JF&CS Blog

Weaving Kindness: Donor Spotlight on Rachel Rosenblum

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 20:15:00 GMT

Rachel Rosenblum, a resident of Lexington, is a JF&CS donor and member of the Tree of Life Society. She and her guild, the LexArt Weaving and Fiber Arts Guild, wove dozens of warm clothing items to donate to JF&CS’s Center for Early Relationship Support clients. Their woven scarves, hats, jackets, and gloves are keeping dozens of families and children warm this winter. We spoke to Rachel about her connection to JF&CS, the importance of communities supporting one another, and what her donation means to her.

What was your first connection to JF&CS?

My first connection was informal. My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. I think the doctor at the time recommended that we call Nancy [former Director of the Charlotte and Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program at JF&CS], particularly for an Occupational Therapy evaluation of our home, to be sure it was safe. She checked the house and then told us about the program at JF&CS. That was around 2013. My husband was involved with the Parkinson’s program until about 2015, when he couldn’t do it any longer.

I hope Parkinson’s Support program was a useful and beneficial experience for your husband and for you too, as his partner and caregiver. How did you feel that the Parkinson’s Support program benefited you specifically?

In two ways – when I went with Myron [my husband] to all the meetings and the various things we did, we each had a wonderful time and met people, and I learned a lot. That was very good. But the other part is that I was in the support group for spouses of people with Parkinson’s. It is a superb support group. It was beautifully led and beautifully handled. It was just a great experience, a very supportive experience.

What are some things that you think most people don’t really understand about the experience of being a caregiver and being a partner to someone with Parkinson’s? What are some things that others might not expect about what that life looks like?

I have a friend now who is going through this with her husband who has Parkinson’s. I can anticipate what they have to expect, because I see what’s happening with him. And I see the pace at which it’s happening. And I would say she has no clue. She really has no clue. I think if she had a group like this, and she doesn’t because she’s not in the area, it would be enormously helpful. She would learn an enormous amount and it would really support her and help her. I think the learning is terribly important, getting to learn and listen to others, listening to a number of people with Parkinson’s and supporters and caregivers of Parkinson’s disease, you can learn from everyone.

What was your motivation to move from being participants in Parkinson’s Support to becoming donors and supporting JF&CS?

I did that after my husband died in 2016. It was after that I wrote my will, and it included three bequests, agencies I really wanted to give a chunk of money to. I wouldn’t be able to do it until I passed on – not expecting to be passing of course! But that was the way I was going to have to do it. So, my donations year by year are small relatively, and my donations at the end of time will be a little more substantial.

We encourage people to think about leaving a gift in their will to JF&CS or giving a gift from their real estate in another way. I was wondering if you could talk about the process, was it challenging, what it entailed for you to make such a significant impact in that way?

It was not problematic at all. I decided I was going to do the three agencies and I guess the first thing I did was talk with my children, because that was money they were not going to get. Of course, they were totally supportive of any level that I wanted to do. I just met with my lawyer, told him what I wanted to do, and he put it into writing. And that was easy, that was it. A letter was sent to each of the agencies indicating a gift had been made. Then I made a chance to meet with the director of each agency and confirm the intention.

I want to ask you a little bit more about the woven clothing donation, and a little about your involvement with your guild. What motivated your guild to think of JF&CS for such a generous donation?

I always think of JF&CS! I learned from them that they distribute clothing to people who they’re serving, for the cold weather. We certainly make that kind of stuff, and frankly, I think we wanted to do something that was giving rather than just selling and making money on things. So, this was a good thing to do. I just brought it up to the Weaving and Fiber Arts Guild within the Lexington Arts and Crafts Society and they were very enthusiastic. We’ve had a box in the back of the room and we put things in the box. When I went to take the box out, I was amazed at how much was in there. Frankly, I was really impressed and we are now putting things into the box again for next year. Someone has already put something in the box! It’s a good way to share what we do and to give a bit.

Knitwear donations made by The Weaving & Fiber Arts Guild from LexArt - donated to Center for Early Relationship families!

One of the reasons I wanted to speak with you is that it’s great when we have donors that can give both financially and give, like with the woven clothing, something more tangible and physical. Going off that, do you have any insight for others who may be interested in donating to JF&CS and making it a consistent part of their life to support us? For anyone who is on the fence, why should they invest their time with JF&CS?

That’s not the question! The question is, how nice it is to be able to do something for somebody else using the craft that you have, whether it’s knitting or needle pointing, and making something for somebody else to use. I think it’s a lovely thing. It just comes naturally to me.

At the “You Are Our Light” donor appreciation evening in December you attended, our CEO Gail Schulman discussed rising antisemitism and her belief that to combat it, we can stand up and show that the work JF&CS does is what the Jewish community does, that helping others in need is what it means to be Jewish. How did you react to that idea?

Well, I thought that expression of hers, that this is what the Jewish community does, was very important and a very meaningful statement and a position that she operates from. I think what she’s doing is impressing the world with the image of JF&CS. It is not just a Jewish agency, it serves everybody. The Jewish people are supporting this effort to serve the general population. And I know that’s true, I know a lot of people who get food from Family Table are not Jewish. And I’m sure that a lot of people whose children get services, whose kids with special needs get services, or who themselves get services, housing, etc., are not Jewish. I think that is a wonderful thing for the world to see. I think that’s just very impressive. If we did things only for Jewish people, that wouldn’t be big enough or adequate.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your involvement with JF&CS?

You know, I consider my involvement to be minimal, really. I don’t consider it to be a major commitment of my time and energy at the moment. I think that even a minimal involvement can do so much good. I think that’s important for people to know. Even just knitting a scarf or a sweater in your own free time and then giving it is a wonderful thing to do.

Learn more about the Tree of Life Society here.

"It's Still Eye Opening"

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 21:37:00 GMT

Every morning, I get up, walk downstairs to the kitchen, and pause. I imagine if I could not open my well-stocked refrigerator and feed myself and my family a satisfying breakfast.

One Sunday morning each month, after preparing and consuming breakfast, I head straight over to the Jewish Family & Children’s Service Family Table food pantry at Temple Sinai in Marblehead. When I arrive at Family Table, I assist the team in sorting, packing and delivering groceries to clients who deal daily with food insecurity.

Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “food insecurity” as “the fact or an instance of being unable to consistently access or afford adequate food.” What would it be like to wake up each day and have to ask yourself the fundamental question: “Will I have enough to eat today?”

JF&CS Family Table assistance directly reduces the fear surrounding food insecurity and instills hope in each client. Over the last 10 years, the North Shore branch of JF&CS Family Table has provided hundreds of families in need with nutritious food, along with some toiletry items, Shabbat candles and a loaf of challah. Last year alone, Family Table distributed approximately 4,500 grocery bags, which equates to feeding 80 families per month on the North Shore. This is in addition to the hundreds of families who receive groceries from the Waltham and Canton distribution sites.

As a child, my parents taught me the merit of helping the hungry, and my husband and I have passed that message onto our four children; I knew it was important to bring each of them to volunteer at Family Table. Ever since the children were young, they have assisted in providing to those in dire need. Even now, it is still eye-opening for each of us to witness the enormous deficit that these clients face.

Family Table volunteers organize bags at the North Shore distribution location

After packing up individualized grocery bags for each assigned client, I would drive our car to the client’s address and my children would jump out and deliver the grocery bags to the door. The experience helped shape them into compassionate and giving people. To this day, when my children are back home from college or work, we participate together, as a family, in JF&CS Family Table.

As one would expect, COVID has impacted these clients who already face hardships. Since the start of the pandemic, there has been a 45% increase in clients requiring assistance from Family Table’s North Shore division! How does an organization adjust?

To meet this increase, the Family Table North Shore location has expanded its storage and servicing space at Temple Sinai in Marblehead. Additionally, Family Table’s central facility in Waltham has recently completed a large expansion project.

JF&CS has addressed the infrastructure issues but what is still essential to the operation are volunteers. With this heightened demand, JF&CS Family Table program needs people willing to donate two to three hours of their time once a month on a Sunday, or as their schedule permits, to help those who are unable to help themselves.

A "Braided" Strand of Compassion

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 20:53:00 GMT

When you enter the doors of Family Table’s Waltham location at the JF&CS headquarters, a new sight greets you. Twelve feet long and representing a fusion of 42 talented artists, “Braided” is a mosaic that makes a powerful statement of artistry and values.

“As clients and staff come into the space, some of them stop and just say, ‘oh my God, that’s beautiful,” said Bernice Behar, JF&CS Family Table Program Director. “It’s really spectacular.”

Behar said the mosaic came out of a desire to recognize the milestone of the Family Table expansion and honor the interplay between all of the services available at JF&CS. The new expansion means JF&CS will work support to help more families access not only food, but the full range services such as government benefits advocacy, or mental health coaches or parenting support or Holocaust survivor services.

“Our space expansion project took five years to accomplish and was the result of so
many peoples’ hard work and dedication,” Behar said. “When it came time to figure out a way to acknowledge this accomplishment, we really didn’t want to do just a plaque. We wanted to do something artistic.”

As Behar and colleagues were working on the issue, Amy Marks, a Family Table volunteer and member of the New England Mosaic Society (NEMS), came forward with an opportunity to collaborate.

“It was absolutely perfect timing,” Behar said. “By working with NEMS, we were able to create a mosaic that captured the values that animate our agency.”

“NEMS was already thinking of a collaborative project as a way to help our members deal with their feelings of isolation during the pandemic,” said Emily Bhargava, who along with Marks is a co-chair of NEMS. “At the same time, my co-chair Amy suggested that Family Table would be a great place for a mosaic. So, when we found that they were looking for an artistic way to honor this milestone, it just seemed like a perfect fit.”

Bhargava, a veteran of collaborative public art design, sought funding to complete the project in the form of a grant from the Waltham Cultural Council. She began working with members of NEMS and staff at JF&CS to envision the design.

“There was such a groundswell of interest among our members, and ultimately we had 42 of our artists sign up as part of the project,” Bhargava said. “We set up listening sessions with staff at JF&CS, who were interested in interpreting how the different parts of the organization worked together. That’s where the “Braided” design came from. We helped them translate the sense of mission they had for the work they do into concrete images, which each artist represented in their part of the final design.”

On June 12, Family Table opened its doors to the artists of NEMS and their families for a celebration of the art piece’s final installation. For many, it was the first time they had ever seen the design in its finished form.

“We, the artists of NEMS, had never worked together on a collaborative project this large before, and it was so meaningful to see all the designs together, the depth and complexity in person,” Bhargava said. “And as we engaged with the staff, it turned out there were more connections between our members and JF&CS than we had realized. One of our artists adopted her son through JF&CS. So it meant so much to so many of us that we could give back. And we’ve heard since then that the piece has opened connections with clients who come and use the space. They’re really responding to it.”

A plaque with a QR code explaining the meaning of “Braided” is planned for future installation, along with a commemorative list of donor names. But Braided Strand will not be the last time JF&CS collaborates with NEMS. “We’re already working on another mosaic together,” Behar said.

To learn more about the mosaic and explore the meaning behind each of the pieces, visit www.jfcsboston.org/mosaic.

Farm to Family Table

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 21:11:00 GMT

Without doubt, the number one economic story for 2022 has been the effects of inflation on Americans. While we all feel the effects at the pump or the market, one thing many fail to realize is how challenging the current climate is for nonprofit organizations that serve people in need.

“Right now, it’s tough for a lot of food assistance providers,” said Bernice Behar, JF&CS Family Table Program Director. “Getting delivery drivers and warehouse staff, coping with the rising cost of fuel - it’s all resulting in a lot of food pantries having a hard time sourcing certain items-especially fresh produce.”

Not so at JF&CS. In fact, clients at the Family Table Marketplace are greeted by the sight of heaps of fresh, high-quality produce - black and red radishes, corn,bok choy, Swiss chard, and even oyster mushrooms.

How has JF&CS managed to maintain and even enhance the quality and variety of its fresh offerings? By leaning on deep community partnerships – including with food rescue organization Boston Area Gleaners.

“For a number of years, we’ve been working with Boston Area Gleaners, and they have been able to bring us great produce,” Behar said. “And right as we were getting ready to open our new space, they were changing their own working model.”

A 501(c3) nonprofit, Boston Area Gleaners harvests and packs food “rescued” from local farms for communities across the region, delivering fresh food to a network of local food pantries, food banks, and meal programs. Much of it comes from surplus crops that farmers are not able harvest on their own. Gleaners sends volunteers into the fields to pick and pack these crops. In Fall 2021, the Gleaners also purchased a farm as a base of operations in Acton, allowing them to significantly enhance their approaches to food acquisition and distribution.

Every week, JF&CS Food Coordinator Vincent Vullo drives his truck to Boston Area Gleaners to pick up an assortment of delicious fruits and vegetables - about as short and sweet a supply chain as you could imagine.

“I pick up between 500 and 1200 pounds of amazing produce, and it gets distributed to our clients a few hours later. I like doing it; it’s a positive, friendly crew (at Boston Area Gleaners) and they’re very good at communicating what items are available.”

Having an on-call delivery person for JF&CS also helps Gleaners with their bottom line.

“It’s so helpful to have someone who’s basically a phone call away. Now we can get the food to the people who need it on the same day we bring it in,” said Usha Thakrar, Executive Director of Boston Area Gleaners. “It lets us focus on our primary mission of sourcing high-quality produce from area farms and reducing food waste.”

It is fair to say that most Family Table clients may never know that if it weren’t for the work of Boston Area Gleaners, the fresh fruits and vegetables at Family Table might otherwise have been left to waste in a field. What they see is a bounty of just-picked items ready for them to take home and enjoy.

“Just a few days ago, I surveyed the room and it looked better than a farmer’s market!” Behar said. “We had baskets of fresh-picked strawberries, beautiful bunches of carrots, and so much more. This partnership help us take our care for our clients to a whole other level.”

Yom Kippur and Survivors of Domestic Abuse: Forgiveness, Expectations and Choices (DVAM 2022)

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 21:44:00 GMT

By Elizabeth Schön Vainer
Director, Journey to Safety

It’s that time of year. The summer days are falling quickly into the distant past and New England fall is upon us. My dahlias are soaking up every last bit of sun and warmth to ensure their blooms open before the early frost, and I know which sections of maple trees in my neighborhood will change color first, beginning in one spot and gradually enveloping the whole tree and eventually the whole neighborhood.

It also is the week between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, the Jewish High Holy Days. Gathering during these holidays is a bit like watching the ways leaves change. As each person arrives, the space gradually fills with color and intention as we individually and collectively reflect on our actions from the past year. We acknowledge that we may have caused harm, made mistakes, and not done enough to stop suffering or injustice. As we do the work to make things right with others and ourselves, we welcome the opportunity to wipe the slate clean and do better in the new year.

These days of reflection also make me think about the many survivors of domestic or dating abuse whose partner or ex-partner will never acknowledge the pain they caused, apologize, or genuinely ask for forgiveness. Whether the abuse is physical, emotional, financial, or spiritual, the damage has a deep and lasting impact.

In thinking about the countless stories I have heard in my role as the director of Journey to Safety, the JF&CS response to domestic and dating abuse, it has been my experience that abusive individuals rarely genuinely apologize. They often see themselves as victims, blaming their partner for their own abusive behavior. They also tend to feel entitled, citing a litany of reasons that justify (in their minds) their words and actions. Certainly when the abusive person is truly remorseful, meaningful change can happen. Too often, though, the abusive person’s empty apologies are just another form of manipulation intended to deter their partner from leaving.

Today I’m thinking of one person in particular whose husband spent their entire life savings without her knowledge. While the bruises from his physical abuse have healed, the stress of finding herself unexpectedly penniless and carrying enormous debt remains ever present. That person did not find any sort of justice in the courtroom, nor did she ever receive an apology or acknowledgement that she and her children had been deeply and irrevocably harmed by his actions.

So how is a person who has been repeatedly harmed by their partner supposed to approach Yom Kippur? There likely is no real apology coming their way. There often is no real recognition from anywhere or anyone of the deep and lasting impact of months or years of physical, emotional, and financial harm.

Everyone’s path is different. Some people use this time of reflection to focus less on what they can’t change – the apology they will not get -- and more on what they can control. There is nothing that can excuse, justify, or undo the harm that has been done, but for some survivors of abuse, the start of a new year might be a moment to imagine something new for themselves as well. If you have experienced harm from a current or ex-partner and are thinking about what you want to be different, know that Journey to Safety and other local domestic abuse programs are a free and confidential resource to support you .

The whole community also has a role to play in creating change and encouraging new beginnings. If you have someone in your life who is or has been mistreated by an intimate partner, you can make sure to let that person know that you see them, hear them, and believe them. You can acknowledge and validate the pain and loss they have experienced and the profound unfairness of their situation. You can remember that healing takes time and assure them that you will support them in whatever ways they determine are best for them.

Even if you don’t have someone in your life (that you know of) to reach out to, you can still help create change by finding ways to let survivors of abuse know that help and support are available.

Like the many leaves that are about to paint my neighborhood with incredible color, together we make up a beautiful and vibrant village. Standing together at the brink of this new year, my hope for all of us is that we are each able to choose our own paths forward freely and that we are able to both give support to -- and find support from -- each other along the way.

The entire Journey to Safety staff joins me in wishing all of you a beautiful, happy, healthy, new year!

If you would like more information about how Journey to Safety might support you in any way (including thinking about how to best support someone you care about), please call (781) 647-5327 x1213 or email jts@jfcsboston.org. If you would like to speak with someone immediately, you can also call SafeLink at (877) 785-2020 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233. Both services are open 24/7 and also offer an online chat option.

Brett Skloff wins the 2022 Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 13:39:00 GMT

On Tuesday June 21^st, at the JF&CS Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors, JF&CS volunteer Brett Skloff was presented the Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award. Brett has been volunteering with JF&CS since 2020, serving as an active member of the CHAI Services, Business Advisory, and Risk Management Committees. While his committee work is important to him, Brett’s true passion is volunteering to teach math to CHAI Works program participants.

Each week for more than two years, Brett has led an online teaching session for CHAI participants with developmental and intellectual disabilities, helping them improve math skills and foster self-confidence. In Brett’s speech about receiving the award, he told the story of the impact he’s made on one particular CHAI participant:

“One particular student, her name is Claire*. And she would log on to math every week. She has Down Syndrome. And every week, she would volunteer and the first thing she would say, Brett, I just want to let you know that I have Down Syndrome. And math is hard for people with Down Syndrome. And I always respond ‘Okay, well, we'll work through it. We'll figure it out. What kind of figures are number ones, we'll work through it.’ And every week, same thing. Months go by, you know, six months go by. And eventually, one day she stopped and I never heard it [her disclaimer} again.”

Brett knows that through small actions, he makes a large impact in the lives of CHAI participants. Alex Tierney, the Assistant Director of Day Programs at JF&CS, commended Brett for his kindness and patience as a teacher. Alex spoke about the mark Brett has left on CHAI participants beyond just math:

“I’ve had multiple parents since Brett began with us call and email me to say that their child is solving larger and larger addition problems on their own or that they’ve taken up an interest in math that they never even had before and can’t wait to attend Brett’s classes on a topic they’ve avoided their entire lives. I’ve also seen the enthusiasm in the participants themselves – I recently attempted to run a math group myself and I mostly heard that “Brett does it this way” or “I like this group better when Brett is here” before they logged out of the meeting.”

JF&CS is proud to recognize and honor Brett’s volunteer work with the Simone Lottor Award. Thank you to Brett for using his skills to improve the lives of our CHAI participants and for his dedication to helping others.

Congratulations Brett!

JF&CS welcomes the newest members of our board

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 21:53:00 GMT

We are so pleased to welcome six new members to the JF&CS Board of Directors. Our board guides and supports JF&CS to deliver the highest quality, most effective human services possible to those in need throughout Eastern and Central MA.

A board member’s role at JF&CS is to enhance the prestige of the organization, increase its visibility and importance to the community, and ensure its financial security and ability to grow. It also is entrusted to make sure that our strategic direction will deliver the agency’s mission, oversee operations of the organization, and ensure that the “heart” of the organization is in all that we do.

Our newest board members come from all over the Greater Boston area and work in a variety of industries. They are community leaders and passionate advocates for our mission and values.

Meet the new members:

Michelle Black is a dedicated leader in the Greater Boston Jewish community. She is the current Board Chair of Gann Academy where she is a strong champion for expanding the reach and impact of our local Jewish Day Schools. Michelle previously served on the boards of The Rashi School and Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP). She is an alumnus of CJP’s Acharai Leadership Development program and JFNA’s National Young Leadership Cabinet. She is a past recipient of CJP’s Young Leadership and Circle of Excellence awards, recognizing her commitment and passion to Jewish communal service. Michelle currently co-chairs CJP’s Teen Initiative and recently co-founded TribeTalk, an organization that helps prepare teens for Jewish life on a college campus. Michelle earned her BA from University of Pennsylvania and her MBA from Harvard Business School. She worked as a consultant with a focus on change management leadership development, corporate strategy and organizational design. She now applies her business skills and experience to strengthen and support the local Jewish non-profit community. Michelle lives in Newton with her husband, Darren, and her four kids, Evan, Scott, Emily and Alex.

Joan Wasser Gish and her husband Jason live in Newton. They have two daughters. Joan is a Director at the Boston College Center for Thriving Children where she leverages knowledge from research and implementation to inform education policy and practice nationally and internationally. Joan previously served in the United State Senate, on a Presidential Campaign, and in a nonprofit focused on children and families. She was twice appointed by the Governor to serve on the Massachusetts Board of Early Education and Care, and is a past and present member of several nonprofit boards, including the Board of Trustees of Temple Emanuel and an Israeli non-profit, Educating for Excellence. A magna cum laude graduate of Brown University, Joan received her MA from Columbia University Teachers’ College, and her JD, with honors, from Columbia University School of Law. At JF&CS, Joan serves on the Advisory Committee for the Center for Early Relationship Support and her family is engaged with Family Table and Center for Basic Needs Assistance. Joan enjoys time with family and friends, exercise, reading, writing, travel, and art.

Shirley Sperling Paley lives in Lexington with her husband, Eric Paley, and their children, Zoe and Sam. Shirley is currently the General Counsel at Formlabs, a leading 3D printing company based in Somerville. A magna cum laude graduate of Dartmouth College and NYU School of Law, Shirley started her career as a law clerk to Hon. Sandra L. Lynch on the First Circuit Court of Appeals. She then practiced intellectual property law at Goodwin LLP before switching to the in-house legal departments of various Boston area technology companies, including Demandware, which was acquired by Salesforce. Shirley is on the Boston Advisory Committee of KIND (Kids in Need of Defense). At JF&CS, Shirley is a member of the Services for Older Adults Advisory Committee. In her free time, Shirley treasures time with her family and friends, she loves to try out new (often healthy) recipes and travel the world.

Karen Rosenberg lives on the North Shore in Marblehead with her husband, David. She is most proud to be the mother of their four children: Shelby, Amanda, Whitney and Andrew. Karen attended Marblehead High School and graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.A. in Communications. Karen’s professional experience was centered in public television in Boston and New York City but her job of choice and current role is that of raising her family. Over the last thirty plus years, Karen has been involved in many organizations, offering her time and resources. Some of those institutions include: The Jewish Federation of the North Shore Board and CJP Board, Temple Beth-El/Congregation Shirat Hayam Board, Jewish Teen Initiative Board, Marblehead Counseling Center Board, Marblehead Museum Board, Marblehead For Teens Board, Hillel Academy Board and the Jewish Community Center Board in addition to the Jewish Family & Children’s Service CBNA Board. Devoting her time and energy to her family and community provides Karen with a great sense of purpose and personal satisfaction. In her leisure time, Karen enjoys traveling, sporting events, exercising and practicing spiritual wellness.

Larry Schoen lives in Newton with his wife, Margaret. They have two daughters. Larry is a litigation partner in the Boston office of Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C. He is a trial lawyer who handles complex commercial litigation, including antitrust, securities, contract and bankruptcy-related matters, and was part of the Mintz team that won the Adams Pro Bono Public Award in 2011. Larry graduated from the University of Pennsylvania summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, and from Harvard Law School magna cum laude, and then clerked for the Honorable William G. Young of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. He is a member of Temple Beth Avodah in Newton, and serves on the Finance and Business Advisory Committees of JF&CS. Larry is also the former chair of the Complex Commercial Litigation section of the Massachusetts Bar Association and is a member of the professional advisory board of the Melanoma Education Foundation. In his leisure time, Larry enjoys running, rooting on the Celtics, and spending time with his family.

Lori Shaer and her husband, Jon, live in Needham with their college-aged son and their high school-aged daughter. Lori earned a degree in Television, Radio and Film Production from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. Her professional career started in New York City in news, and she moved into children’s television working at Sesame Street and then launched a children’s production company, Little Airplane Productions. Lori is a member of Temple Beth Shalom and served on the Board of Trustees for seven years. Presently, she is on the Nominating Committee and recently founded a new group at TBS, ConNEXTions, for soon-to-be empty nesters and empty nesters. At JF&CS Lori served on the Women’s Breakfast committee for several years and co-chaired the event in 2019. She is a co-chair of the upcoming Day of Service to take place in 2023 and volunteers with her family at Family Table. Lori is also a big sister through Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters. Currently, Lori sits on the Executive Board of the Noble and Greenough Parents’ Association and on the Nobles Development Committee, where her daughter attends school. She and Jon previously co-chaired the Nobles Annual Fund. Lori is on the President’s Parent Leadership Council at University of Richmond where her son attends college. She is also a Corporator at Tenacre Country Day School where her children attended elementary school. Lori enjoys playing tennis, snow and water skiing, seeing any musical theatre production, and traveling with her family.

Meet all of our Board of Directors here.

Talk About It: Raising Awareness About Teen Dating Abuse

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 21:28:00 GMT

TeenSafe is an initiative of JF&CS Journey to Safety. Together with TeenSafe staff, our high school-aged Peer Leaders raise awareness about teen dating abuse through in-person and Zoom workshops, social media messaging and other outreach opportunities. We also have recently updated our website with some suggested ways to start a conversation with your community about teen dating abuse.

As a program working to raise awareness about dating abuse in the Jewish community, we often have to do a little explaining about why a youth-serving organization should host a JF&CS TeenSafe workshop. Sometimes people wonder why it’s needed in a Jewish space. Sometimes people wonder why it’s needed at all, since it seems like abuse would be easy to spot and deal with without much explanation. These are both good questions.

1 in 3

Research tells us that 1 in 3 teens in the United States experiences physical, sexual, emotional and/or verbal abuse from a dating partner. This is a staggering number. This number includes Jewish teens from across the spectrum of Jewish expression in America. It also includes their non-Jewish friends and other peers in the communities where they attend school and live their lives.

Abuse is About Control

So why TeenSafe? Many people think of abuse as physical violence and yelling, both of which are pretty easy to identify. Many also assume that the teens they know would quickly end a relationship with a person who mistreated them and “that would be that.”

But here’s the thing: abuse is really about control. It’s about manipulation and coercion and guilt. It’s about one person feeling entitled to tell their partner what they can and can’t do and who they can and can’t spend time with. It’s about one person convincing their dating partner that the things that go wrong are their fault and that if they could just do better, everything would be okay.

For example, controlling and abusive people might set up “loyalty tests” – like pressuring their partner for passwords or private photos to show how committed they are to the relationship. They might push their partner to quit activities they really care about (like theater or sports or music) or stop spending time with friends or family members so that the couple can spend more time together. They might tell their partner that no one in the world understands them except for that person and they don’t know what they would do if the relationship ended. No yelling, no hitting. Just pressure to do things that will “help the relationship” or “bring us even closer together.”

From inside a relationship, abuse doesn’t always look or feel scary, especially early on. But much of the time, there’s a lot to notice – if you recognize control for what it is -- well before one person threatens, hits, or shoves their partner. It’s also important to know that a person can be very controlling or abusive without ever using violence or threats of violence at all. That’s still abuse.

TeenSafe

This is where TeenSafe comes in. Together with our high school-aged Peer Leaders, our TeenSafe staff lead workshops that help teens and adults recognize dating abuse and offer guidance about what to do if they see, hear about, or experience it. Our single and multi-session programs are interactive and individually tailored to each site and each audience. Thanks to generous grants from The Miriam Fund and The Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund, we are able to offer these programs to area youth groups, synagogues, and day schools at no cost.

New Tools for Teens, Educators, Youth Advisors and Parents/Guardians/Other Adults

February was Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and this year’s national theme was Talk About It. Even though the month is over, we are hoping the conversation continues. Toward that end, we are excited to announce that TeenSafe has added a number of new tools to our website. Teens, educators, youth advisors, parents/guardians and other adults can find several conversation starters there, including links to blogs written by our Peer Leaders, short videos from Love is Respect, common myths about abuse, and national statistics. There are also links to available resources and more information about bringing a TeenSafe program to your community.

A rabbi wisely pointed out to us years ago that our awareness-raising workshops are both a social action/social justice program and a caring community/chesed program. Young people may use the information they learn from TeenSafe to try to change harmful cultural norms. They might use the information to help change a single life. Both responses change the world.

We hope that you will join us by talking about teen dating abuse with people in your life AND scheduling a TeenSafe program to help broaden and deepen that conversation. We look forward to connecting with you.

For more information or to schedule a workshop or workshop series, please contact us at teensafe@jfcsboston.org or call Julie Youdovin at (781) 647-5327 x5675. You can also follow us on Instagram @teensafe_jfcs.

This post was cross-posted on Jewish Boston Teens.

Feeding the Hungry on the North Shore

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 14:21:00 GMT

Every morning, I get up, walk downstairs to the kitchen, and pause. I imagine if I could not open my well-stocked refrigerator and feed myself and my family a satisfying breakfast.

One Sunday morning each month, after preparing and consuming that breakfast, I head straight over to the Jewish Family & Children’s Service Family Table food pantry at Temple Sinai in Marblehead. When I arrive at Family Table, I assist the team in sorting, packing and delivering groceries to clients who deal daily with food insecurity.

JF&CS Family Table assistance directly reduces the fear surrounding food insecurity and instills hope in each client. In the last 10 years, the North Shore branch of JF&CS Family Table has provided hundreds of families in need with nutritious food, along with some toiletry items, Shabbat candles and a loaf of challah. Last year alone, Family Table distributed approximately 4,500 grocery bags, which equates to feeding 80 families per month on the North Shore. This is in addition to the hundreds of families who receive groceries from the Waltham and Canton distribution sites.

As a child, my parents taught me the merit of helping the hungry, and my husband and I have passed that message onto our four children as well. I knew it was important to bring each of them to volunteer at Family Table. Ever since the children were young, they have assisted in providing to those in dire need. Even now, it is still eye-opening for each of us to witness the enormous deficit that these clients face.

As one would expect, COVID-19 has significantly impacted these clients who already face hardships. Since the start of the pandemic, there has been a 45% increase in clients requiring assistance from Family Table’s North Shore division! How does an organization adjust?

JF&CS has addressed the infrastructure issues but what is still essential to the operation are volunteers. With this heightened demand, JF&CS Family Table program needs people willing to donate two to three hours of their time once a month on Sunday, or as their schedule permits, to help those who are unable to help themselves.

I ask you, the next time you open your own well-stocked refrigerator, to please consider giving of your time and making a difference in the quality of life for these families and individuals.

Online registration, proof of vaccination for those age 5-plus and a CORI background check are required to volunteer. Please visit jfcsboston.org/familytable to learn more, or email familytable@jfcsboston.org with questions.

I hope to see you there!

Karen Rosenberg lives in Marblehead with her husband, David, and their four children. She is an active Family Table volunteer and supports various JF&CS services in her community.

Suicide in the Jewish Community

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 14:14:08 GMT

Yes, suicide exists in the Jewish community and at the same rate as the general American population.

Please, don’t look away.

Suicide, like other mental health and public health issues, exists in the Jewish community.

Yet, we as a community have been mostly silent. We have been mostly silent in talking about suicide and mostly silent in caring for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.

“Do not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor,” (Deut 19:16) the Torah implores us. While these words are understood to move us into preventing bloodshed, I take this commandment another step. Even as I lack the opportunity or ability to prevent the death, I must still take notice, learn more, understand, bear witness to the suffering of the souls of those lost and of those now mourning the loss.

My hope is to transform how the Jewish community of Greater Boston responds to suicide. We are beginning with suicide loss bereavement. There are many local, state and national efforts for the prevention and intervention of suicide. However, there are few bereavement options for suicide loss and even fewer for Jewish suicide loss survivors.

Talking about suicide is hard. Learning about suicide is hard. Losing someone you love to suicide is unimaginable and unbearable. “It is not good for people to be alone,” (Gen 2:18). We all need to step up and care for those grieving this unfathomable loss. Our community’s silence has isolated the grievers. It is not good for people to be alone…especially those who are suffering alone with their grief.

The grief of suicide loss is a traumatic grief. This is a severe and often surprisingly sudden loss. Part of that traumatic grief manifests in an overwhelming magnitude of so many emotions – anger, anxiety, sadness, guilt, confusion, frustration, astonishment, loneliness…the list continues.

And, there is stigma. Suicide is hidden because of the millennia of social constructs and religious teachings that falsely accused the person who died by suicide as a weak or evil soul, selfish, or transgressing against Gd. We now know that most suicides are the result of mental illness. Yet, the stigma continues. Jewish perspectives on deaths by suicide do span a broad range. However, most Jewish communities support the bereaved with compassion and understanding in stark contrast to silence or disdain of the past. Even the language of “commit suicide” is the language of a crime. Please, say “die by suicide.” No crime has been committed. An illness in the extreme has taken a life.

Stigma is so powerful and so impermeable that most people who lose a loved one to suicide today suffer in silence. Added to their long list of debilitating emotions are shame and disgrace. Suicide loss mourners may or may not comprehend the added pain that isolation brings, yet the fear of shame and disgrace keeps them hidden and silent.

I ask you to remember these 3 points: Suicide is usually a mental health issue. Suicide is a Jewish communal concern. People die by suicide.

Every other Tuesday night, Marjie Sokoll and I gather in a Zoom room to welcome the bereaved of suicide loss into a safe space to explore their emotions and experiences, and to connect with those who share this unique loss. Marjie has been working in bereavement and Jewish healing for 27 years. She is the founder and director of The Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing at JF&CS. I am a Hebrew College ordained rabbi and board certified chaplain; I have been working in hospital chaplaincy, end of life family support, grief and healing for over 15 years. Even people who identify as non religious can benefit from the spiritual framework of non-judgmental and compassionate presence. Spiritual and communal support offers a pathway to coping and healing.

Marjie and I come to this work because we, too, have personal suicide losses.

The Suicide Loss Survivor Support Group was initiated by JF&CS with support from CJP. The program started in July 2021. Because we are on Zoom, participants are learning about the program and joining in from beyond Greater Boston, yet we know that our impact has been immediate for grieving families here. They are grieving very new losses and some decades-old losses, which were never addressed due to the weight of silencing stigma. The group helps to normalize and validate participants’ emotions. The participants are able to find moments of understanding and ease, perhaps even comfort and healing.

A few participants tell us that they are especially relieved to have found us since they began in other suicide bereavement groups. The Jewish lens has been particularly comforting, familiar and safe for them. During the High Holy Day season, for example, when so much of the liturgy is about life and death, we could offer a place for questioning and crying, for anger and angst. The language of yearning asks “to be blessed with a long life.” We want to affirm that a shortened life, for whatever reason, is not a cursed life, that illness in any manifestation is not a theological response. Gd’s presence is not in the illness and the suffering – I strongly believe – Gd’s presence is in the response to the suffering. Gd’s presence is in the learning and doing, to be present whole heartedly in the suffering of others. We cannot see Gd’s Face (Ex 33:18-21), but we can see Gd’s Back. Gd’s Back is our experience of Gd’s presence in our midst: lovingkindness (chesed) and compassion (rachmanut).

Marjie and I are no longer surprised that every time we talk about our work in teaching, in professional groups, or with friends, someone has a friend or relative with a suicide loss who they will recommend for the group. Our Suicide Loss Survivor Support Group keeps growing.

Don’t look away. Let’s talk about suicide – these conversations help reduce stigma and increase compassion in our community. The time is now to care for those suffering from this deep, traumatic and isolating loss.

Please join us Wednesday, March 2, to learn more about how suicide affects so many of us in the Jewish community. Raise your awareness and respond to the impact of suicide loss. If you have lost someone to suicide or know someone who has, please be in touch with us. We care and we want to offer our unique support.

Learn more and rsvp to the Zoom event, “Suicide Loss in the Jewish Community: An Evening of Learning” on March 2 from 7-8:15 p.m., sponsored by JF&CS, co-sponsored by Hebrew College.

Rabbi Chaplain Suzanne Offit `09 is a spiritual leader, teacher, and focused witness to the suffering of a human. Directed and energized by a theology of presence, Suzanne practices deep listening with patience, compassion, and curiosity to accompany the one before her into a sacred moment of understanding and transformation. Her work has included congregational rabbinic service, palliative care hospital chaplaincy, and suicide loss support. Institutionally, Suzanne is connected to Hebrew College and JF&CS of Greater Boston. She serves on the boards of American Jewish World Service, Jewish Women’s Archive, Neshama: Association of Jewish Chaplains, and the Interfaith Committee of the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute.

JF&CS Autism Navigation receives grant from The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 21:26:45 GMT

JF&CS is delighted to receive a grant from The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism to support our Autism Navigation services! Our services offer a proactive, coordinated approach to meeting the needs of families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. For many families of children with ASD, understanding the processes and experiences associated with ASD can be daunting at first. The mission of Autism Navigation at JF&CS is to offer these families whatever resources and support they require while they maneuver through immediate and long-term challenges and plan for the future.

This grant will directly benefit the families we assist with our Family Advocacy service and focused clinical case management. Family Advocacy addresses the needs of our clients and their families by helping them access benefits, maximize school supports, assess treatment options, and provide guidance navigating the Massachusetts Special Education system. Family Advocacy also assists in long-term financial planning and family support from the initial diagnosis and through various transition points.

Our individualized case management service works with each client and their family to assess their immediate and long-term needs, helping them highlight and pursue goals that will lead to a more meaningful and purposeful life. Each client with ASD faces challenges unique to their personal story: residential placements, caregiving arrangements, access to public resources, and more. Tailoring each support plan to the individual client’s needs allows for a deeper understanding of their situation, better personalized and practical goals, and a higher case success rate.

This grant from The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism empowers JF&CS to continue these crucial services and provide compassionate aid to our clients with ASD and their families.

Journey to Safety Domestic Violence Awareness Month Blog: Equal Access and Justice

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 17:49:00 GMT

There is a framed piece of artwork hanging in a colleague’s office at JF&CS that features the phrase “Justice, justice shall you pursue” (Deuteronomy 16:20). I imagine that many of you have heard these words or perhaps seen similar artwork, some evoking the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who also hung those words in her office. As we are halfway through Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, I’m thinking a lot about justice. At Journey to Safety (JTS), the JF&CS response to domestic and dating abuse, much of our work supporting domestic abuse survivors is rooted in the strong belief that everyone has the right to be safe.;

But there is no question that our safety net and justice system do not work equally for all. At JTS, we are asking ourselves what role we have played in supporting or looking past inequities and what role we can now play in supporting initiatives that will lead to meaningful societal and systems change. Today I would like to share just one of these efforts: A proposal to make it easier for non-English speakers to connect with public benefits and legal services.

Not being able to speak English fluently can present significant barriers. With dedicated funding to serve Russian-speaking abuse survivors, JTS staff members often witness first-hand the steep challenges of trying to access legal services and government programs such as rental assistance, unemployment and healthcare through online systems set up only in English or Spanish.

Moreover, when it comes to the courts, federal law requires that qualified interpreters be provided when needed during judicial proceedings. However, at times that means courts rely on community-based programs like JTS to provide basic translation and interpretation services. Our advocates do incredible work, but they are not trained professional court interpreters and are also not available for every non-English speaker who needs one.

As a result of these barriers, many people who don’t speak English and who desperately need assistance with housing, food, finances, or legal services simply give up because they cannot navigate the process that was set up to help with these needs. In this way, our public systems are failing some of the most vulnerable among us, including some of the very people they are intended to help.

To address this gaping hole in our statewide safety net, the Language Access and Inclusion Act, championed by the Massachusetts Language for All Coalition, has been introduced in the Massachusetts legislature. The proposed law would require state agencies to translate vital documents and provide interpretation services, among other elements.

Many of us have wondered how to be a voice for people whose voices go unheard. Initiatives like this one go a step further, creating a clear path for people to be able to speak for themselves.

I think back to the words hanging in my colleague’s office, – and that were once in Justice Ginsburg’s – and am inspired once again. Creating laws and policies grounded in equity, respect and dignity for all Massachusetts residents is just one of many ways to pursue justice and create real change. As we move into this new year, I invite you to join us in the collaborative work of building a world that is safe and equitable for all.

Many thanks to the Language Access for All Coalition for their leadership in this effort. We are also grateful to the staff at Jane Doe Inc., the Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence, for their leadership on this initiative and so many other efforts to affect meaningful and lasting change.

JF&CS Journey to Safety focuses our outreach and awareness-raising efforts on the Jewish and Russian-speaking communities AND welcomes survivors from all backgrounds who are seeking support and assistance. For help, please call 781-647-5327 and ask for Journey to Safety or email jts@jfcsboston.org. Note that support and assistance is available both to abuse survivors and to friends, family, clergy, and other community members who are concerned about someone in their lives.

Debby’s story: Help navigating complex systems to get the benefits she deserved, stabilizing her life at a vulnerable – and special – time.

