Commenting on Prime Minister, Andy Burnham’s speech on adult social care today, Kisharon Langdon’s Chief Executive, Richard Franklin, says:
“The Prime Minister’s announcement today is significant in recognising both the urgency of reforming social care and the vital contribution of the workforce that supports millions of people every day.
At Kisharon Langdon, we support people with learning disabilities and autistic people in the Jewish community to live independent, fulfilling lives. We know that high-quality, person-centred social care transforms lives, and agree with the Prime Minister that it depends on a skilled, dedicated workforce which is nationally undervalued.
The commitment to bring forward Baroness Louise Casey’s review and accelerate plans for a National Care Service is an important first step, and Kisharon Langdon has already submitted evidence to the Casey Commission on the challenges we experience in adult social care. It is essential that any reforms are shaped by the experiences of people who draw on care and support, their families and specialist providers, ensuring that personalised support remains at the heart of the social care.
We welcome the focus on improving pay, training and career progression for social care staff. A more rewarding and professionally recognised career pathway is essential to attracting and retaining the talented people our sector needs, particularly in London, where workforce pressures, imbalances with the NHS, and the cost of living present significant challenges.
It is encouraging to see a commitment to working across political parties on an issue that has been left unresolved since the Sutherland Commission almost 30 years ago. Delivering lasting reform will require sustained collaboration, long-term investment and difficult decisions, but the prize is a social care system that is fairer, more resilient, and better able to support people to lead the contributing lives they choose.
As these proposals develop, we urge the Government to ensure that people with learning disabilities, autistic people, and the organisations that support them, have a strong voice in shaping the future of social care. Getting this right is not only about reforming services; it is about creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
One of just seven leaders shortlisted for the Chief Executive Award
Kisharon Langdon is delighted to announce that its Group Chief Executive, Richard Franklin, has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Chief Executive Award at the highly respected Third Sector Awards, one of the UK’s most prestigious recognitions of excellence in the charity and voluntary sector.
Richard is one of just seven chief executives nationally to be shortlisted for the award, which recognises outstanding leadership and exceptional contribution to an organisation and the wider sector.
The recognition follows a landmark year for Kisharon Langdon under Richard’s leadership. Having joined Kisharon in 2013, becoming Chief Executive in 2018 and Group Chief Executive following the merger with Langdon in 2023, Richard has led the creation of a unique organisation supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people throughout every stage of life.
Most notably, Richard spearheaded the merger of Kisharon and Langdon, recognised as the UK’s second-largest non-profit merger, creating a £25 million organisation that now provides seamless support from education through to supported living and adult services. A key impetus for merging the two charities was also driving efficiencies and impacts which have enabled savings of more than double the projected £500,000 in back-end office costs.
During his leadership, Kisharon Langdon has achieved outstanding results, including:
• Outstanding ratings across education and supported living services
• A 30% increase in voluntary income
• A 19% increase in statutory funding
• A record £4.6 million raised in the last year
• Delivery of 10 of 12 major post-merger integration objectives
• Significant cost savings while improving staff engagement and service quality
Richard’s leadership has also been characterised by a strong focus on culture and people. Through regular town halls, staff forums, recognition programmes and highly visible leadership across the organisation’s services, he has fostered a values-led culture that is reflected in independent staff engagement and culture survey results showing increased trust, communication and engagement.
Philip Goldberg, Co-Chair of Kisharon Langdon, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled that Richard has been recognised on a national stage. Being shortlisted as one of only seven finalists in the Third Sector Awards is a tremendous achievement and richly deserved.
The merger would never have happened without Richard. His vision, determination and ability to bring people together created something the Jewish community had needed for many years – an organisation that can support people with learning disabilities throughout their lives. The impact of that achievement on our community is unparalleled.”
Richard Franklin said:
“I am honoured to be shortlisted for this award. This recognition belongs to the incredible colleagues, volunteers, trustees, supporters and families who have worked together to make Kisharon Langdon what it is today. Everything we have achieved has been driven by our shared commitment to enabling people with learning disabilities and autistic people to live fulfilling, independent and meaningful lives.”
The winners of the Third Sector Awards will be announced later this year.
