“An accessible society is a fundamental right.”
Twenty years ago, when her son was diagnosed with autism, Yael Josephsberg began a personal journey that became a national mission — promoting accessibility, equal opportunity and social inclusion for everyone, not only people on the spectrum.
Twenty years ago, Yael Josephsberg — founder and owner of Al HaRetzef — received the news that changed her life: her son Michael was diagnosed with autism. At the time, awareness and services were far more limited than today, and she found herself navigating an unfamiliar world of therapies, frameworks, rights and bureaucracy.
“Like every parent, I wanted the best possible future for my child. I quickly understood that if I didn't learn the system myself, no one would do it for me.”
The experience set her on a course of helping other families facing similar challenges — and, eventually, of shaping the systems around them.
Over the years Yael developed a model that views the family as a whole rather than focusing solely on the child. A diagnosis, she explains, changes everyone — parents face emotional and practical challenges, siblings are affected, grandparents often need guidance and support, and family routines and relationships are transformed.
“Supporting the child is essential — but strengthening the family around the child is equally important.”
Today Al HaRetzef accompanies families through diagnosis, treatment planning, educational placement, government services and long-term life planning.
Yael's work extends beyond individual families, into broader social change. Her vision is not merely helping people cope with challenges, but enabling them to thrive and contribute fully to society.
“People with disabilities do not need pity. They need opportunities.”
Accessibility in public institutions
Making the places where life actually happens — civic, cultural and academic — genuinely accessible.
Inclusion in education
Promoting inclusive practice across the education system, from policy to the classroom.
Employment opportunities
Supporting integration into meaningful work suited to each person's abilities.
Community participation
Building paths into real community life — not isolated programmes on the side.
The success of the organisation was accompanied by a personal transformation. Yael describes how her son's journey taught her resilience, patience and a deeper understanding of human potential — and that progress often comes through small steps rather than dramatic breakthroughs.
“Every achievement matters. Every step forward has value.”
That philosophy became one of the foundations of her work.
One of Yael's central messages is that accessibility should not be viewed as charity or special treatment — it is a basic human right. An accessible society benefits everyone:
“Accessibility is not about helping a minority. It creates a better society for everyone.”
“We work with the entire family, not only the child. We accompany families through rights, services and decision-making. Every child can flourish when the right support system is built around them.”
The organisation serves thousands of families and collaborates with professionals across many disciplines.
Yael continues to develop new initiatives focused on greater accessibility, independent living, higher-education opportunities, employment integration, community inclusion, and improved quality of life for people with disabilities. Her goal is a society where every person is valued and has the opportunity to reach their potential.
“An accessible society is a fundamental right. When barriers are removed, people can contribute, grow, and live meaningful lives. We choose to build bridges — not walls.”