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 20:07:20 GMT

Debby* was working full-time at a homeless shelter in January 2021 when she gave birth to her first child, a baby boy. Her baby was born prematurely and needed to spend time in the neonatal intensive care unit. Suddenly, Debby needed to leave her job much earlier than expected and manage the stress of being a first-time, single mom to a fragile baby, all without any income.

Debby was resourceful and immediately began to look for ways to keep herself afloat. She applied for Massachusetts’ new paid family leave benefits as well as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, or food stamps), and a cash benefit from the state called Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC). The paid family leave was slow to come through, and both her SNAP and cash aid applications were denied due to missing documentation.

In early February, Debby learned about Fragile Beginnings, a JF&CS program that assists parents of babies who have had a stay in the NICU. When that team learned that Debby had no income, they immediately referred her to the JF&CS Bet Tzedek Legal Services team, which helps low-income clients navigate complex, burdensome systems to access government benefits they are entitled to and is part of CJP’s Anti-Poverty Initiative.

The team got in touch with Debby right away. She told us that she had enough food for the baby, but that she was going to run out of food the next day for herself. We reached out to Family Table, JF&CS’s kosher food pantry, to arrange for an emergency food delivery. A volunteer delivered food the very next day.

Once the immediate concern of food was addressed, we began to analyze why Debby was denied her benefits. We found mistakes in how the state handled Debby’s applications. We informed the state of the errors and helped Debby file a new application. Debby’s SNAP and TAFDC applications were approved for the maximum benefits, and she was issued retroactive benefits back to her initial date of application. When we first met Debby, her monthly income was $0, and she was not receiving any public benefits. Thanks to our advocacy, her benefits went up to $1,010 per month.

In the spring, Debby’s application for paid family leave was approved, enabling her to go off all public benefits. We are so thrilled that we were able to help bring Debby to a place of stability at such a challenging – and special – time as she became a mom.

In just this one area of JF&CS Bet Tzedek Legal Service’s work, this year we helped 60 families to successfully apply for SNAP, amounting to approximately $250,000 in benefits, or an estimated average of $4,200 per family each year. We also help people maintain their benefits and ensure they receive the maximum benefits they are eligible for. And once people receive SNAP, they are automatically eligible for a host of other benefits, from low-cost internet to free school lunches, low-cost heating, and admission to cultural institutions.

*Debby’s name has been changed to protect her privacy.

Making more room at the table

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 20:06:36 GMT

Q: Let’s start with the core work of Family Table– what it is?
A: For some people, the idea of a food pantry conjures up an image of a place where people wait in line to get whatever food is available. Where their bodies may be nourished, but not their spirits. Family Table is much more. We offer healthy foods: lots of fruits and vegetables, eggs, and Kosher chicken, paired with wonderful recipes from a registered dietician. Our Kosher food reminds people that the Jewish community is here to support one another. We nurture our clients’ spirits by empowering them to choose foods that fit their needs. We serve more than 500 families each month and deliver food to over 350 families who don’t have transportation. These deliveries are a sign of deep respect for the many people with disabilities and older adults who need our help, and an opportunity for volunteers and clients to connect human-to-human – a nurturing experience for all.

Q: Why an expansion and why now?
A: Unfortunately, the need has really grown. Food insecurity was a big problem before the pandemic, and now it’s become much, much worse. And it’s reflected in the Jewish community just as in the broader community. Through extensive outreach, we’ve also become much better known in the Jewish community, particularly with seniors, many of whom hear about Family Table from friends and neighbors, often in senior housing. We cover a wide geography of more than 100 towns. Our Waltham office serves as the distribution hub for all locations, connecting to our outposts at Temple Sinai in Marblehead and B’nai Tikvah in Canton. Family Table has grown so much over the last decade that we just ran out of space.

Q: What will the expansion mean for Family Table clients?
A: This expansion will almost triple our freezer and refrigerator space at our existing Waltham location to serve more people and store more food. We hope to double the number of frozen vegetables - peas, spinach, broccoli, beans, mixed veggies, corn – that we’re distributing. We have more space to add Kosher chicken, and to freeze our challah so that it’s still fresh when we deliver. If you visit our cold storage today, you will see that it’s just stacked to the brim, with aisleways full and no room to maneuver. An expansion of our space ultimately means that we can take on more clients and help nourish the body and spirit of so many more in our community who need help right now.

Q: What does the expansion mean to you?
A: As Director of Family Table, I manage the staff, the budget, all the organizational ins and outs. But the times that have felt so meaningful have been when I’ve personally handed someone a bag of groceries and felt that connection with people who really need us. Our clients are not anonymous to us. We walk with them through their lives. This expansion means we will walk alongside more clients in need. And in this challenging year, I watched the unbelievable hard work, dedication, and ingenuity of our small, but mighty Family Table team. To a person, they have worked so hard and knocked themselves out to make sure that just the right things have gotten into everyone’s hands. This expansion is an opportunity to increase our impact every day.

Supporting the Journey to a Complete Family: JF&CS Adoption Resources

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 12:01:00 GMT

Mike Lee and Tom Acevedo were on the way to New York for the weekend… a perfect time to continue the conversation about adopting a child. “As Mike drove, I did research” explained Tom. The couple quickly realized, however, that this deeply personal process can often feel very cold and transactional. “It was adoption via 100 questions, with no human interaction,” said Mike.

Then they found JF&CS Adoption Resources. “Their operating model felt 180 degrees different from any other agency we had researched. We were able to connect with an actual human from the very beginning…and many of the Adoption Resources staff have their own personal connections to adoption, which was quite helpful to us.”

The JF&CS Adoption Resources model is deliberately designed to be extremely supportive. The team blends deep expertise in the complex world of adoptions with a strong commitment to the families they serve. They believe in building relationships, with the adoptive family at the core of a caring network of support.

Interested families are encouraged to start the process at a monthly orientation program (typically on the first Tuesday of the month). This meeting introduces pre-adoptive families to the range of available services and addresses the many questions families have about the adoption process and their options. The JF&CS team is also available for individual consultations, free of charge.

“The adoption process can be exciting and overwhelming,” commented Director Betsy Hochberg, MSW, LICSW. “In addition to our home study work with families, we also provide a number of educational workshops to prepare families for the arrival of their child. Adoption has changed over the years and many of our families travel to other states to adopt newborns. We help families network beyond MA to find the best resources. We also offer new parent groups to help families share their experiences—building relationships while sharing the stresses and the joys. Adoption is a lifelong event, and we remain connected with many of our families for years!”

“It can be a real rollercoaster of an experience,” commented Tom. “But JF&CS was by our side the entire time, providing information, support, and encouragement. There is a real nobility in their deep commitment to families.”

Like many clients, Tom and Mike were pleasantly surprised to learn more about how JF&CS supports families throughout the community. “We came in through the adoption door, but after a while, we were exposed to the full breadth of what JF&CS does for families…especially during COVID. The team has a real generosity of spirit, a clear passion for their work, and an ever-expanding impact.”

Mike and Tom’s daughter Audrey is now three and a half. “A good friend of ours has been involved with JF&CS as a volunteer…she reminds us that universe gives you the child you were meant to have,” commented Mike. “As Audrey continues to grow and learn, we believe even more deeply in that statement. And we continue to feel so grateful to JF&CS for the comprehensive and caring support they provided as we completed our family.”

About JF&CS Adoption Resources:

Licensed Massachusetts to provide domestic adoption services, JF&CS Adoption Resources offers a variety of programs to assist individuals and couples pursuing adoption. Our comprehensive services provide support and counseling before, during, and after placement. We work with a wide range of single parents, same sex couples, and heterosexual couples— helping families choose the level of openness in their individual adoption.

JF&CS Memory Café and Assisting Hands Home Care: Addressing Social Isolation Together

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 17:24:00 GMT

JF&CS is fortunate to work with a number of corporate partners who advance and extend our work throughout the community. One of those partners, Assisting Hands Home Care, is a deeply engaged sponsor of JF&CS Memory Café. We spoke with Dave Tasto (President, Assisting Hands - Boston Northwest) and Beth Soltzberg (Director, Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program for JF&CS) about the partnership and its impact on the community.

Let’s start with some background info. Dave, can you tell us a little about Assisting Hands Home Care?
DT: We help keep individuals healthy and happy at home. Some of our clients want companionship and some transportation help, and others have more extensive needs requiring around-the-clock care at home.

Beth, please describe JF&CS Memory Café.
BS: Memory cafés are welcoming social gatherings for people living with dementia, along with their family members, friends, and professional care providers. The first café was held in Holland in 1997, and they have spread throughout the world as part of the dementia friendly community movement. JF&CS Memory Café was created in 2014; we launched the Memory Café Percolator that same year to help other organizations start and sustain their own cafés.

What issues are your clients/participants struggling with these days?
DT: It’s clear that the isolation and loneliness associated with the pandemic have taken a toll—families have seen real declines in overall health of their loved ones. In addition, family members have taken on additional care duties. It all adds up to a great deal of stress for families and other caregivers.

BS: It’s challenging at any time for a family to address dementia – the financial, emotional, and physical impact can be significant. During the pandemic, families often faced an impossible situation as the symptoms of their loved ones worsened and the available supports decreased.

What has that meant for your teams?
BS: Providers like JF&CS Memory Café have had to learn how to deliver services in totally different ways. We had to figure out how to best use technology to keep our programs going…then help our clients figure out how to log on!

DT: If our homes were our castles before COVID, they became castles with moats during it. We doubled down on our infectious disease protocols, reduced the number of clients our caregivers would see. We also embraced technology, but in our case, it was to bridge communications gaps. Our caregivers take notes on their smartphones and have them immediately available to family members who may be miles away or down the street.

Please describe the nature of the partnership between JF&CS Memory Café and Assisting Hands.
BS: We were connected through a colleague almost three years ago. Dave started attending the Memory Café and quickly became a valued thought partner and financial supporter.

DT: The more I got to know Beth and JF&CS, the more impressed I was with the team’s professional, caring approach. I really admire their commitment to bringing joy to those they serve. We share an important goal: to help even more individuals and families become aware of the supports available to them through organizations like ours. And our values are aligned…we both care deeply about giving back to the community.

BS: It’s an ongoing struggle to raise awareness about programs like JF&CS Memory Café. It’s tough to get people to talk about your program when they don’t want to discuss dementia. Dave has helped us think about creative new ways to spread the word. We have been fortunate to have him as a partner—not everyone takes that added step of saying “I’d like to help advance this work through a financial sponsorship.”

What opportunities do you see for partnership in the future?
BS: Service providers are at an interesting point where things are reopening, but there are no guarantees about what’s ahead. We do know that we’re not going back to the way things were, that we will continue to weave in new ways of supporting these individuals and families. As we plan, it’s really helpful to have the strategic and financial support of partners like Assisting Hands.

DT: When I look to the future, about two key things: awareness and access. We need to let more people know that programs like JF&CS Memory Café and Assisting Hands are here to support them. And we need to continue to find ways to make our services more accessible throughout the community.

Any last thoughts?
BS: For families supporting a loved one with dementia, it’s both a precious and challenging time. It can be the hardest thing they have ever done, but it can also be incredibly fulfilling. To make it the best possible experience, families need to expand their network… to augment their already wonderful care and attention. That’s the way I feel about our partnership with Assisting Hands. Through his collaboration and financial support, Dave helps us do even more to support people living with dementia and the people who care about them.

For more information about JF&CS Memory Café: https://www.jfcsboston.org/Our-Services/Older-Adults/Alzheimers-Related-Disorders-Family-Support

To learn more about senior home care from Assisting Hands Home Care.

Innovative and Intentional Approaches to Maternal and Infant Mental Health: A conversation with Amy R. Sommer, LICSW

Wed, 26 May 2021 18:34:49 GMT

Q: Tell me a bit about your career journey thus far. What did you do before JF&CS and how did you find your way here?
A: Just after I finished my master’s degree, I did clinical work in child-parent psychotherapy — one of the first evidence-based treatment programs for children under the age of 5 affected by trauma. I was part of the second cohort to be trained through the National Child Traumatic Stress Network to provide dyadic therapy to parents and children. When I moved to Massachusetts, I joined JF&CS, providing child-parent psychotherapy to parents living in residential treatment centers for those impacted by substance use disorder.

Q: What’s dyadic therapy?
A: When working with families, we consider the needs and strengths of the parent, and of the child. Then there are the needs and strengths of their relationship—dyadic therapy focuses on strengthening that relationship. It’s an incredibly rich and rewarding way to work, for all involved. We are not “teaching” parents what to do, and we are relating to babies in a very intentional way. It can also be challenging. I sometimes say that it’s like couples therapy…but with individuals who have totally different developmental needs (which could actually be at odds with each other!). Babies can’t wait. We need to be in tune with and respond quickly to their rapidly changing needs.

Q: What’s exciting about the work JF&CS is doing today?
A: JF&CS recognized early on that the opioid crisis would have deep and lasting impact on young families. Leveraging our deep collective expertise in understanding and meeting the needs of vulnerable families, we created Project NESST® (Newborns Exposed to Substances: Support and Therapy). This program works with parents, caregivers, and infants to address the impact of substance use and trauma on parents’ mental health, the early parent-child relationship, and infant development.

Q: What emerging issues in maternal mental health are you and the team thinking about now?
A: There has been a huge explosion in the science and public awareness of the role of infant maternal health. Recently, the Massachusetts Association of Infant Mental Health (IMH), in partnership with national IMH bodies, began offering infant mental health endorsements to professionals in the field. JF&CS is at the forefront of that work, supporting other practitioners getting their endorsement. That level of interagency engagement has been a hallmark of our work for years… we do a ton of teaching and training to help other service providers realize that there are opportunities to do things differently and better. You can look throughout Greater Boston and see the direct impact of our work in how care and service providers support parents and babies.

Q: What do you love most about your job?
A: I love the “aha moments” — when we help people change the way they relate to others in their lives. And I think every day…. did I impact a client, a colleague, a system? It’s incredibly gratifying to be able to say “yes,” and to know that so many of my interactions have an incredible ripple effect on families and communities.

Teens Helping Other Families

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 17:18:00 GMT

By Talia Wilk and Leah Farb

We both have our Bat Mitzvahs on May 8^th—we thought we could have a bigger impact in the community if we combined our efforts on a mitzvah project. It’s been hard to find meaningful volunteer work for our mitzvah project during the pandemic because we have had to social distance and the options have been limited.

We started our work by talking with Ava Harder, JF&CS Manager of Volunteer Services. She explained the volunteer opportunities and process to us, suggesting several meaningful options including supplying Family Table grocery items, creating baskets for CHAI Services houses and collecting general personal care items for clients. But what really resonated with us was when she spoke to us about Healthy Families and the opportunity to help teenage mothers and their children by providing backpacks with school readiness items for Healthy Families clients.

Ava helped us understand that while being a mom is never easy, being a teenager and providing for your kid(s) during COVID-19 is even more stressful for these clients. She explained that we could purchase backpacks and fill them with all kinds of fun stuff for the three-year-olds who would be graduating from the program.

Then we got to work! We talked with our families about how to move the project forward. We decided that we would create 10 backpacks for Healthy family graduates and fill them with all the items they would need for school—crayons, coloring and picture books, stickers, etc. We also wanted to give a gift to the young mothers who have worked really hard to be able to graduate from Healthy Families—we decided to provide them with gift cards to celebrate their big achievement.

Although this project was meant to be work, it was so satisfying for the both of us to know that we were helping other people, other families. We are so glad that we had the opportunity to work on this project, for JF&CS and Healthy Families and we got to make an impact on these families and their kids. We have enjoyed this volunteer opportunity so much that we are actually planning on volunteering again for JF&CS at the end of April for CHAI Services Shabbat dinner!

Finding the Way to Meaningful Work: An interview with Ava M.A. Harder, Manager, Volunteer Services

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 19:31:00 GMT

Q: How did you find your way to this role?
A: Before having children, I worked (and stressed!) in the for-profit world. After the birth of my first child, I participated in a JF&CS New Parents Group. It was such an important part of my baby’s first year and my first year as a mom—we still have close friends from that group! I always wanted to find my way to what I considered more meaningful work, and when a friend at JF&CS told me about a position at the agency, I knew I had to “go for it!” That was five and a half years ago, and I have loved being a part of an organization whose work touches the lives of so many people in such powerful ways.

Q: What is it about volunteering with JF&CS that makes it so appealing?
A: JF&CS offers a uniquely broad array of opportunities to touch the hearts and lives of our neighbors. Whether you are delivering groceries with Family Table, celebrating Shabbat with CHAI Residential, dancing or singing with Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support, caring for a new family with our Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms program, touching the heart of a Holocaust Survivor as a Friendly Visitor or a caring card- or scarf-maker, helping a domestic abuse survivor get back on her/his feet, sharing art with participants in JF&CS Memory Café, Café Hakalah and so much more… you are 100% changing lives across the community.

Q: How would you describe JF&CS volunteers?
A: Caring, compassionate, creative, fun, dedicated, positive, eager, enthusiastic, wonderful!!!

Q: What have you missed over the past year?
A: Professionally, I have missed seeing my colleagues in the office. I miss hearing the buzz of co-workers surrounding me. I miss the off-handed brainstorming that comes from working near one another. I also miss coordinating on-site group volunteering with day schools and corporations and universities. And most of all I miss seeing our wonderful volunteers live and in person.

On a personal level, I miss hugs. I miss going to services at my synagogue and seeing and hugging my friends. And going out for dinner. And coffee shops… I miss grabbing a latte at a coffee shop. And my parents in Arizona. I cannot wait until I can hop on a plane to see them again. So many things to look forward to!

Taking Steps to Address the Mental Health crisis

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 15:37:00 GMT

Elysse Nava is the caring expert on the other end of the line (or email) for Mental Health Connect and Path to Well-being. Elysse plays a vital role in the community, holding people’s hands as they navigate a wide range of mental health challenges, and helping them take their first step towards the support they need. In this brief Q&A, Elysse explains these new programs, and talks a little about the significant need they address.

Q: First of all, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your work?

A: Sure! After receiving my BSW and MSW I worked at a Jewish agency in New York. I found a lot of meaning in Jewish values, and in the human service mission. When I decided that I wanted to come home to Boston, I was delighted to find JF&CS. As Director of Community Resources and Mental Health Supports, I can put my experience to work in a way that directly affects so many people across our community.

Q: How would you characterize what you’re seeing in terms of community needs around mental health?

A: Overall, the need for support and services continues to increase, as does the complexity of individual situations. In many cases, people have been missing out on activities which previously brought meaning to their lives. We are also hearing from many people having a hard time meeting their basic needs, which further complicate mental health issues. It’s always been challenging to know where to turn for mental health support, and to understand what programs and services will be most appropriate—COVID has significantly increased that challenge.

Q: How does Mental Health Connect work?

A: Many of the people who call or email don’t know what help will be most effective for them. I start by assessing their specific needs; then connect them to the appropriate program within JF&CS or across the Greater Boston community. Over the past few weeks, I have spoken with 20 – 25 people per week, connecting them to resources such as our clinical case management program, Friendly Visitors program, bereavement support groups, and to another exciting new program, Path to Well-Being.

Q: Tell us a little about Path to Well-being.

A: Path to Well-being is a no-cost, six-to-eight-week Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program accessible via laptop or app (on a tablet or smartphone). Guided by a CBT coach from world-renowned McLean Hospital, participants learn and practice proven techniques to manage stress and anxiety online. JF&CS recently launched this program in partnership with McLean Hospital and Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) and we are seeing a great deal of interest in it.

Q: What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

A: CBT is a treatment approach that addresses unhelpful thoughts that drive negative attitudes and behaviors. This virtual, self-paced approach provides the skills and strategies to redirect those thoughts…to “switch the train track”, so to speak. It’s truly individualized, and the skills are ones you can return to in the face of transitions and challenges that may come your way in the future.

Q: What has been most rewarding about this work?

A: I have been doing this work for a long time and I continue to be inspired by the clients I collaborate with. They really are the experts in their own situations and it’s incredibly rewarding to partner with them to bring about the change they desire in their lives.

Q: Any final thoughts?

A: I know it can be difficult to reach out for help. Calling us is an important first step towards finding the services and support that can help make your day, and your life, just a little easier and more meaningful.

Mental Health Connect and Path to Well-being can be reached at 781-693-5562 or mentalhealth@jfcsboston.org.

Parenting Newborns during COVID

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 20:03:00 GMT

Posted by Debbie Whitehill, LICSW
Director, Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms®

For many parents of newborns, this year has not been what they expected. Plans changed; health concerns increased; outside support became risky, inconsistent, and/or hard to find. Our Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms program has been working virtually to offer parents a listening ear—sharing their journeys as their babies grow and change in the first year of life. Read on to find out how Visiting Moms can provide the extra support parents may need to contend with issues around decision-making, family expectations, and so much more!

Decision-making is often intense in new parenthood: How long to let a baby cry; what types of bottles to use; how frequently to feed your baby; which pediatrician to choose—all questions that became even more fraught thanks to COVID. And while parents often search for the “right answer,” we know that no single solution works for every baby and every family. In fact, most parenting is trial and error, and it’s inevitable that we will all make mistakes along the way. Discussing decisions like these with unbiased folks like our Visiting Moms can be a valuable, no-judgement way to choose a path for your family.

Family expectations are often difficult to manage in the newborn stage: Who can visit? How long can your mother or mother-in-law stay? Your energy levels and needs will change over time, and tensions can run higher during COVID if family members are not aligned around safety concerns. Finding your voice as a new parent takes time, as does learning to trust yourself. Connecting with an impartial outsider can help you find your voice and the confidence to communicate your needs more clearly to family members.

Many parents of newborns experience anxiety and depression. Sometimes having these strong feelings makes it hard to connect or bond with our newborns, and the pandemic has only exacerbated those feelings. It’s important to seek help if you or your partner are struggling. Whether it’s a support group, a therapist, medication, or a combination, help is available—all virtually, which means you can participate from home. For instance, JF&CS “This Isn’t What I Expected” is a free weekly support group that addresses these and similar issues. JF&CS also recently launched Mental Health Connect— a free, confidential information and referral service.

Having a new baby is almost always isolating and exhausting. COVID has taken it to a new level. New parents may feel cheated of the experience they expected and dreamed about. They are missing the opportunity to share their early parenting time and be witnessed as parents. They may also be missing the home cooked meals supplied by family members, or the extra hands to hold a crying baby. Sharing these feelings with others can be an important release, even if it can’t change the feelings themselves.

Working from home does have benefits for parents of newborns, but it isn't without challenges. Leaving your baby to return to work often comes with mixed emotions and involves many decisions. Right now, out-of-home childcare is more limited, and having someone come into your home may not be an option for you. Even if it is, listening to someone else take care of your baby while you're trying to work is often distracting. No matter what you choose it will involve a big adjustment—give yourself time to settle into that next phase of your lives as a family.

No matter how much you prepared, having a baby is likely to bring intense waves of feelings: joy, doubt, fear, excitement, anxiety, exhaustion, elation… and some indescribable and confusing combination of them all. Visiting Moms remember how it felt in the early months! They are here to listen, to understand and encourage, and most of all to accompany you as you find your way with your baby. Learn more about Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms.

Expert Advice: 5 Tips for Keeping Older Adults Connected During COVID

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 19:34:00 GMT

Posted by Karen Wasserman, Director of Your Elder Experts

Many older adults have been living with strict social distancing measures for months now. With few opportunities to leave home or host visitors, it’s all too easy for seniors to slide into social isolation.

The good news is that it’s still possible for older adults to stay connected with the people and communities that matter most to them. Your Elder Experts (YEE) is a JF&CS program that works with older adults, as well as their care partners and families, to enhance quality of life, encourage independence, and provide a safe and supportive living environment. The YEE team has put together five tips for helping older adults stay socially engaged and active.

1. Reach Out — Don’t Wait to Be Called

Some older adults can be hesitant to initiate a phone call or a video chat, even when they would love to talk to a friend or family member. Instead of waiting to be called, proactively reach out to the older adults in your life. Try establishing a set time each day or week to check in with a call or FaceTime. A handwritten card or letter can be a nice surprise as well!

2.Get Creative on Zoom

While Zoom video conferencing is great for conversation, you don’t have to just sit and talk! During these past several months, we have heard about some truly creative uses of Zoom. Here are a few of our favorite ideas:

Grandparents can read bedtime stories to their grandchildren over Zoom. Alternately, you can read a short story, an interesting article, or even some poetry to an older adult in your life.
Bring your laptop into the kitchen and chat while you cook dinner. You can even choose the same recipe and enjoy preparing a meal together.
A number of board games and card games can be played over Zoom, including Boggle, Yahtzee, Pictionary, Chess, Bingo, Uno, and Bridge. A virtual game night can be a lot of fun!

3. Enjoy Virtual Activities Online

There are endless opportunities for intellectual stimulation and social connection online. A few older adults we know enjoy the free nightly streams from the Metropolitan Opera and the free virtual programs from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Other popular activities include playing against the computer or against competitors from around the world on Chess.com and solving the free daily crossword from The Washington Post.

Older adults living with dementia can attend virtual memory cafés, which offer live entertainment on Zoom and the chance to chat with others in a welcoming environment. Those with Parkinson’s disease can get some exercise with a Therapeutic Dance Class or strengthen their voices by singing with the Tremble Clefs Chorus.

4. Try Distance Learning by Phone

If you know an older adult who isn’t tech-savvy or doesn’t own a computer, they can still enjoy virtual activities using their phone. A number of organizations offer phone-based Distance Learning opportunities where participants can strike up a conversation and learn about art, history, languages, music, and other interesting topics. Check out this flyer to learn more about Distance Learning providers.

5. Meet Outdoors When You Can

When the weather is nice, taking a short walk outdoors while wearing masks is a healthy and safe way to stay connected. Sitting out on a front porch or a back patio on a sunny day is another pleasant way to pass a socially-distanced afternoon with an older adult friend or relative.

While these strategies can help keep social isolation at bay, we understand that these suggestions aren’t feasible for everyone — especially those with limited access to technology.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or worried about an older adult in your life, please don’t hesitate to contact Your Elder Experts. Our clinicians are available for consultation and ongoing care management. Give us a call at 781-693-5052 or email info@yourelderexperts.com.

Extending the Legacy. Expanding the Impact.

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 22:05:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

When Jamie Grossman stepped down as President of the Board of Directors of JF&CS, we had planned to honor her at our spring gala. Instead, we held a virtual celebration at our Annual Meeting, announcing that we were naming the board room — where she has spent countless hours working tirelessly on behalf of JF&CS — after her. Recently, we asked Jamie to reflect on her work with JF&CS, about leading during crisis, and the importance of legacy giving.

You have been involved with JF&CS for years…for 20 years here in Boston and through your mother’s work in Philadelphia years ago. In your mind, what has remained constant about JF&CS, its work, and its impact?

Two things really stand out. First, the complete devotion of board, staff, and volunteers to meeting the needs of our community…it’s just extraordinary. Second, that commitment has such longevity. If you did a poll of how long staff has been there, it’s really incredible. Board members also stay around once they are engaged.

Once I got a feel for the organization, I became more involved as a volunteer and saw firsthand the value and impact of the work. I remember a Schechter Holocaust Services event where a client spoke about how isolated she was, how challenging it was to decide between paying for heat and purchasing food. I learned that her story was not unique, that 30% of Holocaust survivors live below the poverty level and have to make choices like that every month. To know that as a JF&CS volunteer and donor, I could help over 400 Holocaust survivors connect to resources that reliably meet their basic needs, to have the opportunity to make such a difference in someone else’s life…that’s a pretty compelling reason to stick around!

You clearly had a strong role model in your mom and are an equally powerful role model for your own girls. Is there something about JF&CS that makes it a great place for families to learn about the power of giving back?

When I was younger, it was not like it is today, with everyone running their kids around to volunteer everywhere. My mom went out 2 nights a week to tutor girls in a residential home, and sometimes she’d bring them home for Shabbat dinner. Seeing my mom in that role was my original exposure to volunteerism and the impact we could have on each other's lives. Once I had my own daughters, our family volunteered with JF&CS as much as we could…distributing food at Family Table, helping with Shabbat dinners for adults with disabilities, and more.

What was your proudest achievement as Board President?

Over the years, JF&CS has become family, and as Board President, you want to care for your family. Being Board President during a leadership transition was one of the hardest things I have ever done. I was fortunate to work closely with smart, passionate board and staff members to ensure a smooth transition. The community could see that we were working together as a team to transition the leadership of the organization for whatever’s next, and that coming together was so empowering.

Why does planned giving matter to JF&CS? What’s the power of including the agency in one’s estate?

For me and my family, legacy giving is an investment in the enduring work and sustained impact of the agency. JF&CS has been here for people in need for over 150 years…we want to make sure it’s here for decades to come. Making a planned gift to JF&CS was probably one of the easiest decisions to make and also to execute. Knowing that my impact will touch generations to come is so gratifying.

Learn more about creating a legacy with JF&CS and joining our Tree of Life Society.

Friendly Visitor Discovers a Surprising Connection

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 00:53:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Ben Boverman, one of our Friendly Visitor volunteers.

Ben Boverman is an experienced JF&CS volunteer who became a Friendly Visitor in November 2019 with our Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing. The Friendly Visitor program matches trained volunteers with isolated older adults to provide friendship and a treasured connection to the Jewish community.

Ben speaks Russian, so we were excited to connect him with Frima. As they were getting to know each other, Ben shared that he was from Odessa, Ukraine. They quickly realized that Frima had lived two doors down from Ben’s family in Odessa and had been a classmate of Ben’s (now deceased) mother!

As Frima told Ben stories about his mother, she described her exactly as Ben remembered her. She shared that his mother had been strong in math and the sciences, and Ben commented that she had become a high school math teacher.

The two have built a strong relationship since those initial conversations. Over the summer, Ben traveled from his home in Dennisport to bring Frima masks and hand sanitizer in Brookline when she wasn’t able to get them herself.

Ben commented, “I’m so grateful that by volunteering with JF&CS I made this special connection… one that I now cherish deeply. The fact that I found such connectivity with someone who had been a stranger to me is just unbelievable!”

Visit our Volunteer page to learn more about how you can get involved with JF&CS. For questions about volunteering, please contact Ava Harder, Manager of Volunteer Services, at volunteers@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5007.

Eight Bright Lights of 2020

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 21:14:11 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We all know that 2020 has been a uniquely challenging year. Yet during these tough times, we continue to find inspiration, celebration, and joy in so much of our client work. As we observe the eight nights of Chanukkah, we want to share eight “bright lights” from the past year. Just as the miracle of the oil kept the Temple’s menorah aglow, uplifting moments like these have been our fuel as we work to bring light to those in need. We are grateful for your continued partnership in this vital work, and we wish you a bright and healthy 2021.

1. Family Table Takes It Outside

When COVID made it impossible for volunteers to prep grocery orders indoors, our intrepid food pantry team quickly improvised a new, socially distanced system of packing grocery orders in the JF&CS parking lot. Since that first outdoor food distribution in March, we have efficiently and safely provided over 27,000 bags of groceries to our clients.

2. Seder Goes Virtual for Adults with Mental Health Challenges

Many adults with mental health challenges struggle with isolation, and this has been especially true during the pandemic. To bring our community together, our Chaverim Shel Shalom social group took their annual Passover Seder to Zoom. Guests at the “Zeder” (Zoom Seder) connected with friends, read from the Haggadah, and drew parallels between the Passover story and their own present-day struggles.

3. An Unexpected Haven for Kids With Special Needs

The JF&CS parking lot has become quite the happening spot this year! We’ve hosted music therapy sessions for children with autism, water balloon baseball for kids who have siblings with special needs, and an amazing fall carnival for all of the children in our Respite and Recreation programs. During these stressful times, we are thrilled to provide a safe and welcoming place for families to relax and have fun.

4. New Parents Build a Supportive Community...Without Ever Leaving Home

Having a new baby or toddler can be an isolating experience under the best conditions. Months of social distancing can make parents feel even more alone. Our Zoom parenting groups were a life-saver for many parents — reducing isolation and building parenting skills. Our experienced group leaders have supported and connected more than 330 parents since March; helping to build relationships that last long after sleepless nights and potty-training are distant memories.

5. Holocaust Survivors Stay Connected in the New Year

For the Jewish New Year, we sent our Schechter Holocaust Services clients beautiful masks decorated with images of apples and honey. Over 20 generous volunteers sent us 450 hand-made masks from all over, including Brookline, Florida, California, Ohio, and even India! This is just one of the many ways our case managers have been in close contact with survivors during this challenging time — along with regular phone calls and a monthly group gathering on Zoom, complete with Yiddish and Russian music.

6. Saluting Our Very Own Frontline Heroes

Throughout the pandemic, our Residential staff has gone above and beyond to ensure that our residents with disabilities remain healthy, safe, stable, and happy. While many of our agency staff have been able to work from home, our Residential staff has been on location 24/7, steadfastly supporting our clients through this challenging time. Their commitment to our residents has been nothing short of heroic, and we are so grateful for their courage and commitment!

7. Geriatric Care Managers Make Sense of Chaos for Older Adults

Since March, families caring for older adults have been attempting to navigate an unfamiliar and constantly shifting landscape. They have been caught in impossible situations — afraid to leave their loved ones alone in nursing homes and assisted living facilities; unable to care for them at home; unwilling to bring strangers into their family pods. Drawing upon decades of experience and a wealth of local connections, Your Elder Experts has helped older adults locate care and housing, even as regulations and availability changed on an often daily basis.

8. Giving Tuesday Exceeds All Expectations

We asked friends and supporters to help us raise funds to stock our food pantry with frozen vegetables for the coming year. Our community showed up for us — big time! Thanks to their outstanding generosity, we more than doubled our initial goal, raising over $30,000 and ensuring plenty of healthy veggies for the over 500 households we serve each month.

Do you have a JF&CS Bright Light you would like to share with us? An experience or an individual that brought comfort or joy? We would love to hear about it. Send your story to info@jfcsboston.org and we may feature it in an upcoming newsletter or on our social media feed!

Balancing Act Support Group Helps Participant Rediscover Her Strengths

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 15:00:28 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

When you’re caring for a parent living with dementia, it’s easy to spiral into self-criticism. Feelings of guilt, inadequacy, and helplessness are all too common.

At Balancing Act, our online support group for adults coping with a parent’s dementia, we help participants practice mindful self-compassion. One technique we use is asking participants to write themselves a compassionate letter, as if they were writing to a friend.

Karen, one of our Balancing Act participants, wrote a beautiful and insightful letter that helped her rediscover her strengths. She graciously allowed us to share her letter below.

A Letter to Myself

Karen,

I want to acknowledge that it has been very hard for you during the last couple of years as you experienced two great losses. Your two most precious “gals” in your life, your daughter and your mother, underwent drastic transformations due to their diseases.

Your daughter’s stroke and hemiparesis took away her sunny outlook on life — her expectation that life should be just as stable, happy, and easy as things were before July 2018.

And when you felt lost and didn’t know how to be a mother to that devastated 12-year-old girl, your mom — the ONE person on whom you would have leaned on for comfort — wasn’t able to process that your life had been turned upside down. Now SHE needed your help, too. It’s been very hard for you indeed.

But you didn’t just sit wallowing in misery or stay “asleep” under the blanket like you wished you could every day. You did what you had to do to help Mom — even on those days when you felt more like a helper robot than a sincere loving daughter. And you were wise enough to share your sadness with a good friend who eventually led you to the Balancing Act support group. There, you met these lovely people to whom you found it so much easier to be generous and kind than you tend to feel toward yourself. And gradually you started to recognize the beauty in your own efforts and suffering, as you so naturally and effortlessly saw and lauded theirs.

All these steps you took promise that you will be okay. Your instinct to look for support when you felt helpless demonstrates that you are a survivor. In refusing to collapse, you are so much like your mother.

Think of all the daunting challenges she had to face: her husband's exile to the United States after standing up to Park Chung-hee’s dictatorship, eventual immigration she didn’t choose, drastic socioeconomic demotion to a low wage-earner in a country where she didn’t speak the language. Surely some days she must have felt like a robot supporting burdensome cranky teenagers.

But she never let fatigue or despair stop her from loving and supporting you and your brother. She worked very hard so that you could get the education that now affords you this comfortable life and enables you to travel the world and deep into history, even during a pandemic. Her courage and perseverance earned your freedom.

Thank you for being so much like that great woman who taught you how to be a very decent, reliable human being — and a wise, resilient mom.

Learn more about our Balancing Act support group.

Opening Our Tents: Welcoming Domestic Abuse Survivors

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 12:02:41 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer, Director of JF&CS Journey to Safety

During the Jewish festival of Sukkot, those observing the holiday are urged to remember the Biblical stories of Abraham and Sarah’s great hospitality. With tent flaps open wide to a vast desert landscape, they welcomed community members and strangers alike to their dwelling, treating each guest with respect and dignity and forging meaningful personal connections.

As we celebrate Sukkot this week, we can’t ignore how the pandemic has made it difficult to open our figurative tents and welcome people in. Without regular in-person social interaction, we don’t know with much certainty who in our community is “managing” or “doing okay” and who is not. While this social isolation is hard on all of us, it can be disastrous for survivors of domestic abuse.

The Silence of Social Distancing

Even before the pandemic, some survivors would disappear into their homes, having limited contact with friends and acquaintances. Others found ways to move through the world holding a terrible secret while managing children, work, and a host of other obligations and commitments.

Our current reality, however, has intensified the profound silence surrounding many abuse survivors and created situations that are becoming increasingly difficult and – in some cases – dangerous. Moreover, essential social distancing measures have disrupted some of the few supports that abuse survivors might have had and interfered with even those casual opportunities to connect in an office break room, a busy neighborhood playground, or a post-worship social gathering.

Reaching Out and Maintaining Connections

Sukkot challenges us to think about how we can be welcoming during a pandemic and – by extension – how to maintain connections when we cannot gather. We know that it is common for abuse survivors to constantly hear from a current or ex-partner that they are worthless and their lives don’t matter at all. Creating opportunities for people to connect – and also find help – is a step toward counteracting those devastating messages and affirming that every individual is seen and valued by those around them.

With this in mind, we hope that you will consider ways to increase social contact in your community and spread the word that help is available for survivors of abuse. Here are a few ideas:

Reach out to people beyond your close circle of friends to say hello and see how they are doing.
Look for ways to replace social interaction that normally happens at work, in your congregation/organization, or other spaces with an online gathering from time to time.
Join your congregation – or any group you are part of – in efforts to call members periodically to see how everyone is doing. If that isn’t happening, look into initiating an effort.
Use social media to share messages from domestic abuse prevention organizations like JF&CS Journey to Safety, Jane Doe Inc., and the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
Look for places (websites, chat boxes in online gatherings, your email signature, etc.) to post helpline information for people who have a controlling or abusive partner or former partner.

We hope that you will join us in finding ways to open our community tent flaps wider and perhaps even leave a lasting impression on someone passing through our lives, even if they are not a close connection. Working to make people – especially isolated survivors of abuse – feel seen and valued is at the heart of the kind of hospitality that Sukkot reminds us to embrace. This message feels more important now than ever before.

JF&CS Journey to Safety focuses our outreach and awareness-raising efforts on the Jewish and Russian-speaking communities AND welcomes survivors from all backgrounds who are seeking support and assistance. For help, please call 781-647-5327 and ask for Journey to Safety or email jts@jfcsboston.org.

Family Table Volunteers Receive Exceptional Service Award

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 16:08:12 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Each year, the Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award honors a volunteer who has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to JF&CS and those we serve. This year, the Lottor Award Committee voted to honor all of our 1,000+ Family Table volunteers!

“Since the start of the pandemic, our Family Table volunteers have gone above and beyond to ensure that our clients receive the groceries they need,” said Ava Harder, Manager of Volunteer Services at JF&CS. “The Lottor Committee wanted to recognize the incredible commitment this group of volunteers has shown, especially during the COVID-19 crisis.”

Heroism During the Pandemic

When the outbreak began in Massachusetts, our Family Table volunteers adapted quickly to new public health precautions, wearing masks and packing grocery orders outdoors. And as Family Table expanded its services with a new emergency delivery program, our volunteers stepped up again to bring food to more than 200 additional families in need from March through August.
“When the pandemic hit and Family Table sent out requests for help, I was fortunate to be in a position to respond,” said Allison Schnipper, who has volunteered with Family Table for many years. “In a time that is scary and stressful, helping to put food on the table for hundreds of people in need is a tangible way to make a difference.”

Howie Sholkin, another long-time volunteer, has helped unload food from The Greater Boston Food Bank and has been a regular driver for our emergency delivery program. “I really enjoy serving clients and getting to know volunteers and JF&CS staff,” said Howie. “It’s such an important organization.”

These seasoned volunteers have been joined by many new faces during the current crisis. “I was feeling the need to get involved in something that provided assistance during such a difficult and uncertain time,” said Marissa Zwelling, who began volunteering early on in the pandemic. While helping out at Family Table, Marissa said she would sometimes become so focused on the task at hand that she would briefly forget about COVID-19. “It’s true what the research says about those who engage in volunteerism,” said Marissa. “You feel better emotionally, physically, and psychologically.”

Finding New Ways to Make a Difference

Baila Janock has been a dedicated volunteer at our food pantry for 15 years but had to suspend her onsite work because of temporary COVID restrictions on in-person volunteering for those over the age of 70 (these restrictions were lifted on September 8). Fortunately, she has been able to support Family Table by making monthly reminder phone calls to clients. She particularly enjoys calling the clients she used to see in-person each month. “Staying connected with these amazing people has given me back more than I could possibly bring to them,” said Baila.

This year’s Simone Lottor Award honors currently active volunteers, as well as those who had to take a pause due to the pandemic. We have heard from many volunteers who told us they look forward to returning to Family Table when it is safe to do so. “Thank you for recognizing those of us who have been unable to participate recently,” said Sandy Goldsmith. “I miss everyone at JF&CS!”