Kisharon Langdon is celebrating the success of an innovative project at its Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ Tuffkid Nursery, strengthening parental confidence and participation in inclusive woodwork for young children, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
The project coincides with sector recognition for the nursery’s leadership. Janice Marriott, Headteacher at Tuffkid Nursery, was recently invited to speak at the Froebel Trust conference, reflecting over a decade of guiding the nursery’s Froebelian approach. Holding an MA in Integrated Early Years Provision, she has embedded a holistic, play-based model that champions creativity, independence and inclusion.
Funded by a Froebel Trust Practice Support Grant, the project focused on one key question: how can stronger partnerships with parents unlock access to woodwork for every child?
Breaking Down Barriers
Although woodwork is a long-standing part of Tuffkid’s curriculum, some parents, particularly those of children with additional needs, had concerns about safety, suitability and its learning value.
In response, the nursery launched a targeted programme combining:
• An expert-led parent webinar
• Hands-on woodwork workshops for parents
• Video observations of children’s learning
The aim: to demystify woodwork and bring parents into the learning experience.
Real Impact for Children and Families
The results were clear. Parents reported a significant shift in confidence and understanding, moving from uncertainty to active encouragement.
Children, in turn, showed:
• Increased engagement and focus
• Stronger fine motor skills
• Greater confidence and independence
• Enhanced creativity and problem-solving
Notably, participation grew among children with SEND and those previously hesitant to take part.
Voices from the Project
A spokesperson at the Froebel Trust said:
“This project exemplifies the power of partnering with parents to include children with special educational needs in meaningful learning experiences. By deepening understanding of Froebelian woodwork, Tuffkid Nursery has developed a thoughtful and impactful approach to positively engaging parents, ensuring all children can benefit from this rich occupation.”
A parent shared:
“I was surprised to discover how much learning happens through woodwork. It’s not just fun – it builds confidence, creativity, and real satisfaction. I now feel excited and reassured for my child to take part.”
Another added:
“Seeing my child using tools safely and independently completely changed my perspective. It showed me how capable they are and how adaptable woodwork can be for every child.”
The project leader at Tuffkid Nursery said:
“Children thrive when their network of support works together and there is consistency. Strengthening this network will allow SEND children to partake in the magic that is woodwork. The lessons learned will pave a lifelong path of curiosity, exploration and satisfaction.”
A Model for Inclusive Practice
Rooted in Froebel’s principle of unity between home and education, the project has strengthened collaboration between families and practitioners, removing barriers and widening access to a rich, hands-on learning experience.
A full project report and video are now available, offering a practical model for early years settings nationwide.
Read more and watch the video here
By Richard Franklin – Chief Executive, Kisharon Langdon
The recent incident where a three-year-old child was thrown into a crocodile enclosure has understandably shocked and distressed people across the country. Our thoughts remain firmly with the child and their family, who have endured a deeply traumatic experience.
As details emerge, it has been reported that the individual responsible has a learning disability. There will rightly be thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding that day, and it would be wrong to pre-empt their findings. However, as public discussion continues, we must be careful about the conclusions we draw and the narratives we create.
At Kisharon Langdon, we support people with learning disabilities and autistic people to live meaningful, independent and fulfilling lives. Every day, we see individuals pursuing careers, building friendships, contributing to their communities and overcoming challenges that many people never see. They are our colleagues, neighbours, friends and family members. They are not people to be feared.
When a terrible incident occurs (on this occasion involving someone with a learning disability) there is a risk that communities can be tarnished by the actions of one individual. We should resist that temptation. The overwhelming majority of people with learning disabilities are no more likely to be dangerous than anyone else. Indeed, they are often among the most vulnerable members of society.
What this incident does highlight is the importance of ensuring that people who need support receive the right support, and that those entrusted with providing that support are properly trained, equipped and empowered to do so.
High-quality support is not simply about supervision. It is about understanding an individual’s needs, recognising potential risks, responding appropriately to changing circumstances and creating environments where people can thrive safely. That requires investment, expertise and a commitment to continuous learning.
At Kisharon Langdon, we place great emphasis on staff training and professional development. Our teams receive extensive training that goes beyond compliance requirements. We invest in understanding behaviour, communication, safeguarding, risk assessment and person-centred support because we know that good support changes lives. The quality of support a person receives is directly linked to their ability to live safely, confidently and independently.
