Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) proudly extends a hearty Mazel Tov to Michele Golkow, recipient of The Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies’ (“The Network’s”) Lay Leadership Award of Excellence. This prestigious annual honor is bestowed on outstanding lay leaders across North America who demonstrate exceptional initiative, resourcefulness, trust, and credibility— volunteers who lead effective change, inspire others, and foster collaboration.
Michele’s decades-long dedication to JFCS is marked by visionary leadership and heartfelt commitment. As a Past President and current Advisory Council member, Michele has helped shape the organization’s direction with both strategic insight and hands-on involvement. Notably, she founded the JFCS Advisory Council, ensuring ongoing visionary guidance for the agency.
Michele’s passion for social work is deeply personal. In honor of her mother’s legacy, she created the Sondra & Robert Berman Social Work Endowment Fund. This fund not only supports critical services but also honors JFCS social workers who exemplify integrity, compassion, and social justice.
Michele’s professional background as an attorney specializing in employee benefits law enriches her leadership with expertise in budgeting and strategic planning. Today, as Director of the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey’s Combinator program, she continues to innovate, helping community organizations grow and adapt to meet evolving needs.
“What makes Michele truly exceptional is her holistic approach to service. She has held leadership roles across diverse sectors, including serving as past president of Temple Beth Sholom and Vice President of Cherry Hill Township Council, building bridges that strengthen our entire community,” shared JFCS Associate Executive Directors Jill Hammel and Melanie Stoopler. “Her legacy of leadership and compassion resonate throughout our community.”
Michele’s impact also deeply aligns with The Network’s mission. Her commitment to building sustainable support systems and dedication to recognizing excellence in social work mirror The Network’s core values. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and community empowerment, Michele brings heart, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to everything she does.
Her story is a powerful example of how one leader can elevate human services, inspire others, and help create a stronger, more compassionate world.
