“Who is wise? He who learns from every person…Who is strong? He who controls his passions…Who is rich? He who is happy with his lot…Who is honored? He who honors others.” Ben Zoma, Pirkei Avot (Ethics of our Fathers) 4:1.
These words, written more than 18 centuries ago in one of our foundational Jewish texts, illuminate our path today. In our modern lives, which are so often dominated by external markers of success, Ben Zoma’s wisdom encourages a shift toward internal values. Cultivating wisdom, self-discipline, contentment, and respect for others can enhance our personal growth and well-being in countless ways. These teachings offer a timeless blueprint for self-improvement, focusing not on what we acquire or achieve but on how we develop our inner character and nurture our relationships. They also powerfully reflect many of the core values that guide our work at Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS)– including empowerment, accountability, empathy, and intention.
Our Mission and Impact
Our agency’s mission revolves around expanding life’s possibilities for thousands of vulnerable community members each year. We accomplish this work by championing strengths, validating goals, acknowledging obstacles, and walking with people on the paths they have chosen for themselves. Every journey is unique, reflecting the individual needs and goals of each person who turns to JFCS for help.
JFCS addresses a broad spectrum of needs through our six core service areas–Counseling & Support Groups, Disability Services, Family Assistance & Food Pantry, Holocaust Survivor Services & Advocacy, Older Adult Services, and Volunteers. By assessing individuals and families holistically to identify their priorities and barriers to success, our staff is able to support clients in actualizing their goals and discovering new opportunities.
Throughout the lifespan, JFCS is here for South Jersey residents who are experiencing life’s inevitable challenges and setbacks. We are proud of everything the agency has accomplished this year:
• We held 4,599 counseling sessions to foster mental health and emotional well-being.
• We engaged 4,243 tweens and teens through our community outreach programs on addiction awareness, suicide prevention, relationship abuse, and more.
• We helped 418 individuals with diverse abilities reach for their full potential through our Disability Services programs.
• We distributed 18,940 bags of food weighing 193,147 pounds through our Betsy & Peter Fischer Food Pantry.
• We provided $2,580,588 in life-sustaining support for local Holocaust Survivors.
• We helped more than 1,000 older adults thrive through vital supportive and social services.
• Our volunteers donated 14,343 volunteer hours valued at $509,185 to support agency programs and clients.
The Light of Chanukah: Celebrating Community and Hope
The lights of Chanukah are about to brighten our community beginning this evening, Dec. 25–marking a time of miracles, light overcoming darkness, and the spirit of giving. On each successive night of Chanukah, we light the newest candle first, bringing more and more light into the world. The glow of the Chanukah candles inspires us to reflect on the many ways that JFCS brings light and hope to our community. Whether it’s the comfort of a warm meal for a struggling family, a visit from a friendly volunteer for a homebound senior, vocational support for a young adult with disabilities, or a ride for a veteran to an important medical appointment, our staff and volunteers work tirelessly to improve lives in meaningful and impactful ways.
Our clients, staff, Board and Advisory Council members, volunteers, donors, and community partners play a vital role in the success of JFCS. We thank every one of them for partnering with us and enabling us to carry out our mission, year after year.
May the light of compassion and community radiate hope and joy through our South Jersey region this Chanukah. We wish you and your loved ones peace and happiness this holiday season and in the year ahead.