We are so grateful for each and every person who has given their time, effort, and dedication to Family Table. “When times are tough, we always know that we can count on our volunteers,” said Bernice Behar, Director of Family Table. “They are the heart and soul of Family Table!”

Learn more about volunteering with Family Table.

JF&CS and Epiphany Early Learning Center Team Up to Support Boston Moms

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 10:11:47 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Our Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program has long been a lifeline for new mothers throughout Greater Boston. Once a week, an experienced volunteer mom connects with a parent of a newborn to offer adult conversation, support, and empathy. The program has a robust presence in many areas, and we recently launched an initiative to expand our services in Dorchester, Roxbury, and Mattapan.

We know that having an experienced mom visit you once a week with empathy, lack of judgment, consistency, and a curious stance can be deeply supportive. We also realize that these visits can be even more meaningful for new parents if the volunteer is a member of your local community.

In order to create a diverse team of volunteer moms who reflect the community they serve, we partnered with the Epiphany Early Learning Center in Dorchester and modified our recruitment approach to be welcoming and accessible to volunteers who live in and around the expanded service area. Some of the changes we made include:

Offering a supervision group in Dorchester to reduce travel time for potential volunteers who live in Boston.
Offering the training as well as the supervision group in the late afternoon/early evening so volunteers who work full time could participate.
Interviewing potential volunteers where they lived, worked, or studied, to increase a sense of trust, to reduce the stress of travel, and to demonstrate our desire to communicate that they belong and not that they had to fit in. For instance, we met candidates at a local library, in a café, at someone’s school, at their place of work, and in their home.

“With Epiphany’s collaboration and guidance, we launched a fantastic team of local volunteers who understand the unique challenges facing their clients,” said Tracy Rich, Supervisor of the Rubin Visiting Moms Vulnerable Families Team. “We still have a lot to learn, but we are excited about how this approach broadens our ability to support and respect our volunteers and the parents we serve.”

Learn more about the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms program.

JF&CS and Mark’s Moving Help Clients Feel at Home

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 23:28:34 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

At the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^®, we often work with parents who are in the process of moving from a homeless shelter or unsafe housing into a new apartment. These parents hope to set up a warm and comfortable home for their children, but they often lack the resources to pay for movers.

In these situations, JF&CS has been fortunate to partner with Mark’s Moving & Storage. Based in Westborough, this moving company has been offering its services free-of-charge to our high-need clients.

“We are so grateful for our relationship with Mark’s Moving,” said Ellen Jawitz, the Family Resource Coordinator at JF&CS. “Hiring movers can cost hundreds of dollars, so receiving these services for free is an enormous help to our clients — especially during the pandemic.”

From the Furniture Bank to a New Home

Earlier this year, JF&CS assisted a family with young children as they moved out of an apartment that was infested with mice. The family was able to find a new apartment, but they had to abandon all of their furniture.

“Our clients were afraid to bring any of their old furniture into the new place because they thought it could pose a health risk to their children,” explained Ellen. “We referred the family to New Life Furniture Bank so that they could outfit their new apartment, but they had no way to transport the furniture home.”

Mark’s Moving came to the rescue, meeting our clients at the furniture bank and bringing all of the items they had picked out to their apartment. Without assistance from Mark’s, they would not have been able to furnish their new home.

Going Above and Beyond

Mark’s Moving recently helped another one of our clients,*Jessica, when she had the opportunity to move to a safer apartment. A single mother of three, Jessica couldn’t afford the cost of movers and had no one to help her.

“I was feeling so overwhelmed by the move,” said Jessica. “But Mark’s staff made everything easy.” They treated her belongings with care, and they treated her with kindness and respect. “The Mark’s Moving team truly went above and beyond,” shared Jessica. “I never would have gotten the couch through the door without their help!”

Mark’s Moving started working with JF&CS in 2017, and they have since become trusted partners for our Center for Early Relationship Support. “When we ask Mark’s to help one of our families move, we know that they will provide the same friendly, professional service that they offer to their paying customers,” said Ellen. “I can rest easy knowing that our clients are in good hands.”

Visit us online to learn about all of the services offered by the Center for Early Relationship Support.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Special Education Advocates Help Parents Navigate an Uncertain School Year

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 23:23:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Many children will be remote learning this school year.

“Parents are facing a lot of uncertainly right now,” said Sara Freedman, the Director of Disability Services at JF&CS. “Everyone wants to know what school will look like this fall, but plans are constantly shifting and evolving.” As school districts weigh the benefits and risks of in-person classes and virtual learning, there are no easy answers to be found.

For children with special needs, both in-person and remote learning present unique challenges. Kids with sensory sensitivities or co-occurring medical conditions are sometimes unable to wear masks, which complicates their return to a classroom setting. On the other hand, many children with special needs have found it difficult to meaningfully engage with virtual classes. Without the predictable structure of school this spring and summer, some kids have started to plateau academically and regress in their behavior.

“We are hearing from so many parents who are afraid that their children aren’t getting the support they need,” said Sara. “In these situations, a Special Education Advocate can help assess what services a child needs and advocate for the right supports.”

Identifying Challenges and Finding Solutions

The Special Education Advocates at JF&CS follow a three-step process when working with families. First, we help parents identify the specific issues holding their child back from learning and making progress, both before and during the pandemic. As part of this step, the Advocates review previous assessments and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and make referrals for updated evaluations as needed.

Next, our Special Education Advocates work collaboratively with parents and other members of the child’s team to strengthen and clarify the child’s IEP to ensure that it addresses all of the student’s needs. During this time, we track and document progress in all areas and may connect the child with outside therapists. “Typically, Advocates observe the student in school,” said Sara. “Now, they may join a remote learning session to see first-hand how a child is faring in the virtual classroom.”

As the student’s progress is monitored, the Special Education Advocate will work with the child’s team to increase or modify supports. If the student is still not making effective progress, the Advocate will encourage the parents and school district to evaluate if the child requires an out-of-district placement at a school that offers more support in the documented areas of need. Advocates help parents identify appropriate schools and advise them as they decide which one would be the best fit for their child.

Supporting Growth

“When a child starts to receive the right services, the transformation can be remarkable,” said Sara. Last school year, JF&CS worked with *Alex, a 12-year-old boy who was struggling academically and socially. One of our Special Education Advocates reviewed Alex’s IEP, performed classroom observations, and attended several team meetings with his parents and teachers.

Ultimately, it was decided that Alex required a school with more intensive supports. Since switching schools, Alex has excelled academically and, for the first time in his life, he has friends. “It’s what we always knew he needed, but we never knew how to get it for him,” said Alex’s parents. “Thank you so much for all your time and work getting us to this point for Alex.”

Although details about the fall are still hazy, the mission of our Special Education Advocates remains the same. “Whether children are learning at home or in-person, we’ll be working closely with parents and schools,” said Sara. “Now more than ever, kids need the proper supports to stay on track as they learn and grow.”

If you’re interested in learning more about our Special Education Advocates, please contact JF&CS Disability Lifespan Solutions at 781-693-5640.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Interest-Free Loan from JF&CS Helps Local Flower Business Bloom During COVID-19

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 14:03:30 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Rebecca Remis, the owner of Birdie's Blooms.

“I didn’t expect to start a business this year,” said Rebecca Remis. “But when the pandemic happened, it was actually the right time to make one of my longer-term dreams a reality.” After the public health crisis upended her plans to work on a flower farm in Western Massachusetts, Rebecca decided to launch her own sustainable floral design company on the North Shore.

Named after Rebecca’s maternal grandmother, Birdie’s Blooms sources flowers from nearby farms to create stunning bouquets. With a background in sustainable farming and floral design, Rebecca had the knowledge and connections she needed to start her new venture. The only thing she was lacking was capital to grow her business.

“There are a lot of upfront costs when starting a company,” said Rebecca. “As they say, it takes money to make money — especially during a pandemic.”

Applying for a Loan from JF&CS

As Rebecca searched for funding sources, she remembered that her older sister had received an interest-free loan from JF&CS to help pay for graduate school in 2008. Although her situation was different, Rebecca decided to take a chance and apply for a loan from JF&CS.

Fortunately, Rebecca’s application coincided with a recent expansion of our Hebrew Free Loan program, which is funded by Combined Jewish Philanthropies. In light of the COVID-19 crisis, JF&CS has added flexibility in both the type and amount of interest-free loans available. Between April and June, we have loaned $86,000 — nearly four times the amount of money we loaned in the past three years combined. In addition to Birdie’s Blooms, several loans have been made to assist people with day-to-day expenses to weather the economic storm of COVID-19 — from making mortgage payments to replacing a broken-down car.

While applying for a loan with a bank or a large lender can be intimidating, Rebecca found working with JF&CS to be stress-free. “Marissa Zwelling, the Case Manager I worked with, was incredibly helpful,” said Rebecca. “She proactively reached out to me to see if I had any questions, and she just cared so much.”

Rebecca was ultimately approved for a loan, and she is using the money to pay for hardware and branding expenses for her business. “This money will make a huge difference for Birdie’s Blooms,” said Rebecca. “Being able to bulk order vases and pay for a professionally designed logo and other marketing materials is definitely a game-changer.”

An Investment from the Jewish Community

For Rebecca, receiving a loan from a nonprofit that is guided by Jewish values and traditions has special meaning. Growing up in Swampscott, Rebecca was immersed in the Jewish community, attending Cohen Hillel Academy and spending her summers at Camp Ramah in Palmer. As an adult, Rebecca combined her passion for agriculture and Jewish education as the Farm and Program Director of Eden Village Camp West, a farm-to-table Jewish summer camp in Northern California.

Rebecca also views Birdie’s Blooms as an expression of her Jewish values. She hopes that her flowers bring beauty and joy to Jewish lifecycle events, like weddings and b’nei mitzvah. Birdie’s commitment to sustainably grown flowers is also a reflection of Jewish teachings on communal responsibility and taking care of the Earth.

“It felt empowering to be invested in by the Jewish community,” said Rebecca. “It means a lot to know that they believe in me and in Birdie’s mission of helping to create a more sustainable and beautiful world.”

Learn more about our Hebrew Free Loans.

Over 150 People Attend JF&CS Seminar on Transracial Adoption

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 11:38:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Angela Tucker, an internationally-recognized adoption educator, led a virtual workshop hosted by JF&CS.

Since the tragic killing of George Floyd, the call for racial justice and an end to systemic racism has made U.S. headlines on a daily basis. For those who work in adoption, however, talking about racism and racial trauma has long been essential to their work.

At JF&CS Adoption Resources, many of the prospective parents we work with are open to adopting a child outside of their own race. “Transracial adoption is something we talk about during the home study process,” explained Betsy Hochberg, Director of Adoption Resources. “A social worker will explore the concept with prospective parents and discuss the unique challenges and responsibilities that transracial adoption can bring.”

As couples prepare to adopt, Adoption Resources offers educational materials and workshops that address the complex reality of transracial adoption. “We want to support parents as they learn and think deeply about these issues,” said Betsy.

Virtual Workshop with Angela Tucker

Adoption Resources recently hosted a virtual workshop titled “Can You Support or Participate in Transracial Adoption AND Fight Racial Injustice?” The workshop was led by Angela Tucker, an internationally-recognized adoption educator who is also a Black transracial adoptee. “We were so fortunate to partner with Angela for this event,” said Deb Shrier, Associate Director of Adoption Resources. “She is an expert at facilitating insightful conversations about difficult subjects.”

Angela spoke about how the voices of transracial adoptees are often overlooked in white-dominated spaces. Drawing upon her own experience and research, Angela educated attendees about common issues related to transracial adoption, shared strategies for responding to adoption-specific micro-aggressions, and led a discussion on how to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for adoptees.

Eighty-five couples participated in the Adoption Resources workshop on Zoom. Approximately half of the attendees were pre-adoptive parents, and the other half were already parenting a child of a race other than their own. All of the parents who attended shared an interest in learning how they could handle tough questions and support and advocate for their children.

“I appreciated Angela’s honesty and the way she addressed issues about racial conflict within a transracial family,” said one of the parents who attended the workshop. “Hearing it from her, although it was difficult, helped me to understand some of the challenges my child might encounter growing up as a Black son of a white mother.”

Ongoing Education

Participation in transracial adoption requires a lifetime commitment to learning, growing, and advocating for social change. The Adoption Resources team continues to consult with colleagues in the adoption community and other experts to increase their knowledge of adoption and race.

“Many of our families are looking for anti-racism resources right now,” said Deb. “We have been recommending books, articles, and videos that share the lived experiences of Black people and transracial adoptees. Centering these voices is key as we work to change society and ourselves.”

Learn more about Adoption Resources.

A Message from Our Chief Advancement Officer

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 10:35:00 GMT

Posted by Wendy Schiffman Wilsker

When we rebranded our Annual Report, Impacting Lives, last year, we imagined a report to our investors, recognizing our community of supporters, sharing our financials, and reflecting on the impact of our work in the prior year.

This year, Impacting Lives will share the story of our work on the frontlines, supporting our community during the COVID-19 crisis and in creating a more just and equal society. And while we will report on our Fiscal Year 19 (October 1, 2018 - September 30, 2019), we will also share how we are supporting our community in the moment.

In the past few months, we have been truly overwhelmed by the generosity of our donors and volunteers. Within one week of asking for help, over 60 new volunteers signed up to pack and deliver groceries for our Family Table food pantry. Since early April, we have distributed 1,300 handmade “Thinking of You” cards to our older adult clients, designed by families, school groups, and caring individuals. Additionally, we have raised more than $1 million in response to our Caring During Crisis campaign.

While many in our community turn to JF&CS for help and support, nearly 5,000 of you turn to JF&CS to give back through time, talent, and treasure. We are fortunate to live in a community where tikkun olam, or “repairing the world,” is a part of the fabric of our identity. Because of you, thousands of people have the support they need to care for themselves and their families.

We hope that you are inspired as you read the impact of your generosity. We look forward to a time in the near future when we can gather in person and share our gratitude. Until then, my personal thanks are beyond measure.

Read all of our Impacting Lives articles.

Taking Care of Our Community: Food, Shelter, and Support

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 10:37:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“So many people already live paycheck to paycheck,” said Meredith Joy, the Director of the JF&CS Center for Basic Needs Assistance. “When the public health crisis began, we saw hundreds of families go from relative stability to all-out emergency.”

JF&CS has long been a safety net for the Jewish community and people of all backgrounds facing economic insecurity. During the pandemic, however, our agency has seen unprecedented levels of need. Requests for food, emergency financial assistance, and help applying for public benefits have skyrocketed in recent months.

“Serving our clients during this crisis has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life,” said Meredith. “At the same time, it has been completely gratifying and inspiring to watch our community come together to make sure everyone is taken care of during these difficult times.”

Kosher Food for Those in Need

Before the COVID-19 outbreak, our Family Table food pantry was already providing groceries to more than 500 households each month. Since March, nearly 200 additional families have received emergency groceries as well.

“Many people have lost their jobs and suddenly have no money to feed their families,” shared Bernice Behar, the Director of Family Table. “We have also been hearing from frail older adults, many of them Holocaust survivors, who simply can’t risk going to a supermarket to purchase food.”

When the crisis began, Family Table quickly pivoted to meet the new socially distant reality. Regular monthly food deliveries have continued on schedule, with volunteers packing grocery orders outdoors. Additionally, Family Table’s weekly in-person food distributions have been converted to a contactless drive-through format. “It took a little creativity,” said Bernice. “But we’ve been able to ramp up our food distributions while keeping our staff, volunteers, and clients safe.”

JF&CS has also launched a new emergency grocery delivery program for people who need food urgently but can’t get to one of our pantry locations. Family Table has been able to draw upon its roster of more than 1,200 dedicated volunteers to make these critical deliveries.

“We have been blown away by the response of Family Table volunteers during the pandemic,” said Bernice. “In just one week after the crisis began, sixty-five new volunteers responded to our call for assistance.”

Keeping Clients in Their Homes

Since the pandemic began, JF&CS has heard from numerous clients whose finances have been completely upended. When *Lena reached out to us in early April, she knew her family wouldn’t be able to pay rent that month. Her husband,*Brad, had been laid off from his new job, and his initial application for unemployment benefits was denied. To make matters worse, the youngest of Lena and Brad’s three children, a 9-month-old baby, was still suffering from significant medical complications due to being born prematurely.

JF&CS was able to ease the worry and anxiety that Lena and Brad had about keeping their family afloat. The first step was to address their immediate food needs by providing groceries from Family Table. The next step was to pay for one month of rent to keep the family current while Brad’s unemployment appeal took place.

“Lena and Brad’s situation is all too common right now,” said Meredith. “The need for emergency financial assistance for essentials like rent and utilities has never been higher.” While there is a short-term moratorium on evictions and terminations for fuel and utilities, these measures are temporary, and when the moratoriums are lifted, people will be responsible for paying the amount they owe.

“We encourage people to reach out to JF&CS as soon as possible,” added Meredith. “Whether it is emergency financial assistance or an interest-free loan, there are a variety of ways we can help.”

Navigating the Complex World of Benefits

The economic crisis has prompted thousands of people in Massachusetts to apply for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as food stamps), but the application process can be complicated and overwhelming. During the COVID-19 outbreak, the SNAP Advocates at JF&CS Bet Tzedek Legal Services have been working tirelessly to help clients obtain the benefits they are entitled to.

“The public benefits landscape has shifted dramatically since the pandemic began,” said Meredith. “Our Bet Tzedek team has been an invaluable resource when it comes to benefit matters, both for our clients and for our colleagues at other Jewish communal partner agencies.”

*Noah and *Sandy were referred to JF&CS by their rabbi after their application for SNAP benefits was denied. Lindsey Daley, our Senior SNAP Advocate, worked with the Department of Transitional Assistance to resolve the issue with the family’s application and identified two areas where Noah and Sandy were eligible for additional benefits. The family now receives $768 per month in regular SNAP and an additional pandemic-related SNAP benefit of $1,197 to provide food for their children while they are home from school.

Receiving benefits and financial assistance makes a world of difference for our clients. In a thank you message, one of our clients wrote, “You have helped me experience the goodness in this world…You are really doing God’s work here on Earth.”

*Names changed to protect privacy.

JF&CS Staff Recognized for Leadership and Expertise

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 10:38:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

As JF&CS confronts the public health crisis, our staff continues to adapt, lead, and share their expertise both locally and nationally. Congratulations to the staff recognized below, and thank you to all of our staff for their tireless efforts to make an impact in our community and beyond.

JF&CS Receives Pillars of Excellence Award for Advocacy

The Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies (NJHSA) recognized JF&CS with their Pillars of Excellence Award for Advocacy at their virtual conference in May. Lindsey Daley, the Senior Benefits Advocate at JF&CS, accepted the award on behalf of the agency. “Advocating to improve the lives of vulnerable people and those without power is central to our work,” said Lindsey. “We believe it is crucial to be actively involved in taking a stand on policies and laws that impact the lives of our clients.” In June, as a follow-up to this award, Lindsey co-led a national webinar for NJHSA member organizations on how to better engage in advocacy efforts to expand the impact of their work.

Karen Wasserman Gives Expert Elder Care Advice on WBUR and Jewish Boston

Karen Wasserman, Director of Your Elder Experts at JF&CS, recently took to the airwaves, sharing resources and advice on caring for older adults during the pandemic. For many, managing the care of an older adult is presenting increased challenges. You can listen to Karen’s interviews on Radio Boston and The Vibe of the Tribe. “Everyone’s anxiety is heightened now, and often times the decisions around elder care are done in a crisis,” said Karen. “People need us now more than ever.”

Tiffany Clark and Lucy Fisher to Present at Infant Mental Health Conference in Australia

Tiffany Clark and Lucy Fisher, clinicians in our Project NESST^® program for substance-exposed newborns and their families, were accepted as presenters at the 17th annual conference of the World Association for Infant Mental Health in Brisbane, Australia. Originally slated for this summer, the conference has been postponed to June 2021. Tiffany and Lucy will deliver a presentation about the challenges of working with vulnerable families impacted by trauma and substance use disorder. “We are looking forward to attending and presenting our work with ongoing support and advocacy from our colleagues in Project NESST^® and the Center for Early Relationship Support^®,” said Lucy.

Beth Soltzberg Helps Memory Cafés Around the World Go Virtual

Beth Soltzberg, Director of the Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program at JF&CS, has played a pivotal role in guiding memory cafés as they transition to virtual programming. Beth is the founder and director of the JF&CS Percolator Memory Café Network, which fosters the spread of these social and creative engagement programs for people living with dementia, along with their family members, friends, and care providers. Since the pandemic began, the Percolator has held several online meetings attended by hundreds of café providers and teaching artists around the U.S. and internationally to share encouragement, practical tips, and best practices. “The main goal of memory cafés is to reduce the social isolation that often comes with dementia,” said Beth. “In this time of physical distancing, this need has become acute. Cafés are capable of evolving to meet it – as long as we work together and share what we are learning.”

Mary Curlew Leads Workshop for Elder Mental Health Coalition

Mary Curlew, the Community Education and Training Specialist at JF&CS, was recently invited to lead a workshop hosted by the Elder Mental Health Coalition, Massachusetts Association for Mental Health, and the Department of Mental Health. Mary’s expertise in responding to and recovering from trauma was the focus of this workshop. “We’re helping direct service providers respond to the needs in our community, as well as helping them deal with their own grief and loss due to COVID-19,” shared Mary. “People are experiencing so much distress in housing and older adult communities. It made sense for us to equip direct service providers with the tools they need to respond both to the mental health needs of older adults as well as their own self-care.” Throughout the public health crisis, Mary has been leading online trainings on Social Isolation, Coping with Loss, and Social Aggression for a variety of local organizations, including MassHousing and the National Association of Social Workers MA.

Laura Beals Wins Heller Award for Teaching

Laura Beals, the Director of the Department of Evaluation and Learning at JF&CS, was recently honored by The Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University, where she teaches a course entitled “Evaluation for Managers.” Laura, who received the annual Heller Award for teaching, was the first adjunct faculty member to win this honor. Nominators called her “an exceptionally engaging lecturer and creative leader in the classroom” who “regularly drew on her own experience in the field, drawing a vivid picture for students about what it is like to be an M&E [monitoring and evaluation] professional.” She challenges and inspires students to always do their best work.

JF&CS is Fostering Resilience During the Toughest Times

Sun, 21 Jun 2020 10:39:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Life during a pandemic is truly uncharted territory. This period of upheaval and uncertainly has taken a tremendous toll on mental health — causing widespread feelings of isolation, anxiety, and despair. At JF&CS, our programs have adapted to meet the current social-emotional needs of our clients while helping them build skills of resilience and strategies for persevering during these difficult days.

Creating a Community for New Mothers

While being a new mother is never easy, parenting in the era of social distancing can feel incredibly lonely. The JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS) is helping to mitigate these feelings through Zoom support groups and free consultations for parents. “JF&CS is a supportive presence,” said Peggy Kaufman, the Director of CERS. “We let new moms know that they’re not alone, we listen to their concerns, and we’re providing a connection that’s difficult for them to have while social distancing.”

Our free weekly support groups for new parents have seen record attendance, with participants Zooming in from around the Greater Boston area and, in some cases, from around the country. The Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Support Group has tripled in size since mid-March. CERS has also introduced new support groups for single parents and parents of toddlers and is developing a group for pregnant women. “Whatever challenges new parents are facing, we are here for them,” said Peggy.

Providing Direction and Purpose for People with Disabilities

For individuals with disabilities, the pandemic has brought stress of the unknown. Many of our clients thrive in highly structured environments, and their mental health has been affected by the disruption of their daily routine.

When the outbreak began, our CHAI Services programs for people with disabilities pivoted to provide engaging online activities, support, and structure to our clients. “We have moved many of our programs over to Zoom and YouTube to create a sense of normalcy for our clients,” said Sara Freedman, the Director of CHAI Services. “Even though they can’t participate in their usual routine, we’re giving them resources to help create a new routine from their homes with some familiar faces and activities.”

Our CHAI Works day program for adults with disabilities has been offering 5 hours of virtual programming a day for over 90 participants. The Department of Developmental Services, the state agency that funds CHAI Works, praised our virtual programming as some of the best and most comprehensive they have seen. Incorporating educational classes and fun activities like martial arts and art projects, our programming is designed to keep our participants intellectually stimulated and connected with their friends.

In addition to group programming, CHAI Works is also providing weekly 1:1 sessions for participants and their families to check in with our staff. The mother of one of our participants told us that the online programming and weekly check-ins have helped her daughter remain in good spirits while at home: “She has purpose, she has direction, and she is getting exercise. She is painting up a storm and is happy most of the time.”

Keeping Older Adults Connected

Older people, particularly those with compromised health, are at the highest risk for COVID-19. Due to concerns about the spread of the virus, many older adults can’t leave their homes, can’t have visitors, and are feeling extremely isolated. “The crisis has created a heightened sense of fear and anxiety for older adults, and this is intensified by being cut off from family and friends,” said Kathy Burnes, the Director of Services for Older Adults at JF&CS.

To combat isolation and ensure that we are identifying needs as they arise, JF&CS is doubling up on reaching out to our older clients by phone, mail, and video platforms. Not only are case managers making sure that clients have essentials like food, medicine, housing, and home care, but they are also offering reassurance and links to online and telephone engagement activities. Our case managers are helping people connect to needed telehealth services, supporting adult children and their parents around end-of-life planning, and serving as guardians for people in nursing homes. As people confront all kinds of changes and transitions, JF&CS is responding with assistance around coping with loss. We have also expanded our caregiver and bereavement support groups, which are being held on Zoom.

“These changing and difficult times have cast a spotlight on older adults in ways that have made the risks they face painfully clear,” said Kathy. “Our commitment is to do all we can to help foster resilience and interdependence.”

Learn more about the Mental Health Support available through JF&CS.

Free Parent Coaching: A Resource for Families

Sat, 20 Jun 2020 10:39:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

When schools closed due to the public health crisis this spring, many parents were left feeling stressed and overwhelmed. For parents of children with disabilities, however, the closure of schools was especially devastating. “Predictable structure is vitally important for children with disabilities,” explained Sara Freedman, the Director of JF&CS CHAI Services. “Without their daily routines, children with disabilities are feeling bored, they are feeling isolated, and they may start acting out.”

Many parents of adult children with disabilities have also found themselves in a challenging situation. With day programs and places of employment temporarily shuttered, adults with disabilities are stuck at home, missing their friends or co-workers and grappling with hours of unstructured time.

A Resource for Parents

To help parents during this period of uncertainty, JF&CS CHAI Services is offering Free Parent Coaching. “We knew we couldn’t replace the structure or respite that individuals and their families were missing without school, day programs, and extracurricular activities,” said Sara. “But we wanted parents to know that they weren’t alone during this time and that JF&CS is here to support them.”

Available to anyone who has a child with a disability, our Free Parent Coaching sessions are tailored to the specific needs of each family who reaches out to us. JF&CS CHAI Services is staffed by experts in clinical, educational, and behavioral management who have both professional and personal experience working and living with people with disabilities. Whether it is helping parents create a daily schedule for their child, putting emergency plans in place, or recommending additional resources, our knowledgeable staff members are a lifeline for parents and guardians.

Helping Families Chart a Course

Since our Free Parent Coaching service was launched in March, JF&CS has been able to help clients with a wide range of issues. “We have gotten a lot of great feedback from communities and parents,” said Sara. “People are thankful to have a number to call where they can ask for help.”

For *Miriam and *Aaron, a couple we recently started working with, the pandemic exacerbated issues their 19-year-old son *David was already facing. David, who was diagnosed with autism, left high school in June of 2019 with no supports in place and no daily structure. With the current COVID-19 situation, David was feeling extremely isolated and depressed.

Our Free Parent Coaching team was able to offer David’s parents several resources, including a review of his 504 Accommodation Plan from high school, a walk-through on filing for Supplemental Security Income, help with reaching out to Jewish Vocational Services, referrals for therapists who specialize in working with young adults with high-functioning autism, and options for neurological testing through MassHealth and the Brookline Center for Mental Health. We also discussed the best way for Aaron and Miriam to counsel David about his support options while being sensitive to his aversion to being labeled as “disabled” or “special needs.”

“Miriam and Aaron have been enthusiastic about working with us,” said Sara. “They have been great partners as we explore all the resources available to them and put together a daily structure for David.”

Get in Touch

If you are a parent in need of support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to JF&CS CHAI Services. From a Free Parent Coaching consultation to more hands-on assistance, guidance, and advocacy from our Disability Lifespan Solutions program, JF&CS has the expertise to meet the challenges families are facing.

To set up a phone call or video meeting, please email us at drn@jfcsboston.org or call 781-693-5640.

*Names changed to protect privacy.

Inspiring Philanthropy as a Family

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 10:35:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Eight years ago, Lori and Jon Shaer were looking for an opportunity that would enable them and their young children to engage in hands-on philanthropy. When they learned about the JF&CS Family Table food pantry, they found the perfect outlet for volunteering. “We wanted to directly impact people with our children and show them how important it is to give back,” said Lori.

Today, Lori and Jon, along with their now-teenage children, Madi and Ben, are active volunteers and supporters of JF&CS. The Shaers regularly participate in Family Table Sunday distributions. “Our kids get to see the smiles on the faces of those they are helping and delivering groceries to,” said Jon. In addition to volunteering as a family, Lori and Jon have found ways to express their individual interests through JF&CS.

Each week, Jon visits a Holocaust survivor as a Friendly Visitor volunteer. “My father was wonderful about visiting my grandmother as she got older. After she passed, I learned how many older adults do not have that support, so it stuck with me,” said Jon. When Jon visits with his older adult friend, they discuss politics, current events, Israel, and what it means to be Jewish. “It’s been very fulfilling to be able to share my time, and I like to think it’s been fulfilling for him as well,” said Jon.

Lori initially found her interest in JF&CS through Family Table and then extended her leadership to the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS). She served on the Women’s Breakfast committee for many years, and in 2019, Lori co-chaired the annual Women’s Breakfast to help raise vital funds for CERS. “When I became a new mom, I felt very fortunate to have support from family and friends,” said Lori. “I appreciate and admire all of the support CERS provides to their clients during challenging times. It felt important for me to find a way to help.”

Lori is also the Family Table Site Coordinator for Temple Beth Shalom in Needham, acting as a liaison for the program in her temple community. During the COVID-19 crisis, Lori has been collecting donations from members of the congregation to purchase canned tuna and salmon for Family Table. Each month, more than 100 canned goods arrive at the Shaer household, which Lori’s son Ben delivers to JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham. “Lori’s role as the Family Temple Site Coordinator speaks to her dedication and thoughtfulness during this time of crisis,” said Family Table Director Bernice Behar. “She is keeping her temple community involved to help those in need.”

Lori and Jon also believe in the power of collective philanthropy. Earlier this year, they made a challenge gift for the Passover appeal which attracted more donors and raised more money than in previous years.

“There is no shortage of worthwhile organizations to support in the Greater Boston area, but JF&CS has something for everyone, whether you are a volunteer or a client,” said Jon. Lori added, “We feel blessed to be a part of the JF&CS family.”

JF&CS TeenSafe Holds Virtual Workshops and Recruits Peer Leaders for Fall

Thu, 21 May 2020 12:51:14 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer, Director of JF&CS Journey to Safety

Spring is always a busy and exciting time for JF&CS TeenSafe, our group dedicated to preventing teen dating abuse in the Jewish community. Like many other youth programs, we were moving at full speed when so many things began to shut down quickly and completely in the middle of March.

Fortunately, participants in TeenSafe were able to pivot and start meeting on Zoom to continue their activities. Together with the TeenSafe Fellow, our teenage peer leaders are offering virtual workshops on healthy and unhealthy dating relationships, working on a year-end impact project, and creatively getting the word out that Love Should Be Safe.

At a time that has been marked by isolation, disappointment, disruption, and loss for many teenagers, TeenSafe is connecting and engaging them ⁠— continuing “business as usual”, knowing that nothing is “as usual.”

Help Us Find Our New Peer Leaders

Now, many weeks into this new normal, we are planning for the fall, with the hope that we will meet in person (but ready to continue via Zoom if necessary). Raising awareness among teens and adults about dating abuse and how to prevent it remains a crucial issue. Research tells us that one in three adolescents in the U.S. is a victim of physical, sexual, emotional, or verbal abuse from a dating partner.

TeenSafe works to change that statistic by helping teens and adults recognize controlling or abusive behavior and know what to do when they experience, witness, or hear about it. Workshops are planned and conducted by the TeenSafe Fellow and trained peer leaders. TeenSafe peer leaders earn community service hours for their participation.

There are a few ways you can help TeenSafe find our next group of peer leaders:

1. Please share this flyer to spread the word that we are looking for rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors to join the TeenSafe 2020-2021 peer leader cohort.

2. Please encourage educators and youth advisors to forward our flyer AND to reach out to us to schedule a program for their students.

3. Follow TeenSafe on Instagram and please spread the word about TeenSafe on your own social media channels.

4. Invite your friends to join TeenSafe for a Zoom Open House on June 3 where teens and parents can learn more about our program.

Thank you so much for your help! If someone you know is interested in TeenSafe, please have them email our TeenSafe Fellow at teensafe@jfcsboston.org. We wish you all a happy and HEALTHY spring!

If you or someone you know would like to speak with someone about a potentially controlling or abusive dating relationship, the National Dating Abuse Helpline, Loveisrespect, is continuing to respond to calls, texts, and online chat requests (866-331-8453 or text "loveis" to 22522). This service is available 24/7.

JF&CS Client Writes “Seinfeld” Script to Process Feelings About COVID-19

Fri, 15 May 2020 10:37:33 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“The greatest Jewish tradition is to laugh. The cornerstone of Jewish survival has always been to find humor in life and in ourselves.” - Jerry Seinfeld

At times like these, a little laughter goes a long way. For one JF&CS client, the classic sitcom Seinfeld provided the perfect outlet for his anxiety and creativity.

A few weeks ago, our client was working through a lot of difficult emotions surrounding the pandemic, but he wasn’t comfortable sharing these feelings with others. The client receives services from our Clinical Case Management program, which provides coaching and support for adults with disabilities. Since the client is very creative, his case managers, Hanna Homan and Tedra Halzel, suggested that he try expressing himself through role-playing and writing.

The client loved the idea and decided to draft a quarantine-themed conversation between Jerry Seinfeld and George Costanza, two characters on his favorite show, Seinfeld. While writing the scene, the client was able to open up to his case managers about his concerns related to COVID-19 and discuss strategies for coping with them.

“Working with the client on identifying his feelings through the script was amazing to watch,” said Hanna. “I look forward to continuing to encourage him to use scriptwriting to express his emotions. He is a very talented person, and I am so happy we can highlight his story!”

And now, without further ado, we present the client’s original Seinfeld script!

“The Quarantine”: A Seinfeld Story

Jerry: Hello! (Jerry notices that George hasn’t said a word.) Is something bothering you?

George: Take a wild guess!

Jerry: Did you have another argument with Elaine again?

George: Yes, I had another argument with Elaine. OF COURSE I DIDN’T!!!

Jerry: Then what’s really bothering you?

George: The truth is — I’m nervous.

Jerry: Nervous about what?

George: I’ll tell you…as long as you don’t mention this to anyone we know.

Jerry: I’m all ears.

George: I’m nervous about the coronavirus. There, I said it!

Jerry: Yeah… you know what? I am too.

George: If this virus keeps up, I might as well quit my job and start turkey farming!

Jerry: I know you have a reason to be worried about the coronavirus, but you can’t let that ruin your life!

George: Then how do you deal with nervousness?

Jerry: Since you asked, I’m going to let you in on a little secret. The trick is to take your mind off of the coronavirus by thinking of something completely different. That way, you won’t stay nervous as long.

George: So, you think of something completely different.

Jerry: Yep.

George: Like what?

Jerry: Well, I dunno. If a book about failure doesn't sell...is it a success?

End.

The Clinical Case Managers at JF&CS are experienced clinicians who work with adults with autism spectrum disorder, mental illness, and other disabilities to overcome challenges and pursue their personal goals. Find out more, here.

How You Can Help

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 11:45:11 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

***For the most up-to-date information on how you can help JF&CS and our clients, please visit our Volunteering page.

Looking for a way to help at this critical time? JF&CS has a variety of meaningful volunteer opportunities to support our clients and their increased needs. Your caring can make a difference in our community.

JF&CS Family Table – Marblehead and Waltham

Deliver food to clients in need

Volunteers pack and deliver groceries to clients. Strict social distancing guidelines are in place.

If interested, please fill out a brief Family Table application by April 17 for Marblehead or April 27 for Waltham if you have not completed a volunteer application or CORI form previously. The Marblehead distribution will take place on April 26 and Waltham will take place on May 10. Lisa Katz, Family Table Volunteer Coordinator, will be in touch; you can also reach out to Lisa directly at lkatz@jfcsboston.org if you would like to volunteer.

Please note: Based on guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, we have determined that individuals may not attend next month’s distribution if any of the following apply:

You are 70 years of age or older.
You have an underlying health condition, such as moderate to severe asthma or serious heart conditions, or if you are immunocompromised.
You are feeling unwell.
You have recently come in contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or if you have been in close contact with someone who is ill and whose COVID-19 status is in question.

Card Making Project

Reach out to isolated older adults

Write personalized “Thinking of You” cards that we can send to our isolated older adult clients. In the past, this generation primarily communicated through handwritten notes and letters, so your personally written note will be particularly meaningful. If you are interested, contact Sue Spielman at sspielman@jfcsboston.org.

Social Media Engagement

Help individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

We are creating a library of activities for our clients who are at home, without structured daytime activities. Volunteers can record themselves on their phone doing an adaptive art project, dance, workout, yoga, song session, relaxation, or meditation. Clients will be able to access the videos on the JF&CS Youtube channel! To get involved, please contact Angie Waring at awaring@jfcsboston.org

Amazon Wish List

Provide basic needs for families with young children

Our Amazon Wish List highlights our greatest needs around providing diapers, wipes, and other essentials to our clients. You can purchase items directly from our Wish List or send us a gift card to help support our clients and their families.

We cannot care for all of our vulnerable clients with the support of our volunteers. Thank you!

Please contact Ava Harder, Volunteer Services Manager, at aharder@jfcsboston.org if you have any questions about the above opportunities.

Free Parent Coaching Available

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 09:20:22 GMT

Posted by Sara Freedman, Director of JF&CS CHAI Services

While everyone in our community has been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, the situation has been especially hard for parents of children with disabilities. Some of the common concerns we have heard from parents include:

My child is missing the structure of school and their normal routines.
Virtual learning has been difficult for my child, and I’m not sure how to talk to the school about accommodating my child’s needs.
My adult child usually goes to work or attends a day program, and now they are feeling bored and isolated.
My child is acting out, and I’m having a hard time managing these behaviors.

JF&CS CHAI Services is Here to Help

If any of the concerns listed above resonate with you, please get in touch with Jewish Family & Children’s Service! Our CHAI Services division has been supporting individuals of all abilities for over thirty years. With expertise in clinical, educational, and behavioral management, our staff supports people with disabilities through all of life’s transitions.

Please contact us to set up a FREE phone call or video meeting so we can help you put together a schedule for your loved one and troubleshoot any challenging behaviors they are exhibiting.

Contact us at drn@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5640, and we will connect you with a staff member who can provide coaching and support during this crisis.

At-Home Activities for Children

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 10:53:23 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

With children home from school and our participants home from their day programs, it can be hard to find meaningful activities to keep them engaged. Here are some suggestions from our Director of Social and Behavioral Supports, Angela Waring.

Social Story – Coronavirus

Keshet Chicago has a social story explaining the virus in an easy to understand way.

Creative/Art

Jarrett Lerner, a local artist and author, has lots of fun activities on his web page like “finish this comic” and drawing prompts suitable for all ages.
Google has lots of fun coloring pages to print or complete on an iPad.

Active/Movement

GoNoodle has a wide range of interactive videos from burning energy, practicing mindfulness, stretching, dancing, etc. Tip: click on “Indoor Recess Mega Mixes for mashups of their most popular videos and select one with the length of time you want.
YouTube is an excellent resource as well. You can search for things like beginner yoga, zumba, dance videos for kids, or workout videos for kids and find a ton of great options. You can also find our own dance and movement videos on our YouTube channel.
Mini at-home workouts can use basic visuals to plan a workout at any level to burn some energy, such as ten jumping jacks, one minute of jump rope, ten lunges, bicep curls using household items, etc.

History/Geography

Here is a list of virtual tours of several famous museums.
National Geographic Kids is full of activities on geography and animals.
History for Kids has a wide variety of topics including videos, worksheets, and quizzes.

Stories/Reading/Writing

Storyline Online has some of your favorite stories read to you by movie stars.
Into the Book lets you go “into the book” to play games that practice reading strategies.
Fun Brain has activities to practice math and reading skills while playing games.
Squiggle Park provides reading and comprehension activities for all grade levels.
Typing Club has free beginner typing lessons to learn how to touch type.
Our Youtube channel has a variety of read aloud videos from our staff and volunteers.

General Web-based Academics:

Scholastic Learn-at-Home is well done and very comprehensive. There are a variety of lessons in all subjects, such as virtual field trips, games, videos, activities, work sheets, etc.
Brain Pop is similar to the Scholastic Learn-at-home with fun options on a wide-range of topics.

Science/Math

Switcheroo Zoo lets you watch, listen, and play games to learn all about animals.
Highlights Kids has activities to read, play games, and conduct cool science experiments.
ABC YA lets you practice math and reading skills all while playing fun games.

