LGBTQ+ Initiative

JFCS is proud of our strong commitment to the full equality and inclusion of members of South Jersey’s LGBTQ+ community. We welcome our lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients, staff, board members, and volunteers as essential members of the JFCS family. Our clinicians have the experience, skills, and sensitivity to work with individuals who are dealing with issues related to sexuality and gender expression. We offer several programs tailored to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community.

LGBTQ+ AGING WITH PRIDE

Looking for a welcoming and supportive community for LGBTQ+ seniors? Look no further! Aging with Pride offers a safe space for older adults to connect, share their experiences, and build lasting friendships. We understand the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ seniors and we’re here to provide a space where you can be yourself and find support. Our group offers a diverse range of activities and resources to help you feel engaged and connected. Join us and discover the power of community!  Aging with Pride meets on the second Friday of each month at the Katz JCC. To learn more or RSVP, contact Reva Farenback-Brateman at (856) 424-1333 ext. 1184 or rfbrateman@jfedsnj.org.

Aging with Pride is sponsored by Timothy Rice Estate and Elder Law, with grant funding from the Raymond & Gertrude R. Saltzman Foundation

COUNSELING

The JFCS Faye Manger Counseling Department offers therapeutic counseling and individualized mental health support for LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families. Our licensed clinicians can help clients address sexual orientation, transgender issues, gender identity, family conflict, bullying, anxiety, coming out, and more. To get started, please call (856) 424-1333 or fill out a Request Service E-Form and a member of our team will reach out to you.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT

While domestic abuse among LGBTQ+ people occurs at the same rates and in similar ways as their heterosexual peers, members of the LGBTQ+ community may face barriers to accessing support specifically based on prejudices against their gender expression or sexuality. Nobody deserves to be abused, and everyone deserves to be in a healthy and loving relationship! Our Project SARAH domestic violence program works to end the cycle of abuse for individuals of every age, faith, gender identity, and background. If you need confidential domestic violence support, please call JFCS at (856) 424-1333 and ask for “Sarah.”

 

PROJECT RAINBOW FOR LGBTQ+ YOUTH

Project Rainbow is a safe, affirming, and fun social gathering for LGBTQ+ tweens (grades 6-8) and teens (grades 9-12), along with their allies. To learn more or inquire about upcoming Project Rainbow dates, please contact Emily Witmier at (856) 424-1333 ext. 1415 or ewitmier@jfedsnj.org.

TRAINING

In partnership with with Keshet and JFCS Philly, we can offer cultural sensitivity training, parent workshops, and educational programs. To learn more about training opportunities, please contact Rebecca Rosenau, Director of Clinical Services, at (856) 424-1333 or rrosenau@jfedsnj.org

JFCS Nondiscrimination Policy: All JFCS clients have a right to be treated with dignity and respect; free of all discrimination, including that which is based on race, age, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, or disability; and not subject to any verbal, sexual, emotional, or physical abuse; or harsh or unfair treatment. To the extent possible, JFCS will make every reasonable accommodation to serve you consistent with our programs and services.

DearAllyRainbow