This is not simply a responsibility for social care providers. As a society, we must recognise that supporting people with learning disabilities requires sustained commitment and adequate resources. Families, support workers and organisations should never be left struggling to provide essential support without the training and backing they need.
That is why another aspect of the public reaction has been particularly disappointing. The decision by Wowcher to use the incident as the basis for a marketing joke was not merely ill-judged; it reflected a troubling willingness to turn human suffering into entertainment. A child was seriously harmed. A family’s life was changed. An individual with significant support needs became the subject of national outrage. None of that is material for a punchline.
Words matter. Public discourse matters. The way we speak about incidents like this shapes how society views entire communities. Humour that trivialises tragedy risks reinforcing prejudice and dehumanising people who are already too often misunderstood.
The wisdom of the Jewish sages in Pirkei Avot speaks to this: “Do not judge your fellow until you have reached their place.” It is a reminder that compassion and understanding should guide our response, especially when emotions run high. We can condemn harmful actions while still recognising the humanity of everyone involved.
The coming investigations will seek to establish what happened and whether lessons need to be learned. We should allow due process to take place. In the meantime, our collective responsibility is clear. We must continue to champion high-quality support, invest in those who provide it and stand alongside people with learning disabilities taking the necessary steps to ensure neither they or anyone else are unnecessarily impacted as a consequence of a tragedy that may otherwise have been avoided.
The true test of our society is not how we respond when things go well. It is how we respond in moments of tragedy. Let our response not be driven by fear, but rather one founded on responsibility, compassion and resolve.
Kisharon Langdon welcomed a team of HSBC volunteers for a corporate volunteering day last month. Running from 10am to 4pm, the day brought together the HSBC volunteers, members, and students for a programme focused on connection, learning, and shared experiences.
The visit began with a welcome and introduction led by Fundraising Director Emma Nagli, offering insight into Kisharon Langdon’s mission and the impact of its work supporting people with learning disabilities.
A key highlight of the day was speed-networking format session, where students asked tailored questions and explored workplace skills, career pathways and what to expect in professional environments. Volunteers drew on their own experience to share practical advice and help students build confidence as they consider future employment.
HSBC volunteer, Ben Berelowitz reflected on the experience:
“It was truly special to get to know the students and learn about their interests. Being able to spend time with them in a careers-focused setting allowed us to share our experiences while also learning from them. It’s something we’ll definitely take back into our roles. Sharing our experiences in a careers-focused setting was valuable and we learned a lot from them too. It’s something we’ll take back into our roles.”
He added: “Our customers are from all walks of life, and some may need additional support whether due to disability, age, health, or other circumstances. Spending time with Kisharon Langdon’s members helped us better understand different needs and how we can offer more inclusive support in our day jobs.”
The day continued with Kisharon Langdon’s popular ‘Shop, Cook & Eat’ session, where volunteers worked alongside members to prepare and enjoy a healthy meal. This collaborative activity supported independence, confidence-building, and life skills, while reinforcing the importance of learning together as equals.
“Being able to participate in the activities as equals – cooking and learning together makes a real difference,” Ben said.
Volunteers also took part in an interactive Makaton session, learning how signs and symbols support communication. Members greatly enjoyed the opportunity to practise their communication skills with new people, making the session both fun and meaningful.
One member, Ophir, shared:
“I loved meeting the HSBC people.”
The personal impact of the day was clear through individual experiences, including Tova, who used the opportunity to practise her verbal communication skills, highlighting the lasting personal value of these interactions.
Daniella Flowers, Volunteer Manager at Kisharon Langdon, emphasised the wider importance of corporate engagement:
“We are hugely grateful for HSBC’s support and the enthusiasm their team brought to the volunteering day. Corporate partnerships are vital to organisations like ours because they provide not only practical help, but also encouragement, visibility, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the community. Their support demonstrates the power of corporate volunteering in driving social impact, building stronger communities, and creating meaningful collaboration between businesses and charities.”
Kisharon Langdon is proud to announce the success of its matched funding campaign, raising an incredible £1,090,261 in just 36 hours to support people with learning disabilities and autistic people throughout their lives. The campaign ran from 7th – 8th June, bringing together support from across the community online and with in-person events. Thanks to the generosity of match funders, all donations were doubled, with hundreds of Kisharon Langdon Champions hosting their own fundraising pages.
