The month of Sivan arrives after a meaningful journey – seven weeks of counting the Omer, marking each day from Passover to Shavuot. Day by day, we mark the passage of time, recognizing that profound change unfolds gradually. This practice reminds us that healing and growth happen the same way — one small step at [...]
Author Archives: Rachael Ovitz
13
May
May
This May brings together three observances that, at first glance, might seem distinct: Older Americans Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, and Memorial Day. Yet they share a common thread–they all remind us that the strength of our community lies in how we care for one another, not only in times of crisis but in the [...]
Susan Weiner I’m happy to be here tonight to share my experience on the difference that Jewish Federation and JFCS made in my life and in the lives of others like me. On November 26, 2012, the Monday after Thanksgiving weekend, I went to work as I had on so many Mondays before this week. [...]
06
May
May
On April 30, Jewish Family & Children’s Service proudly held its first in-person Love Café Europa Program of 2026 at the Katz JCC—bringing together Holocaust Survivors, students, educators, and volunteers for a powerful morning of connection and learning. The program opened with an intergenerational gathering featuring students and teachers from Moorestown High School. Guest speakers [...]
28
Apr
Apr
For most families, a trip to the grocery store or a child’s birthday party is routine. But for families managing food allergies, everyday moments can carry real risk—and a significant emotional and financial toll. That’s why JFCS is holding an upcoming Allergy-Friendly Food Drive to help local families access the safe, specialized foods they need. [...]
23
Apr
Apr
Mike Bass and his wife, Debbi, have called Cherry Hill home for 43 years, where they raised their two sons, Alan (36) and David (39). Mike is semi-retired from his family’s hobby and craft business, whose Magnolia shop has been a fixture in the community since 1976. Mike first connected with JFCS during the COVID-19 [...]
21
Apr
Apr
As your child with disabilities approaches adulthood, planning for their future can feel complex—but families are not alone, and meaningful options do exist. While challenges such as limited affordable housing and long waitlists remain, innovative programs and supportive resources are helping to create more pathways to independence and community living. On Tuesday, May 5 at [...]
17
Apr
Apr
As we welcome the month of Iyar, we enter what Jewish tradition calls the month of healing, reminding us that healing happens not just within ourselves, but through the care we extend to one another. This month brings a profound journey through memory and hope. We begin with Yom HaShoah, honoring those lost in the [...]
15
Apr
Apr
As Passover approaches, the theme of freedom fills our homes and hearts. It’s woven through our prayers, our rituals, and our conversations around the Seder table. But freedom means different things at different moments in our lives. Many Kinds of Freedom At Passover, we commemorate the Exodus from Egypt–the dramatic liberation of the Israelites from [...]
27
Mar
Mar
Volunteering with Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) is a meaningful way to give back while strengthening the fabric of our local community. Each day, our dedicated volunteers help support neighbors in need, build lasting connections, and experience the deep sense of purpose that comes from making a tangible difference. We currently have several open [...]