Author Archives: Rachael Ovitz

JFCS Offers Winter Support Groups to Help Older Adults Thrive Through Life’s Challenges

Support groups are valuable resources for older adults seeking connection, support, and personal growth, promoting emotional and social well-being. They provide a safe space to share feelings and experiences, especially during life transitions like retirement, loss, or health issues. These groups help combat social isolation, connect participants with peers facing similar challenges, and offer opportunities [...]

Now offering expanded services for Holocaust Survivors from the Former Soviet Union

The Jewish Federations of North America report that in the United States, Holocaust Survivors represent one of the most vulnerable older adult populations. Their previous traumatic experiences have resulted in higher rates of mental, physical, and cognitive decline. Many Survivors need additional support in order to maintain their dignity, health, and independence as they age. [...]

Kislev 5785 / December 2024

As we enter the month of Kislev, which brings us the festival of Chanukah, we are mindful of the profound symbolism of light in Jewish tradition. During these challenging times, when darkness seems especially present in our world, JFCS continues to illuminate lives through acts of chesed (loving-kindness) throughout our community. This past month has shown [...]

Grateful to Be Part of This Remarkable Community

This year of remarkable change at Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) has strengthened our appreciation for what truly matters: Our community. As new associate executive directors, we have witnessed firsthand the myriad ways this community comes together in good times and bad, to support one another and to draw strength from one another. We [...]

Volunteers Spread the Warmth of Thanksgiving Throughout our Community!

As Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) reflects on this meaningful season of gratitude, our hearts are filled with appreciation for the incredible dedication and generosity of our community’s volunteers. This Thanksgiving, they made sure that our clients felt cared for, supported, and surrounded by kindness. Together, with the help of 54 volunteers, we packed [...]

Cheshvan 5785 / November 2024

Each Jewish month begins with the first sighting of the new moon – the Rosh Chodesh, or "head of the month" in Hebrew. Like the moon, the Jewish people have experienced many phases of waxing and waning throughout history, yet our light has never been extinguished. It's in this spirit that we are delighted to introduce Rosh Chodesh Reflections. [...]

Exciting JFCS Updates: Strengthening our Leadership Team!

JFCS is delighted to share some exciting news about the growth and evolution of our leadership team. These changes reflect our commitment to nurturing talent within the agency and positioning JFCS for an even brighter future. It is with great enthusiasm that we announce several promotions within our organization. Rebecca Rosenau: Senior Director of Clinical and [...]

Fall / Winter Session of SARAH Supports begins November 19

Can you imagine staying with your abuser because it’s the only way you can protect your children? Sleeping with your purse under your pillow to prevent your few valuables and ID from being destroyed? Hiding your clothes in your children’s closet because your abuser cuts them up and then lies about it? People experiencing domestic [...]