COVID-19 Update: We’re Here for You

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 14:58:40 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

***For the most up-to-date information on how you can get help from JF&CS, please visit our COVID-19 Resources page.

Since March 1, the public health crisis has changed dramatically, upending our community emotionally, medically, logistically, and financially. We know that this is a challenging time for many of the people we serve as well as many others who have recently lost wages or been fired or laid off. In addition, social distancing has left many people feeling lonely and isolated.

Whether you are already a client of JF&CS or you find yourself in need of help due to the current situation, please let us know.

Helping aging individuals and their families

CJP SeniorDirect is the only call you need to make – we will direct you to services and resources to help you or your family member. Call us today at 800-980-1982.

Promoting community, housing, access, and independence for people of all abilities

If you are looking for support or services for a family member with a disability, call our Disability Resource Network today at 781-693-5640.

Serving individuals and families struggling with low income

We can help you get the assistance you need. Call the CJP Warmline at 800-CJP-9500.
Our current food pantry clients, over 500 households, will all receive their food on schedule, with some adaptations to ensure health and social distancing protocols.
Emergency groceries or grocery store gift cards are also available for individuals and families that qualify.
If you need emergency financial assistance, please call our intake line at 781-693-1388. You may qualify for a grant or interest-free loan.

Serving domestic abuse survivors and those who care about them

During the COVID19 crisis, being at home with a controlling or abusive partner can be especially unsafe and challenging. Journey to Safety, the JF&CS response to domestic abuse, is here to help.
Direct Services are available for survivors of domestic abuse by phone or video chat. We can provide support, safety planning, domestic abuse counseling, legal referrals and protective order assistance, emergency financial assistance, and access to resources.
Consultation Services are available for family members/friends or professionals.
Call 781-647-JFCS (5327) during business hours and ask for the Journey to Safety Intake Line or email jts@jfcsboston.org.
All services are available in English and Russian.
For after-hours support, call, text, or chat online 24/7 with the National Domestic Violence Hotline or call Massachusetts SafeLink at (877) 785-2020.

Supporting parents with young children

New parents can join support groups via Zoom to stay connected and address concerns associated with postpartum anxiety or depression.
If you are taking care of children of different ages, we can offer ideas to keep children busy as well as information on how to talk to children about COVID-19.
For new parents who receive home visits, many of our wonderful volunteers are connecting with our clients by phone or video chat.

Call us to learn more: 781-647-JFCS (5327)

Cyntia Barzelatto is Shining a Spotlight on Reproductive Justice at JF&CS

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 14:14:57 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“People’s reproductive health is directly linked to the conditions in their community,” shared Cyntia Barzelatto. As a Parent-Child Clinician for the Early Connections/Conexiones Tempranas program at JF&CS, Cyntia has seen the struggle for reproductive health access firsthand.

“Many of our clients, particularly women of color and other marginalized groups, experience systematic barriers to accessing contraception, comprehensive sex education around family planning, alternative birth options, and culturally sensitive healthcare and mental health services,” said Cyntia.

To help shine a spotlight on these pressing issues, Cyntia is educating herself and her colleagues at JF&CS about reproductive justice. Through Cyntia’s presentations and multimedia displays, our staff members are learning more about how reproductive oppression impacts our clients and how we can better support the families we serve.

Looking Through the Lens of Reproductive Justice

Through the Early Connections/Conexiones Tempranas program, Cyntia provides Child-Parent Psychotherapy to Spanish-speaking families with young children. Many EC/CT clients have experienced sexual trauma, rape, and community and intimate partner violence. “These experiences negatively affect their reproductive and emotional health and may become the prism through which they make decisions regarding their bodies and family planning,” explained Cyntia. “Additionally, these experiences often impact the quality of their relationship with their children.”

For Cyntia, the best way to understand the reproductive health issues and sexual trauma facing EC/CT clients is through the lens of reproductive justice. The term “reproductive justice” integrates the concepts of reproductive rights, social justice, and human rights. At the heart of the reproductive justice framework is the idea that reproductive injustices are the result of intersecting systems of oppression based on race, gender, immigration status, national origin, ability, sexuality, class, and other identities. “Reproductive justice centers the discussion around reproductive health and rights on the most marginalized populations and works towards the dismantling of structural injustices,” said Cyntia.

In addition to her work with EC/CT clients, Cyntia also delved into the concept of reproductive justice as part of the Infant Mental Health Fellowship she is working on through the Infant-Parent Training Institute at JF&CS. “After studying this topic and becoming increasingly aware of its relevance for the women we serve, I considered it important and timely to share with my colleagues what I had learned,” said Cyntia.

Sharing Knowledge with JF&CS Staff

In the past few months, Cyntia has organized two presentations about reproductive justice for her colleagues in the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^®. During the first session, Cyntia talked about the history and origins of reproductive justice, the core principles of reproductive justice, and how different communities experience different reproductive injustices. The presentation was followed by an insightful group discussion about the challenges women face in achieving autonomy over their reproductive health and how this affects maternal mental health and caregiver-child well-being.

For her second presentation, Cyntia curated a multimedia exhibition about reproductive justice and facilitated a group discussion with her CERS colleagues. The exhibition combined work created by artists, activists, advocates, international movements, and NGOs, among others. After the group discussion, JF&CS staff members from around the agency were invited to visit the exhibition. Cyntia also hung up a number of reproductive-justice related posters in the office, so staff and clients can educate themselves on the topic.

“I think having visual materials help us better register and remember the concepts,” said Cyntia. “In fact, I think part of the positive reception to the exhibition was due in great part to its graphic nature. People not only appreciated having graphic materials but having different types — graphic art, video, photographs — as everyone experiences learning differently.”

Cyntia has found that her colleagues were very receptive to learning more about reproductive justice. She believes a reproductive justice lens may help her and her colleagues think about the struggles their clients face in new ways. “Adopting a reproductive justice lens requires a holistic understanding of the daily lives of our clients,” said Cyntia. “This includes considering the broader socio-cultural-historical context and becoming aware of the multiple systems of oppression that affect them every day.”

Cyntia’s presentations have kickstarted a conversation on these issues, and she looks forward to future discussions and collaborating with her colleagues to create and put into practice more actionable knowledge.

Learn more about our Early Connections/Conexiones Tempranas program.

“They Made Us Feel Special”: Marilyn’s Family Table Story

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 14:16:53 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

When Marilyn Piket and her family moved from New Jersey to Massachusetts, they did so with a strong sense of optimism. In the aftermath of the Great Recession, the Pikets had struggled financially. Marilyn and her husband were underemployed and on the verge of losing their home. However, things started to look up when the Pikets were presented with an exciting opportunity from the market research firm they both worked for. The company offered them the chance to transfer to their branch in Massachusetts, complete with relocation expenses, promotions, and higher salaries.

“It sounded great,” said Marilyn. “Our son was in his 20s, and our daughter was in her third year of college. It was really the ideal time to move.” Unfortunately, relocating to Massachusetts did not pan out as expected. After moving, Marilyn and her husband lost their new jobs at the market research firm. “I was very depressed,” shared Marilyn. “I felt like we had hit rock bottom. We were rootless. We didn’t know anyone out here.”

Without the jobs they had been counting on, the Pikets couldn’t afford groceries. A friend from New Jersey suggested that Marilyn reach out to Jewish human services agencies in Massachusetts to see if any of them provide food assistance. “That’s how we discovered the Family Table food pantry at JF&CS,” said Marilyn. “It was such a blessing.”

Feeling Welcome at Family Table

Marilyn and her husband started going to the Family Table North Shore Marketplace at Temple Sinai in Marblehead. At Marketplace, those experiencing food insecurity can come and “shop” for groceries as if they were visiting a supermarket where all the food was free. Although Family Table is a food pantry, Marilyn was never made to feel like she was down on her luck. “The atmosphere at Marketplace was upbeat,” said Marilyn. “Everyone was so jovial and welcoming. They made us feel special.”

Marilyn recalls that the Family Table staff and volunteers went out of their way to please clients and make sure that they had what they needed. “They would hand out great recipes, and we would chat about which ones we had tried,” said Marilyn. The Pikets were also impressed with the high-quality, nutritious food they found at Marketplace. Marilyn’s husband was a fan of the frozen fruit, which he would use to make smoothies.

While Family Table provides groceries to people regardless of religious affiliation, the program serves the Jewish community by offering kosher food and Jewish ritual and holiday items. Marilyn identifies as a secular Jew, but she said that seeing Family Table in action made her proud to be Jewish. “I may not be observant, but I have a strong ethnic Jewish identity,” said Marilyn. “At Family Table, we never felt judged for not being religious. If we didn’t take the Shabbat candles, that was totally fine.” Although she isn’t observant, Marilyn did enjoy cooking some of her favorite Jewish meals with ingredients from Family Table, including matzah brei and her mother’s kosher chicken recipe.

Paying it Forward

After receiving help from Family Table for around two years, the Pikets found themselves in a financial position where they could afford their own groceries. Marilyn recalls that even when her husband found a new job, a staff member at Family Table suggested that they receive groceries for one more month, as a precaution. “It just showed how much they care,” said Marilyn. “They have such concern for their clients.”

Now, Marilyn works as a Program Manager at Operation ABLE, Inc., a nonprofit that provides job seekers with training programs and employment services. In this role, Marilyn works with clients who may be homeless or experiencing financial hardship. “When I’m with my clients, I try to foster the same welcoming atmosphere that I experienced at Family Table Marketplace,” said Marilyn.

Marilyn is proud that she is able to help people who are struggling with unemployment, and she plans on donating to Family Table when she is able. “It meant so much knowing that Family Table was there for us,” said Marilyn. “We look forward to paying it forward and helping others.”

Are you interested in supporting our food pantry? Learn how you can fundraise for Family Table!

Q&A with Meryl Rich, a Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms Volunteer

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 09:04:27 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We sat down with Meryl Rich to hear about her experience as a volunteer with our Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program.

*Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms is currently looking for new volunteers! If you're interested, please fill out our registration form to begin the process. Please note that all visits are being conducted by phone or video chat during the COVID-19 crisis.

How did you first get involved with the Rubin Visiting Moms program?

For several years, I had been hearing about the Rubin Visiting Moms program from a close friend who was a volunteer. Though intrigued, my responsibilities as a mother and as a classroom teacher at Epstein Hillel School (then Cohen Hillel Academy) took precedent over most other activities. Upon retiring four years ago, I knew that this was one of a few avenues of volunteerism that I wanted to pursue. Having been a new mom once upon a time, I clearly remember the plethora of feelings that I experienced — fears, frustrations, fatigue, loneliness, and inadequacies, to name a few. I wish that I could have had someone to lend support.

Why do you enjoy being a volunteer?

The universal sisterhood of motherhood can be intoxicating. Supporting a new mom who may be insecure and doubtful of her abilities, or even doubtful of the love for her infant, is challenging and so rewarding. Guiding her toward small successes and watching her develop into a woman with a one-year-old who has bonded and nurtured her child leaves me, most often, feeling that there is good in the world.

What is your favorite memory during your time as a volunteer?

There have been a few. One involves a new mom who was so unsure of her ability to parent that she felt as though she was merely a babysitter for her infant. I like to think that with our conversations and our brainstorming to problem-solve, along with support from those who love her, she came to realize that she has all that it takes to be a wonderful mother. She and her child became inseparable during that first year.

How do you feel your experience as a teacher has helped you in being a volunteer for the Rubin Visiting Moms program?

Without a doubt, my over forty years in the classroom has had a profound effect on all that I do. In particular, it is crystal clear to me that no two people are exactly alike, that almost all individuals deserve to be respected on her/his/their own merits, whether it be a child or an adult. Everyone has a story that has led them to the time and place in which we meet. For new mothers, each will have to find her own path, certainly with some commonalities. This holds true for children as well. It is so gratifying to watch a child or a mom navigate their way toward a direction that is comfortable for them.

What is your favorite children's book?

I have three. For babies and toddlers: Runaway Bunny. For older children: The Giving Tree and Wonder.

If you're interested in volunteering with Rubin Visiting Moms, please fill out our registration form!

Supported Housing Residents Build Community at Weekly Dinners

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 11:25:51 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“What do we want our community to look like?” This was the question posed to residents in our CHAI Supported Housing program during their first group dinner of 2020. In the past, these weekly dinners for adults with disabilities did not grapple with such thought-provoking concepts. Typically, Supported Housing staff members would remind residents of upcoming social/educational events and check in with them about their week.

This January, however, the Supported Housing team decided to elevate the types of conversations residents have before dinner. “We were just at the start of the new year and we had a few new residents,” said Jacob Oppenheimer, a Service Coordinator for the Supported Housing program. “So, it was a great time for new beginnings.”

Residents have responded enthusiastically to the redesigned group dinners, and the discussions they have had are already having a positive impact on the Supported Housing program. Together, residents are enhancing connections with each other, improving their social skills, and thinking deeply and intentionally about creating the kind of community they would like to be a part of.

Taking Every Opportunity to Teach

The idea for these more structured community dinners was born out of conversations between Jessica Goudreault, a Senior Residence Manager for the Supported Housing program, and Angela Waring, our Respite and Recreation Program Manager. In the fall of 2019, Angela had created a 100-page curriculum for facilitating social groups and dealing with conflict. Jessica and Angela realized that this curriculum wasn’t just applicable to the respite/recreation groups at JF&CS; it would also be a natural fit for the Supported Housing community dinners.

“Every opportunity we have to teach our participants social skills is so valuable,” said Angela. “And anything surrounding food is perfect because it naturally brings people together. These community dinners are a wonderful time to challenge residents and let them learn something.”

Angela was introduced to Jacob, who shares a similar interest in social group dynamics, and they collaborated on a plan to revamp the weekly Supported Housing dinners.

Defining Their Community

During the first group dinner of the new year, residents were tasked with defining the things they want from their community and determining how they can achieve these goals. The residents engaged in a lively brainstorming session, and one participant acted as a scribe, jotting down the numerous ideas that were generated. Ultimately, the residents decided on three maxims that should define their community:

1. Treat each other respectfully.
2. Appreciate each other’s differences.
3. Get to know new people.

“We were really impressed with the principles the residents came up with,” said Jacob. “They did an excellent job of identifying the values that make a community welcoming to everyone.”

Making a Motto

While Jacob led the first group dinner of 2020, the next session was led by Dana, a resident who had volunteered to take the reins. “What a wonderful confidence boost for her,” said Angela. “It is so great when our participants can take a leadership role.”

For this session, Jacob asked the residents to create a motto that encapsulates their community. Once again, the participants worked together to brainstorm and combine their diverse ideas into one shared vision.

As they worked on their motto, the residents were able to put the principles they had identified the previous week into practice. “Sometimes, the residents disagreed with each other about what should and shouldn’t be included in the motto,” said Jacob. “But they tried to do so in a respectful way, without interrupting or being overly negative.”

After much discussion, the residents finally agreed on the following motto: “Living together, thriving together. Independence is possible.” The participants took tremendous pride in coming up with this slogan, and the Supported Housing team is planning creative ways to weave it into the fabric of the program. “We would love to have the community expectations and motto hanging around the building in pieces of artwork,” said Jacob. “We’re also going to order T-shirts with the slogan.”

Independence is Possible

The goal of the Supported Housing program is for residents to live as independently as possible, and it is already clear that the restructured community dinners are furthering this mission. “Society often underestimates people with disabilities,” said Jacob. “Well-meaning people think they are helping by doing things for them. So, I think it means a lot for residents to take ownership of their experience.”

Having defined their own community expectations, the residents now have the language they need to remind each other to live up to their shared principles. Supported Housing staff members can be less involved if residents are prompting each other to be empathetic and respectful.

The dinners themselves are a microcosm of society, where the residents can practice important skills that they can apply outside of the walls of their apartment complex. “The residents have always taken the lead with preparing the food for the community dinner,” said Jacob. “If, eventually, they could also run most of the meeting themselves, that would be an over-the-moon success.” As the community dinners evolve, Jacob and the rest of the Supported Housing team look forward to seeing how residents continue to grow and learn from these weekly discussions.

Learn more about our Supported Housing program.

Memory Cafés: A Place for Friends to Stay Connected

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 11:12:37 GMT

Posted by Beth Soltzberg, Director of Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program

Friends matter. They’re the people we have fun with; the people we can confide in and lean on when we need to. Research even shows that friends improve our health. When a dear friend develops dementia, however, it can test even the strongest relationships. What can you do when the activities you used to enjoy together don’t work out so well anymore? Many friends drift apart. In the 2019 World Alzheimer’s Report, over half of respondents in the Americas reported difficulty making or keeping friends. As one respondent said, “I call it the friendship divorce. I have lost a fair amount of people in my life that at one time I considered friends.”

Abbe and Judy’s Decades-Long Friendship

Abbe and Judy met thirty years ago when their daughters, Alissa and Becca, were just ten years old. Abbe needed someone to pick up Becca at Hebrew school and look after her until Abbe got home from work. Judy offered to help, and a wonderful family friendship was born. Over the years, the two families took trips to Martha’s Vineyard together, shared dinners, and attended a movie club that Judy created. Abbe’s husband David and Judy’s husband Gil, both musicians, became close friends and still play in a band together. To this day, Alissa and Becca are best friends.

In the midst of planning Alissa’s wedding, Judy shared some unexpected news. She told Abbe that she had been diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), which often leads to a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. At first, Abbe couldn’t believe it, but over time the symptoms were undeniable. Judy had to retire from her career as a psychotherapist.

When a person develops dementia, friends may not know how to keep a conversation going, or how to enjoy time together. The person with dementia may find him or herself increasingly isolated, along with a spouse or another close family member, who may end up shouldering the entire responsibility of providing both care and human connection, more than one person can really do. This is where memory cafés can help. Memory cafés are social gatherings for people living with dementia, along with friends, family members, and professional caregivers. They are free of charge, and no one is asked if they have a diagnosis.

Making Memory Cafés a Monthly Routine

Concerned that Judy needed something social to do, Abbe’s daughter Becca had heard about the JF&CS Memory Café, and Abbe persuaded Judy to give it a try. On their first visit, musician Doug Schmolze was singing and playing guitar. “We were blown away,” said Abbe. “The lyrics were up on the screen at the front so everyone could be reminded of the words. I looked down the row of seats, and everyone was singing along.” Judy and Abbe have become regulars at the JF&CS Memory Café, have gotten to know other café guests, and have started inviting their friends to attend the café as well.

There are over 125 memory cafés in Massachusetts, and Abbe encourages others to make memory cafés part of their routine with a friend who lives with dementia. “I think many friends are nervous about the commitment,” Abbe said. “But it’s not hard to come to a program where there are kind people and a facilitated activity. It’s a 2- or 3-hour commitment once a month to be with your friend. And it’s so pleasant!”

There’s nothing like a good friend. The smiles on Judy’s and Abbe’s faces say it all.

Find a memory café near you in our Massachusetts Memory Café Directory!

A Better Future for Those with Parkinson’s

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 15:56:32 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Steven Robbins and his family are no strangers to philanthropy. Their father taught them the importance of giving back to their community. “My dad always said it was better to give than to receive. He was a big proponent of giving back,” shared Steven. When Steven’s father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, the Robbins family directed their passion for improving the lives of others to those who are affected by the disease.

The Robbins family was first introduced to the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program at JF&CS through family friends. After visiting, they saw the unique services that exist to help those with Parkinson’s. Through therapeutic programming, such as chorus, dance, and family support groups, JF&CS provides unique and invaluable services that address day to day life with Parkinson’s. “This service really wasn’t available when my dad was diagnosed,” Steven said. “When we visited JF&CS for the first time, we felt so hopeful after seeing how happy and friendly all the participants were,” said Doris Robbins, Steven’s mother.

Social Connection and Family Support

“Our program gives people a chance to be together without focusing on the disease,” said Anne Muskopf, Director of Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support. “The groups are therapeutic and designed to address symptoms, but the experience of simply having fun is more prominent.” Social connections are an important aspect of living full, meaningful lives with Parkinson’s, and participants can help their bodies while also enjoying the value of arts and music in a social setting.

The Okonow Parkinson's Family Support program provides support for the whole family. “JF&CS gave us a much better understanding of the disease through the educational programs that we participated in,” said Steven. “They helped us understand what was going on, and we want other families to have the same opportunity.” Through weekly support groups for care partners, family members can share their experiences with others who are in the same situation. “This group is my lifeline,” said a care partner attendee. There are also quarterly education and networking groups, where all family members are welcome to hear from expert speakers in the field of Parkinson’s disease.

“JF&CS is in a unique position. First, we offer programs for the whole family and, secondly, we are able to follow along with the progression of the disease because of the other resources we have within our agency,” added Anne. Participants can access the free advice of CJP SeniorDirect and the care management of Your Elder Experts, for example, as part of the surrounding support for the challenges that arise with Parkinson’s.

Supporting Parkinson's Outreach

After seeing the unique service that JF&CS provides, the Robbins family was inspired to help make a difference. They decided to fund Parkinson’s outreach at JF&CS in order to leave their mark on the agency that inspired them. The Robbins want other families to experience the same support they have witnessed. “I always had this feeling of wishing my husband could have experienced that, but I’m so happy that I can help others in some small way,” said Doris.

In supporting Parkinson’s outreach, the Robbins are spreading awareness of the impact of the Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program. With a focus on outreach, program staff are able to connect with providers and people living with Parkinson’s through individual meetings, presentations at symposia, and participation at community wellness fairs. “These programs are a true gem; we want to make sure they’re not a hidden gem,” said Anne.

To learn more about our resources for people living with Parkinson’s disease, visit our Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson's Family Support program page.

Partnering to Help Those in Need

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 07:58:53 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

For Judi Fanger, volunteering is a family tradition. “I grew up in a small Jewish community where everybody contributed their time. Now, I want to help those in need just as my family did when I was younger,” shared Judi.

Judi was first introduced to JF&CS when she started volunteering for our Family Table Marketplace. The Marketplace allows families to pack their own groceries and choose whichever produce they wish, as opposed to having their groceries delivered monthly. Volunteers help clients select what they want, bring groceries out to the client's car, and clean up after everyone has picked out their food.

Judi’s desire to give back has gone beyond just volunteering for JF&CS. She currently volunteers for the Friend 2 Friend program through Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters. As a volunteer for the Friend 2 Friend program, Judi is partnered with an adult with disabilities to share their hobbies and passions. Her husband also volunteers with Jewish Big Brother Big Sisters serving as a mentor to a teenage boy and he serves as a member of the JF&CS Bet Tzedek Legal Services Advisory Committee. These hands-on volunteer opportunities have given Judi and her family the chance to take an active part in helping build a strong foundation for those around them.

By working with two agencies, Judi has seen firsthand the vast number of services provided by different organizations in the area. She has become more aware of how nonprofits can work together to help a single client in all aspects of their needs. For example, if one agency provides services to counter social isolation, that same client can go to another agency for support in acquiring benefits or financial assistance.

So, when Judi's friend needed some additional help, Judi directed them to JF&CS. “There’s a huge benefit when multiple agencies help one client,” said Judi. “When a client accesses services from several places, there’s a better understanding that they’re not alone and there are services available to help them with many different needs.”

In some cases, those who need the most help are not always aware of the services that are available. Judi’s unique position gives her the opportunity to be on the lookout for resources that can help the individuals she works with. “Some people don’t know what’s available to them. It can be difficult for them to figure out whether or not they have to pay for a service,” said Judi. “As soon as I found out that my friend needed more help, I contacted the appropriate agencies and determined how to get the services they deserved.”

Two agencies collaborating to build a foundation of well-being can help a client feel like they have a support system behind them. By partnering with one another, organizations can truly fulfill a client’s every need. “As volunteers, it’s important to be aware of the different agencies in the community who can provide a multitude of services for those we’re serving. Too often, the people we’re helping don’t know what services are available or how to access them,” said Judi.

If you're interested in getting involved with JF&CS, visit our Volunteering page!

Humans of JF&CS: Alex Tierney

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 11:33:20 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

Behind our 40+ programs are compassionate, committed, and dedicated staff who care deeply about our mission and our agency. With this broad range of programs comes a team of staff members with diverse interests, passions, and skills, who all share a deep commitment to building a strong foundation of well-being and resilience for our clients. We hope these staff spotlights give you a taste of the incredible individuals behind our services and a sense of the deep compassion and dedication they bring every day.

I’m the Assistant Manager of the CHAI Works Day Program, which is our community-based program for adults with developmental disabilities. I came to JF&CS about four years ago through the recommendation of John Wills, the Director of Employment Programs.

I take care of all the scheduling for our twelve staff members and fifty-five participants, so who goes where, when, and what they’re doing. I make sure the programming runs efficiently and the participants are engaged in what they’re doing every day, whether it’s groups about social skills, life skills, or other fun groups and activities. We’re always trying new things and looking at how we can improve the program. We tend to try new things a lot, so we get the chance to see what’s working and what’s not. We recently started accepting volunteers into the program for the first time in years, which is really exciting.

I love my job and getting to interact with the people here, whether it’s staff or our participants. It’s never a chore to come into work and I get to see participants be successful with the goals they set for themselves. Seeing daily successes, big or small, makes my job worth it. Goals look different for everyone and it's great seeing people progress every day.

JF&CS Day Programming and Employment Services create meaningful and fulfilling opportunities for individuals with disabilities to lead productive and integrated lives in their communities and increase their feelings of self-worth and confidence. For more information, visit us online or call 781-647-5327.

Working Towards Independence

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 11:32:06 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Billy, a CHAI Services client, meets with a clinical case worker from JF&CS each week to identify and work on goals he would like to achieve in the future. With the help of his case worker, Mary, he makes new steps towards improving himself every day.

Although Billy is shy at first, once he gets to know someone, he is talkative and full of laughs. “He’s really sweet and witty,” Mary shared. Mary has gotten to know him well over the course of working with him and has helped him identify skills to improve on, many of which are now focused on increasing his independence. Some of these tasks are things he's never done, like going to the store on his own, or finding his way around the community. Billy currently lives with his mom, but he’s working on skills that would allow him to move into a new setting.

By working with Mary, Billy is seeing improvement in walking to the store himself and meeting up with Mary at a different location. Because he lives in a busy area, this can be a daunting and difficult task, but he is making strides towards accessing his neighborhood. Going to the grocery store ties together all of the skills he’s working on, like cooking and cleaning, into a series of big accomplishments. These tasks will also lead to fun activities that Billy looks forward to. “He's excited to walk to his favorite pizza place on his own. We walk past other pizza shops, but he loves that one,” said Mary.

While going on these trips, Billy also has the opportunity to practice his photography, one of his favorite hobbies. “Billy is very artistic. He takes photographs and puts a calendar together every year as a holiday gift. It’s full of flowers and sunsets; he’s very creatively minded,” said Mary. Billy’s independence gives him the ability to be more self-sufficient, and it also opens new paths to exploring the hobbies he enjoys.

JF&CS CHAI Services provide support, strategies, and solutions that strengthen individuals and families, build community connections, and enhance independence. To learn more, visit us online or call 781-647-5327.

TeenSafe Shares 5 Essentials for Growing Healthy Relationships

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 14:42:53 GMT

Posted by TeenSafe Cohort, 2019-2020

This article was written by our TeenSafe peer leaders in collaboration with the program’s Youth Educator. TeenSafe, a program of Journey to Safety, is the JF&CS response to dating abuse in our community.

This year, the Jewish holiday of Tu BiShvat falls in February, which is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Since Tu BiShvat is a day dedicated to planting trees, we started thinking about how growing a healthy relationship is similar to growing a tree.

Just like a tree, a relationship needs different elements to ensure it grows to be strong and healthy:

1. Trust (The Seed)

To grow a healthy relationship, you need trust as the seed that is planted in the soil. Without trust, a relationship can be shaky and the tree won’t grow.

2. A Safe Place (The Right Environment)

Planting the tree in the right environment is important too. Having a tree or relationship in a safe place ensures that it can grow and be healthy and strong. A safe place for a tree might be where it gets enough sun, water, nutrients, etc. A safe place for a relationship might be when two partners are committed to communicating, sharing, respecting, and supporting one another. A safe place for a relationship to flourish can also mean being around strong role models and a culture that demonstrates and talks about what a healthy, positive relationship should look like.

3. Communication (Water)

Communication, like water for a tree, is another essential component of a healthy relationship. This means that while not always easy, each person can talk openly and listen to the other and especially be able to compromise when there are different thoughts about how a relationship should move forward.

4. Honesty (Sunlight)

A tree also needs sunlight to grow and develop. Being honest and supportive helps grow the relationship and keep it strong.

5. A Community (Strong Roots)

Trees flourish when they have strong roots to keep themselves in place and extract moisture and nutrients from the soil. Similarly, relationships are at their best when they are rooted in a community. It is important for both partners to feel a connection to a larger social group, both individually and as a couple. Each partner should feel that they are able to stay with their community and expand their community.

If your relationship has all of the essentials we discussed above, then just like a tree, it can keep growing strong and become amazing and beautiful. But if something is beginning to feel off or unhealthy in any way, find a safe and trusted friend and adult you can speak with.

Check out these great resources on the TeenSafe page and read previous TeenSafe cohort blog posts for more information. The most important thing is to keep sharing your concerns with others who listen and respect you. Our message to you is that it’s not your fault if someone you are in a relationship with isn’t nice or is abusive in any way.

Participate in #Orange4Love Day

Looking for a great way to show your support for healthy relationships? On February 11, “Wear Orange 4 Love Day”, thousands of people across the country will wear orange to raise awareness about the prevalence of teen dating abuse. Through wearing an orange shirt, shoes, jewelry, or even nail polish, you can easily foster conversation and spread awareness to others. All of the members of the TeenSafe cohort are very excited to participate in this event, and we encourage you to also wear orange on February 11!

Joining Eli’s Team

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 13:28:26 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Eli with his father and brother in 2016.

For Donna Roman’s family, meeting the needs of their youngest son, Eli, has been a years-long struggle. “It has been a difficult and, at times, devasting experience,” said Donna. Eli is on the autism spectrum and faces significant mental health challenges, along with learning disabilities. Additionally, Eli sometimes wrestles with his identity as a child who was adopted.

In early 2017, Eli and his family were in all-out crisis. Within a period of six months, Eli was in the hospital three times for a total of 10 weeks, and that was after five previous psychiatric hospitalizations.

Charting a Course

At this point, Eli was already receiving in-home support from JF&CS, which he had been referred to through MassHealth. After his recent spate of hospitalizations, Eli’s in-home team suggested that he work directly with Joan Munnelly, the Autism Navigator at JF&CS.

“Joan was able to help us chart a course,” said Donna. “Eli is lucky to have an amazing team of professionals that are experts in their respective areas. Joan, who is an expert in special education advocacy, quickly became an integral part of Eli’s team.”

Joan works with Eli and his family to improve his educational goals and access. She closely coordinates her efforts with Eli’s school and his team of professionals to ensure that his services are implemented effectively. Together, Eli’s team has fought to make sure that he receives the correct type of therapeutic placement.

“When Joan attends meetings with Eli and us, she adds crucial input,” said Donna. “She represents Eli’s voice, and encourages Eli to advocate for himself.” Joan also reviews Eli’s Individualized Education Plan, reports, and evaluations directly with his parents to improve their understanding of what Eli needs and help them adjust their planning when problems arise.

Looking Toward a Brighter Future

Eli’s life has transformed dramatically since 2017. With coaching and encouragement from Joan, Donna and her husband made the difficult decision that Eli needed a residential placement to make progress. “It was agonizing,” said Donna. “But the results have been amazing.”

In the last 2½ years, Eli hasn’t been in the hospital or ER for mental illness issues at all. He has been able to access his education and has earned almost all As and Bs. “When Eli first met Joan, he had no self-confidence and had told us that he thought he was stupid,” said Donna. “Now, he identifies goals for his future and even said that he would like to go to some type of college program.”

Donna credits JF&CS and Joan for Eli’s progress. “At some of the worst moments for us, Joan was there to help pick us up, dust us off, and cheerlead so we can keep going,” said Donna. “She’s an essential resource, friend, and ally for us, but even more importantly, for Eli.”

Visit our Autism Services page to learn more about the resources we offer.

Meeting the Basic Needs of Holocaust Survivors

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 09:22:32 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

"Jewish victims of Nazi persecution should never feel forgotten,” said Lora Tarlin, director of Schechter Holocaust Services. Too often, survivors are left to suffer due to financial insecurity, social isolation, and age-related difficulties. Their increasing physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges often revive traumatic events they endured as children and young adults, which exacerbate their difficulties. Poverty-related stress can also be triggering for survivors, as it reminds them of their deprivation during the Holocaust.

The Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany funds 78 percent of our Schechter Holocaust Services (SHS) program, which provides services and advocacy that lightens this stress for survivors and aims to support their physical and emotional well-being. JF&CS is the only agency in Massachusetts funded by the Claims Conference and is also the only agency that works directly with survivors. While some agencies provide educational resources about the Holocaust, JF&CS offers individuals person-centered, trauma-informed care.

For Sasha*, an SHS client, a case manager stepped in to help her in her time of need. Sasha had broken her pelvis, but due to her poor financial situation, the hospital wanted to send her home after only a couple of days. Sasha also had dementia and faced a language barrier when communicating with others. She spoke Russian as her primary language and had no family living in the area to translate for her when she needed to speak to doctors.

Had Sasha gone home, she would have been unable to care for herself. She was injured and only received a few hours of homecare a week through JF&CS. These few hours of homecare were enough to help her when she was healthy, but with a broken pelvis, she would need around the clock care. Sasha had already suffered a lack of medical care as a child, and now the hospital was attempting to send her away in a state unfit to take care of herself.

When SHS heard about her situation, they knew they had to advocate for her. Sasha’s case manager reached out to a pro bono attorney in order to convince the hospital that their patient needed and deserved care, despite her financial situation. With the help of her lawyer and advocate, Sasha was able to stay at the hospital for the duration of her six-week healing process. Her advocate helped translate her needs to doctors and nurses and got her the legal help she needed. Although lengthening her stay was a huge accomplishment, the hospital refused to move Sasha to the rehab wing. Each day, someone had to bring Sasha to her physical therapy, which still put unneeded strain on her by moving her farther distances than necessary.

This struggle is not uncommon for survivors. Poverty effects the resources they’re able to access, such as medical care, which harms their well-being. “It shows how the system falls short, even with MassHealth assistance. There is so little help for those who need it in navigating the system,” said Lora.

Victims of Nazi persecution also struggle with social isolation that inhibits their connections to those who could assist them as they age. In addition to advocating for survivors, SHS also holds a monthly social gathering that helps counter isolation. By giving survivors access to events where they can socialize with other survivors, they are able to build friendships and know that they are not alone.

“Survivors started their lives scared; they shouldn’t have to end their lives frightened. We want to bring peace to them and their families,” shared Lora. By standing up for those who can’t advocate for themselves, SHS drastically improves the lives of those who need it most.

More than 270 survivors are helped by JF&CS each month, enabling survivors to live full, happy lives and age with dignity.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

JF&CS Teams Up with More Than Words

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 13:26:45 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS staff came together for a morning of service on Tuesday to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. JF&CS staff members held a book drive to support More Than Words, a Boston-based nonprofit that empowers young adults to take charge of their lives by taking charge of a business. After learning about MLK through a presentation from the JF&CS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and watching a James Taylor tribute performance, our staff sorted and packed the books to be donated to More Than Words.

More Than Words works with youth who are in the foster care system, court-involved, homeless, or out of school and gives them the opportunity to obtain necessary skills to make a change in their lives. More Than Words collects books, CDs, and DVDs to sell in a bookstore run by their participants. Young adults ages 16-24 are given job responsibilities and support to develop personal success, action plans, and skills to become contributing members of society.

To help More Than Words in their mission and to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. day, JF&CS teamed up to hold an office-wide donation of books, DVDs, and CDs. Throughout January, staff members were invited to bring items to the office, which would then be given to More Than Words to stock their shelves. JF&CS staff spent Tuesday morning learning about More Than Words and sorting, counting, and boxing the donations collected.

By coming together, JF&CS was able to donate dozens of boxes of books, CDs, and DVDs that will help make a difference for those helped by More Than Words.

To learn about getting involved with JF&CS, visit our Volunteering page.

Helping Build Families

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 10:02:38 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Last year, Stephanie and KJ came to JF&CS looking to grow their family. With one child at home, they already had experience with other adoption agencies. This time around, they were looking for a different kind of adoption experience. “While looking for adoption agencies in Massachusetts, the JF&CS website indicated that they were inclusive of LGBTQ people. That was definitely an important factor for us,” said KJ.

Although Stephanie and KJ didn’t know it at the time, JF&CS Adoption Resources had received a grant from the Krupp Family Foundation that allowed the agency to be more visible to LGBTQ families. JF&CS has always been LGBTQ friendly, but this grant gave us the chance to create a new website that could be seen by more families in search of a welcoming adoption agency. In addition to creating an inclusive website, this grant made it possible to give LGBTQ families an interest-free loan for the adoption process.

Approximately 65,000 adopted children across the nation are being raised by LGBTQ parents. In many cases, LGTBQ families face the same struggles as heterosexual families such as confusion about the adoption process, financial hardship, and legal risk, while also experiencing their own unique difficulties. There are very few resources that focus on the needs of LGBTQ adoptive parents and their children. LGBTQ couples also struggle with the opportunity of having financial assistance grants available to them due to explicit or covert discrimination. With the interest-free loan that is exclusively for Adoption Resources’ LGBTQ couples, they are given the same opportunities as heterosexual couples to grow their family. This interest-free loan is one of the only loans of its type for LGBTQ families.

“We’ve been able to attract a diverse pool of adoptive parents with the Krupp grant. Between fifteen and twenty percent of our families are LGBTQ. We’ve become more visible in the community, and we’re able to give some families the opportunity to adopt without the financial risk,” shared Betsy Hochberg, LICSW, Director of Adoption Resources.

Once Stephanie and KJ began their adoption experience with JF&CS, they saw what really made Adoption Resources stand out among the rest. “JF&CS was so supportive; I never thought we could get the personal guidance we found through the process,” Stephanie said.

“Adoption can be an emotional roller coaster. There’s a lot of everyday ups and downs, hopes, and expectations,” said KJ. “But JF&CS made the process feel so positive,” said Stephanie. “We had a great working relationship with the adoption team. They helped us practice the patience we needed to navigate it all.”

JF&CS provides waiting families with the knowledge and resources they need to be prepared every step of the way. “We’re very hands on and supportive from the beginning pre-adopt stage, through the waiting period, and long after placement. Families adopt and, understandably, have questions along the way as they parent,” said Deb Shrier, LICSW, Associate Director of Adoption Resources.

By attending adoption education workshops through JF&CS, Stephanie and KJ, as well as other pre-adoptive families, can feel comfortable and prepared for the future. Whether waiting families are attending an orientation meeting about the adoption process, hearing adoptive parents share their personal experiences, or listening to a panel discussion of birth parents who have made adoption plans for their children, JF&CS provides the guidance families need to feel confident and reassured throughout their adoption.

Through educational workshops and meetings with their social worker, Stephanie and KJ were able to have a smooth and personalized adoption experience. Last spring, Stephanie and KJ added two girls to their family, and according to KJ, “the biggest surprise was twins.”

To learn more about Adoption Resources, visit our website.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day: 75 Years Since Liberation

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 13:25:29 GMT

Posted by Lora Tarlin, Director of Schechter Holocaust Services

“Never again” may be the two words most closely associated with the Holocaust. As the late Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel put it, “Never again becomes more than a slogan: It’s a prayer, a promise, a vow.” In order for the world to keep the promise of “never again,” however, it is essential for the international community to embrace another two-word phrase: “We remember.”

Today, on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we remember the horrors of the Holocaust. We remember the 6 million Jews and 11 million other victims who were murdered by the Nazi regime and its collaborators. We remember to stand against anti-Semitism and all forms of hatred, xenophobia, and genocide.

January 27, 1945

January 27 was designated International Holocaust Remembrance Day by the United Nations because it was on this date in 1945 that Auschwitz-Birkenau was liberated by the Red Army. Located in German-occupied Poland, Auschwitz was the largest Nazi concentration and death camp.

While the events of the Holocaust can sometimes feel like the distant past, for survivors, memories from seventy-five years ago remain as vivid as ever. Last week, I was in a meeting and heard a survivor speak about the deep personal significance of January 27, 1945. Unexpectedly, another survivor in the room said, “Yes, I know that day well. I consider it my rebirthday. I, too, was liberated on that day.” How powerful those words were to the rest of us sitting there.

Remembering Holocaust Survivors

Of course, “we remember” doesn’t just apply to one day out of the year. Each and every day, we must remember to take care of the survivors in our community; to tell their stories and to ensure that those who have endured so much are living with dignity.

Sadly, it is estimated that 30% of Holocaust survivors in the United States live below the poverty line. At JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services (SHS), we are committed to ensuring that basic needs – healthcare, food, clothing, housing – are accessible to every survivor. Furthermore, we believe that the right to have a kosher home and access kosher food, the right to a Jewish burial, and the right to celebrate Jewish holidays should never be out of reach for any survivor.

Despite the declining population of survivors, SHS is seeing an increase in need because survivors often live long lives. One study found that, on average, survivors live 7.1 years longer than their counterparts who were not in the Holocaust. As our clients live into their 80s, 90s, and beyond, they typically require more support in their everyday lives.

How to Help Survivors

If you would like to help survivors in the Greater Boston area, SHS offers a number of ways to get involved. We are always looking for volunteers to drive survivors to medical appointments, help with grocery shopping, and provide companionship. Volunteers are also welcome to work in our Waltham office or lend a helping hand with our monthly social gatherings for Holocaust survivors, known as Café Hakalah.

To start volunteering with JF&CS, please fill out our Volunteer Registration Form and be sure to check the box for “Holocaust survivors and their families” under Assignment Interests. Donating to JF&CS is also a wonderful way to help survivors. Thank you so much for your support!

