As we welcome the month of Shevat, we’re reminded of one of Judaism’s most beautiful teachings about legacy and growth. While the ground may be cold here in South Jersey, in Israel, this is when the trees begin their hidden work – their roots reaching deeper for sustenance even as their branches stretch toward the lengthening days. This perfect balance of nurturing deep roots while growing upward mirrors JFCS’s own story of continuity and progress.
This month brings us Tu B’Shevat, the New Year of the Trees, which celebrates both renewal and the profound importance of planning for future generations. The ancient tale of Honi Ha-M’agel (Honi the Circle-Maker) encountering an elderly man planting a carob tree resonates deeply with the JFCS mission. When asked why he would plant a tree whose fruits he might never see, the man simply replied, “Just as my ancestors planted for me, I am planting for my descendants.”
We see this same spirit of legacy and foresight in our remarkable Past Presidents Circle. At our 80th Annual Celebration this year, Past President Michele Ettinger reflected on their enduring impact: “Ten years ago we had a novel idea to create the JFCS Past Presidents Circle as a way to ensure the continuity of one of the agency’s greatest resources – chock full of experience, wisdom, and institutional knowledge.”
Through their innovative Past Presidents Impact Fund, which over its first decade has contributed over $17,000 to vital JFCS programs, they continue to strengthen our branches of service. Earlier this month, continuing their annual tradition of coming together to provide strategic guidance to the agency, our Past Presidents gathered at the new Jonathan Sinay Building. During this meaningful meeting, they toured the facility, discussed agency updates, and allocated support to four meaningful initiatives:
- Providing healing spaces through our Project SARAH Self-Care Social for survivors of domestic abuse
- Sponsoring a Parental Bereavement Group in honor of Jacob Manders z”l to support parents experiencing profound loss
- Creating meaningful connections through our Hope & Healing program for isolated Holocaust Survivors
- Enhancing daily activities for our TOPS Day Habilitation Program participants with a new mobile sound system.
Like the roots of a mighty tree, these dedicated leaders – from our most recent Past President Stacy Asbell Levin to those who guided us through earlier chapters of our history (click here to view our full list of Past Presidents) – continue to provide essential wisdom and support that allows JFCS to flourish. Their commitment extends far beyond these annual gatherings; they remain deeply engaged throughout the year as trusted advisors, active volunteers, and generous donors, participating in events from Stepping Out with JFCS to our Annual Celebration and countless moments in between.
One of their most touching traditions is the sharing of “The Presidents’ Pearls,” a treasured book containing wisdom from all living Past Presidents, with each incoming Board President. This beautiful custom ensures that the insights of previous generations continue to guide our future growth, much like that ancient carob tree planter who understood the profound value of investing in tomorrow.
As the days gradually lengthen and we look forward to spring’s renewal, we’re grateful for these dedicated leaders who continue to plant seeds of hope and possibility for our community’s future.
Wishing you a month of growth and promise,
Melanie & Jill, JFCS Associate Executive Directors

Top Row: Past Presidents gathering at the Jonathan Sinay Building, January 2025. Bottom Row: Past Presidents at the 80th Annual Celebration, September 2024; President-Elect Margo Orlin and Outgoing President Stacy Asbell Levin with our Past Presidents at Stepping Out with JFCS, April 2024.