This year’s campaign theme, “This is My Life,” celebrated the individuality, achievements and potential of the people Kisharon Langdon supports, sharing powerful stories of confidence, independence and joy.
Funds raised go towards people supported by Kisharon Langdon, like Chanochi, Channi and Leah.
Chanochi, at 16, has transformed from a boy who struggled with reading into someone full of confidence and determination. With patient support and encouragement from his teachers at Wohl Campus Kisharon Noé School, he now celebrates his progress, friendships and love of learning. Chanochi says, “[Kisharon Langdon] It’s like a place that can help people become who they’re meant to be.”
Channi has grown into a confident, independent young woman through Kisharon Langdon’s supported living service. From working in a nursery to creating art and bravely completing a fundraising skydive for the charity, she continues to break barriers. Channi says, “I live in Kisharon Langdon supported living. I love it, I absolutely love it. I feel like we are part of a family.”
Leah lives with complex disabilities, yet her life is filled with joy, dignity and connection. With round-the-clock specialist support at Kisharon Langdon, she can communicate, make choices and engage with the world around her. Her warmth uplifts everyone she meets, showing what is possible with compassionate care. Leah’s mother shares, “It’s really special, given her level of disability, that she can have so many moments of joy.” Leah says, “I’m happy to be here.”
The funds raised will directly support Kisharon Langdon’s life changing services, including supported living, education, employment opportunities, and community inclusion programmes, helping people live fulfilled and independent lives on their own terms. The charity is especially proud of the people it supports who played an active role in the campaign, embracing the opportunity to give back by setting up their own online fundraising pages, both individually and as part of teams, and working together with passion and determination to raise as much as possible. Their commitment went even further through events held at Maccabi House, including a joyful ‘bring and buy’ sale, which brought the community together.
Together, we raised £1,090,261, reflecting the spirit, pride and ownership at the heart of this year’s campaign.
Richard Franklin, Chief Executive of Kisharon Langdon, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to have surpassed our £1 million target. This campaign was more than just a fundraiser. It was a powerful celebration of the lives, voices and achievements of the people we support. ‘This is My Life’ perfectly captures our mission to champion individuality, dignity and opportunity.”
Emma Nagli, Director of Fundraising at Kisharon Langdon, added:
“This was a truly inspiring community effort. Every donation, every champion and every shared story helped bring this campaign to life. Thanks to this extraordinary support, we can continue to empower people to live full and meaningful lives and proudly say, ‘This is my life.’”
The campaign received enthusiastic backing from across the community, with widespread engagement helping to amplify its message and impact. Donations can still be made at qaytn.nimsite.uk/donate/matched-funding-campaign
Kisharon Langdon and The Focus Foundation are delighted to announce the planned
transfer of Kisharon Langdon’s Manchester services to The Focus Foundation, marking a
positive step in strengthening locally delivered, high-quality support while ensuring continuity
for the people who use the services and their families.
Both organisations share a long-standing commitment to person-centred care and to
enabling individuals to live fulfilling, independent lives with dignity and joy. The transition
reflects a shared strategic vision that services in Manchester are best delivered by a locally
based provider with strong roots in the community.
The Focus Foundation, a well-established organisation rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care
Quality Commission (CQC), will take on responsibility for the Manchester provision.
Both organisations are united in their values and ethos that every person supported is
unique, with their own dreams, talents and aspirations, and should be at the heart of
everything they do. The transition is intended to build on The Focus Foundation’s strong
existing quality provision, local presence and expertise, and further enhance responsive,
community-based services in Manchester.
Kisharon Langdon and The Focus Foundation are committed to working closely together to
ensure a smooth and positive handover, with the consistent delivery of excellent care
remaining the central priority.
All agreements have been made with clear assurances that the high standard of care people
currently receive will be maintained throughout the process and beyond.
The move has been carefully planned to prioritise stability, wellbeing and continuity of
support. People who use the services, their families, staff and partners will be kept fully
informed and supported at every stage, with opportunities to ask questions and engage with
the transition.
This transition marks a positive new chapter, strengthening local delivery while safeguarding
the consistency, dignity and quality of support that people rely on every day.