A Message of Gratitude from Our Chief Advancement Officer

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 13:41:35 GMT

Posted by Wendy Schiffman Wilsker

One of my favorite parts of living in New England is experiencing all four seasons each year. From the brilliant fall leaves to the first buds of spring, we are reminded of new beginnings, changes, and the beauty and complexity of nature. The landscape of nonprofits is not much different. And while many of us fundraisers wish that money really did grow on trees, we must work hard to harvest meaningful, impactful, philanthropic support.

Today, at JF&CS, we are addressing some of the most pressing challenges in society from income inequality to food insecurity, opioid addiction to social isolation. Our clients walk through our doors needing food, diapers, safety, employment, respite, friendship, and community. Our collaborative model of care ensures that we will find the resources our clients need, we will partner with organizations, and we will leave no stone unturned to help our clients and their families.

Our agency is fortunate to have the loyalty and generosity of our individual donors, who make up more than half of our philanthropic support. We are, of course, grateful for the support of Combined Jewish Philanthropies and the dozens of foundations who sustain our work, providing the resources and inspiration to provide impactful programs to our 14,000 clients and their families. And we are grateful to live in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, where we are fortunate to work closely with our elected officials to ensure that our most vulnerable families and those experiencing trauma and mental illness can access the resources they need. We are proud of the nearly 100 partnerships we have with hospitals, universities, and other social service agencies who realize, like us, that we cannot do this work alone.

Today, we find that donors of all ages are seeking more meaning in their giving. For some, that means including JF&CS in their estate plan, and for others, it means sharing their time and expertise as volunteers. We are excited to work with individuals, families, and corporations to create meaningful volunteer experiences. Last year, we welcomed close to 50 volunteer groups and are grateful to the more than 2,000 volunteers who help us build a foundation of well-being and resilience for our clients.

To the more than 5,000 donors who gave to JF&CS in 2019, thank you. Your philanthropic support is truly life-changing for our clients and their families, for generations to come.

If you would like to join our community of donors, you can make a gift to JF&CS online.

Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms® Travel to Ukraine, Part II

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 13:22:27 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

As detailed in Part I of this story, our own Debbie Whitehill and three JF&CS Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® volunteers traveled to Dnipro, Ukraine for four days in November. The Rubin Visiting Moms conducted a training with members of Dnipro’s Mentor Moms program, which is modeled after our own Visiting Moms program.

While meeting the Mentor Moms was the focal point of their trip, the Rubin Visiting Moms also had the chance to visit a number of organizations in Dnipro that receive support from Combined Jewish Philanthropy’s Dnipro Kehillah Project (DKP) and, in some cases, from JF&CS as well.

Touring Schools and a Medical Center

On their first day in Dnipro, Debbie Whitehill, Marlene Bohn, Suzie Cheatham, and Yvonne Sacks visited a highly ranked public school where CJP funds breakfast and lunch for the students. The majority of the students are Jewish and from low-income families. As Marlene noted, “A full stomach makes a big difference in a child’s ability to learn.”

Next, the Rubin Visiting Moms toured another school in Dnipro that provides services for children with special needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, and hearing disabilities. CJP brought teachers from this school to Boston for a month of further education in special needs. JF&CS helped to build Dnipro’s Special Needs Education Resource Center, a groundbreaking program that provides education, family support, and specialized medical consultation services to children with special needs and their families.

At the Jewish Medical Center in Dnipro, the JF&CS delegation saw the dichotomy between the old, crumbing section of the clinic and the building’s new, modern wing. “In Dnipro, most people go without vaccines because they don’t trust vaccinations manufactured in the country,” said Marlene. “At the Jewish Medical Center, vaccines are purchased outside of the country and the director and his family get vaccinated on TV and on social media to show that they are safe.”

Beit Barcuch and a Warm House

The Rubin Visiting Moms also saw what life is like for older adults in Dnipro. The JF&CS contingent visited Beit Baruch, the only Jewish senior home in the entire Former Soviet Union. Heavily subsidized by the Greater Boston Jewish community, Beit Baruch is modeled after Hebrew SeniorLife, the Massachusetts-based senior living communities. In 2010, Marsha Frankel, the now-retired Clinical Director of JF&CS Senior Services, visited Beit Baruch to provide direct training and support to the staff to improve the quality of life for residents.

Many older adults in Dnipro struggle to live on their pension of 70 - 80 dollars a month. The “Warm House” program seeks to help seniors by facilitating monthly group dinners. Volunteers host 5 to 6 other older adults in their apartments and receive a stipend from CJP to prepare a meal with their guests. The Rubin Visiting Moms attended a Warm House dinner where they met a group of retired women who had worked in a range of professions, including an engineer, an economist, and a physicist.

“The Warm House visit was moving,” shared Suzie. “The women were so warm, welcoming, and generous. Like Abraham, they shared the little they had with open hearts. It’s a program that could be of value in so many places.” Interestingly, JF&CS Aging Well at Home launched a similar Warm House program in Brookline, MA to help older adults build and strengthen connections with one another.

Although their trip was brief, members of the JF&CS contingent were deeply affected by their firsthand look at the impact of DKP programs in Dnipro. “Learning about all of the work that is being done both internally and externally for and by this small Ukranian community is incredibly touching,” said Yvonne. “I am immensely proud that my Greater Boston Jewish community is providing the money and loving care for so much in Dnipro.”

Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms® Travel to Ukraine

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 13:13:07 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“Ukraine has certainly been in the news a lot these days,” said Debbie Whitehill, Director of the JF&CS Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program. “So, I’m thrilled that we can share some positive stories from Ukraine right now.” In November, Debbie and three Rubin Visiting Moms volunteers [Marlene Bohn, Suzie Cheatham, and Yvonne Sacks] visited Dnipro, Ukraine for four remarkable days. During the trip, the JF&CS contingent met with Dnipro’s Mentor Moms program, which is modeled after our own Rubin Visiting Moms program.

One Jewish Community Helping Another

The trip to Ukraine was organized as part of the Dnipro Kehillah Project (DKP), a partnership between Combined Jewish Philanthropies and the Jewish community of Dnipro. Home to a Jewish population of 30,000 - 50,000, Dnipro boasts the third-largest Jewish community in Europe and the fifth-largest in the world. The DKP works to revitalize Jewish life in post-Soviet Dnipro through comprehensive assistance, including healthcare and medical training, economic advancement programs, and crisis support.

In 2017, the DKP financed an initiative to replicate the Rubin Visiting Moms program in Dnipro. Like its American counterpart, “Mentor Moms” in Dnipro matches empathetic volunteers with new parents during the first year of their baby’s life. Debbie Whitehill and the JF&CS team have provided ongoing support and encouragement over Skype to the Dnipro Mentor Moms as they grow their program.

“I was so excited when I received the invitation from Debbie to join the trip to Ukraine,” said Suzie Cheatham. “The thought of seeing how successful programs here translated to a former USSR country piqued my interest.”

Meeting the Mentor Moms

A highlight of the trip was the chance to see the Mentor Moms in person and conduct a Rubin Visiting Moms training at the local JCC and Hillel. Marlene Bohn was struck by the universality of being a parent. “We can live across the world, but the challenges of new motherhood are very similar,” said Marlene.

Yvonne Sacks also found that the mission of the Rubin Visiting Moms/Mentor Moms transcended culture. “Being a part of the Rubin Visiting Moms delegation was special,” said Yvonne. “It was clear, despite our language differences, that our presence and the opportunity to share our experiences were appreciated.”

One of the Mentor Moms graciously invited the Rubin Visiting Moms over for dinner at her home. “It was a dinner party to remember,” said Marlene. “There was traditional Ukrainian food, music played by our friend Yacov and our host’s daughter, dancing, and great company.” After the party, the JF&CS contingent was invited to a wedding reception back at the hotel — another testament to the incredible friendliness and hospitality of the Ukrainian people.

For more from the Rubin Visiting Moms’ trip to Dnipro, stay tuned for Part II.

Samantha Walsh Joins JF&CS

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 09:05:09 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is excited to welcome Samantha Walsh as our new Journey to Safety TeenSafe Fellow. With a background in working with adolescents, Samantha welcomes the opportunity to give teens the language and tools they need to recognize abuse in a dating relationship. Samantha will focus on training the 2019-2020 cohort of teen leaders, bringing workshops to various community organizations and synagogues, and working to enhance awareness about Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month through the Orange4Love campaign.

Samantha has spent most of her professional career working with teens. After graduating with her B.A. in Political Science from Allegheny College, Samantha moved from Rhode Island to Atlanta, GA to work for the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta as the BBYO Assistant Council Director. She spent three and a half years there before moving back to New England to pursue her master’s in social work from Salem State University.

After receiving her master’s, Samantha spent time as an Intern School Adjustment Counselor and In-Home Therapy Support Clinician before turning her attention back to the Jewish Community. Since 2014, Samantha has continued to serve as the Regional Director for BBYO New England, a region within the largest, pluralistic, international Jewish youth movement. She was recently a recipient of CJP’s Chai in the Hub 2020, which recognizes twelve young adults who strive personally and professionally to better Boston’s Jewish community.

She is excited to take on this role with JF&CS and provide teens with the skills to prevent dating violence in the Jewish community.

For more information on how to get involved with TeenSafe, please email Samantha at swalsh@jfcsboston.org or visit us online.

JF&CS Receives Grants to Support Parents in Recovery

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 09:38:30 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We are proud to announce that JF&CS has received two grants from the Department of Public Health (DPH) to support mothers and families who are impacted by opioid use. These two grants were awarded as part of DPH’s FIRST (Families in Recovery SupporT) Steps Together initiative, which provides seven sites across Massachusetts with the resources and knowledge needed to make a positive change in the lives of families affected by parental opioid use disorder. One grant created a Training and Technical Assistance team at JF&CS that will support all seven sites, while the second grant recognizes and enables us to expand an existing JF&CS program that supports moms in recovery as a FIRST Steps Together site.

Tackling the Opioid Crisis

Last year, over two thousand people in Massachusetts died due to opioid use. The number of opioid-related deaths in the state is now two times higher than the national average, and Massachusetts is among the top ten states for opioid deaths. With the rising rate of opioid use, there’s a greater chance of pregnant and postpartum mothers having to juggle addiction and motherhood. Many individuals who suffer from substance use disorder don’t seek out help, whether it’s due to a lack of resources or the stigma around opioid use.

In response to the opioid crisis, JF&CS created Project NESST^® in 2011 with a grant from the Hawk Foundation to support pregnant women and mothers of young children in their recovery. Through this home visiting program, our staff focus on the intersection between recovery and parenting in order to help both the mother and child. Mothers are matched with a maternal recovery specialist, an individual in recovery herself who has received specialized training. Maternal recovery specialists are able to support mothers through their unique perspective of understanding what participants are going through. In addition to maternal recovery specialists who help through peer support, Project NESST also has clinicians who focus on the psychological issues and struggles that impact recovery and parenting.

The FIRST Steps Together sites set themselves apart through their focus on providing peer-based intervention, which supports mothers in both aspects of their lives. There are multiple components that go into the home visiting program that allow family recovery support specialists to help with the parent-child relationship, recovery support, and care coordination for those involved.

Sharing Resources and Best Practices

Due to our experience and success with recovery and parenting programs, JF&CS was also chosen to be the home of the new Technical and Training Assistance team of the FIRST Steps Together initiative. “One of the things that was clear was that there were a lot of other programs at JF&CS that would support this work. Having this linked to the Center for Early Relationship Support^®, which runs various home visiting programs, the Infant-Parent Training Institute, and Project NESST, we felt like JF&CS really understood what was needed from a training perspective,” shared Debra Bercuvitz, Director of FIRST Steps Together at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH). The Training and Technical Assistance team works with all seven direct service sites throughout Massachusetts and focuses on sharing knowledge and best practices, while also providing support for the development of each site. “The technical assistance and training means that we can really share all that we’ve been able to learn from one end of the state to the other,” said Amy Sommer, Director of Project NESST.

What makes this program unique is how resources are shared. “One thing we’ve brought to this project that’s different from other similar projects is really finding ways for us to not just be supporting sites, but for the sites to benefit from each other’s experience and to share their challenges with others,” said Clare Grace Jones, Training/Technical Assistance Director for FIRST Steps Together. The Technical and Training Assistance team travels throughout the state to effectively support the direct service sites, in addition to utilizing an online platform that encourages sites to engage with each other.

The collaborative focus of FIRST Steps Together is what makes the program so successful, despite the distance between sites. Each site has different experiences and hurdles, but they can share what they learn with other program managers. “It makes us part of a network. If we have questions about something we can reach out to the other sites and ask how they solved the problem, or how they would address specific challenges. It’s been really nice to have people who are doing the same work that we can reach out to and connect with,” said Amy. There’s also collaboration between DPH and the Technical and Training Assistance team. They’re able to communicate to come up with new ideas and push the program forward. “We have this incredible team that takes our vision and figures out how to implement it. We’re so lucky to have such a capable team that is making this happen on a practical level,” said Debra. “The opioid crisis is still affecting millions of people, especially parents with young children who will bear the impact of this crisis for years to come. There’s a need for this service and FIRST Steps Together funding has allowed us to expand our staff so we can serve even more parents in recovery,” said Amy.

Being There for Mothers in Recovery

With the help of the First Steps Together initiative, mothers are being supported through their recovery without being judged. Maternal recovery specialists provide an understanding shoulder to lean on when mothers are struggling to balance their health and their family. They have the opportunity to share their feelings about parenting joys and challenges, as well as receive the encouragement they need through their recovery.

Thanks to DPH, Project NESST can help even more moms in recovery through home visits, recovery coaching, parenting support, and connections to community-based services. With professional training and reliable support from the Technical and Training Assistance team, the FIRST Steps Together sites can make a positive impact in their communities.

Learn more about Project NESST.

JF&CS Client Wins Asylum Case

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 15:46:08 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

For Rosa*, the Greater Boston area was a haven from the violence that plagued her community in Central America. However, after years of living in Massachusetts, she was apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in January 2019 for overstaying her visa. Denied bail, Rosa was separated from her two young children. To make matters worse, her abusive ex-partner received temporary custody of her older child after her detainment. With the threat of deportation looming, Rosa felt utterly devastated.

A Team of Support

Rosa was a longtime JF&CS client, so when news of her arrest spread to our office, her contacts in the agency sprang into action. “We immediately huddled,” recalled Janet Segal, the Director of our legal services program. “We had to figure out what we could do to help.”

Janet joined with Karen Garber, the Program Coordinator of our bilingual program for young children and parents impacted by trauma and mental health challenges, to devise a strategy to assist Rosa. Together with other JF&CS colleagues, they identified two areas in which they could be of service: Rosa’s custody battle and her petition for asylum.

To aid in the custody case, Janet Segal secured the help of Boston College Legal Services LAB, a community legal services office housed within Boston College Law School in Newton. Attorneys from LAB immediately filed papers in court seeking to protect Rosa’s custody interests while detained by ICE and following her release, if and when this was to occur.

The Struggle for Asylum

Initially, JF&CS could not help Rosa on the asylum front because her family had already hired an immigration attorney on her behalf. However, after Rosa’s initial hearing, which she lost, the attorney the family had hired was no longer involved in her case.

At this point, Karen Garber made a concerted effort to get Rosa the best legal representation available. Karen reached out to her contacts at Greater Boston Legal Services, a renowned legal services organization, and urged them to take Rosa on as a client. “Karen was such a strong advocate for Rosa,” said Janet Segal. “She was relentless.”

Ultimately, one of the immigration attorneys at Greater Boston Legal Services agreed to represent Rosa. After a hard-fought battle, Rosa received a hearing and was granted asylum in June. Upon her release, Rosa was almost immediately reunited with her children.

While everyone at JF&CS is thrilled that Rosa will be able to stay in Massachusetts, Karen Garber notes that “winning the asylum case is not ‘happily ever after’ — it is the beginning of a new chapter with new challenges to overcome.” As Rosa continues to face life’s obstacles, we are confident that she has the tools she needs to persevere.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Q&A with Gail Schulman

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 13:14:06 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We sat down with Gail Schulman, our new CEO, to learn more about her and what drew her to JF&CS.

Why did you decide to work in human services after working in high-tech for over 20 years?

It sounds corny, but I really want to make a difference in the world. I feel blessed in many ways, and I want to use my talents to improve people’s lives. At the end of the day, there is nothing more important.

What drew you to JF&CS?

JF&CS’s reach is extraordinary—where else can you help babies, older adults, people with disabilities, and those struggling with poverty all under one roof? I especially appreciate the innovation and the heart embedded in the programs. JF&CS isn’t just a social services agency; it’s a place with emotions, relationships, and soul. I do think that heart comes at least partly from JF&CS’s foundation in Jewish values, which are core to my own life. I feel inspired by the agency even at this early stage, and I hope I can inspire others as well.

Which JF&CS program, initiative, or event are you particularly excited about?

My early enthusiasm focused on Family Table and Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® because of my own experiences—as a volunteer for Family Table, and as a recipient of support by a Rubin Visiting Mom. Now that I'm on board, I love that our CHAI Works day and employment program for adults with disabilities is right in our building, reminding us of our mission every day. In fact, every time I encounter a new program, I get a renewed jolt of inspiration.

What are you most looking forward to as CEO?

I'm looking forward to having an impact. JF&CS does life-changing work in so many areas. I’m excited to play a key role to enable that work.

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?

That a key part of leading is creating a forum where people trust each other and will share their ideas openly. Leaders have access to deep knowledge through employees, volunteers, recipients of services and the community, and there's truth in that age-old story that we have two ears and only one mouth for a reason. Our work at JF&CS is to make sure that we constantly listen to the needs of the community, and that our services evolve to meet those needs.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like spending time with my two eighteen-year-olds and my husband. I also like to run. I’m training for a marathon in February, so if you see me hobbling around, you’ll know why my legs are tired.

Recommend a book.

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi.

If you’re interested in getting involved with JF&CS, visit our Volunteering page!

Middle School Students Collect Holiday Candles for JF&CS Family Table

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 10:26:31 GMT

Posted by Joe Wolke

In addition to working as a Distribution Assistant for JF&CS Family Table, Joe Wolke teaches Jewish history and philosophy to middle school students at the Kesher Newton school. Joe’s two jobs dovetailed nicely when students at Kesher Newton launched a project to collect holiday candles for Family Table.

The students in the Kesher Newton afterschool Hebrew program are taught from a very early age that being part of the Jewish community includes taking responsibility for those in need. The school regularly promotes projects that allow students to put this part of their education into practice. This year, the 16 middle school students of Kesher Newton have taken responsibility for leading the school’s Chesed project to provide JF&CS Family Table with Shabbat and Chanukkah candles so that every Jewish client can celebrate these holidays. This project is intended to demonstrate to the students that community needs like this can be met with the help of even the youngest students in the school.

The year-long project was dubbed “Candles for All” (נרות לכולם) by the students. In the project’s first week, the students created a logo, posters, collection boxes for every classroom, and a set of year-long fundraisers to meet their collection objectives. The first set of activities culminated with a bake sale held in conjunction with Kesher’s annual Chanukkah party. Over the two months since the project’s inception, the students of Kesher Newton collected over 100 boxes of Chanukkah candles and, through funds raised and direct contributions of candles, have already been able to provide more than five cases of the Shabbat candles that Family Table distributes as it serves nearly 500 families every month.

Lighting the Way

The Candles for All project is designed to help Family Table in three important ways. The first objective of the project is the collection of as many candles (and the funds to purchase them) as possible for Family Table’s clients. As one of the students put it, “Every dollar we raise to buy candles frees up a dollar they [Family Table] can use to buy food.”

Second, the students have taken responsibility for repackaging the candles in bags of eight (enough for four Shabbatot) to be included in Family Table’s monthly distributions. Students also make Shabbat greeting cards that are included in each package, creating a direct connection between them and the recipients. These hands-on activities give the students a very tangible connection to the project; one they wouldn’t have if they were just raising funds.

The third, and possibly most important, objective of Candles for All is to raise awareness of the work that Family Table does in the Greater Boston area. While many of the Kesher students are already familiar with Family Table because of volunteer efforts with their families or synagogues, the middle school students still felt it was important to go class to class to talk about Family Table and encourage everyone to get involved. In the next few months, Kesher is planning to have representatives from Family Table give more detailed talks about what they do. Kesher has also scheduled talks from former recipients of Family Table so the students can get a better understanding of the vital role that Family Table plays in the community.

Looking Ahead

While everyone at Kesher is pleased with the success of Candles for All, they are not stopping here. The project will be a year-long effort with additional fundraisers and educational programs to come. Through projects like this, the students at Kesher Newton learn that the need to help others in their community never goes away. We should applaud their commitment to Chesed projects (acts of human kindness) as an ongoing part of their everyday lives.

Are you interested in supporting our food pantry? Learn how you can fundraise for Family Table!

Meet Mary Curlew, Community Education and Training Specialist

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 13:53:37 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is pleased to introduce Mary Curlew, LICSW, our new Community Education and Training Specialist. In this role, Mary develops and delivers compelling presentations and trainings on mental health issues that impact older adults. Ranging in topics from social bullying, suicide prevention, brain health, and aging with optimism, these workshops are delivered in the community to older adults and professionals who work with older adults.

Mary is excited to join the JF&CS team, sharing that she has long admired the agency’s work and reputation. “When I was in my early 20s, I met an outreach worker from JF&CS through my work at a homeless shelter,” said Mary. “I remember being impressed by both her depth of knowledge and compassion.” Mary later worked with Peggy Kaufman, the director of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^®, through Postpartum Support International and was “again, amazed by her depth of compassion and knowledge.” Mary went on to say, “Working with Kathy Burnes and the rest of the team in Services for Older Adults confirms the wonderful impression I had of JF&CS.”

Two Decades in Behavioral Health

Prior to joining JF&CS, Mary spent 20 years working in the behavioral health field, primarily in outpatient care. Her clinical experience has “progressed through the lifespan,” as she initially worked with preschool and elementary-aged children before focusing on adolescents, then adults, and finally, older adults. Mary especially enjoyed working with groups through behavioral therapies that had a teaching component and providing training, consultation, and supervision to her interdisciplinary colleagues, such as primary care physicians, doulas, nurses, and other direct care workers.

“I loved providing group therapy, education, and training not only to clients but to service providers as well,” said Mary. “So, the position of Community Education and Training Specialist at JF&CS seemed like the perfect opportunity to do that full time.”

A Great Start at JF&CS

Only a little more than four months into her new job, Mary is out in the community, leading workshops on subject matter that is important to her, both personally and professionally. “I am finding that service providers are very appreciative of the knowledge and insight that our program provides,” said Mary. “Each training is informed by my clinical experience and the wealth of information here at JF&CS.”

Mary is also developing new workshops that draw on her background in trauma and behavioral health. “I am looking to provide training for service providers in assisting trauma survivors with emotional regulation and recovery,” explained Mary. “I feel very strongly that lived experience, and the current internal and external resources people have to deal with distress, need to be more of a focus in behavioral healthcare.” Additionally, Mary sees a need for more general health and wellness training to improve the overall behavioral health of older adults.

As she plans ambitious new education initiatives, Mary feels fortunate to have support from her colleagues at JF&CS. “Everyone has been so welcoming and helpful,” said Mary. “It is wonderful to be part of such a caring and effective team.”

If you are interested in learning more about organizing a workshop with Mary, visit our Aging and Mental Health Training page.

Jewish Clergy Lift Voices to Support Domestic Abuse Survivors

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 09:41:00 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer, Director of JF&CS Journey to Safety

At JF&CS Journey to Safety, we imagine a society that sees, believes, and supports survivors of domestic abuse. We have a unique role to ensure that this scourge is visible through a Jewish lens in the Jewish community. Journey to Safety provides services to all abuse survivors who reach out to us for help, while providing culturally and religiously sensitive services for Jewish and Russian-speaking survivors. As we have seen firsthand, when clergy speak out against domestic abuse, it makes a world of difference in the Jewish community. This year, we are proud to announce that 118 rabbis and cantors from different Jewish denominations in Massachusetts took a stand against domestic abuse. Please take a few minutes to learn about our efforts and what you can do to help!

As part of our Many Voices, One Message campaign, Jewish clergy added their names to the following statement: “We join together in saying we will not tolerate domestic abuse in the Jewish community.” The statement appeared in the Jewish Journal and Jewish Advocate and will be featured in the Jewish Ledger in January. The campaign is a joint effort of the Jewish Domestic Violence Coalition, JF&CS Journey to Safety, and Safe Havens Interfaith Partnership Against Domestic Violence.

Tied to Jewish Tradition

Each year, we publish the Many Voices, One Message campaign close to Chanukkah. We chose this time of year specifically to connect Chanukkah’s brightly lit menorahs with the campaign’s goal of bringing light and hope to dark spaces and connecting with survivors of abuse, who are often isolated and alone.

This year’s initiative took on an extra dimension of meaning as well. In Jewish tradition, the number 18 represents life. It seems especially fitting that the campaign was endorsed by exactly 118 rabbis and cantors, underscoring the idea that everyone should be free to live their lives safely and without fear that their spouse or partner will deliberately harm them physically, emotionally, financially, sexually, or spiritually.

Spreading the Message

With this year’s statement finalized, the real work is just beginning. Our goal is for Jewish survivors of domestic abuse around the state to see this statement, feel less invisible, hear the message that people in their community – including so many Jewish clergy – support them, and then hopefully reach out for help. Please help us circulate this statement by liking and sharing it on social media; printing and hanging it in Jewish spaces; and finding other ways to publicize it in newsletters, bulletins, and other print communications.

Finally, we know that we were not able to reach every Jewish clergy member in Massachusetts. If you know a clergy member who signed this statement, please thank them for their support. If you know a rabbi or cantor whose name does not appear this year, please ask them to look for the invitation to sign on to the 2020 initiative next fall.

Many thanks to all the rabbis and cantors who signed on to this year’s campaign and to all of you for helping us circulate and promote this important outreach initiative. We wish everyone a happy, healthy new year!

Additional thanks to New Jersey’s Project S.A.R.A.H., which gave us permission to adapt their campaign for use in Massachusetts and to The Miriam Fund, which provided funding for this campaign during its inaugural year.

"It's Time to Leave an Impact Through Giving"

Thu, 26 Dec 2019 09:10:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

For Barbara Wasserman and Andrew Pearlstein, philanthropy felt like the missing link needed to complete their family. "We had a realization years ago that we had worked hard and raised our family, but the one thing we hadn't done enough of was give back," said Andrew. "We've really stepped up our involvement, commitment, and philanthropy the past six years."

With three grown children, Barbara and Andrew found themselves with more time to dedicate to causes they feel passionate about. Barbara and Andrew were first introduced to JF&CS through friends who recognized how their skills could benefit the agency. Barbara served on committees, attended our annual Women’s Breakfast fundraiser, and volunteered to provide supervision to graduate students working towards their social work license at JF&CS. Andrew served on multiple committees and was eventually nominated to the Board of Directors. Now, Andrew is president-elect of the Board.

After getting involved and seeing first-hand what JF&CS accomplishes, they felt a connection to the agency that inspired them to make a legacy gift. They saw just how many services JF&CS provides that can help individuals and families throughout their lifetime. “There are so many needs that JF&CS addresses. When you work with the agency, you have the opportunity to make a direct impact,” shared Barbara.

By naming JF&CS as a beneficiary of their Donor Advised Fund, Barbara and Andrew further strengthened their commitment to JF&CS by making a contribution that will allow us to continue building a foundation of well-being and resilience in the future. “By making a planned gift, we’re making a statement that says the work JF&CS does matters and we’d like it to be available to all in the community,” said Andrew. “Once one becomes connected to an organization, the philanthropy follows naturally. JF&CS makes you want to take part in volunteering as well as giving back.”

Barbara and Andrew consider philanthropy to be part of their Jewish values. “Growing up, it felt like it was an obligation to be philanthropic, but it goes further than that today,” said Andrew. “We want to be a model for our kids. They’re growing up and making their own decisions. It’s not about whether or not they want to give back, it’s about how they want to give back,” said Barbara.

Joining the Tree of Life Society is their way of leaving their mark on a cause they care so much about. “At this stage in our lives, we’ve been around long enough to have worked hard and learned a lot, and now it’s time to leave an impact through our giving,” said Barbara.

“Making a planned gift isn’t difficult or high pressure at all. It’s our way of showing our connection to the cause, and it helped that the process was so easy,” said Andrew. By joining the Tree of Life Society, Barbara and Andrew are helping the future of JF&CS and everyone who comes to us in need. “We’re expressing our commitment to JF&CS by making sure that it continues its work and remains a healthy organization going forward,” said Andrew.

If you would like to learn more about the Tree of Life Society, contact Jill Snider at jsnider@jfcsboston.org or 508-208-2341.

A Commitment to Changing Lives

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 16:43:00 GMT

Posted by Carl Zack, Interim CEO of JF&CS

Throughout my tenure as Interim CEO of JF&CS, I have had the opportunity to witness the lengths that staff go to in order to help those in need every day. I recently sat in on a meeting of direct service staff across the agency where they shared current cases and success stories. I was told about clients that entered the agency through different avenues with different needs. In this meeting, I heard about people who had come looking for help in domestic abuse situations, while others needed help applying for and acquiring the benefits to which they’re entitled.

One client I heard about has stayed with me. She and her children fled an abusive relationship two years ago, and she has never received the court-ordered child support owed to her. She was unable to financially care for her children and worried about the holidays, but after turning to JF&CS for help, our staff was able to guide her in getting back on her feet after being left with emotional and physical scars from her abusive relationship.

What impresses me most is how staff establish a support system that will last clients a lifetime. No matter what they come to us for, they leave with all their needs met. We don’t just look at the one issue they walked in with, but a whole variety of other challenges they could be facing. Staff know just the right questions to ask to learn about the whole person and ultimately offer help in ways clients never expected. At JF&CS, we offer a range of services that support families and individuals in all different ways. Whether they need help with food, housing, legal services, or acquiring benefits, our staff go above and beyond to find resources that will build a foundation for resilience and well-being.

I am so grateful that I have been able to witness our mission come to life every day. Our staff set out to make an impact in the community while valuing our Jewish traditions. Supporting the well-being of anyone in our community is what we’re here for, and we strive to provide the services our clients need to move from crisis to stability.

If you’re interested in getting involved with JF&CS, check out our numerous volunteer opportunities.

CHAI Works-South Volunteers at The Pet Pantry

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 10:19:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“There is just something about spending time with animals that puts a smile on your face,” said Heidi Isler, the Manager of JF&CS CHAI Works-South in Canton, MA. “Petting a dog or a cat is so soothing, so healing.” For participants in our community-based day program for adults with disabilities, volunteering with The Pet Pantry has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with new four-legged friends — and their owners.

Helping Pets Stay in Their Home

The Pet Pantry is a nonprofit organization in Brockton that distributes pet food and related items to those in need. Founded in 2009, The Pet Pantry helps families keep their pets in their homes when they are struggling financially. “We have served people who are enduring all kinds of situations,” said Corinne Lawson, president of The Pet Pantry. “We have clients who have undergone major surgeries and are paying off medical bills, single parents or those who are recently divorced, veterans, senior citizens, and people with disabilities.”

Since July of this year, CHAI Works-South has been helping The Pet Pantry with distributions every few weeks. The distribution process begins at The Pet Pantry’s outpost at the Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts, where the CHAI Works team picks up large bags of dog and cat food, cat litter, leashes, toys, and other items. Next, our volunteers take the donated supplies back to the CHAI Works office where they measure, rebag, and relabel the pet food and litter.

“Preparing the pet supplies for distribution is very instructive,” said Heidi. “Our participants learn to work as a team, to clearly communicate with one another, and to take pride in their work.” In addition to prepping the donated items, CHAI Works participants also make their own homemade dog biscuits and toys to distribute to Pet Pantry clients.

Distributing Pet Supplies

After all of the supplies have been rebagged and relabeled, the CHAI Works team heads over to Sullivan Towers, an affordable housing development in Brockton, to distribute the items. “Visiting Sullivan Towers is such a meaningful experience for our participants,” said Heidi. “They really enjoy having the chance to interact directly with the people and animals they are helping.”

During each distribution, the CHAI Works volunteers set up a table with all of the available pet supplies, so residents at the complex can “go shopping” for the items they need. This marketplace-style distribution presents a great opportunity for CHAI Works participants to practice their social skills.

Before volunteer sessions, Heidi and the CHAI Works staff help participants think about appropriate conversation topics and questions. The residents of Sullivan Towers always give our volunteers a very warm reception. In fact, it isn’t uncommon for residents to hang around after they have finished shopping so they can keep chatting with our participants!

A Rewarding Partnership

Of course, a highlight of the volunteer experience is meeting the residents’ pets! During most visits to Sullivan Towers, some of the residents will bring their furry friends to the distribution. “Interacting with the dogs and cats at the apartment complex is a blast for the CHAI Works volunteers,” said Heidi. “Most of our participants don’t have pets at home, so this is a real treat.”

The Pet Pantry is currently working on converting a semi-trailer into a new distribution/storage center and hopes to expand its services to more communities. As The Pet Pantry grows, Heidi hopes that CHAI Works-South can help the organization in new ways. “Partnering with The Pet Pantry has been such a joy for our participants,” said Heidi. “We believe so strongly in their mission, and we can’t wait to see what is next for them.”

JF&CS Day Programming and Employment Services create meaningful and fulfilling opportunities for individuals with disabilities to lead productive and integrated lives in their communities and increase their feelings of self-worth and confidence. For more information, visit us online or call 781-647-5327.

Humans of JF&CS: Deb Shrier

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 09:41:00 GMT

Posted by Deb Shrier

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

I’m part of the Adoption resources team at JF&CS. I conduct home studies with pre-adoptive individuals or couples, give expectant parent counseling, and provide search and reunion work. I began working at JF&CS after Betsy Hochberg, Director of Adoption Resources, and I met at a conference years ago. I was working at a different adoption agency at the time, but our tables were located right next to one another. We talked about our personal and professional link to adoption and the real need for post-adoption services for families. Six months later, our similar thinking on post-adoption services led me to working at JF&CS with Betsy.

The most exciting part about what I do is getting to work with so many different types of clients and hear everyone’s unique story. Listening to these personal reflections informs the way I do my work. I’ve learned a great deal from my clients over the years and I’ve made important changes in my clinical approach. There are so many different aspects to my work that it never gets dull or boring!

I’m so proud of the work done throughout the agency to make a difference in people’s lives. Whatever part of the organization we work in, we’re working towards the same goal. I also love having so many intelligent and knowledgeable colleagues. I know I can always find the answer to any question or find an important resource! JF&CS is truly a very special place to work.

Marjie Sokoll Brings JF&CS Spirited Aging Program to Chicago

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 13:27:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Marjie Sokoll, the Director of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing at JF&CS, recently visited Chicago to offer three interactive presentations on the Spirited Aging program. Launched by Marjie in 2014, the Spirited Aging program supports people of all ages and backgrounds in their search to find meaning, joy, and spirituality in their lives as they grow older. While in Chicago, Marjie spoke at The Selfhelp Home, Temple Emanuel, and Jewish Child and Family Services.

Marjie was invited to Chicago by Debbie Lipsett, a member of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing Advisory Council. Chicago is Debbie’s hometown, and she has developed meaningful connections with the organizations that Marjie spoke to during her trip. “Everyone loved Marjie’s warm, engaging, and empathetic style,” said Debbie. “They would love to see her come back for another visit!”

Debbie and Marjie have known each other for several years, and last November, they were the inspiring guest artists at the JF&CS Memory Café, where they presented on Spirited Aging through Movement and Music.

Along with her colleagues, Barbara Sternfield and Sue Spielman, Marjie has been privileged to have many opportunities to present on Spirited Aging to older adults and aging services providers, and she was excited to bring the program to Chicago.

Combating Ageism

One of the key messages Marjie shared during her presentations in Chicago was the damaging effects of ageism. How serendipitous then, that when she arrived at Logan Airport to fly to Chicago, she saw the pioneering anti-ageism campaign of Boston’s new Age Strong Commission. Large digital photos of older adults ranging in age from 67 to 103 were flashing on the big screen with the tagline, “I’m a lot of things and CRANKY, FRAIL, OVER THE HILL isn’t one of them. I #AgeStrong. How do you?” In a profile about the multimedia campaign, The Boston Globe wrote, “In increasingly woke Boston, some call it [ageism] the last socially acceptable bias.”

While presenting at The Selfhelp Home in Chicago, a continuing care retirement community, Marjie asked attendees to share their age, if they felt comfortable, and to share their thoughts about aging. A 102-year-old woman at the event said, “Age should not be a criteria for describing how a person should be known.” Marjie told her that she couldn’t agree more! In fact, the woman’s comment reminded Marjie of Ashton Applewhite, the writer and activist, who delivered a popular TED Talk titled “Let’s End Ageism.” In her talk, she defines ageism as “discrimination and stereotyping on the basis of age” and explains that “stereotypes are always a mistake, of course, but especially when it comes to age, because the longer we live, the more different from one another we become. ”

The presentation at Temple Emanuel was a Kick-Off Event to start discussions on aging and growing older. It was open to the public, and the room was filled with people of all different backgrounds. The rich discussion involved many topics, including ageism, which research shows can affect well-being. These types of discussions underscore the purpose of the Spirited Aging program and are very helpful when navigating the experience of growing older.

Aging and Resilience

For her final presentation at Jewish Child and Family Services in Chicago, Marjie drew upon the Spirited Aging program she runs for the JF&CS staff in Waltham. “The workplace is ideal for the Spirited Aging program because it is so multigenerational,” said Marjie. “It is wonderful when we can discuss meaningful topics with staff of all ages, and we know from research that bringing different generations together is one of the most effective ways to combat ageism.” Marjie felt inspired being with her Chicago colleagues as they shared their own experiences, personally and professionally.

Marjie ended the presentation by quoting Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, Viktor Frankl, who wrote about his own aging in his autobiography, Recollections. His words highlight the importance of flexibility, resilience, and the continuing need to grow as a human being. “I don’t mind getting old,” wrote Frankl. “As I say, aging doesn’t bother me as long as I have reason to believe that I am also maturing. Perhaps this is still going on, since now I see the flaws in a manuscript I finished two weeks ago.”

For information on all of the JF&CS programs geared toward older adults, visit our Services for Older Adults page.

New This Holiday Season: Fundraise for Family Table

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 10:08:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Just in time for the holidays, Jewish Family & Children’s Service is launching a brand new fundraising initiative! We are excited to announce that supporters of JF&CS can now fundraise on behalf of our Family Table food pantry.

About Family Table

The mission of JF&CS Family Table is to end hunger in the Greater Boston Jewish community while serving people who need our assistance regardless of religious affiliation. We fulfill this mission by providing kosher food, creating a caring Jewish connection, and empowering people to make healthy eating a part of their daily lives.

“Family Table is a program that is wholly dependent on support from the community,” said Bernice Behar, Director of Family Table. “We are so grateful for the food donations we receive from local synagogues and schools and for the thousands of volunteers who pack and deliver groceries to our clients.”

In addition to food donations and volunteers, Family Table also depends on financial contributions to keep our pantries stocked. The launch of our fundraising initiative offers a new way to support Family Table and gives your family and friends the chance to contribute as well.

How Fundraising for Family Table Works

There are three ways to fundraise for Family Table:

Host a fundraising event, like a bake-off, car wash, or garage sale.
Ask for donations in lieu of gifts for a special occasion, like a birthday or a bar mitzvah.
Create a virtual fundraiser to be shared on Facebook or other social media pages.

No matter which type of fundraiser you choose, JF&CS makes the process easy by providing ideas, tips, and custom donation links. All you need to do to get started is to click one of the links above and complete the relevant form.

An anonymous donor is currently matching gifts dollar for dollar, so every donation your fundraiser receives will double in impact!

Holiday Fundraising Ideas

The holiday season is the perfect time for a Family Table fundraiser! Here are just a few seasonally-themed ideas to inspire you:

Throw a holiday party and ask everyone to donate to Family Table instead of bringing gifts for a Yankee Swap.
Sell holiday treats (e.g. sufganiyot, holiday cookies) at your religious institution, school, or community center.
Encourage your children to “donate a gift” to Family Table. This could mean skipping gifts on one night of Chanukkah or forgoing a holiday present in exchange for a donation to Family Table.
Instead of doing a Secret Santa at your office, encourage your coworkers to donate to Family Table.
Start a Facebook fundraiser for Family Table that runs through all eight nights of Chanukkah or between Christmas and New Year’s.

Of course, fundraising for Family Table isn’t limited to December; it’s something you can do all year round. To start planning your fundraiser, visit our Fundraise for Family Table page. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Terri Grogan, Senior Development Officer, at 781-693-5707 or tgrogan@jfcsboston.org.

JF&CS Arthritis Exercise Class is Keeping Older Adults Active

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 09:46:00 GMT

Posted by Hilary Tolan, JF&CS Aging Well at Home Program Manager

On a crisp, sunny day in November, a group of residents at Brookline Housing Authority joined me for an Arthritis Exercise Class. Participation ranged from a couple of younger residents with disabilities to residents who are well into their 80s. The program is one hour a week over eight weeks and is designed for people with arthritis and anyone interested in a gentle approach to exercise. Each participant comes with widely varying degrees of health and fitness ability.

The Arthritis Exercise Class is a perfect fit for Aging Well at Home, which provides a range of services that support the well-being of older adults living in the community. The program focuses on naturally occurring retirement communities (NORCs) where there are high concentrations of older adults, particularly senior housing.

Certified Arthritis Exercise Instruction

A year and a half ago, I had the opportunity to become a certified exercise instructor through the Arthritis Foundation. This involved a six-month course and passing a final exam. I have been a student at many yoga classes and taken tai chi (both of which have informed my current teaching), but leading an exercise class has been a new and exciting experience for me. My background is as an art educator and artist, and I use my teaching background to inform how I design and think about best practices when instructing the class.

