attention to mental health in the Jewish community, creating space for open dialogue and recognition.
2020 Winner- Dorothy Pollon
Dorothy Pollon has spent over three decades advocating for individuals with disabilities, combining her professional expertise and personal experiences to champion inclusion in schools, healthcare, and community life. She serves on the Board of Directors at The Friendship Circle, where she chairs the Development Committee and is a powerful voice for accessibility and sustainability. Dorothy’s leadership extends across numerous organizations, including Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation and Merakey, making her a respected advocate for people of all abilities.
2022 Winner- Jillian Zacks
Jillian Zacks is a passionate advocate and attorney who has dedicated her career to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families through legal work and community leadership. She has served on the boards of JFCS, Achieva, Friendship Circle, and The Arc of Greater Pittsburgh, and specializes in special needs planning, guardianship, and estate matters. As a parent of two adult children on the autism spectrum, Jillian brings deep personal commitment to her advocacy, working to ensure access, equity, and long-term support for people of all abilities.
2023 Winner- Robert Levin
Robert Levin is a longtime board member and devoted volunteer at The Branch, where his deep commitment to disability inclusion shines through in everything from advocacy and decision making to leading dances at Chanukah celebrations. Known for his warmth, enthusiasm, and hands-on involvement, Robert has nurtured friendships with Clubhouse participants, welcomed newcomers, and helped shape the organization’s mission and growth. His joyful spirit and unwavering support make him a beloved and respected champion of inclusion in the Jewish community.
2024 Winner- Samantha Skobel
From leading Inclusion Shabbat at Temple Sinai to teaching children of all abilities in both classrooms and dance studios, Samantha Skobel is a dedicated educator, dancer, and advocate whose passion for inclusion touches every part of her life. Living with epilepsy, Sam brings deep empathy and understanding to her work, inspiring others through her own story and creating welcoming spaces for families navigating disability. Her belief that “everybody can dance” is more than a motto, it’s a movement that has changed lives, built community, and brought joy and dignity to every student she teaches.