Richard Franklin, Chief Executive, Kisharon Langdon, says:
“We are proud of the services we have developed in Manchester and of the relationships we
have built with the people we support, their families and our dedicated staff. Our longstanding commitment has always been to ensure that services are delivered in the way that
best meets the needs of the local community. We believe that moving these services to a
strong, locally based organisation is the right step for the future. The Focus Foundation
shares our values and our belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to live a
fulfilling and independent life. We are confident this transition will build on the excellent
foundations already in place and continue to provide the high-quality support that people
know and trust.”
Mick Gorton, Chief Executive, The Focus Foundation, says:
“We are delighted to be welcoming these services into The Focus Foundation and to have
the opportunity to support more people across Manchester. Our approach has always been
rooted in local delivery, strong community connections and a deep commitment to the
people we support and their families. We look forward to building on the excellent work
already established by Kisharon Langdon and to working closely with staff, families and
partners to ensure a smooth and positive transition. Together, we are excited about the
future and about continuing to provide high-quality, person-centred support that enables
people to live full and meaningful lives within their local community.”
Mark Adlestone OBE, Chair, Manchester Jewish Representative Council, says:
“I am delighted on a personal level and as a donor to both organisations, to see how both
The Focus Foundation and Kisharon Langdon have worked together for the benefit of the
Manchester Jewish Community, in particular, for those with learning disabilities and autistic
people. It is an example of clear, progressive, strategic thinking, and the Jewish
Representative Council welcomes this move as a very positive step for the members of both
organisations.”
Five inspiring runners took on this year’s London Marathon in support of Kisharon Langdon, collectively raising more than £40,000 to help transform the lives of people with learning disabilities and autistic people.
Avi Cymerman, James Green, Josh Mirwis, Alex Ross and Rachel Wolman each crossed the finish line with a shared goal: to make a meaningful difference for the individuals and families supported by the charity. Their efforts not only demonstrated remarkable physical endurance, but also a deep personal commitment to the cause.
Among the standout achievements, James Green raised an extraordinary £25,000 and completed the marathon in an impressive 3 hours and 37 minutes, closely followed by Josh Mirwis with a time of 3 hours and 44 minutes.
For many of the runners, the experience was deeply personal. After visiting Wohl Campus, Kisharon Noé School, a Loftus Learning Centre, Rachel Wolman was moved by the warmth of the children and staff, with one child, Yehuda, leaving a lasting impression.
“When training got tough, I thought about Yehuda and the families supported by the charity – it gave me the strength to keep going” she said, describing how the cause made every mile more meaningful.
Avi Cymerman, whose uncle Eli is supported by the charity’s services, summed up the experience simply:
“It was an amazing experience. Thank you for the opportunity.”
Emma Nagli, Acting Director of Fundraising for Kisharon Langdon, expressed her gratitude:
“We are incredibly grateful to Avi, James, Josh, Alex, and Rachel for their dedication, determination, and generosity. Raising over £40,000 is an outstanding achievement and will make a real and lasting difference to the people we support. Taking on a marathon is no small feat, and we are so proud to have had them represent Kisharon Langdon in such an inspiring way. On behalf of everyone at the charity, thank you.”
Kisharon Langdon offers opportunity, education and support to people within the Jewish learning disability and autism community throughout life’s journey. The funds raised through the London Marathon will directly contribute to continuing this vital work.
Kisharon Langdon is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever accessible Haggadah, designed to support people with learning disabilities and autistic people to meaningfully participate in the Pesach Seder.
This innovative Haggadah has been developed through a process of co-creation, with people supported by Kisharon Langdon actively involved in shaping and creating the resource alongside staff. By working collaboratively, the organisation has ensured that the Haggadah reflects real experiences, needs and preferences, which makes it both practical and engaging.
A standout feature of the Haggadah is its use of original photography. People supported by Kisharon Langdon took part in a lively and inclusive photoshoot, reenacting key stages of the Seder. Hosted in one of the charity’s supported living homes, the session brought together the Jewish Life and Marketing teams with participants for a fun and meaningful experience. The resulting images not only illustrate the traditions, but also help readers connect more personally with the content by recognising familiar faces.