The Arthritis Foundation manual has medical information about the many forms of arthritis, exercise and safety tips, and illustrations of exercises that the Arthritis Foundation specifically designed to be used for their program. From the manual, I choose exercises that I feel will flow well, make a suitable progression, and be appropriate for my audience.

Participants in my class can expect an encouraging atmosphere where everyone takes things at their own pace. Some people may need to do most or all of the class while sitting down, which is perfectly fine. I want people to feel at ease and comfortable in my class. This is not a “no-pain, no-gain” type of situation at all! The class is low impact and designed to maintain or improve joint mobility, decrease pain, increase muscle strength, improve energy, and improve overall well-being.

Bringing People Together

A lovely aspect of the Arthritis Exercise Classes is that participants are from all over the world, so each class is a wonderful mix of people and backgrounds. Currently, I have students from Iran, China, Bulgaria, and the United States. Another great element of the class is that a few participants follow me from building to building because they enjoy the class and get the most benefit from continuing it on an ongoing basis. I affectionately refer to them as my exercise “groupies!”

Feedback from participants has been very positive. In a class survey, one participant shared, “I really enjoyed this class. The teacher talked about how to work these exercises into your daily life and discussed safety. She kept the class very non-competitive.” Another participant wrote, “Hilary has a warm and encouraging manner. I found that my overall muscular health improved. Thank you!”

I am so pleased that the Arthritis Exercise Class is helping older adults feel stronger and more positive about their overall health.

For a listing of more workshops and groups offered by JF&CS, visit our Upcoming Events page.

The Power of Music Therapy

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 14:04:40 GMT

Posted by Madison Kronheim

A version of this article was first published in the Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development Newsletter. In addition to working as a music therapist at JF&CS, Madison is also pursuing a master’s degree in special education at BU Wheelock.

For the past year, I have worked as a board-certified music therapist for two JF&CS programs: Kids’ Connection Corner and HALO Swim & Sing. Kids’ Connection Corner is a free program for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) where we focus on building social skills through arts and crafts, outdoor play, and music therapy. HALO Swim & Sing is a respite program for kids and young adults with neurological disabilities where participants receive music therapy services and go swimming in a pool with trained staff.

Building Skills Through Music

Music therapy is the clinical use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals in a therapeutic setting. Research has supported the use of music therapy for those with ASD to assist in speech, motor, academic, and behavioral objectives. For many people with ASD, music therapy can be a successful way to work on flexibility in activities within a structured environment. The benefits of music therapy can include reduced anxiety, enhanced body awareness and coordination, verbalization, increased attention to task, and increased appropriate social behavior. These skills are also accessible for people with neurological disabilities since music has been scientifically proven to activate both sides of the brain at the same time.

During my music therapy sessions, I play instruments or recorded music based on the theme of the week, which usually has to do with seasons, holidays, or other events happening during the year. With the assistance of other staff members, I prompt students to play specific rhythms, sing, dance, and play other games. While the kids are doing these tasks, they are working on fine/gross motor skills, self-regulation, and appropriate social behaviors without even realizing it. This time that we spend together creates a sense of community among the participants and gives them the confidence that they deserve.

Striking the Right Chord

Because life happens, I always have a backup plan in case the mood changes or a lesson is not working. I find it important to match the energy in the room. Through an evidence-based practice called the “iso-principle”, I try to match the energy of the participants and then gradually change the music to where I’d like them to be.

In the end, I want everyone to feel good about themselves, regardless of ability. I am the luckiest person in the world to do what I do and learn from my participants how neurodiversity makes the world a better place.

To learn more about our programs for people with disabilities, visit our CHAI Services page.

Humans of JF&CS: Terri Grogan

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 11:50:00 GMT

Posted by Terri Grogan

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

I'm a Senior Development Officer. I raise funds, but really what I'm doing is building relationships and working with volunteers and donors to foster their engagement with the agency. I get to learn what excites people about the organization and connect them to that area. I love working with donors and volunteers and really finding out what their passion is, and then finding out a way to connect them to what we do.

The thing I like a lot is when I’m working with couples, the ability to engage both with the agency in different ways that most interest them. It’s a unique quality of JF&CS. I have several couples where this is the case, so it’s always exciting to me when that happens, and people can truly find their passion separately. It’s an opportunity I love sharing with people as I meet them, especially couples who are interested in getting involved.

All around, I love what I do. My favorite part is the people, whether it be the staff, the donors, or the volunteers, it’s the people.

Gail Schulman is the New CEO of JF&CS

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 12:11:55 GMT

Posted by Jamie Grossman and Steve Weil

We are excited to announce that the JF&CS Board of Directors voted unanimously to appoint Gail Schulman as the new Chief Executive Officer of Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS). Gail’s appointment follows an eight-month national search.

Gail is currently Chief Operating Officer at Gann Academy, Greater Boston’s independent Jewish High School. There, she is responsible for all of Gann's business functions, including finance, human resources, marketing, facilities, and operations. She also oversees and implements strategic initiatives at the school. Prior to joining Gann in 2016, she spent more than 20 years leading complex businesses in the high-tech sector, serving as CEO and COO for businesses of up to 500 staff and $200+ million in revenue. A passionate volunteer leader, Schulman has served as the board chair of Kesher Newton, led committees focused on youth and education at Temple Reyim, and served as fundraising and recruitment chair at Teen Voices. She graduated summa cum laude from Harvard University. Schulman lives in Newton with her husband and two children.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is a tremendous honor to bring Gail Schulman to JF&CS as our next CEO. As a highly regarded, successful business executive, Gail brings the skills necessary to manage a complex, multi-faceted organization. Gail combines her brilliant, sharp mind and business acumen with a warm heart and deep compassion for the mission of the agency. Her experience managing complex businesses brings a fresh perspective to JF&CS.

Our search firm reached out to many sources, referrals, and prospective candidates. In early July, the team presented candidate resumes to the CEO Search Committee. These candidates represented a variety of for-profit and non-profit sectors, backgrounds in healthcare, Jewish communal organizations, higher education, advocacy, and social service agencies, as well as diversity in gender and cultural background. Candidates were both local and from different parts of the country.

This is a critical and exciting moment in our agency's history. We are fortunate to have Carl Zack as our Interim CEO, who is leading the agency with a firm and steady hand and a heart that cares deeply about every client we serve. Carl is committed to his role until Gail officially joins JF&CS after the new year.

Seeing My Mom Speak at TEDx Waltham

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 09:26:00 GMT

Posted by Rachel Barglow

Rachel Barglow shared what it was like to see her mom, Beth Soltzberg, speak about her experience with the JF&CS Memory Café at TEDx Waltham last month. Rachel is a sophomore at Arlingon High School, and has volunteered at our Memory Café in the past.

When I was six, I made my mom a card wishing her good luck on a work project. I had drawn a little stick figure version of her, and a little stick figure version of me, and words that were egregiously misspelled. Back then, as eager as I was to support her, I still wasn’t really sure what she did for work. I knew she worked with older adults in some form of health care - that was it. Now I’m sixteen and much better at spelling, but I’m also old enough to see the huge difference she’s making in her field and in the lives of those affected by dementia.

She’s been involved with memory cafés for as long as I can remember, and that’s what I tell friends about when they ask what my mother does for work. While growing up, I watched memory cafés be in what feels like a continuous state of expansion. It’s not uncommon for my mom to come home and tell me that a memory café in Brazil or Ireland is now using her toolkit, or she’s flying to some other state to present at a conference. And now, a TED talk? Teachers in school use TED Talks as part of their curriculum and they’ve always existed in some mysterious other dimension. One never knows when or where they were recorded, or how they choose the speakers, or who the audience is. For this reason, I was quite surprised when my mom came home and told us she was applying to speak at TEDx. Was this allowed? Is that a thing people can do?

Turns out, it was, and she got it. Suddenly she had a script to write, and slides to make, and photos to select, and an outfit to choose. For about a month before her talk I heard several renditions of the final presentation and gave my suggestions along with the rest of our friends and family. For two weeks before her talk she walked around our house, tossing a foam ball from hand to hand and reciting her presentation to herself over and over. It was at the forefront of our minds, not only at home or with family, but also while I was with my friends or at school, as I loved (and still love) bragging about it as much as possible.

After a huge amount of work and a smaller amount of stress, the day was here. She did fantastic, of course. I ate a lot of good food and met some incredible people, including a man who rode his motorcycle across the Himalayas, a woman who performed opera like I’ve never heard it before, and a man who could fit a year’s worth of trash in a single bag.

One thing that struck me is the emotional reaction that many audience members had to my mother’s talk. Multiple people came up to her afterwards to tell her their own personal stories about dementia, or ask for advice, or find out how they can volunteer at a memory café. She listened to them, gave thoughtful answers, and handed out her business cards to several people. It really showed me how universal this topic is. A very large portion of our population struggles with dementia, whether the diagnosis is theirs, a family member’s, or a friend’s. My mother’s work truly makes a difference to so many people, and I couldn’t be prouder of her for all the work that she has selflessly put into helping others.

To learn more about the JF&CS Memory Café, visit our Alzheimer's/Related Disorders Family Support page.

Creating Centerpieces for CHAI Champions

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 08:32:10 GMT

Posted by Suzanne Kaitz

Almost one full year ago, after the Red Sox completed their historic championship run and my pumpkins were seeing their last days, I was asked by my dear friend, Laurie Gershkowitz, to join the CHAI Champions Event Committee to support a fundraiser that she and her husband, Paul, are chairing. Laurie gets involved in a myriad of wonderful causes and when she calls, I enthusiastically help in whatever way I can.

Almost all charitable events are put together to raise funds and awareness, but equally important is to give people a sense of community and connectedness with all those that participate in its success. My husband, Steven, and I are privileged that we are able to give to philanthropies that have special meaning to us. JF&CS and its mission to promote independence for people of all abilities touches what has been important to me throughout my life.

As a teacher at Perkins School for the Blind, one of my roles was to teach high school kids vocational skills to help give them an opportunity to work in their respective outside communities. The enthusiasm that each of these young adults showed in equipping themselves with the tools that give them a good shot at meaningful employment was incredible. I know it was a job for me, but the respect, love, and appreciation I received was what happily brought me back for over 20 years.

Part of my commitment to being on the CHAI Champions Event Committee was to work with the JF&CS clients on making the centerpieces for our upcoming event. Every time I get involved with a project where I will work with people with different abilities, I wonder if my skills will, once again, help in connecting with my partners in the project. Whether it be my work at The Massachusetts Association for the Blind, helping residents pick out art and then hanging the masterpieces in their respective group homes, or working with students with brain injuries choreographing their dance routines for their annual gala, my experiences almost always turn out the same – smiles, hugs, and tears of joy: who could ask for anything more.

Each time, though, I always wonder – will I connect, will the outcome be successful? Driving to the JF&CS Waltham office, I once again was a bit nervous. When I met the clients and began our project to design the centerpieces for the event, I immediately embraced the opportunity of collaborating on a collective project with a real purpose and goal. The staff at JF&CS was well prepared and organized in setting up all of my fellow volunteers, as well as the dozens of clients, who all participated individually and collaboratively. Every person had a job to do and took their responsibility seriously. The buzz in the room was palpable with stories, laughter, and pride in their accomplishments.

The outcome, after two different sessions, is collaborative art that will give hundreds of event-goers something to talk about and enjoy. For me, the clients’ curiosity in finding out who I was, the opportunity for each to express themselves in their own creative way, and the feeling that I helped in this project truly made it a good day.

If you’re interested in getting involved with JF&CS, visit our Volunteering page!

7 Steps for Pursuing Domestic Infant Adoption in Massachusetts

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 13:28:00 GMT

Posted by Deb Shrier, LICSW

Around 18,000 infants are adopted in the United States each year. For those seeking to build their family through adoption, there are many steps and choices to make before beginning the process. In honor of National Adoption Month, JF&CS Adoption Resources has put together a guide to seven key steps in the adoption process for Massachusetts residents.

1. Choosing an adoption agency.

Massachusetts is an “agency state” that requires prospective adoptive parents to work with a licensed adoption agency. Agencies will conduct a home study, help you navigate the adoption process, answer your questions along the way, and help you find the right approach to adoption for your family.

Adopting domestically in Massachusetts can be done through a private adoption agency or through the state foster care system. If you choose to work with a private adoption agency, you will need to decide which local agency’s mission and protocol align best with you. Meeting with agency directors or staff and attending their orientations are great ways to get information about the process.

Though much of the adoption process will sound the same, each agency is different and may offer different services. It is important to choose an agency that makes you feel comfortable and supported.

2. Completing an adoption application, training, and home study.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires all prospective adoptive parents to be approved to adopt a child through a comprehensive family assessment called a home study and to complete a minimum of 10 hours of pre-adoption education.

The home study is a written report based on interviews with your social worker along with supporting documents (such as CORIs, medical reports) that you will provide. The home study consists of 3 - 4 meetings with a social worker from the agency that you select. At least two of these meetings must be in your home. Basic safety requirements (such as the presence of working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors) for your home will be reviewed. The home visit has less to do with your physical home and more to do with you and how you live.

The series of questions asked by your social worker will include your family of origin, personal background, how you chose your career, and if partnered, your relationship with your partner or spouse. During the time that you are going through these meetings, you will be collecting supporting documents. The home study reflects your health, stability, criminal background checks, and ability to financially raise a child into adulthood. Additionally, your home study will detail the type of child you hope to adopt, for example, a newborn or elementary school-aged child.

Each prospective parent is required to undergo 10 hours of adoption education, which must be completed before you take custody of your child. Topics for workshops and online trainings will include Transracial Adoption, Openness in Adoption, Baby Care, Medical Issues in Adoption, Identity in Adoption, and more. Your agency may offer in-person trainings for pre-adoption education and/or may have suggestions for online trainings.

3. Creating an adoptive family profile.

Once you have completed the home study, you will create a profile book or online profile. These include text or a letter about your life and a variety of photos. Your profile typically highlights how you live, your interests, hobbies, and extended family/friends. It’s the way an expectant parent will get to know you prior to meeting. Expectant parents will review profiles with the hopes of finding the family they would like for their child.

Just as expectant parents are looking for certain traits in adoptive parents, you will also have certain preferences and expectations for the baby you would like to adopt. A few questions that you will have to answer include:

Are you open to a child of a race different than yours?
Are there certain medical issues that you feel ready for or unprepared for?
What are your thoughts on openness or post-placement contact with birth parents?
Do you have a gender preference?

4. Meeting the expectant mother/father.

In most domestic infant adoptions, birth and adoptive families will meet. If timing and distance allow, you may meet prior to the baby’s birth. An agency social worker will facilitate this contact and will join you in the initial meetings. If phone calls, Skype, or emails are the way you meet, your social worker will help to set those up for you as well. The first contact is an opportunity to establish rapport and begin to get to know one another. Often, additional meetings happen in the hospital after the baby is born.

5. Meeting your child at the hospital.

The chance to meet your child and bond with them in the hospital is typically a memorable time for your new family. Additionally, hospital staff can be extremely helpful in terms of answering your questions and teaching you about the care of your newborn. It is also a time when you can potentially deepen your relationship with the birth parents.

It is important to remember that until the legal documents are signed, the medical decisions are the birth mother’s to make. Every state has different adoption laws that specify when a legal surrender can be signed. In Massachusetts, birth parents cannot sign a legal surrender of their child until the fourth day after birth. The wait for these documents to be signed may be stressful days for birth parents as well as adoptive parents. Your agency will keep you informed on all planning for surrenders and let you know as soon as they are signed.

6. Finalizing your adoption.

Once you bring your child home, you can expect a series of home visits from your adoption social worker. These post-placement visits will allow your social worker to see how you and your baby are adjusting and offer any further support. Your social worker will also write reports highlighting your family’s adjustment and the baby’s developmental progress to submit to the court with the Petition of Adoption. In Massachusetts, adoptions are typically finalized when a child is about 8 or 9 months old. Remember, the adoption process does not end once the adoption is finalized. Adoption is a lifelong journey and adventure, for all of you!

7. Navigating openness with birth parents.

The prevailing trend in adoption is for openness between the birth family and adoptive family. Initially, the relationship may begin with letters, photos, texts, or visits. For the birth parents, this will allow them to see their child’s progress and adjustment. It is also to reassure them that they made a healthy decision for the child. While the idea of contact may seem like a daunting thought, the reality is that “openness” looks different in every situation. The range of contact may be letters and pictures facilitated through the agency or it may be ongoing visits during the year. This is an area that you will explore with your social worker during the home study process. The specifics of a plan typically will be decided between the birth parent(s) and adoptive parent(s) with assistance from your social worker/agency.

If you’re interested in learning more about adoption, get in touch with an Adoption Resources counselor by filling out our contact form.

Celebrating Our CHAI Champions

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 14:21:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

On November 3, 370 people gathered at the Westin Waltham to celebrate our five CHAI Champions who are extraordinary advocates for people with disabilities.

Our Champions have all made a positive impact in their field through their support of promoting community, housing, access, and independence (CHAI) for all. This year’s CHAI Champions include:

· Jeff Karp, the Founder and President of LAZ Parking, who creates an environment that allows employees to reach their personal goals and full potential

· Julie O’Brien, who dedicates her time to helping individuals with disabilities and their families prepare for their transition into adult services

· Mark Kelly, the Director of Special Needs for the Newton Parks and Recreation Department, who builds community connections through increasing access for adults with disabilities

· Sammi Robertson, the President of Bailey’s Team for Autism, who raises essential funds that go towards helping those with autism

· David Rosenberg, a Business Leader in the community, who strives to create a friendly and inclusive work environment for people of all abilities

Together, we raised more than $320,000 to continue building a foundation of well-being and resilience for our clients. The funds raised from this biennial event will go towards supporting those with disabilities, fostering their growth and independence, and giving them opportunities to live full, meaningful lives.

Thank you to our Chairs, Laurie & Paul Gershkowitz, for helping us create an inspiring and memorable evening in support of JF&CS CHAI Services; our guest speaker, Donna Roman, for sharing her experience as a client; our Champions for all that they do in the community; and the CHAI event committee for their hard work and dedication.

Finally, we would like to thank our sponsors, ticket buyers, and long-time and new friends for their generosity in supporting the critical work of CHAI Services.

Below, you can view photos from the event of our clients, staff, and attendees.

JF&CS Offers Stress Management Workshop for Older Adults on the North Shore

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 10:17:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“We are living in a stressed-out society,” said Kelley Annese, the Program Coordinator for JF&CS Aging Well at Home. “Every age group is experiencing more stress than ever before.”

Annese is something of an expert on stress. For over 10 years, Kelley has taught yoga and meditation to older adults in hospitals and senior centers around the North Shore. “I experienced a lot of anxiety and depression from a very young age,” shared Annese. “I was very fortunate to discover yoga and meditation in my early twenties. These practices have transformed my life, and it has become my mission to teach as many people as I can about the techniques that helped me.”

As part of this mission, Kelley is leading an ongoing Stress Management Workshop for older adults on the North Shore. Held at senior housing sites and the Salem Council on Aging, this free workshop is typically offered as a four-week series of 90-minute classes. After completing the workshop, participants should come away with a better understanding of what causes them to “stress out” and a toolkit of techniques to stop the stress response before it negatively affects them.

Geared Toward Older Adults

Annese’s workshop was designed with older adults in mind because they are a population that is usually overlooked when it comes to stress management. “Some people think that once you are older and have finished raising children and are retired, there is no more stress in your life. The truth is, older adults face stress just like everyone else. And if you weren’t very good at managing stress in your younger years, chances are you won’t be good at it later in life.”

The Stress Management Workshop is a natural fit for JF&CS Aging Well at Home, which offers a suite of services that support the interdependence and wellbeing of older adults living in the community. The program focuses on naturally occurring retirement communities (NORCs) where there are high concentrations of older adults, particularly senior housing.

In her workshop, Kelley educates older adults about what stress is and how it takes a toll on the mind and the body. Participants learn to identify what the main stressors are in their lives and how stress affects them personally. “The workshop sometimes ends up being a bit of a stress support group,” said Annese. “The participants like to share their stories and challenges from time to time.”

Drawing on Yoga, Meditation, and Art

Over the course of the four weeks, participants learn ten of the most effective stress management practices, including various meditation and breathing techniques. In addition to incorporating elements of yoga and meditation, Kelley also makes use of her background as a visual artist.

“I went to college for painting, and later, I made my living as a textile artist in California,” said Annese. “Art is extremely therapeutic, so I thought it was important to bring that element into the program as well.” Participants enjoy engaging in the workshop’s creative activities, which include rock painting and gratitude grids.

For Kelley, leading the workshop has been incredibly gratifying. “It really is rewarding to see a person’s energy shift as they experience the various techniques in the class,” said Annese. “When you can see a person relax and the smile that comes over their face, you know they got it!”

Some participants in the class end up taking the four-week series over and over again because they find it so helpful. “Many people have told me that they never felt so relaxed and at peace until they started attending these classes,” said Kelley.

How to Sign Up for the Workshop

For more information about attending the Stress Management Workshop, please give Kelley Annese a call at 978-564-0773.

For a listing of more workshops and groups offered by JF&CS, visit our Upcoming Events page.

JF&CS Staff Participate in Parkinson’s Foundation “Moving Day”

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 10:51:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

On October 5, 2019, hundreds of people took over Artesani Park in Boston for the annual Moving Day fundraiser for the Parkinson’s Foundation. This inspiring and fun event raised over $156,000, which will be used to improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease and advance research for a cure.

JF&CS was well represented at Moving Day Boston. Anne Muskopf, the Director of our Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program, served on the Event Committee, along with her predecessor at JF&CS, Nancy Mazonson. Anne and Nancy were also joined by Art Sullivan, the instructor of the JF&CS Parkinson’s Dance group, and a handful of participants from our Parkinson’s program.

“The Parkinson’s Foundation has been a great partner for JF&CS,” said Anne Muskopf. “So, we were excited that so many people in the JF&CS family were able to participate in Moving Day.”

A Starring Role for Art Sullivan

As an expert in therapeutic movement and dance, Art Sullivan was the perfect choice to lead the official warm-up at Moving Day. Before the big fundraising walk, which is the centerpiece of the event, Art guided participants in a series of stretches and warm-up exercises. Even Slyde the Fox, the mascot for the New England Revolution, and Blades the Bruin, the mascot for the Boston Bruins, followed along with Art’s routine!

“Leading the kick-off routine was a great honor,” said Art. “To see all the people moving, stretching their limbs, and arching their arms in unison across the sky was a beautiful vision to behold. The participants in the walk are the real inspiration – they push me to create ever more bold routines to get them moving. They keep me motivated to be a better instructor every day.”

After the pre-walk warm-up, Art led dance classes at the event’s Movement Pavilion, which also hosted yoga, Pilates, and tai chi.

Recognizing Nancy Mazonson

Nancy Mazonson has been involved with Moving Day Boston since its inception and was given special recognition for her six years of service at the event. From the stage, a representative from the Parkinson’s Foundation praised Nancy as “an asset to our community.” During her time at JF&CS, Nancy helped launch and grow the Tremble Clefs chorus, Parkinson’s Dance, and the Adult Child, Women’s, and Care Partner support groups.

“Since JF&CS became involved in offering programming to the Parkinson’s community, there has been a growing recognition of the role that support programming can play in improving the lives of families living with PD,” said Nancy. “I was very proud to be recognized for championing this work, which has now become a mainstream component of good PD care.”

In addition to helping plan the event, Nancy also led a team that participated in the Moving Day fundraising walk. Together, the team raised over $600 to support the Parkinson’s Foundation’s initiatives.

“Moving Day is a great celebration of the tenacity of the PD community,” said Nancy. “I look forward to participating in the years to come.”

To learn more about our resources for people living with Parkinson’s disease, visit our Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson's Family Support program page.

CHAI Champions 2019: Recognizing Sammi Robertson

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 11:06:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS.

JF&CS is excited to recognize Sammi Robertson as one of our 2019 CHAI Champions. Sammi is the President of Baily’s Team for Autism, a nonprofit named after her son.

Bailey’s Team raises essential funds that go to helping individuals with autism and their families. Sammi founded Bailey’s Team in 2008 to help fund research, education, and programming for those on the autism spectrum. Since the creation of Bailey’s Team, it has raised over half a million dollars and made the positive impact Sammi had hoped for.

One of the projects Bailey’s Team supports is a training class for first responders called Autism Law Enforcement Education Coalition. This provides public safety and law enforcement personnel the opportunity to have a deeper understanding of the autism spectrum and provides the knowledge they need in order to assess a situation.

Sammi has made a tremendous impact on this community through her efforts to support and raise awareness of individuals with autism. “My son inspires me every day and I’m grateful to the people who work in this field. The work we do is so rewarding. We certainly don’t do it for the recognition, but being recognized helps our cause and inspires others,” said Sammi.

To learn more about the CHAI Champions event, visit our event page.

JF&CS Family Resource Coordinator Testifies in Support of Diaper Pantry Bills

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 10:49:00 GMT

Posted by Ellen Jawitz

As the Family Resource Coordinator at the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^®, I have the privilege of working one-on-one with participant families who need help accessing public benefits, housing, and other resources. While my work is focused on providing these types of direct services, I think it is equally important to tackle the systemic issues that impact low-income families. So, when my colleague Maureen Whitman told me about the new Diaper Benefits Pilot Program bills being considered by the Massachusetts Legislature, I jumped at the chance to testify in support of them.

On July 16, 2019, I spoke in front of the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities. I advocated for House Bill 107 and Senate Bill 65, which would establish a pilot program to give grants to organizations for the purpose of obtaining, storing, and distributing free diapers to low-income families.

The Need for Diapers

When I first started working at CERS six years ago, one of the most frequent requests I received was for help with diapers. For many low-income families, having an adequate supply of diapers is an insurmountable hurdle.

Diapers are expensive, and they are even more expensive for low-income families who don’t have access to big box stores that sell them in large quantities at a discount. Unfortunately, SNAP benefits (known as “food stamps”) can’t be used to purchase diapers. While cloth reusable diapers can be a good way to save money, they aren’t a viable option unless a family has their own washer and dryer. Needless to say, most of the people who can’t afford diapers also can’t afford in-home laundry. Even more importantly, children can’t be sent to day care with cloth diapers, and so parents without an adequate supply of disposable diapers may not be able to return to work or attend school.

When families don’t have enough diapers, parents may try to stretch the time between diaper changes, but this causes tremendous discomfort and puts the baby at risk of serious infection. Faced with this problem, many families buy diapers and fall behind on other bills – including utilities and rent. This can become a major source of stress for parents, who then pass this stress on to their children.

Addressing the Need for Our Clients

At JF&CS, we have worked hard to develop our own in-house diaper supply, so we can improve the health and emotional well-being of the babies and parents we work with. We have been fortunate to partner with Diaper Circle and other local organizations that collect diapers for distribution to families in need. CERS accepts open packages of diapers from local nursery schools and seeks out donations to buy diapers in bulk at a low cost.

When one of our staff shows up at a client’s house with diapers, the effect is remarkable. A parent who has been worrying about changing her baby’s soiled diaper now knows that she doesn’t have to worry about this for another couple of weeks. What a difference this can make for parents and babies!

Expanding Access to Diaper Pantries

Unfortunately, there are only a handful of diaper pantries in Greater Boston, and most of them are only available to residents of specific towns. Some of the pantries actually exclude families who receive cash assistance. Even for those families who are eligible, the pantries are open one day per month for limited hours, and they typically provide only 30 diapers per child, per month. The average baby goes through 6-8 diapers per day, so 30 diapers will last no more than 5 days.

The new bills sponsored by Representative Mindy Domb, Representative William “Smitty” Pignatelli, and Senator Joan Lovely would be a game-changer for low-income families with young children. The legislation would establish a one-year Diaper Benefits Pilot Program that provides money for up to 12 organizations to distribute free diapers. I hope that my testimony before the Joint Committee helped to provide context for lawmakers as they evaluate this important legislation.

Remember Diapers This Giving Tuesday

While the Diaper Benefits Pilot Program bills are still under consideration, there is something you can do to help get more diapers into the hands of low-income parents. This Giving Tuesday (December 3), JF&CS will be raising money to stock our in-house diaper supply. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and stay tuned for the latest updates on our Giving Tuesday fundraiser!

CHAI Champions 2019: Recognizing Mark Kelly

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 11:49:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is excited to recognize Mark Kelly, M.Ed. as one of our 2019 CHAI Champions. At this year’s CHAI Champions event, JF&CS will recognize five individuals who share our mission to care deeply about promoting community, housing, access, and independence (CHAI) for people of all abilities. As the Director of Special Needs for the Newton Parks and Recreation Department, Mark builds community connections through increasing access for adults with disabilities.

Mark is in his 18th year as the Director of Special Needs and currently serves more than three hundred athletes with disabilities. He organizes year-round sports and recreation programs that allow people of all abilities to get active through Newton Parks and Recreation.

Mark was inspired to make therapeutic recreation his career after working at an inclusive day camp for kids with disabilities during his time in college and has since worked tirelessly to create programs that support the lives of adults with disabilities. The rich and meaningful fitness experience that Mark and his colleagues have developed has created a supportive community where families treat other children as their own.

By having a program that is open to people of all abilities, adults with disabilities are given the opportunity to experience the fun and healthy benefits that come with fitness and exercise. Mark’s efforts in creating an inclusive environment has shown how incredible his athletes are.

“I am truly honored to be recognized as a CHAI Champion and I’m inspired by the work that JF&CS does,” Mark said.

To learn more about the CHAI Champions event, visit our event page.

Jill Snider Joins JF&CS

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 10:15:52 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is pleased to announce that Jill Snider has joined the agency as a Senior Philanthropic Advisor. Jill comes to JF&CS with more than 10 years of experience in institutional advancement, including 5 years of leadership and resource development within Greater Boston’s Jewish Community.

Originally from Wellesley, Massachusetts, Jill joins JF&CS after four years at the Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB), the largest hunger-relief organization in New England. GBFB distributes healthy food to individuals and families struggling with food insecurity through a network of agency partners like JF&CS Family Table. Ensuring that children, families, and older adults have access to the nutritious food they need to lead healthy lives is extremely important to Jill. She’s excited that she will be able to work with Family Table and continue raising awareness and funds to support our neighbors in need.

Earlier in her career, Jill worked at the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) and at Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP). She is thrilled to be coming back to her roots and once again donning the hat of Jewish communal professional.

At JF&CS, Jill will be part of the Institutional Advancement team. Her primary role will be raising the charitable dollars needed to support the vital programs of JF&CS. She will also be working with the Tree of Life Society, which recognizes the agency’s legacy donors. Jill is especially passionate about connecting donors’ philanthropic goals with their financial and estate plans and ensuring that JF&CS can continue impacting lives for generations to come.

Jill has a both a master's degree in Public Administration and in Hebrew and Judaic Studies from New York University and a bachelor’s degree in religion from Middlebury College.

Reflections from a Teenage Family Table Volunteer

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 13:55:00 GMT

Posted by Jeremy Lawrence

For over seven years, I have volunteered at JF&CS Family Table. Once a month, my mom and I head out to JF&CS in Waltham to package and deliver groceries. We’re usually assigned three families, so we split up to be efficient with our time. Once we finish packing, we carry the groceries to our car and group them by client to make sure not to mix them up, and then we head into Boston. Family Table always needs volunteers to deliver to the city; it’s a good opportunity for us to see all types of communities.

We talk a lot on the way to Boston, about school and current events. It’s nice to be together. Once we get to our destination, we collect the groceries and head out. Most families live in apartment buildings, and we often deliver to a few clients in one building

Clients are always happy to see us and grateful for our assistance. Often, a client will give me a treat like candy, a cookie, or a piece of fruit that was saved just for me. This small token of appreciation helps me realize the importance of what we’re doing. After we’ve made our deliveries, we get back in the car and we talk about how hard it is to struggle. These experiences are something that I will always remember.

If you would like to volunteer at a Family Table food distribution, please fill out one of our application forms: Waltham Application, North Shore Application, South Area Application. A schedule of upcoming distribution days can be found here.

CHAI Champions 2019: Recognizing David Rosenberg

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 08:17:09 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is excited to recognize David Rosenberg as one of our 2019 CHAI Champions. As a successful business leader, David believes in letting his team members define the culture of their workplace. He has a long history of encouraging a workplace environment where individuals of varied abilities can contribute and play a role in the success of the company.

David was inspired when he was introduced to Transitions to Work, a CJP program that helps adults with disabilities develop job skills. Transitions to Work was his first introduction to this community and he wanted to spread that same inspiration throughout his workplace. He saw first-hand how infectious the motivational attitude of adults with disabilities was, and he decided to make a change and actively include these individuals in his company.

By creating a friendly and inclusive work environment, David has opened the door to people of all abilities to create new experiences and develop skills that will improve their lives. “I was brought up to give back to the community that gave so much to me,” David said.

To learn more about the CHAI Champions event, visit our event page.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month: A Message to Survivors

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 11:25:15 GMT

Posted by Journey to Safety

This year, October begins right between the Jewish holidays of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. These are days when many people in the Jewish community are thinking about what in their lives they might want to change in the coming year.

Usually, at the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the JF&CS Journey to Safety team speaks to the whole community about offering help to abuse survivors and breaking the silence around abuse in the Jewish community. This year, as the Jewish New Year and Domestic Violence Awareness Month arrive almost in the same moment, we are writing instead directly to people who have controlling or abusive partners or ex-partners. If this article doesn’t speak to you, we hope that you will share it widely to help us reach anyone who might need some help or support.

To those of you who are experiencing or have experienced life with a controlling partner or spouse, we are writing to tell you that you are not alone, what has happened to you is not your fault (no one “asks for” or “deserves” abuse), and that help is available.

Please know that we understand that abuse is not only physical and that some very abusive people never use physical violence at all. Abuse is often day in and day out. People we work with tell us stories of being blamed for everything that goes wrong, shamed for who they are and the choices they make, and coerced or forced into things they didn’t want to do. They talk about feeling disrespected and “less than” when with their partner. Some can’t access money or must produce receipts for all expenses. Some must explain or recount the details of every phone call, text, email, and social media post they make or receive. And the stories go on and on.

So, we are writing directly to you today.

We want you to know that…

You are not invisible.
Things can be different.
It's not too late.
You have options.
Journey to Safety and other programs are here for you.

If you contact Journey to Safety (or many other domestic abuse programs)…

We will listen.
We won't judge you or question your decisions.
We won't pressure you to leave or ask you why you have stayed this long.
We will understand that what has happened to you is not your fault.
We will understand that you have made many difficult decisions while trying to be safe and (when applicable) to keep your kids safe. We also know that many of you have either made these decisions secretly or without support from other people in your lives.
We will understand that you cannot prevent your partner from acting abusively toward you, no matter how many changes you have made in your life hoping the abuse will end.
If you want to talk about it, we will share your sadness and anger that someone who promised to love and care for you could treat you this way.
We will see you as someone who might want healing, but not as someone who needs fixing.
We will ask you what you want, and we will be there for you even if you can’t answer that question right away.
We will support you and see your tremendous strength in holding so much together under such difficult circumstances.
We won't pressure you to tell us more than you want to share.
We will see you as a whole and complex person, not only as someone who has experienced abuse.
And again, we will listen.

Finally...

We are free.
We are confidential.
We welcome all survivors and have culturally/religiously-sensitive services for Jewish survivors and services in Russian for survivors from Russian-speaking parts of the world.
We are here.

If you are thinking about giving us a call – either seeking support for yourself or to talk about supporting someone else – we hope you will. If this blog isn’t relevant right now, we hope that you will both share it widely and hold on to it in case you have the opportunity to pass it along to someone who needs help in the future.

From all of us at Journey to Safety, we wish you a sweet, happy, healthy, and peaceful new year.

To reach us, please call 781-647-5327 and ask for Journey to Safety. We are here weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and will return your call within one business day. To find your local domestic abuse program, you can call SafeLink (877-785-2020) in Massachusetts or the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233). In Massachusetts, you can also go to Jane Doe Inc.’s interactive tool to find the service provider(s) in your community.

Holocaust Survivor Celebrates 100th Birthday

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 13:33:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is excited to announce that our friend Ruth recently celebrated a major milestone. On September 19, Ruth, who we know through our Schechter Holocaust Services (SHS) program, turned 100 years old!

To mark the occasion, JF&CS reached out to the Governor’s Office, which provided an official certificate from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts signed by Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. JF&CS also created a beautiful framed piece with a special birthday wish for Ruth.

Both of these gifts were presented to Ruth on her birthday by our own Inna Lyubimova, a Case Manager for SHS. After Inna left, Ruth’s family came over to celebrate the big day with a party.

Long Lives for Survivors

Believe it or not, SHS has had many opportunities to recognize survivors on their 100th birthday. Ruth is the third survivor to turn 100 this year, and another survivor will turn 100 in October. SHS keeps track of the birthdays of all the survivors they encounter and sends them handmade cards each year.

Interestingly, studies have found that Holocaust survivors live longer than their peers. In fact, a study from the American Medical Association publication JAMA found that, on average, survivors live 7.1 years longer than their counterparts who were not in the Holocaust.

Although survivors live longer, they suffer from more cancer, hypertension, and dementia than those who did not experience the trauma of the Holocaust. Nevertheless, in spite of these health problems, survivors have been found to have stronger immune systems and to be more optimistic than the general population. “The thing about survivors is that they don’t give up,” said Lora Tarlin, the Director of SHS. “They have this incredible will to keep moving forward.”

Older Survivors Need More Support

As survivors live into their 80s, 90s, and beyond, they typically require more support in their everyday lives, which can take the form of financial help, food assistance, or home care. Schechter Holocaust Services works to fill these needs for survivors while upholding their dignity and maintaining their social-emotional well-being.

If you would like to help survivors living in your community, SHS offers several ways to get involved. We are always looking for volunteers to drive survivors to medical appointments, assist with grocery shopping, and provide companionship. Volunteers are also welcome to work in our Waltham office or lend a helping hand with our monthly social gatherings for Holocaust survivors, known as Café Hakalah.

To start volunteering with JF&CS, please fill out our Volunteer Registration Form and be sure to check the box for “Holocaust survivors and their families” under Assignment Interests. Donating to JF&CS is also a wonderful way to help survivors. Thank you so much for your support!

CHAI Champions 2019: Recognizing Julie O'Brien

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 10:05:53 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is excited to recognize Julie O’Brien as one of our 2019 CHAI Champions. At this year’s CHAI Champions event, JF&CS will recognize five individuals who share our mission to care deeply about promoting community, housing, access, and independence (CHAI) for people of all abilities. Julie is a Family Support Clinician at Massachusetts General Hospital Lurie Center. There, she helps children and their families prepare for their transition into adult services.

Julie’s inspiration for her career choice came when she met a young boy named Mike. Mike’s persistent and quirky personality convinced Julie that this was the career for her, and she has since worked to support kids just like Mike and their families.

Julie’s family has also been a source of motivation for her work. Two of Julie’s own children are on the autism spectrum, which makes her work feel that much more meaningful. Julie understands the challenges and triumphs that come with raising children who are on the spectrum, and her career as a Family Support Clinician lets her share her experience and knowledge with other families.

She strives to gives individuals and their families access to the resources and knowledge they need to feel the support they deserve. “I love my job and I love what I do every day. I’m part of a team so when I’m recognized individually, I’m humbled. And coming from JF&CS, knowing their history, just makes me so proud. Proud. Thankful. Honored,” Julie said.

To learn more about the CHAI Champions event, visit our event page.

JF&CS is Looking for TeenSafe Peer Leaders

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 11:42:58 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer, Director of Journey to Safety

One in three adolescents in the U.S. is a victim of physical, sexual, emotional, or verbal abuse from a dating partner, a figure that far exceeds rates of other types of youth violence.

It's time to change this startling statistic.

Journey to Safety's TeenSafe program helps teens (as well as parents and adults who work or volunteer with teens) recognize controlling or abusive behaviors in intimate relationships. We are asking for your help in finding our next group of TeenSafe peer leaders.

What Do TeenSafe Peer Leaders Do?

TeenSafe peer leaders are in grades 10 - 12. Peer leaders begin in the fall by learning about healthy and unhealthy behaviors in an intimate relationship and exploring some of the ways an abusive partner might make controlling or coercive behavior sound vulnerable, kind, or loving.

As the peer leaders build their knowledge and skills around recognizing and responding to dating abuse, they also consider ways to raise awareness among their peers. Whether it's designing and implementing workshops or creating flyers and social media posts, they passionately and enthusiastically share the important information they have learned. TeenSafe satisfies many high schools' required community service hours.

As a domestic abuse program serving the Jewish community, we feel urgent in our goal to raise the visibility of this issue in our synagogues, havurot/minyanim, schools, youth groups, social groups, and other Jewish spaces. TeenSafe empowers and educates youth to lead our community in these efforts.

How to Get Involved with TeenSafe

Please help us spread the word by sending this flyer to any teens, parents, advisors, guidance counselors, or educators you think might be interested.

If you are interested in joining TeenSafe, please fill out this application. For more information, contact us at TeenSafe@jfcsboston.org or 781-647-5327.

Meet the Chairs: Laurie and Paul Gershkowitz

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 10:06:04 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We sat down with Laurie and Paul Gershkowitz, our chairs for the CHAI Champions event, to learn more about them and their connection to JF&CS.

Tell us about your involvement with JF&CS.

Our involvement with JF&CS began when our three oldest children were in elementary school! Our family spent time sorting, organizing, and delivering food to families in need. This was our kids’ first introduction to philanthropy and giving back to help others in need.

