Jewish tradition teaches that every person has unique gifts to contribute. Yet for individuals with disabilities, the path to meaningful employment is often blocked not by lack of talent or motivation, but by barriers in opportunity, access, and understanding.
Supported employment changes this narrative by opening doors that can truly transform lives. Through individualized support, job coaching, and ongoing guidance, it empowers people to discover their strengths, pursue their goals, and thrive in inclusive workplaces where their contributions are valued and celebrated.
At Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS), we’ve witnessed how meaningful work transforms not just circumstances, but lives. Our Supported Employment Program helps individuals with disabilities uncover their strengths, explore their interests, and build skills for success. Through hands-on vocational assessments, personalized job development, and one-on-one coaching, we walk beside each participant every step of the way–from the first interview to long-term workplace success.
More than a Job: A Path to Purpose
For many participants, that first position represents far more than a paycheck—it’s a step toward independence, confidence, and true community connection. Employment specialists work side by side with each person to identify the right job fit, provide hands-on training, and remain a steady source of encouragement. They also partner with employers to create welcoming environments where diversity isn’t just accepted but genuinely celebrated.
The impact extends beyond individual employees. Employers who embrace inclusive hiring disc over something remarkable: Team members who bring reliability, dedication, and authentic enthusiasm to their work. Our candidates are carefully matched, well-prepared, and supported by JFCS employment specialists who ensure smooth transitions and lasting success.
By hiring individuals with disabilities, employers don’t just fill positions–they help someone build a future while strengthening their own workplace culture. These employees bring fresh perspectives and genuine dedication that enrich entire organizations, creating workplaces that are more vibrant, compassionate, and human.
Celebrating Success Together
Each November, JFCS proudly honors the achievements of our Supported Employment Program participants and their employers at the Dubrow Vocational Celebration Breakfast–a truly inspiring event where many are moved to tears as clients share their journeys in their own words.
This year’s celebration will be held on Friday, Nov. 21 at 8 a.m. at Congregation Beth El in Voorhees. Our entire community is invited to join us in recognizing these outstanding honorees:
• Brendan Faust–Scrub Daddy
• Scott Greenberg–BLUSA Defense Manufacturing
• Kalina Liu—Nutri-Serve at Gloucester City High School
• Gavin Marshall–Medford Leas
• Kate Spadaro–Sari Isdaner Early Childhood Center at the Katz JCC
• Khalil Walton–ACME Markets, Maple Shade
The Employer of the Year Award will be presented to Gofer Parts, recognizing their exemplary commitment to inclusive hiring practices.
Honoring a Legacy of Excellence
The Barbara Abrams Supported Employment Award of Distinction will be awarded to Kelly Krwawicz. As director of the JFCS Disability Services Department for 22 years, Barbara Abrams was a visionary whose advocacy set a standard of excellence that continues today under the leadership of Oriel Weinberg and his team.
Since joining JFCS in 2019, Kelly Krwawicz has exemplified
Barbara’s legacy through her compassion, professionalism, and deep commitment to clients and their families. She has forged meaningful relationships with employers and families, earning the admiration and affection of all who work with her.
The Vocational Celebration is generously sponsored by the Dubrow and Gelman Families, in loving memory of Ellen and Ron Dubrow, z”l, whose lifelong dedication to helping individuals with disabilities live full, independent lives continues to resonate throughout our community. This event honors their legacy and the enduring impact of inclusion, compassion, and opportunity.
Join Us in Celebration
This November’s gathering represents more than recognition— it’s a testament to what becomes possible when community members believe in one another’s potential and work together to remove barriers. Each success story we celebrate reflects the Jewish principle of B’tzelem Elohim–recognizing the inherent worth and dignity in every person and honoring their capability.
To RSVP for this inspiring event, please visit jfcssnj.org/vocbreakfast
We hope to see you there as we celebrate the power of meaningful work to transform lives and strengthen our entire community.