The Haggadah has been carefully designed to be accessible and easy to follow, supporting individuals to observe Pesach in a way that aligns with their wishes and level of observance. It also serves as a valuable guide for support staff, enabling those who may be less familiar with Jewish traditions and customs to confidently support people in celebrating the festival.
Rachel Ucko, Kisharon Langdon’s Head of Jewish Living and Community, comments:
“A particular highlight of our pre Pesach preparations this year has been the creation of a new, user friendly Haggadah designed specifically for the people we support. This accessible version not only enhances their engagement with the Seder, but also enables staff who may be less familiar with the traditions to confidently assist in running the service. The Haggadah features photos of the people we support re enacting key moments of the Seder, making it both meaningful and empowering for everyone involved.”
This initial version will be used during Pesach celebrations across Kisharon Langdon services. In keeping with the organisation’s commitment to co-creation, feedback will be actively gathered from both the people supported and staff teams. This input will inform future improvements, including potential additions, clearer instructions, enhanced design features, and more detailed visual guidance.
Jack, supported by Kisharon Langdon, used the Haggadah during a mock seder. He commented,
“The Haggadah is easy to read. I like the pictures of people I know.”
Kisharon Langdon hopes to develop a refined edition of the Haggadah in time for next Pesach, with plans to share it more widely across the Jewish community. The long-term vision is to make Pesach celebrations more accessible to all, while also raising awareness and funds to support the charity’s vital work.
At Pesach, we retell the story of a journey from isolation to belonging, from silence to finding a voice. For Tova, that journey has been deeply personal.
Growing up, Tova had caring classmates and valued their friendship. Yet learning and socialising in the same way as her peers wasn’t always possible, and she longed for connections where she could truly be herself.
At 12 years old, Tova’s parents reached out to Kisharon Langdon and she joined their Brady Youth programme. From her very first sessions, something changed. For the first time, Tova was surrounded by people who understood her. Week by week, she formed genuine friendships built on shared experiences, laughter and equality. Holiday schemes became a lifeline – joyful for Tova and reassuring for her parents.
Most importantly, Tova began to relax. She no longer had to mask who she was. Once shy and often speaking in a whisper, she gradually found her confidence and her voice in a safe, nurturing environment.
After finishing school, moving on to Kisharon Langdon College felt like coming home. Familiar faces, trusted staff and friends from Brady Youth made the transition feel natural and secure. The College’s warm, family atmosphere and strong Jewish values were especially meaningful to Tova and her family. The structure, routine and sense of belonging helped her flourish.
Tova said with pride “I like going to Kisharon Langdon College because it is small and like a family and I get so see all my friends. I like that they are preparing me to go to work.”
Through work experience and drama classes, Tova developed independence, learned to advocate for herself and took pride in her achievements. Performing in end-of-term shows, with her family in the audience, has become a highlight – helping her share milestones alongside her siblings and feel deeply connected to her family and community.
Tova’s mother, Rachelle, said “Tova has gained new life and work skills at college, which are tailored to her needs. It has been wonderful watching her confidence grow.”
The sense of belonging is especially meaningful at this time of year. Across Kisharon Langdon’s services, people are preparing to celebrate Pesach together. Mock seders will take place in supported living homes and education services, while those supported have been creating personalised afikomen bags and taking part in educational sessions about the meaning of the festival.
To make the celebrations accessible to everyone, Kisharon Langdon has also created its own easy-to-follow Haggadah, helping the people it supports take part in the Seder and enabling staff, including those less familiar with Jewish traditions, to confidently support each person to celebrate in a way that reflects their own customs and level of observance. Staff have also undertaken training to deepen their understanding of Pesach and how best to support meaningful participation.
Rachel Ucko, Kisharon Langdon’s Head of Jewish Living and Community, said “The Jewish Life team has delivered extensive staff training to ensure colleagues feel confident and well equipped to support people in their Pesach observance. We created a clear checklist, complete with step by step timelines, and as a result, staff feel significantly better prepared for Pesach this year.”
Today, Tova’s journey continues. With future support on offer from Kisharon Langdon’s employment programmes, social enterprises and community initiatives, she can look ahead with confidence and hope.
At Pesach, we celebrate freedom not only from physical slavery, but from loneliness and uncertainty. Thanks to your support, Tova is free to be herself, and young people like her will always have a place where they belong.