Our connections to JF&CS continued to grow through the years. Both of us have served on several committees within the organization. Laurie has donated her time on the Women’s Breakfast event committee for many years, and put together backpacks for children in need with CJP Women’s Philanthropy to help them start school feeling good about themselves. She also put together baskets in the winter with items of warmth and comfort for older adults and Holocaust survivors living alone.

Paul has served on the committee to help place JF&CS clients with disabilities into local companies, giving these individuals the ability to build their self-esteem by contributing to society. In addition, being the son of a Holocaust survivor, he has supported programming within the agency, as well as helping survivors and their families. He is especially honored to have been installed as a new Board member this past June.

We have given our time and resources to the agency, but when our fourth child Jake was born with severe special needs, we realized that instead of giving to the agency, the agency was there to support us. Jake was able to take part in recreational programming where he was able to swim, listen to music, and meet new friends. This program provided respite for our family. In addition, the agency has important resources and advocates that work with families to navigate the complexities of how to best help our child. This includes not only social opportunities, but making us aware of the legal and educational pieces involved for Jake as well.

What are you most looking forward to about this year’s CHAI Champions event?

We are most excited about chairing the CHAI event this November. It is our mission to introduce our family, friends, and community to the important work that this organization does. It is also important that we honor individuals and companies outside JF&CS that are making differences with the inclusion of individuals with special needs or mental illness in our community as well. Our committee for the CHAI event has also been invited to take part in volunteer activities within the organization, and several of us volunteered at a Passover Seder for adults with mental illness. In addition, we will be making centerpieces for the event with JF&CS clients with special needs.

To learn more about the CHAI Champions event, visit our event page.

Chaverim Shel Shalom Enjoys Summer BBQ with Hebrew SeniorLife

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 11:23:34 GMT

Posted by Angie Waring, CHAI Services Respite and Recreation Program Manager

With fall fast approaching, our Chaverim Shel Shalom (CSS) group soaked up the last lazy days of summer with a fun BBQ! CSS participants gathered at Center Communities of Brookline to enjoy a gorgeous August evening with residents of Hebrew SeniorLife (HSL). The aroma of (kosher) burgers and hotdogs on the grill, the sound of laughter from the dining area, and the feeling of newfound friendships in the air made this event the perfect summer sendoff.

A Perfect Partnership

Chaverim Shel Shalom is our Jewish social group for adults living with mental health challenges. We were thrilled to partner with Hebrew SeniorLife, which provides housing and health care for older adults, for this awesome event. CSS was introduced to HSL by our very own Chaplin in Residence, Hali Diecidue, who recognized a unique opportunity to foster a connection between two local Jewish organizations.

Hebrew SeniorLife graciously hosted the BBQ at their Center Communities of Brookline location, and Chaverim Shel Shalom provided the food. About 150 guests, both CSS participants and residents of the senior living community, joined together in the newly renovated dining area to share a meal, make new friends, and swap stories and experiences. The residents and staff at Center Communities of Brookline were incredibly kind and welcoming to our group.

Feeling Connected

The BBQ was especially enjoyable for many of our CSS participants because it offered the chance to socialize with peers and make new friends in the Jewish community. Individuals living with mental health challenges often lack invitations to social events and access to religious programming that is welcoming and responsive to their needs. Without access to social, recreational, and educational events with Jewish content, people feel excluded from their community and their own religious heritage.

Chaverim Shel Shalom is dedicated to decreasing this social isolation for people with mental health challenges and creating meaningful connections to Jewish traditions and the Jewish community. We are so grateful to Hebrew SeniorLife for partnering with us to pull off such a special and inclusive event, and we hope that this is the beginning of many future collaborations between our communities!

If you’re interested in attending upcoming events organized by Chaverim Shel Shalom, please email Danielle Lubin, Jewish Life Coordinator, at JewishLife@jfcsboston.org or give her a call at 781-693-5004.

Beth Soltzberg to Speak at TEDx Waltham

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 12:01:48 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS) congratulates Beth Soltzberg on her invitation to speak at TEDx Waltham. Beth will have the opportunity to share her knowledge on the importance of social connection, comfort, and feeling of belonging for those living with dementia. Her talk will take place on Saturday, October 5, at the Boston Biohub.

Beth’s work with older adults is a perfect representation of this years TEDx Waltham theme: going places. Providing opportunities for individuals with dementia and their care partners to make social connections helps counter the isolation that many struggle with.

During Beth’s time as the Director of the JF&CS Alzheimer’s/Related Disorder Family Support Program, she has focused on addressing the needs of people living with cognitive changes by going beyond the health care sector. After learning about the memory café movement that began in Holland, Beth started the JF&CS Memory Café, and then founded the Percolator Memory Café Network. The Percolator serves as a resource for those interested in starting and sustaining memory cafés across the country, allowing members of the group to share their knowledge with others interested in supporting those with dementia.

Memory cafés give those with cognitive changes a resource to move beyond the stigmas and challenges they face. Dementia can often lead to loneliness due to social isolation, but memory cafés present the opportunity to form connections in a welcoming and supportive environment. When Beth launched the JF&CS Memory Café, there was only one other café in Massachusetts. Now, Massachusetts is leading the movement with 111 memory cafés in four languages thanks to Beth and the Percolator Memory Café Network.

For more information about the JF&CS Memory Café, visit our Alzheimer's/Related Disorders Family Support page.

CHAI Champions 2019: Recognizing Jeffrey Karp

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 13:22:46 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is excited to recognize Jeffrey Karp as one of our 2019 CHAI Champions. At this year’s CHAI Champions event, JF&CS will recognize five individuals who share our mission to care deeply about promoting community, housing, access, and independence (CHAI) for people of all abilities. As President and Founder of LAZ Parking, Jeff believes it’s important to invest in his team and their priorities by bringing humanity to his business.

Jeff strives to build a culture that celebrates the human spirit and gives every team member the opportunity to reach their personal goals and potential. By creating an inclusive environment for adults with disabilities, Jeff gives people of all abilities the opportunity to participate in a supportive workplace. He strives to make every employee feel like they can bring their passions to leadership.

His company, LAZ Parking, has become a consistent and generous supporter of the Special Olympics through their donations and support. Jeff is grateful for the opportunities he’s had and strives to create those same opportunities for others. His focus on helping people has created an inclusive environment for all employees.

“I am grateful beyond means that we are all living our mission of creating opportunities for our employees and value for our clients,” Jeff said.

LAZ Parking is a strong supporter of the disability community and a place where passionate and devoted staff share the same commitment to individuals of all abilities.

To learn more about the CHAI Champions event, visit our event page.

JF&CS Tremble Clefs Meet for “Summer Sings”

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 10:23:39 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Although the JF&CS Tremble Clefs are officially on summer break, that didn’t stop some of the group’s members from making music together! On June 24 and August 5, members of our choral group for people with Parkinson’s disease met for two informal sessions, dubbed “Summer Sings.” Held in members’ homes, these meetings were a great opportunity for friends to catch up during the Tremble Clefs’ summer hiatus.

Putting the Band Back Together

“We missed getting together each week,” said Marilyn Neault, who has been singing with the Tremble Clefs for two years. Neault hosted the first Summer Sing at her home after Jane Knuttunen, another group member, proposed the innovative idea.

“I had been thinking about doing something like this for years,” said Knuttunen. “When the Tremble Clefs are on summer break for three months, we miss singing together and keeping our voices strong. So, this summer, I started talking with other people in the group to see if they would be interested in getting together.”

Around 16 people came to the Summer Sing in June, which included group members, their spouses, and volunteers. “There are five volunteers from the Cambridge Community Chorus who sing with us and keep us on pitch,” explained Neault. “All five of them came to the first Summer Sing...it was incredibly kind of them.”

During their typical rehearsals, the Tremble Clefs are conducted by their musical director, Marilyn Okonow, and accompanied by live piano music, provided by Joe Reid. Since Okonow and Reid couldn’t make it to the Summer Sing, attendees made use of prerecorded music and read song lyrics from Neault’s TV screen.

“It was more of a sing-along,” recalls Neault. “It wasn’t as disciplined as our normal sessions.” The looser agenda of the Summer Sings prompted some toe tapping, hand clapping, spontaneous harmonization, and generally "hamming it up," as Neault puts it.

In addition to oldies and show tunes, the group sang Greg Rice's original song "It's Up to Us," which was performed by the Boston Civic Symphony after the Marathon bombing, to honor the victims of recent mass shootings. The group also tried out a new song Neault is working on called "Pirouette," and helped her by offering some suggestions after giving it a spin. After one of the sessions, Karen Sauer, a professional singer-songwriter, treated the group to a few of her songs.

Maintaining the Community Connection

The two Summer Sings filled a void for many Tremble Clefs members. While singing has been linked with therapeutic benefits for those living with Parkinson’s disease, the social aspect of the choral group is just as significant. “It is so important to be with other people with Parkinson’s and do something together,” said Marilyn Neault.

While the Tremble Clefs usually meet at a church in Newton, members enjoyed visiting each other’s homes for the Summer Sings. Speaking about the August gathering, which was held at Greg Rice’s home, Neault noted, “It was nice to visit the house of someone else with Parkinson’s to see all the creative ways he had adapted his home.”

Although the Summer Sings were hugely successful, group members are looking forward to the return of regular Tremble Clefs rehearsals on September 9, 2019. “The Summer Sings really made us appreciate our professional musical director and accompanist,” said Neault. “They are terrific!”

JF&CS provides arts-based therapeutic activities, education, resources, and a supportive community for people with Parkinson’s disease and their families. For more information about all of the services we offer, visit our Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support page.

There's More to Dance Than Just Dancing

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 15:11:54 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Decades ago, individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease were often told to take it easy. They heard, “Don’t push your body, just sit down and don’t try to get active anymore.” But if you ask Art Sullivan, instructor of the JF&CS Parkinson’s Dance group, he won’t hesitate to tell you that “sitting is the new smoking.”

Art was a professional dancer for years, teaching a variety of dance groups designed to enhance the physical benefits of dancing, ranging from therapeutic dancing for cancer patients to dancing for memory disorder. In 2010, he had the opportunity to lead the JF&CS Parkinson’s Dance group for the first time and he’s been choreographing PD-friendly, therapeutic dances ever since. Art uses his years of experience to create dances that stretch and test the muscles often focused on in physical therapy, but he puts these movements to a broad range of music that makes each class different and fun.

A few years ago, Art saw Michelle Obama appear on the Ellen show performing her dance to Uptown Funk. Art accepted her challenge to get up and get active and applied it to the Parkinson’s Dance group. He pared down the elements of her original choreography and taught his class how to dance to the energetic and fun song.

“I think the general population has a complete misconception of what Parkinson’s is. People think of Parkinson’s and they think of that uncontrollable tremor, and that’s all they think of, and there’s so much more to it,” Art said. Art aims to get people active. He believes the worst response you could have to a Parkinson’s diagnosis is to become inactive due to the disease. “We’ve taken videos of people coming into dance class and leaving and then we show it to them, and it’s amazing how they come in dragging their feet, shoulders hunched over, and when they leave their heads are up, their shoulders are back, and their feet are coming off the floor.”

In October, Art will be attending an international dance instructors’ convention to teach others PD-designed dances. By sharing his choreography with a larger community, Art is hoping to spread not only the positive health benefits of dance for Parkinson’s, but also the positive social benefits. “By coming to the dance classes, all of the participants have made new friends and they’re countering their social isolation. They’re getting out and circulating again, which is further improving their health,” Art said. People who attend these classes are making connections that carry over to other activities, whether it’s attending Shakespeare on the Common together or meeting up for coffee.

Art is always thinking up new ideas for the Parkinson’s Dance group. From the choreography, to the songs, to new ways of getting their family involved, Art is rarely taking a break from his PD-designed dances. And as he puts it, “I have the best job in the world, and I have a blast.”

For more information about our Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson's Family Support program, visit us online.

JF&CS Launches Memory Café Toolkit 2.0

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 09:58:48 GMT

Posted by Beth Soltzberg

JF&CS is excited to announce that our Percolator Memory Café Network just released an updated version of our Memory Café Toolkit! Memory cafés are welcoming social gatherings for people who are living with dementia and for the people who care about them. Our Memory Café Toolkit provides step-by-step instructions to help organizations launch and sustain their very own memory café.

Promoting Inclusiveness

The original Memory Café Toolkit, which was released in 2016, has been downloaded by over 700 individuals across Massachusetts, the U.S., and in several other countries. The new Toolkit adds a section about inclusiveness. It provides examples of what various Massachusetts cafés are doing to serve café guests with specific needs, such as guests with younger onset dementia, as well as guests with hearing loss or intellectual/developmental disabilities. It also discusses ways to make cafés inclusive and welcoming for people of varied linguistic/cultural backgrounds and LGTBQIA+ guests.

The new Memory Café Toolkit can be downloaded free of charge in English and in Spanish.

History of Massachusetts Memory Cafés

The memory café movement began in Holland in 1997 and has since spread all around the world. However, when JF&CS started its monthly memory café in 2014, it was only the second one in Massachusetts. Our guests wanted more – more locations and more meeting dates. So, JF&CS launched the Percolator Memory Café Network to help other organizations start their own memory café. There are now over 110 cafés in Massachusetts, in four languages – and counting!

Building Community

Memory cafés are good medicine for social isolation, one of the problems that often comes along with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. The symptoms of dementia may make it hard for people to manage the activities they used to do, and stigma and lack of awareness may cause friends to turn away. Memory cafés bring people together. Here is what some of our guests have said about the JF&CS Memory Café:

“I’ve made so many friends here. This is what we need – a place where we’re treated like everybody else.”
“Starting the day at the memory café just puts my husband in good spirits that carry through the day.”
“It gives me an anchor to my week – a reason to get out of the house!”
“It gives me a feeling of home.”

JF&CS is so proud to provide this feeling of home here in Waltham, and to help organizations around the U.S. and the world to do this for people in their community!

To find a memory café near you, check out our Directory of Memory Cafés in Massachusetts.

CHAI Works-Waltham Volunteers at MetroWest Jewish Day School

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 13:30:18 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Last school year, participants in CHAI Works-Waltham, our community-based day program for adults with disabilities, started volunteering at MetroWest Jewish Day School (MWJDS) in Framingham.

The exciting partnership between JF&CS and MWJDS began through word of mouth. The staff at Maimonides School, another CHAI Works volunteer site, spoke highly of the support provided by the CHAI Works participants and staff and shared their experience with their friends at MWJDS, who then invited us to help them with their volunteer needs as well.

At MWJDS, CHAI Works participants prepare lunch for early elementary age students and then serve the meal to them. Throughout this process, CHAI Works participants practice skills related to kitchen safety, food prep, hygiene, customer service, and professionalism.

The MWJDS students are always excited to see our participants and give them lots of high fives. The parent volunteers at the school have mentioned on several occasions that the support from CHAI Works volunteers has made the hot lunch process go much more smoothly and has even prompted them to consider serving hot lunch more often. We're so pleased to share our skills with these students, and we can’t wait to return to MWJDS this fall!

JF&CS Day Programming and Employment Services create meaningful and fulfilling opportunities for individuals with disabilities to lead productive and integrated lives in their communities and increase their feelings of self-worth and confidence. For more information, visit us online or call 781-647-5327.

JF&CS Participates in the 8th Annual Ride for Food

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 08:57:44 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is once again participating in this year’s Ride for Food, organized by Three Squares New England. The money raised by the Family Table team will go directly to helping provide fresh fruits, veggies, and other healthy foods to more than 500 families served each month by Family Table.

This will be the sixth year JF&CS is entering the Ride for Food to raise money for those who struggle with food insecurity. Cyclists can choose between ten, twenty-five, and fifty-mile routes. For those who prefer spinning to cycling on the road, there’s an option to participate in a spin class and still raise money for Family Table. This year, we’re looking for a team of thirty-five riders and spinners to help us reach our goal of $40,000.

The cycling routes all start and end in Dedham but will wind through different neighboring towns depending on the route length you choose. The Ride for Food takes place on Sunday, October 6, while spinners can participate in the Spin for Food on Saturday, October 5 at Rev’d in Dedham. The fundraising minimum is $350, but all riders and spinners are encouraged to set a goal of raising at least $1,250 to support Family Table. Participants who achieve that level of fundraising will receive an official 2019 Ride for Food bike jersey. Encouraging friends and family to donate to your ride will bring us another step closer to our team goal.

We also welcome all donations to support one of our riders or spinners. Whether it’s cycling, spinning, donating, or volunteering at the event, there’s a way for everyone to help provide food to those in need.

To learn more about our Ride for Food team

To support the JF&CS Family Table team with a donation

CHAI Works-South Helps Stoughton Seniors Displaced by Fire

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 11:12:18 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“We take care of our neighbors,” said Heidi Isler, the Manager of JF&CS CHAI Works-South in Canton, MA. “It’s as simple as that.” When Heidi found out about the recent fire at a housing complex for senior citizens in nearby Stoughton, she knew that the participants in our community-based day program for adults with disabilities would want to help.

According to WBZ News, a lightning strike likely sparked the July 18 fire at the Stoughton Housing Authority on Capen Street. Firefighters safely evacuated 53 people from the senior housing complex, but the building suffered extensive damage. “Some of the older adults affected by the fire lost everything,” said Heidi. “We had to do something to show our neighbors that we were thinking of them.”

Bringing Something Beautiful

On Monday, July 22, Heidi and a group of CHAI Works-South participants visited the two hotels where the displaced seniors were staying. The CHAI Works crew arrived with a bounty of colorful flowers that were donated by the Shaw’s supermarket in Cobbs Corner. “We brought flowers because we wanted those affected by the fire to have something beautiful during this difficult time,” explained Heidi. In addition to the lovely flowers, the CHAI Works-South group also donated a variety of board games, so the fire victims would have something to do during their hotel stay.

The guests and staff at the two hotels were surprised and deeply touched by these donations. A staff member at one of the hotels told the CHAI Works participants that they were heroes for their work that day. The participants took great pride in knowing that their volunteering had brightened the days of the people displaced by the fire.

Part of the Community

Heidi is already planning more ways for CHAI Works-South to assist the older adults who lost their homes. CHAI Works participants have created cards for the seniors, and Heidi is in contact with the Stoughton Council on Aging and the Old Colony YMCA as they coordinate their response to the fire. The YMCA is spearheading an effort to collect toiletries for the displaced people, and CHAI Works has volunteered to deliver these items.

“CHAI Works-South wants to help in any way we can,” said Heidi. “We have been talking a lot with our participants about being grateful for what we have and the importance of lending a hand to those in need. CHAI Works is part of this community, and we are here to lift our neighbors up.”

JF&CS Day Programming and Employment Services create meaningful and fulfilling opportunities for individuals with disabilities to lead productive and integrated lives in their communities and increase their feelings of self-worth and confidence. For more information, visit us online or call 781-647-5327.

Steve Weil Receives President's Award

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 19:22:44 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“Steve is the epitome of the word mensch. He has demonstrated this by his many years of selfless devotion to JF&CS, his unwavering commitment to our mission, and the inordinate amount of time and talent he has contributed to the agency,” said Janet Segal, Director of Bet Tzedek Legal Services.

Steven Weil was awarded this year’s Betsy Gross President’s Award in his 22^nd year of collaboration with JF&CS. He began his long history with the agency when he started volunteering in 1997. In 2007, Steve was awarded the Simone Lottor award in recognition of his exceptional volunteer service. Today, Steve is the Vice President of the JF&CS Board of Directors, as well as the chair of the CEO Search Committee.

Meredith Joy, Director of Community Services, described Steve as the kind of person who would always ask, “What can I do to help,” and continue to follow through on his question by helping in any way he could. As an attorney, his advice and counsel are essential to the Bet Tzedek Legal Services program, and he never steps away from the opportunity to take on a project. Steve has not only given his wisdom to JF&CS but has also provided his time and pro-bono services to aid others through his legal representation.

Steve also participates in an array of programs and events to benefit those around him. Steve can frequently be found bringing his family along to Family Table South distributions, where he and his sons pack and deliver groceries for those who lack transportation. Steve is also a yearly participant in the Ride For Food, where he cycles to raise money for the Family Table program.

Steve’s selfless devotion to helping others and expecting nothing in return has led to the honor of receiving the President’s award and contributed greatly to his success as a board member for JF&CS.

If you're interested in getting involved with JF&CS, please visit our Volunteer page.

JF&CS Interim CEO Shares His CERS Story

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 14:31:08 GMT

Posted by Carl Zack

Decades before serving as the Interim CEO of Jewish Family & Children’s Service, Carl Zack witnessed firsthand the transformative power of our programs when his wife became a JF&CS client. Below, you can read Carl’s remarks at the 2019 Women’s Breakfast, our annual fundraiser for the Center for Early Relationship Support^®.

I am honored to be here celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Center for Early Relationship Support^®, as well as CERS Director Peggy H. Kaufman and her many accomplishments. It has not only been a privilege to work alongside Peggy at JF&CS, but my wife Andrea and I treasure the difference she made in our lives. Allow me to tell everyone about it.

Andrea and I were married for 18 months when her parents died within 6 months of each other. She was 33 years old and very close to her mother. She was sad and fearful. Andrea didn’t think she could live without her mother. That’s when JF&CS entered our lives.

Andrea was pregnant with our first daughter when she began attending a JF&CS grief support group. She was not a person who had babysat or dreamed about having a baby. She felt overwhelmed and scared that she wouldn’t know what to do. That is when the group’s facilitator recommended that she speak with Peggy and consider having a volunteer visit with her on a weekly basis.

Providing Support and Strength

After Andrea met Peggy for the first time, I asked her how it went. There was a smile when she reported that Peggy understood what she was going through. She recalled that “talking with Peggy reassured and comforted me. Just like my mother would have done for me. Peggy has given me the strength to believe that I can do this.”

Our daughter Emma was born on May 4, 1992. The volunteer who visited Andrea was a perfect match. Peggy intuitively knew who Andrea needed and made it happen, just as she has done for so many other parents over her distinguished career. The Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program made a challenging time manageable. Getting Andrea and our daughter off to a great start was so important to us as a family.

Four years later, Emma was joined by her little sister, Hannah. Because of Peggy and CERS, Andrea knew what to do when she came along.

Standing here today, I know my family is not unique. I know the tremendous impact of our work, and I am proud to share that under Peggy’s continued leadership, CERS will impact the trajectory of families for generations to come.

To learn more about all of our home and community-based services for parents and infants, visit our Center for Early Relationship Support^® page.

Simone Lottor Award Presented to Jeff Cotton

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 10:12:33 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

This year’s Lottor award was presented to Jeff Cotton, who exemplifies the values and qualities that Simone Lottor’s family wanted to showcase when they created the award in 2001. The idea behind the award was to leave a lasting memory of Simone Lottor and her exceptional volunteer work with JF&CS. Jeff’s dedication to the community made him stand out as a worthy recipient who deserved to be recognized.

Over the past five years, Jeff has been a volunteer with JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services. He dedicates his time to help with various aspects of the program, from tasks around the office to helping clients get to and from appointments.

Jeff takes pride in writing birthday cards to Holocaust survivors. When Jeff had surgery this past year, he was so concerned that the cards would not get written without his help, that he requested them to be dropped off at his house while he recovered. Even when he had to take a month off for surgery, his passion for bettering the community never took a break.

Two years ago, Jeff participated in Ride for the Living in Poland, where people pledged money in support of Jeff riding over sixty miles from Aushwitz to the Jewish Community Center of Krakow. Jeff is also a yearly participant on the JF&CS Ride for Food team, a cycling fundraiser organized by Three Squares New England.

Jeff’s commitment to his community and his willingness to go above and beyond has earned him the honor of receiving the Lottor award in recognition of his exceptional service.

If you're interested in getting involved with JF&CS, please visit our Volunteer page.

Chaverim Shel Shalom Visits Barry’s Village Deli

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 14:00:54 GMT

Posted by Danielle Lubin, CHAI Services Jewish Life Coordinator

It was a beautiful Sunday in June, when 20 of our Chaverim Shel Shalom (CSS) participants met at Barry's Village Deli in Waban, MA. Chaverim Shel Shalom is a Jewish social group for adults with mental health challenges. Our big group was accommodated in the small deli by sitting upstairs, overlooking the rest of the restaurant. We took up the entire upstairs room/section and sat at two large tables reserved for our group.

An Authentic Jewish Deli Experience

Participants paid $5.00 and then were able to order whatever they liked for lunch. Our table was full of traditional Jewish deli fare: Ruebens, corned beef, pastrami, knishes, latkes, pickles, kugel...even pickled tongue! We also enjoyed sipping Dr. Brown's Cherry Soda and Cel-Ray and digging into some tasty rugelach for dessert. The food and the atmosphere sparked a lot of reminiscing about favorite delis of the past, ranging from those in Mattapan and Dorchester to the famous delis of New York.

We couldn't have asked for better service. Our waiters were attentive, patient, and welcoming to our big group. They ran up and down the stairs, bringing us our orders, condiments, and drink refills. We were exhausted just watching them!

Adding New Friends to Our Community

When we first arrived, one of our participants was unable to climb the stairs to our seating area. In a true gesture of friendship and community, another participant (who didn't know the first participant) offered to sit with them and keep them company. Later on, another participant arrived and joined this pair. The three participants didn't know each other at first but left as new friends!

Speaking of new friends, there were several new participants at this event. It was really special to see how those newer participants were made to feel welcomed to the Chaverim Shel Shalom community. “Veteran” CSS members spoke about past and upcoming CSS events and made sure I included the new participants in our next newsletter.

Our lunch at Barry's Village Deli was full of delicious food, friendship, and community — a true reflection of the spirit of Chaverim Shel Shalom!

If you’re interested in attending upcoming events organized by Chaverim Shel Shalom, please email Danielle at JewishLife@jfcsboston.org or give her a call at 781-693-5004.

JF&CS Announces Partnership with BPSI

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 11:05:39 GMT

Posted by Peggy H. Kaufman, CERS Director

The Infant-Parent Training Institute (IPTI) is excited to announce our new partnership between the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® and the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute (BPSI). BPSI provides high-level post-graduate training and education in psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis and sponsors multidisciplinary programs to foster the development of highly specialized, trained, and compassionate practitioners and teachers of psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy in the community, as well as programs of interest and service to the broader community. Through our new community partner relationship, CERS and BPSI intend to build connections between psychoanalysis and other disciplines that support the needs of new parents and their infants and young children.

It is our hope that this partnership will offer enriching opportunities for both organizations, their members and trainees, including:

A “two-way street” in terms of educational/training programs. BPSI trainees and graduate members may want to pursue training in parent-infant work at CERS, and CERS/IPTI trainees may want to pursue psychotherapy training or psychoanalytic training.
A section of Infant Observation offered at BPSI starting in the Fall of 2019. The teaching of Infant Observation (IO) is an integral part of the IPTI Infant Mental Health Fellowship. Infant Observation is taught in relatively few institutes in the United States, and IPTI is the only site in New England offering the course.
Increased visibility of CERS and BPSI programming via the websites of each organization.
Volunteering opportunities for BPSI members across a variety of CERS programs.
Increased opportunities for BPSI members who are interested in research to partner or receive mentoring to look at outcomes of different CERS interventions.

The ties between CERS and BPSI go back to three of BPSI’s founding faculty members, Sarah Birss, Ann Epstein, and the late Judith Arons. Sarah Birss continues to teach IPTI’s Infant Observation course, and Ann Epstein is faculty in the IPTI Fellowship.

We look forward to sharing more opportunities resulting from this partnership in the coming months and years.

To learn more about all of our home and community-based services for parents and infants, visit our Center for Early Relationship Support^® page.

Seventh Graders from Jewish and German Schools Volunteer with JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 13:00:19 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

This spring, Jewish Family & Children’s Service was thrilled to host a very special group of volunteers. Seventh graders from Jewish Community Day School (JCDS) in Watertown and German International School Boston (GISB) visited our Waltham headquarters to make birthday cards for clients of our Schechter Holocaust Services program. The collaboration between the two schools was part of an ongoing partnership between JCDS and GISB that focuses on Holocaust education.

A Unique Partnership

The Holocaust education program between Jewish Community Day School and German International School Boston was first launched in 2017 by Andrea Silton of JCDS and Andreas Weber of GISB. When the two Middle School teachers were put in touch as part of a comparative religion course, they realized that they had a unique opportunity to explore the difficult history between Germans and Jews.

All of the students at JCDS are Jewish, and many of the students who attend GISB are from Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, or have parents with roots in these countries. Silton and Weber wanted to put together a curriculum that would bring together their students, some of whom are the great-grandchildren of Nazis and the great-grandchildren of survivors, to confront the shared legacy of the Holocaust.

Facing History Together

The interschool program between JCDS and GISB is an expertly crafted mix of cultural exchange, wrestling with the past, and applying the lessons of history to the present. Before delving into the more challenging parts of the curriculum, students from the two schools engaged in activities where they could socialize and discuss the ways in which they are similar and the ways they are different. A combined Christmas and Chanukkah celebration was a fun way for students to share their favorite holiday foods, music, and traditions.

“They really do become friends,” said Andrea Silton. “Some of the boys are on the same soccer team, and some of the girls text each other and follow each other on social media. My students are always asking when they will see the kids from GISB again.”

In addition to more lighthearted activities, the shared curriculum does tackle the history of the Holocaust head-on. Students in both schools read and discussed the book An Orange in Winter, which tells the story of the Holocaust through the eyes of a young Jewish boy and his German friend. The middle schoolers were also visited by speakers from Facing History and Ourselves, a Brookline-based non-profit dedicated to educating students about racism, prejudice, and antisemitism.

As part of the Facing History program, students heard from the granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor and a German woman whose grandparents were Nazis. Andreas Weber found it “very impressive to see how the students were listening to the speakers and their personal stories and how they were asking their questions.”

Volunteering for Yom HaShoah

During workshops and meetings, the students at both schools came up with the idea of doing some sort of service project together. Andrea Silton had previously visited JF&CS with a fifth grade class and realized that volunteering with our Schechter Holocaust Services program could be a meaningful way for seventh graders to observe Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day).

Students from JCDS and GISB came to our office in Waltham and created beautiful handmade cards that will be sent to Holocaust survivors on their birthdays. When our Volunteer Services Manager, Ava Harder, explained that these birthday cards may be the only one a survivor receives, the seventh graders were keenly aware of the significance of their artwork. The students took great pride in their cards and added a “made by” credit on the back of each one they carefully crafted.

The middle schoolers also heard from Lora Tarlin, the Director of Schechter Holocaust Services, who spoke about the Yom HaShoah commemoration that had occurred the day before in Boston. The students listened with rapt attention and asked many insightful questions.

Reflecting on his students’ volunteer experience, Andreas Weber noted that visiting JF&CS “was another important keystone” in the interschool curriculum that promotes “confronting the history of the Holocaust, beginning to move forward together, building bridges, and making the world of the future a better place.”

Andrea Silton echoed Weber’s sentiments, saying, “Two groups coming together around Yom HaShoah for something like this is a testament to the fact that we can make the world a better place. Because in 1945...who would have thought?”

If you’re interested in getting involved with Schechter Holocaust Services or one of our other programs, visit our Volunteering page.

Healing Through the Power of Community

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 11:19:20 GMT

Posted by Betsy Johnson

At the 2019 JF&CS Women’s Breakfast, Betsy Johnson gave a heartfelt speech about the long-lasting impact the Center for Early Relationship Support^® has had on her life. You can read the speech below or hear Betsy deliver her remarks in the embedded SoundCloud player.

Well, it’s been 16 years since I was a client of JF&CS. My husband and I left our family and friends in Pennsylvania to move to Massachusetts after he accepted a job transfer. We were hesitant to start a family of our own, as I had some medical issues that we knew would make pregnancy and child rearing difficult for me. In addition, my own mother had experienced a severe post-partum depression and psychosis that had psychologically crippled her and our family, and I was petrified I would have the same response.

So when I learned I was pregnant in October 2000, although I was so excited I told a complete stranger in the elevator on the way home from the doctor’s appointment, I was also frightened. I was mostly scared of not knowing how to be a mom.

Things seemed to be going well however; we planned to tell our families at the holidays when we visited home. Two days before our scheduled trip, with framed photographs of the ultrasound pictures wrapped up as Chanukkah gifts for our family, we went for a routine ultrasound, only to learn that there was no longer a heartbeat. It devastated me.

A midwife suggested I get in contact with JF&CS to learn about their miscarriage support groups. There, I met others who had experienced pregnancy loss, and I found a haven of support. It was a place that felt safe to say the hard things, a place to listen, a place to grieve, and even a place to hope. While involved with the group, I got pregnant again and lost again. Although just as painful, this time I had people who I knew I could talk to. It made a difference.

Finally, in October 2001, we conceived Rebeccah. As you can imagine, the pregnancy was fraught with anxiety. But slowly, ultrasounds continued to be positive, and I’ll fast forward through nine months to tell you that on July 24, 2002, I gave birth to a beautiful and healthy baby girl.

With no family here to support us and no good model for mothering, it was challenging for me. I felt that I lacked the tools, that although I felt more love for Becca than I ever felt possible, I was unsure of her love for me. I felt ill-equipped and utterly isolated, as well as guilty for feeling that way. Since I had experienced a negative model for mothering, I had to figure out how to do it differently - how to redefine it.

Peggy Kaufman and Debbie Whitehill of CERS came to the rescue. In addition to a New Moms group led by a caring and skilled facilitator that met weekly, they also set me up with a Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® volunteer. Jennifer came weekly for an hour or more. We connected immediately. She listened to my fears, she encouraged my efforts, praised my successes, helped me figure out how to fit an infant carrier into a shopping cart (for which I am forever grateful), made me laugh, and helped to start me on a path to start to see myself for what I know I am today - a good mom.

When Becca was 9 months old, she was sitting in her high chair when all of a sudden her eyes rolled up in her head and she became unresponsive. It lasted about a minute. We were terrified. We rushed her to our pediatrician, then a neurologist. In order to rule out seizures, doctors ordered an ambulatory EEG for 72 hours. We were sent home and were told we needed to watch her and press a button every time we saw an episode, at which point the EEG would start recording.

I came home and cried because how could we possibly watch her for 72 hours straight? I was overwhelmed and terrified. My Rubin Visiting Mom, Jennifer, called Peggy and told her what was going on.

By the end of that day, the phone rang. It was Peggy. They had garnered 12 JF&CS volunteers to help. They came in two-hour shifts, for the next 72 hours so we could rest and take a break. I was overwhelmed again, but this time with such immense gratitude. Other agencies certainly offer cookie-cutter support. But this was community support on steroids. It was personal. It was customized. It was unique, and it was timely. She said, “We’ve got this Betsy.” I will never forget this immense kindness. This is who JF&CS is at its core.

I’ve stayed connected with Peggy and Jennifer over the years with cards and holiday cookies and emails and an occasional lunch. But this is the part of the story that feels really important now.

Becca is 16 years old and several years ago was diagnosed with autism type 1 as well as a complex tic disorder, and this year also diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Type 3, a genetic connective tissue disorder. It’s been a very hard journey with lots of highs and lows and a whole lot of fear for her future.

Although she is an accomplished pianist, loves scuba diving and karate, had an amazing conversation with Elizabeth Warren about autism, and is completely obsessed with all things Broadway, she has also had scary lows, school refusal, been a target of bullying, suffers from panic attacks, and has frequent and severe meltdowns. But drawing on my experience with JF&CS, this time, my first instinct was to seek out community again. I spoke to Peggy who gave me information and autism referrals. I’ve connected with yet another community of parents on this journey, and we support each other daily. Some of my dearest friends and supports are in this community.

I have this favorite ceramic cup. It was chipped in a way that made drinking tea impossible. I lamented the crack, as the cup has a great deal of sentimental value to me. I could not bring myself to throw it away. Finally, I took the cup up to the room where I do my writing. I put all my favorite pens in the cup and set it in the sunlight. The crack was still there, but now it is covered with bits of ink and creative process. It was only because of that crack that this mug found its new and beautiful purpose.

Sometimes healing happens when the pieces are glued together and things go on pretty much the same - but now with an important tender place. Sometimes healing happens when the pieces do not go back together in exactly the same way. Something new was discovered, a different way of being in the world that could not have been found without the breaking and mending experience.

You see, we can call something broken and end the sentence. Or we can take what is broken and fashion something that might be improbable, but not at all impossible. We have this power. We always have. We have pulled threads of hope from fabric that was frayed, turned it into a quilt, and called it Jacob’s ladder.

How can we find the courage in life as things break apart around us? You see, I experienced the power of community 16 years ago, and so when we learned of these diagnoses, I knew that part of my healing was to seek out and find community and make something out of the broken pieces. JF&CS taught me that.

JF&CS taught me that however long, short, wide, or deep a true community might be, its impact is timeless. It’s like you throw a stone in a lake and the ripples extend out into forever. So the goal is not to make moments of true community last forever, but to inhabit them as fully as possible for as long as possible, and to carry their legacy with you. The ripples of the services I received from JF&CS, from miscarriage support, to lactation support, to new mom support, and to creative personalized support are still moving outward into forever. And then I think about all JF&CS does for everyone over so many years, and how it multiplies and multiplies out into forever in ways we never imagined at the time.

JF&CS is so many things: a safety net, a haven, a sanctuary, a soft place to land, a supportive network. But really you create community – fostering support, space, resources, and the relationships to nurture this journey wherever it ends up taking us. And I’m so grateful I can say I am part of this community.

To learn more about all of our home and community-based services for parents and infants, visit our Center for Early Relationship Support^® page.

The Art of Resilience: Tikkun Olam Was Everywhere

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 15:07:20 GMT

Posted by Kim Creem

On June 6, 2019, JF&CS hosted the Art of Resilience, a celebration of the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program. Clients, staff, volunteers, and donors gathered to enjoy refreshments and entertainment from the JF&CS Parkinson’s Dancers and Tremble Clefs choral singers. JF&CS Board member Kim Creem attended the event and wrote this beautiful reflection on her experience.

The Art of Resilience was an event that I had always wanted to attend. I had never been able to come, mainly due to conflicts with my family’s weekend activities. However, there was also another nagging issue for me. I would be surrounded for 2 hours with people who suffer from the same disease that my mother was diagnosed with over 25 years ago.

It is interesting to me that, on paper, I can talk about, encourage, and support the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program at JF&CS. However, being there in person is emotionally devastating for me — tearing at my heart and bringing a deep sadness like no other.

Today was the day to challenge myself and face my emotions head-on. The Art of Resilience clearly fit into my schedule, and I was determined to be there and to be fully present.

So Much Good for So Many People

As I drove towards the entrance to JF&CS, I realized that every car in front of me was entering the parking lot as well. I had no idea that this program would be so well-attended. I was pleasantly surprised!

When I entered the room, I saw Marilyn Okonow, volunteer conductor of the Tremble Clefs, and Art Sullivan, instructor for the Parkinson’s Dancers, both skillfully preparing their respective groups. I was excited to see what was in store. Clients entered walking on their own, with a cane, walker, or wheelchair — they were all spirited and excited to perform.

What amazed me the most about the day was all of the mitzvot (good deeds) and all of the tikkun olam (repairing the world) happening in one place! While walking to my seat, I happened to look out the back window to see Bernice Behar with her staff and volunteers unloading a huge truck with goods for Family Table, the JF&CS food pantry. All while we were inside on the second floor celebrating the strength, grit, and resilience of those living with Parkinson’s disease. I felt a chill go through me and said to the staff of JF&CS that I was always amazed by this organization — one that does so much good for so many people all of the time!

Uplifting and Emotional

I swelled up with tears as the performance began. Between Eli playing his guitar and the most articulate and poised speech from Anne Muskopf, Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support Program Director, I knew the morning was time well-spent. As Marilyn conducted her singers, I felt the inspiration, hope, and sense of community that JF&CS brings out in people. I spent 2 hours crying, laughing, singing, and dancing.

The Art of Resilience will be in my calendar for years to come. I encourage those of you who have not attended to make it next year. It is a day that we should be so proud to be associated with JF&CS and an opportunity to marvel in the work that they provide to this community.

If you have questions about Parkinson’s disease or would like more information about our programs, contact Anne Muskopf at amuskopf@jfcsboston.org or 781-647-JFCS (5327).

My Volunteer Experience at the Chaverim Shel Shalom Passover Seder

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 09:58:41 GMT

Posted by Heidi DuBois

Dr. Heidi DuBois submitted this thoughtful reflection on volunteering at the Chaverim Shel Shalom Passover Seder in April. Chaverim Shel Shalom (Friends of Peace) is a social program for Jewish adults with psychiatric challenges that meets monthly.

During Passover 2019, I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Chaverim Shel Shalom Seder. I did not know much about this Seder prior to attending. Although I work with special needs children and teens as a pediatrician, I have little experience working with adults with mental illness. My background has prepared me to be comfortable around people of various ages with physical, intellectual, and psychiatric differences. Therefore, I was surprised to find myself a little apprehensive prior to the Seder.

A Beautiful Seder

My concerns quickly disappeared the moment I met the warm and welcoming staff who were busy setting up for the Seder. I was so impressed with their dedication and commitment to creating a special Seder for the guests. The staff certainly went the extra mile! Every table was beautifully set, complete with a Seder plate, Haggadah, and fresh flowers!

Once the service began, I was reminded of the universality of Jewish tradition which bonded all of us in the room together as a community. The Seder was traditional in many ways, but the Haggadah was modern and relevant, acknowledging the challenges of mental illness for individuals and their families.

A Community of Friends

Throughout the evening, I had the opportunity to meet several of the participants. Some had obvious mental health issues and others less so. Some were eager to share their background and others kept quiet. Almost all expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the Seder. For most, this was the only Seder they would attend.

Many of the participants at my table knew each other from previous events over the years. In a way, I was the “outsider” new to this community of friends. I couldn’t help thinking that aside from gatherings like this Seder, individuals with mental illness feel like “outsiders" in the real world every day. In fact, one of the participants at my table expressed how hard it is to make friends like her.

I left the evening with a full heart, happy to have participated in such a wonderful event. I continue to be impressed by JF&CS and the breadth of services offered to those in need in Greater Boston. I look forward to volunteering at the Chaverim Shel Shalom Seder yearly in the future.

If you’re interested in getting involved with JF&CS, visit our Volunteering page!

Impacting Lives at JF&CS

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 14:44:03 GMT

Posted by Wendy Wilsker, Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement

Webster’s defines “impact” as the action of one object coming forcibly into contact with another, and the effect or influence of one person, thing, or action, on another. When you pause to consider those meanings, it truly defines the work that we do and our goal, not just to improve people’s lives, but to have a long-lasting impact.

I’m proud to share the first issue of our rebranded spring newsletter, Impacting Lives. You will read about the myriad of ways that JF&CS impacts the lives of thousands of people across Eastern and Central Massachusetts.

The Talmud teaches, “Whoever destroys a soul, it is considered as if he destroyed an entire world. And whoever saves a life, it is considered as if he saved an entire world.” Mishnah Sanhedrin 4:9; Babylonian Talmud, Tractate Sanhedrin 37a.

Jewish tradition values every single life. At JF&CS, this means we care deeply about the impact we have on every life we touch. To make a meaningful difference in the lives of clients facing complex problems, we take time to understand their unique needs and tap into all available resources to meet those needs. Every day we save a life, we rejoice as though we have saved the entire world.

I’m profoundly grateful to the thousands of donors and volunteers who give so generously of their time and financial resources to change the lives of our clients. This year, we are proud to recognize the members of our Tree of Life Society, individuals who have included JF&CS in their estate plan. Your legacy ensures that we will be a safety net for generations to come. Each year, more than 2,000 volunteers give their time – some one hour a year, others several hours a week. Your time enhances our ability to support our clients and reminds them that their community is here for them.

For your generosity and caring, my thanks are beyond measure.

Impacting Lives Articles

Support Comes in Many Forms

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:50:43 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“I truly believe that everyone has something in them to give someone,” said Irene Rosenzweig, a founding member of the JF&CS Journey to Self-Empowerment Mentor program.

Irene has been a JTSE Mentor from the beginning, from brainstorming with JF&CS staff to being part of the first group of mentors. The program is a component of Journey to Safety (JTS), the JF&CS response to domestic abuse, which is in part funded by The Victim of Crime Act (VOCA), The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and The Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Within the program, volunteer mentors are matched with a survivor of domestic abuse with economic-related goals and meet with them throughout a period of one academic year to offer inspiration, encouragement, and support.

Reaching Goals and Finding Security

Domestic abuse happens at roughly the same rate in the Jewish community as in the general population, crossing demographics, including geographic, denominational, and cultural lines.

According to Elizabeth Schön Vainer, program director of Journey to Safety, “the role of a mentor is to collaborate with their mentee and champion their goals and support them in their process to reach those goals. Mentors, trained to understand the impact of trauma on survivors, are tasked with targeted work. The mentor helps research and set realistic steps to reach goals and find economic, physical, and emotional security.” In addition to learning about trauma, mentors receive training about domestic abuse, coaching, and clinical supervision in twice monthly group meetings to support each other in this role.

A Natural Mentor

Stepping into the role of mentor was a natural fit for Irene. Irene ran the Sisterhood rummage sale at Temple Isaiah in Lexington — which isn’t your average rummage sale. The sale, according to Irene, serves as not just a fundraiser, but also as a way to distribute much-needed goods to those in need throughout Boston and the surrounding communities.

“We enlisted our Temple’s teens to help research items that people needed,” said Irene of her early connection to JF&CS. “I had the opportunity to connect with the Journey to Safety program by advertising the rummage sale to women in need. We printed postcards that helped women know it would be a safe space.”

“The idea of the program is to really be a support,” shared Irene. “Support can come in many forms. It can come in the form of working towards economic security, but first and foremost, it is being there for someone who is just trying to survive the day-to-day.”

Being in Someone's Corner

Irene calls on her own background when approaching the program and offering mentorship. As the daughter of Holocaust survivors, her parents “raised us in a way after their experiences to always give. They were two remarkable people who always saw the good in people.”

For anyone who is considering volunteering as a mentor, Irene offers the reminder that the program provides training and support for all mentors. Even more so, for Irene, it’s not about the skills you have - but the ability to be in someone’s corner. “It didn’t matter to my mentee if I could help her write a resume or not, that wasn’t the point; for her, the need was confidence and support. It’s a whole team approach that makes the partnership - and the program - successful.”

To learn more about JTS and the Empowerment Mentor Program, visit our Journey to Safety page or contact Elizabeth Schön Vainer at eschonvainer@jfcsboston.org or 781-647-JFCS (5327).

Stronger Than Ever: A Message from Interim JF&CS CEO Carl Zack

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 16:55:03 GMT

Posted by Carl Zack, Interim CEO of JF&CS

During my five-month tenure as Interim CEO of JF&CS, I have had the opportunity to learn first-hand the impact our programs have on transforming the lives of our clients. We help people when they are at their most vulnerable, understanding the challenges our clients face when working within systems that can be difficult to navigate. While the saying is trite, it truly “takes a village” to support the needs of our clients and to make a lasting impact.

Each of you – our donors and volunteers – are a part of this village. In 2018, volunteers donated 24,990 hours of time, ensuring that our clients know they are cared for and supported. Last year, over 5,000 donors contributed more than $6 million to JF&CS. Your generosity has impacted the lives of more than 14,000 individuals and their families.

I’m proud to serve JF&CS during this pivotal time of transition to ensure that our programs and services are delivered at the highest quality possible. I have been incredibly impressed to meet our employees and renew relationships with colleagues I have known for decades. Seeing our goal to improve people’s lives being carried out daily by experts in their field and professionals who care deeply about the clients we serve, I can confidently say that JF&CS is stronger than ever.

If you’re interested in getting involved with JF&CS, check out our numerous volunteer opportunities.

“It’s Just Who We Are”: Jack and Sandy Swartz

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 15:53:56 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

After being involved with JF&CS as volunteers, board members, and donors for the past 25 years, Jack and Sandy Swartz’s membership in the Tree of Life Society is, according to Jack, “an obvious choice.”

With a long-time commitment to the values of JF&CS, being a member of the Tree of Life Society means they can rest easy knowing their support of JF&CS can and will continue for future generations. “It’s a chance to do something meaningful,” shared Jack.

Leaving a Legacy

The JF&CS Tree of Life Society was established to assist individuals and families who have included JF&CS in their estate plans through a bequest, retirement plan, life insurance policy, life-income arrangement, or other legacy gift. The future of JF&CS is ensured through these important commitments.

“The motivation behind designating our funds to JF&CS is because it’s such a long-lasting organization,” said Sandy. “We’ve seen and experienced all the good that the agency does. We’ve watched it grow and it’s just remarkable how many people they’ve touched.”

Contributing to JF&CS at Every Level

Sandy and Jack first became involved with JF&CS through Friendly Visitors, a program that matched Sandy with an elderly individual in need of support. Sandy’s time volunteering grew from companionship, as her volunteer match became a part of their family. “It was a tremendous experience for me; our relationship really shaped who I am today,” shared Sandy.

Sandy and Jack also volunteered at Family Table, the JF&CS food pantry, alongside their son, Tyler. “Instead of just depositing food in bags someplace, we would, as a family, distribute the food,” said Sandy. “It was really an eye-opening experience as well as an important family project.”

Jack is a current board member on the IT, Finance, and Department of Evaluation and Learning committees. Serving on these committees has helped Jack learn more about the many programs at JF&CS and offered the family a deeper appreciation for the breadth and variety of support JF&CS offers the community.

Jack and Sandy are both committed to preserving the Jewish identity of Boston, a value they live through their support of not just JF&CS, but also organizations such as The Vilna Shul. Commenting on the family’s support of JF&CS, Jack stated, “It’s just who we are.”

For further information on the Tree of Life Society, please contact Elizabeth Cahn, Senior Philanthropic Advisor, at ecahn@jfcsboston.org or 978-884-0653.

JF&CS Awarded Grant from Sephardic Home for the Aged Foundation

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 15:16:06 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“Parkinson’s doesn’t just affect one person, it impacts the family – it’s a complete change,” said Janice Stolar, Managing Director for Grants Programs for the Sephardic Home for the Aged Foundation.

“It’s important to support the caretaker - almost as important as supporting the person who is suffering. The work that JF&CS is doing to support the caretaker is important.” Stolar was glad to award a grant to JF&CS, citing the organization’s stellar reputation and the work being done to support the community.

“Our foundation has a very strong commitment to making sure the Jewish elderly live their lives in dignity, with respect, and in as much comfort as they can,” said Stolar. “The Sephardic Home for the Aged is very generational. We were once a wonderful home, and we put our heart and soul into making sure that we were a place you could trust for elder care. Now as we transition into a grant-making organization, we recognize that we’re not the experts in this work. It’s important to us that we support the experts, such as JF&CS. We have a very strong commitment to providing that support, and thus supporting JF&CS.”

Arts-Based Therapeutic Activities

The Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program at JF&CS assists families as they live as fully as possible with the challenges of Parkinson’s disease (PD). For twelve years, JF&CS has been providing arts-based therapeutic activities, education, resources, and a supportive community for people with Parkinson’s, while also supporting and educating caregivers and family members.

Therapeutic art activities include a choral group and a dance group, with more than 45 participants in attendance each week. “We use music and song as part of treatment for symptoms of Parkinson's. What we observe is that people are joyful when they sing together. There’s a growing body of research that shows that group singing promotes resilience and provides coping skills,” said Anne Muskopf, the Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support Program Director. “Dancing can also have a positive impact - some care partners join in as well. It promotes a sense of community and belonging for participants.”

Support Groups

Currently, Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support offers different groups to meet the needs of people with Parkinson’s as well as their care partners. Support groups provide Parkinson’s education, tools for PD self-management, and strategies for caregivers.

These support groups, which include three in Waltham and one on the North Shore, are run by highly skilled social workers. Muskopf credits these program leaders with “their ability to create a space for care partners to open up and express the joys and sorrows of living with Parkinson's and how their relationships have changed. These programs become a lifeline for care partners.”

A Welcoming Community

Stolar also pointed towards the education work being done by JF&CS. “We really believe in education and supporting organizations that are educating and helping around these issues.”

According to Anne Muskopf, “The strength of our programs is in our welcoming environment and the strong sense of community we provide. Any level of participation is welcome; we are able to adapt the programs to fit everyone and we value each person for who they are.”

If you have questions about Parkinson’s or would like more information about our programs, contact Anne Muskopf at amuskopf@jfcsboston.org or 781-647-JFCS (5327).

“My World Was Turned Upside Down”

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 14:30:15 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“My world was turned upside down but in a good way. My colleagues at JF&CS saved my life. It was profound,” says David Grant, Director of Human Resources at JF&CS. David was referring to Your Elder Experts (YEE) at JF&CS, which helps older adults and their families manage crises and also plan for the future.

Although David’s situation was extremely stressful, it was certainly not unique. His 63-year-old mother had a history of dementia and her condition had started to deteriorate rapidly. She lived in Connecticut, close to David’s two brothers, but far from David’s home in Waltham. “It got to the point where it wasn’t safe for her to be alone,” says David. “She also had no financial preparation and she had no savings.”

David had attempted to piece together benefits for his mother but found it nearly impossible to navigate the system, especially since he was in Massachusetts and she was in Connecticut. “I remember saying to my brothers, ‘We need to find the JF&CS equivalent in Connecticut.’”

Asking for Help

David spoke about his mother’s situation with Karen Wasserman, Director of Your Elder Experts. Immediately, she set up an appointment with JF&CS Geriatric Care Manager Joanne Peskowitz and Candy Gould from CJP SeniorDirect.

“I did not have the first clue where to start. I didn’t even know which questions to ask. Together, they extrapolated and pulled out the useful data from my mess. They took that data and turned it into a plan. They literally held my hand and guided me,” adds David. They even connected him with local MassHealth attorneys so that his mom could receive benefits, which had initially been denied due to complications in the application process.

Referring to the help he received from JF&CS, David said, “The part that really stands out for me is that people don’t need to know all the answers. Most people don’t even know which questions to ask. You just need to be able to ask for help. JF&CS will take care of the rest.”

A New Home

The group of experts at JF&CS concluded that David’s mom would be best served by moving into a dementia wing - and one that would be affordable.

By the end of the week, David got a phone call from someone at CJP SeniorDirect who connected him with the staff at Briarwood Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Needham. They had found a place for his mother at Briarwood and she could move in as early as Tuesday.

When they arrived at Briarwood, Joanne Peskowitz was there to greet them and provide assistance. They brought David’s mother in to meet the staff. After meeting them, she exclaimed, “Finally, I can be retired!” David’s mother quickly bonded with the staff.

Now, after a few months, David’s mom is safe, happy, eating well, taking her medications regularly, enjoying all the activities Briarwood has to offer, and hugging David close on his frequent visits.

“I can’t speak highly enough about the JF&CS program and the body of knowledge they have,” David marvels. “I couldn’t have done any of this myself. Karen and Joanne were so professional and remarkable. They listened to me and remained engaged.”

For more information about our care management services, visit the Your Elder Experts website.

12 Years of Commitment to Family Table

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 15:12:22 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Supporting JF&CS and Family Table has been such an integral part of the Bilezikian family makeup for so long that Jeff and Nancy can’t remember the exact date they started supporting the organization. They do know it was back in the early days of Family Table - and that they were impressed with the organization, efficiency, and forward-thinking attitude of the food pantry from day one.

Seeing the Big Picture

“When we started donating, JF&CS was ahead of the curve on the nutrition end of things,” said Jeff Bilezikian, estimating that their first involvement must have been a dozen years ago. “When you provide food to individuals in need, you can give them just about anything - or you can take the time to provide the good stuff, like nutritious complete meals. JF&CS takes the time to educate clients and provide full nutrition.”

Seeing the big picture is important to Jeff and Nancy. They like giving to an organization that is constantly growing and evolving. “There’s no doing something just because it’s how it has always been done,” said Jeff.

For Nancy Bilezikian, educating clients is almost as important as providing a full range of fruits and vegetables. JF&CS doesn’t just hand out food and send families on their way. In fact, Nancy has been involved in demonstrating how to cook healthy foods on a budget. “I really appreciate the health and nutrition aspects of the program,” she said. “It’s important to me when I see the overall respect Family Table has for clients and the emphasis placed on education.”

“From increasing the balance of the food we provide to offering hands-on demonstrations, the support of the Bilezikian family ensures our work continues. They embody the spirit of our work,” said Bernice Behar, Director of Family Table.

Volunteering as a Family

The Bilezikians give in both time and financial support. They’ve volunteered with their daughters packing food at Family Table in the past, “We’re able to give and it’s nice to have a program to feel confident to give in,” said Nancy.

“We feel that giving is a part of living in this world. No matter how much each of us has - we all have something to give to others. A smile, a kind word, a helping hand, and even financial support. G-d has blessed our family and we want to use our resources to bless others. JF&CS is an organization that provides quality services and respect for its clients and reflects our Judeo-Christian values.

“We all have decisions to make regarding how we spend our time and it’s important to us that we show our daughters, albeit imperfectly, that giving of ourselves through volunteering and thinking of others in our day to day lives makes a difference in this world.

“Whatever we do as volunteers is just a little drop in a bucket, but it’s nice to be a part of it. I know that the community has many people who do much more, and we’re happy to be a part of it. It’s a small humbling piece that we get to add to it.”

If you would like to volunteer at a Family Table food distribution, please fill out one of our application forms: Waltham Application, North Shore Application, South Area Application. A schedule of upcoming distribution days can be found here.

Celebrating 30 Years of CERS at the Women’s Breakfast

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 15:50:43 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

On the morning of May 30, 2019, more than 500 women gathered at the Boston Marriott Newton to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Center for Early Relationship Support^® and honor Peggy H. Kaufman for her incredible leadership. Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Together we raised a record-breaking $425,000, including $72,000 raised in the room that will support the Peggy H. Kaufman Endowed Fund. This fund will help us expand the reach of CERS by partnering with early learning centers in Greater Boston and embedding our services in low-income neighborhoods to serve vulnerable families.

JF&CS would like to thank those who helped make this the most successful Women's Breakfast to date: event co-chairs Lauren E. Rubin and Lori Shaer, honorary co-chairs Betsy Cohen, Jessica Myers, and Lorri Owades, the Women's Breakfast event committee, sponsors, ticket buyers, and long-time and new friends. Your generosity continues to make CERS a unique and invaluable program in our community.

Finally, a special thank you to our guest speaker, Betsy Johnson, who shared her own story of connection to JF&CS and how the lessons she learned 16 years ago have stayed with her and continue to help her through difficult situations.

Below, you can watch a video about the founding and evolution of CERS that premiered at the Women’s Breakfast:

To see photos from the event, check out our Facebook album.

CHAI Works-South Volunteers Serve Food and Smiles at Avon’s Council on Aging

Tue, 28 May 2019 11:54:10 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

When Elizabeth, Katherine, and Emily walked in the door at the Council on Aging in Avon, MA, the positive energy was palpable. As the three volunteers made their way through the packed room, they were greeted warmly, in some cases by name, by the older adults in attendance. Before they put on their gloves and got to work serving lunch, the volunteers relished the chance to mingle with the seniors and chat like old friends.

Elizabeth, Katherine, and Emily volunteer at the Council on Aging through CHAI Works-South, a community-based day program for adults with disabilities in Canton offered through Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS). For both CHAI Works participants and Council on Aging attendees, the partnership between the two organizations has been a match made in heaven.

A Natural Partnership

“It was an instant lovefest,” said Heidi Isler, the Manager of CHAI Works-South. “Seniors sometimes feel like they don’t have enough opportunities to socialize with other people. This can also be a concern for adults with disabilities, which is what makes these two populations such a great match.”

Maryann, a guest at the Council on Aging, always enjoys chatting with Emily when she is volunteering. “Emily is very articulate and charming,” she said. “We share a December birthday. [All of the volunteers] are always so eager to help and always smiling.” Jayne Carthas, the Volunteer Coordinator at the Council on Aging, said that the seniors love when the CHAI Works participants serve lunch and regularly ask her when they’ll be visiting next.

The CHAI Works participants also look forward to volunteering. Bri Nichols, a Program Coordinator for CHAI Works who accompanied the volunteers at the Council on Aging, said, “It’s awesome to see their smiles when we’re at a volunteer site. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a frown.”

Building Skills for Paid Employment

While volunteering is obviously socially rewarding for CHAI Works participants, it also provides valuable community-integrated work experience. In addition to volunteering and participating in recreational activities in the community, participants attend life-long learning groups ranging from social skills, job skills, self-advocacy, academic skills, health, and the arts. All of the participants in CHAI Works are at least 22 years old, the age when students with disabilities age out of the public school system.

In some cases, CHAI Works participants are able to use the skills they mastered while volunteering to find paid employment. Emily works four days a week serving food at a school in Newton, and Elizabeth just got hired for an administrative role at Babson College in Wellesley. Elizabeth feels confident about starting her new position, in part because volunteering has given her good experience “interacting with people and helping them.”

“It’s not easy work,” said Heidi Isler, referring to serving food. “Volunteers are sometimes on their feet for 2 ½ hours. They’re working the whole time.” Developing a strong work ethic and the resolve to keep plugging along while on the job was key for Elizabeth. Before securing a position at Babson, Elizabeth worked with Pathways to Employment, a sister program of CHAI Works at JF&CS, to shape the “soft,” or general, work skills she would need for any part-time employment.

John Wills, the Director of Employment Programs, said, “Elizabeth came to us with a lot of great skills. She has an incredible personality - very friendly, very personable. Pathways worked with her to increase stamina and problem-solving skills she needed to succeed in the workforce.”

At Babson, Elizabeth will harness her outgoing personality in a position where she will regularly interact with students and visitors. Elizabeth is eager to begin her new job, saying “I can’t wait...It’s going to be awesome!”

Pride and Appreciation

After the last of the food had been served at the Council on Aging lunch, Jayne, the Volunteer Coordinator, surprised Elizabeth, Katherine, and Emily with bags of candy as special thank you gifts. The CHAI Works volunteers were clearly thrilled to receive the bags, not just because they were filled with treats, but because they were tokens of sincere appreciation from the Council.

“Volunteering gives the participants a sense of pride,” said Bri, the CHAI Works staff member at the Council on Aging lunch. “It’s a way for them to give back. The experience is all about upholding the dignity of the participants.”

Bri’s sentiments were echoed by Maryann, a senior at the lunch. “[The CHAI Works volunteers] are an example of how everyone can help everyone in whatever capacity they’re able. Everyone thinks it has to be big things, but little things are important too.”

Whether it was pouring a cup of coffee or just chatting for a few minutes, the power of “little things” was certainly on full display at the Council on Aging lunch.

JF&CS Day Programming and Employment Services create meaningful and fulfilling opportunities for individuals with disabilities to lead productive and integrated lives in their communities and increase their feelings of self-worth and confidence. For more information, visit us online or call 781-647-5327.

Boston BullPen Project Provides Major League Help to JF&CS Clients

Thu, 23 May 2019 13:41:35 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

This article was adapted from the Boston BullPen April Newsletter.

More than a year ago, JF&CS developed a partnership with Boston BullPen Project, a nonprofit that works to identify and fill urgent needs with financial support. Originally planned to be limited to our Schechter Holocaust Services program, it soon became apparent that there were other areas with high client needs where time is often of the essence. So, our partnership with Boston BullPen Project evolved, and BullPen now provides assistance to clients across our programs.

Lora Tarlin, the Director of Schechter Holocaust Services, explained that there are several criteria that JF&CS considers before making a request for help on behalf of a client. It should be a one-time ask and something that allows and empowers the recipient to move on from a difficult situation, to better themselves, to keep their family together, or to ensure that the problem is solved going forward.

BullPen uses much of the same criteria when considering the request and works quickly to make a decision and facilitate a process of payment or other help. Tarlin said BullPen is a unique funder because the requests are usually answered so quickly — which helps to ease our clients’ anxiety.

Filling a Variety of Needs

In the more than year-long partnership with JF&CS, BullPen has fulfilled requests for help with rent, utilities, essential furniture, DACA renewal, driving lessons, and other expenses.

“I think the idea that BullPen will help to give someone a bed or lessons to drive a car or anything that will better their lives is unique,” said Tarlin. “And not many foundations will help within 4 hours’ time!”

One of our clients who received help from BullPen explained the significance of their assistance:

“My daughter and I have passed through many challenges over the past six years. Every year, our situation improves. Yet, occasionally we encounter a devastating setback. Boston BullPen helped get us get back on track with rent and thereby helped build our landlord's confidence in our ability to pay rent going forward.”

The Chance to Pay it Forward

Every recipient of BullPen’s help also receives a gift card that they can use to “pay it forward” to a friend or family member in need, creating a ripple of philanthropy. Tarlin finds this to be another unique aspect of the partnership.

“The concept of paying it forward is something that empowers our clients,” she said. “It makes them feel good!”

As the partnership between JF&CS and Boston BullPen Project continues to grow, we look forward to facilitating more opportunities for our clients to get the help they need while giving back to others in their community.

Boston BullPen Project recently helped one of our clients after her baby was born prematurely at just 27 weeks. Read Naomi’s story here.

Q&A with Lauren E. Rubin, 2019 Women’s Breakfast Co-Chair

Tue, 21 May 2019 14:14:15 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We sat down with Lauren E. Rubin, one of our co-chairs for the 2019 Women’s Breakfast, to learn more about her and her connection to JF&CS.

1. Tell us about your involvement with JF&CS and CERS.

I knew about JF&CS over 30 years ago because my husband was on the Board. At that time, I was working at Gan Yeladim Day Care Center and met Peggy Kaufman and Marion Ross, who started working with one of the families at Gan Yeladim. This was when I learned about a new program Peggy was launching called “Visiting Moms” that would send experienced mothers into the homes of new mothers to offer support. I thought it sounded like an incredible mitzvah and hoped that after I had become a mom I would be able to volunteer as a visiting mom in the community to support others.

2. Tell us about your family.

My husband Mark and I have been married for 30 years. We moved from Boston after 10 years and have lived in Newton ever since. I have two children, Jake, age 26, and Grace, age 23. Jake lives in Somerville and works as a consultant at a health care analytics firm in Boston. Grace lives in Washington D.C. and is a staff assistant for Congressman Brad Sherman of California.

3. What is your favorite JF&CS memory?

So many great memories of JF&CS over the years. Perhaps one of the best was when the office moved from Newton Center to the beautiful building in Waltham. It was a very exciting time for the agency and for all of the volunteers.

4. What is one piece of parenting advice you’d share with others?

I suppose if I were to choose one piece of parenting advice, it would be to relinquish the idea that you can control things. Often, new parents report feeling like their lives are out of control. They can’t keep up with laundry, work, emails; their baby isn’t napping; their parents are too eager or not available. Trust the unfolding of the experience rather than resist it. Surrender to imperfection. Be a “good enough” parent. Many parents read books, blogs, and advice columns trying to understand and find a sense of control amidst the chaos of raising a child. Learning to let go of the idea that you can control another person or every situation will help ease your mind. You are not alone. Find other parents and share your truth that raising a child is difficult.

5. What is your favorite children’s book?

I loved reading the book Ferdinand with my kids when they were little. He was a calm, peace-loving, unperturbable bull, making him unique among the other bulls. I also loved reading anything by P.D. Eastman and Dr. Seuss because they were pure silliness.

6. What are you most looking forward to about this year’s Women’s Breakfast?

I am looking forward, alongside my wonderful co-chair, Lori Shaer, to celebrating Peggy for her unwavering and innovative support of families and children. It is exciting to have the opportunity to showcase the outstanding work of CERS to our friends in the community.

Join Lauren and many others at this year’s Women’s Breakfast on Thursday, May 30 at the Boston Marriot Newton. Visit our Women’s Breakfast page to learn more.

A Network of Support: Naomi’s Story

Thu, 16 May 2019 12:56:04 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

One of the greatest strengths of JF&CS as a human services agency is our network of interconnected programs. People often come to us for help with one issue and find that we can assist them in a number of far-reaching ways. The client story below is a great example of how our various programs work together to change lives.

Naomi* and her husband were both working full-time to make ends meet. Baby Anna’s early arrival upended their plans.

Born prematurely at just 27 weeks, Anna spent months in the NICU and then remained on oxygen after being discharged. Naomi was unable to return to work, as Anna could not go to daycare because of her medical needs. With the family relying on just one income, they were struggling to pay their modest mortgage.

As part of the JF&CS Oliver, Ian, and Serenity Wolk Fragile Beginnings program, Naomi was already receiving emotional support and parental guidance. The JF&CS staff soon saw the family needed additional lifelines as well.

Keeping Their Home

As an initial step, the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^®family resource coordinator did a complete assessment of the family’s situation. The primary need was to find resources to help pay the mortgage until Anna was well enough to go to daycare and Naomi could return to work.

As part of a larger plan to provide a bridge during this challenging time, CERS staff referred the family to JF&CS Emergency Financial Assistance, the Boston Bullpen Project, and Catholic Charities. All three provided financial assistance, which allowed Naomi and her husband to make three months of mortgage payments and prevent foreclosure.

Back on Their Feet

CERS staff also referred the family to JF&CS Bet Tzedek Legal Services, to assist with an issue that had come up with SSI disability benefits for Baby Anna. In addition, JF&CS staff helped to ensure that the family was getting their full SNAP (food stamps) benefits. With the generous support of community donors, Naomi’s clinician was able to bring diapers and gently used clothing for the baby, which freed up money that could go toward the mortgage.

We are happy to report that Baby Anna’s health continues to improve, and Naomi looks forward to returning to work in the near future.

For an overview of all the programs JF&CS offers, visit our website.

*Client names have been changed to protect their privacy.

Holocaust Survivors Observe Yom HaShoah with JF&CS Café Hakalah

Tue, 14 May 2019 11:54:16 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

One might expect a Yom HaShoah event attended by seventy Holocaust survivors to be a somber gathering. Of course, no one understands the significance of Holocaust Remembrance Day more than the people who lived through the horrors of 1933 - 1945. However, the tone of the Yom HaShoah luncheon, a program of Schechter Holocaust Service's Café Hakalah, earlier this month was far from melancholy. While there were moments of serious reflection and sadness, the overarching spirit of the event was one of resilience and optimism.

Held in a beautiful function room in Congregation Kehillath Israel in Brookline, MA, the Yom HaShoah luncheon was a lively affair. The room buzzed with energy as guests chatted with each other in English, Russian, Yiddish, Hebrew, and even Spanish. As the guests trickled in, they were greeted with hugs and kisses on the cheek by staff members of JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services, including Café Hakalah Brookline Manager, Sue Spielman, who organized the event. Café Hakalah hosts monthly gatherings for survivors, so recurring guests get to know one another and the event organizers.

“We love to see our friends,” said Elizbeth Sosman, one of the guests at the Yom HaShoah luncheon. Her sentiments were echoed by Bert and Helen Katz, who said, “being with Jews and being with others,” were their favorite parts of attending Café Hakalah events.

“A Prayer, a Promise, a Vow”

Once all the guests had arrived, Lora Tarlin, the Director of Schechter Holocaust Services, welcomed everyone to the event and delivered thoughtful remarks about Holocaust Remembrance Day. “The observance of Yom HaShoah,” said Tarlin, “reminds us of the importance of Jewish Peoplehood.”

Reflecting on the recent attack on the synagogue in Poway, California, Tarlin noted that the difference between today and 1940s Europe is “this time we have a close partnership with the local and federal law enforcement...they stand behind us and protect us.” Tarlin’s words were repeated in Russian by a translator, Stella Pasternak, to ensure that the guests, many of whom hail from the former Soviet Union, could follow along.

Quoting the late Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel, Tarlin said, “Never again becomes more than a slogan: It’s a prayer, a promise, a vow.” Many survivors nodded and repeated, “Never again,” as Sue Spielman lit a memorial candle in honor of the six million Jewish people who perished during the Holocaust.

Wonderful Volunteers

After the ceremony, the guests looked from the past to the future as preschoolers from Kehillath Israel arrived to sing songs in Hebrew and English. The faces of the guests lit up as the children sang, “Turn to your neighbor and say shalom!”

The luncheon food was served by a group of outgoing volunteers, many of whom belonged to the Harvard Hillel and the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt publishing company.

Matt, a sophomore at Harvard University, explained that he runs the Tikkun Olam programming at Hillel, and he came across the Café Hakalah luncheon online. “This seemed like a cool opportunity to get involved,” said Matt. “Helping survivors is something that is important to Jewish people of all denominations.”

Jackie, a volunteer with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, was also excited to help out at the luncheon. “This is a really unique experience; something we typically don’t get to do,” she said. “We have a partnership with JF&CS, and this is our third consecutive year volunteering.”

Preserving Memories, Enjoying Today

This year, Café Hakalah offered guests at the Yom HaShoah luncheon a special treat - the opportunity to get a free portrait taken by a professional photographer. Nicole O’Connor of Shanachie Studios graciously volunteered her services, recreating a studio setting in a corner of the room.

The portraits were a big hit with the guests, who flocked to the photo station in droves. In a few weeks, everyone who sat for a portrait will receive a complimentary, framed picture from the event. “We are so thrilled to be able to offer portraits to our guests,” said Sue Spielman. “It just makes people feel special to have their picture taken, and Nicole has such a great rapport with everyone.”

The portraits were a natural fit for the Yom HaShoah lunch because they perfectly encapsulated the theme of the event - remembering the past while living in the present. Seventy survivors gathered at Temple Kehillath Israel to commemorate the tragedy of the Holocaust, but also to enjoy being with each other, being with their community, in the here and now.

Tania Lefman, one of the guests at the Yom HaShoah luncheon, said it best, “I love bonding with my people. I am still alive, and it makes me feel good to come here.”

To learn more about our monthly gatherings for Holocaust survivors in Marblehead, Brookline, and Worcester, visit our Café Hakalah page. For questions about Café Hakalah Brookline, please contact Sue Spielman at 781-693-5659 or sspielman@jfcsboston.org.

Q&A with Lori Shaer, 2019 Women’s Breakfast Co-Chair

Fri, 10 May 2019 11:57:33 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We sat down with Lori Shaer, one of our co-chairs for the 2019 Women’s Breakfast, to learn more about her and her connection to JF&CS.

1. Tell us about your involvement with JF&CS and CERS.

My family and I have been involved with JF&CS for years. It started with volunteering at Family Table when our children were very young, as my husband and I greatly appreciated the “hands-on” work our children could do to pack and deliver groceries.

As for CERS, I have served as a committee member for a number of years with the Women’s Breakfast, and I am honored to be co-chairing the breakfast this year with Lauren E. Rubin.

2. Tell us about your family.

I have a wonderful husband, Jon, and we have a 16-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter. We also have a dog, Lucy.

3. What is your favorite JF&CS memory?

One favorite JF&CS memory is the first time my family volunteered with Family Table and we witnessed what a well-oiled process it was. Also, volunteering at this past year’s Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration was very special.

4. What is one piece of parenting advice you would share with others?

Celebrate each stage and each age when raising children, as they all come with different challenges and rewards.

5. What is your favorite children’s book?

My favorite children’s book is The Little Engine That Could.

6. What are you most looking forward to about this year’s Women’s Breakfast?

I am most looking forward to honoring [CERS Director] Peggy Kaufman and celebrating the visionary she is and the heart that she gives to everything she does.

Join Lori and many others at this year’s Women’s Breakfast on Thursday, May 30 at the Boston Marriot Newton. Visit our Women’s Breakfast page to learn more.

JF&CS Employment Services Finds “Dream Job” for Participant at Boston Accounting Firm

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 11:46:12 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS Employment Services helps match job seekers with disabilities with community employers that align with their personal interests and skill set. Read on to learn about a recent match we made between one of our participants and a Boston accounting firm.

In June 2018, a representative from Matson, Driscoll & Damico Forensic Accountants attended the JF&CS Business Advisory Committee Employer Engagement Breakfast. The representative from the firm left the event feeling inspired and brought information from the breakfast back to his team. They expressed similar enthusiasm toward the idea of partnering with JF&CS and employing one of our participants.

The team at MDD then had multiple discussions and meetings with the Director of Employment Services to go over their employment needs, provide a sense of their office environment, and develop a job description based on these initial conversations. The Director of Employment Services and Employment Specialists then utilized the information gathered during these discussions to identify a candidate that matched the needs of the firm.

Making the Match

At the same time, we were working with a participant who had a strong skill set and interest in math, computers, and working in an office environment in downtown Boston, so we were quick to share basic information about the job with this participant, and he was very enthusiastic about the opportunity. Once we had an interested candidate that we felt would be a good fit, our team assisted in setting up an interview and supported both our participant and the staff at the firm throughout this process. The interview took place in early November, and our participant was offered a job on the spot.

Before the job began, we provided some training to the team working with our participant to give them some background, tools for effectively working with/teaching our participant, basic disability etiquette information, and opportunities to ask questions. We also worked with our participant and his family to prepare for the new schedule, train for traveling to and from work, and train for the family's need to report earnings to Social Security.

A Great Fit

When the job started, our participant was provided with intensive job coaching to support his training, solidify his role, and help to develop relationships and natural supports within the firm. Since intentional and systematic effort was put into developing the role and making sure that our participant was a good fit, the intensive supports were able to fade quickly and our participant was offered the opportunity to work an additional shift each week after just two months.

This employer/employee match continues to be a great success, with satisfaction being consistently reported by both. The participant's mother even wrote the Employment Services team to thank them for finding her son “the job of his dreams.” The office manager at the firm also shared her experience with another business located in downtown Boston, and JF&CS has started the process of partnering with this new business as well.

JF&CS Employment Services provides person-centered support so people with disabilities can succeed in independent competitive employment. For more information, visit our Employment Services page.

Making a Difference with Family Table

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 10:58:01 GMT

Posted by Kim Creem

JF&CS Board member Kim Creem, who sits on the Center for Basic Needs Assistance Advisory Council, shares the story of her family’s longstanding connection to Family Table.

When our kids, Jacob (now 17) and Lily (now 15), were in Temple Emanuel Preschool, we vividly remember being given a brown grocery bag with a stapled sheet of paper on it. Each month, the sheet would ask for a different type of food: raisins, crackers, pasta, canned vegetables, etc.

The kids filled the bags from our pantry each month with the specific food requested. If we did not have those items, we would shop for them together at the store, making sure always to fill our bags to bring back to school. These bags would then be taken to Family Table, the kosher food pantry offered through JF&CS.

In addition to donating items through Temple Emanuel Preschool, we also took our children to deliver groceries for Family Table as volunteers, a tradition we have maintained for more than 12 years. We have always delivered food to one specific apartment building in Brookline - housing mostly immigrants, elderly people, and Holocaust survivors – all of whom can’t get out on their own to shop.

When we deliver groceries for Family Table, we are sometimes providing these recipients with their only access to nutritious food, along with Jewish ritual items such as challah and Shabbat candles. However, one of the aspects of Family Table that we appreciate the most is that this program does not only serve Jewish clients. Family Table provides healthy food on a monthly and emergency basis to individuals and families in need, regardless of color, race, background, or religion.

We have found delivering to Family Table clients to be the purest form of actively making a difference in someone’s life and providing a lifeline to people in need. When elderly clients open the door to their homes and welcome us in with groceries, the look on their faces is one of gratitude. There is one couple that we have been delivering to for years who have given the kids a small bag of candy each time we visit. It is the smallest token of appreciation from them, but it shows the profound gratefulness that they feel.

We have always taught our children the importance of tikkun olam, the Jewish concept of doing acts of kindness to repair the world. Family Table has shown us the true meaning of giving back through hands-on community engagement. The act of bringing food - the nutrients that sustain us - to someone’s table is so simple, yet so profound.

If you would like to volunteer at a Family Table food distribution, please fill out one of our application forms: Waltham Application, North Shore Application, South Area Application. A schedule of upcoming distribution days can be found here.

Tremble Clefs Member Ken Bernstein Honored with Outstanding Achievement Award

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 13:49:04 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Attendees of the Parkinson’s Awareness Day event at the Massachusetts State House, sponsored for the fifth year by the Honorable Diana DiZoglio, State Senator representing the 1st Essex District.

We are excited to announce that Ken Bernstein, a longtime member of the JF&CS Tremble Clefs choral group, has been honored with the 2019 Cindy Lyn Moir Outstanding Achievement Award. This annual award is given by the Massachusetts Parkinson's Disease Advocates, an offspring of the Michael J. Fox Foundation's Public Policy arm, to recognize an individual for dedication to the Parkinson’s community. The award was officially presented on April 11, 2019, World Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Day, at the Massachusetts State House.

Ken Bernstein, who lives in the Boston area with his supportive wife Gail, has spent decades as a pioneering advocate for those with Parkinson’s disease. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s as a young man, Ken founded the first support group in New England for those with young onset PD and started a Parkinson’s newsletter playfully titled “Young and Restless.” In addition to working in New England to build a stronger affiliation among people dealing with the challenges of young onset PD, Ken also reached out to groups in other countries facing the same problems.

In 1985, Ken made history when he launched The Parkinson’s Web, the first web-based comprehensive information resource for people living with Parkinson’s disease. With support from Dr. Anne Young, Chief of Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, and IT technical assistance from John Lester, Ken helped provide valuable information about Parkinson’s to people all around the world. Other key contributors to The Parkinson’s Web included Boston University professor Terri Ellis, Harvard Medical School professor Peter T. Lansbury, Boston Medical Center nurse Cathi Thomas, Dr. Marie Saint-Hilaire, and Dr. Robert Feldman.

Ken served on the board of the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, which awarded him the Community Service Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010 in recognition of his many contributions to supporting individuals with Parkinson’s, their families, healthcare providers, and scientists.

Along with his advocacy work, Ken said that he has been able to keep a positive attitude by singing with the JF&CS Tremble Clefs, a weekly choral group in Newton for those living with Parkinson’s disease. Ken said that joining the Tremble Clefs allowed him to feel that he could be “more accepting and comfortable [with PD]…I thought, ‘these are my brothers and sisters,’ and so it went from being a negative to a positive.” Marilyn Neault, a fellow Tremble Clefs singer, said that Ken is well known in the group “for his creativity and his mischievous wit.”

Marilyn Okonow, the volunteer conductor of the Tremble Clefs, agrees that Ken has been a tremendous asset to the group, saying, “Not only does Ken share with us his incredible sense of humor and brilliant mind; the fact that he has been living with Parkinson’s for so long and retains his positive outlook on life despite his health challenges is an inspiration to us all. He is a beloved member of our Tremble Clefs family.”

Everyone at JF&CS joins Marilyn Okonow and the Tremble Clefs in extending a heartfelt congratulations to Ken for receiving the Cindy Lyn Moir Award and for his remarkable work in the Parkinson’s community.

The Tremble Clefs choral group is part of the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program of JF&CS. Specializing in helping those with Parkinson’s live full lives, our program provides arts-based therapeutic activities, education, resources, and a supportive community.

Benefit 2019: WE ARE JF&CS

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 15:29:18 GMT

On Wednesday, April 3, 2019, Jewish Family & Children's Service gathered for an evening of celebration and support at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel. JF&CS raised more than $700,000 to sustain the critical work of our programs.

The Honorable Charlie Baker and Lauren Baker joined us again this year. The Governor's heartfelt remarks included his thoughts on JF&CS's impact on the Commonwealth. "The strength and the power of the JF&CS commitment are truly special -- the compassion and empathy that this community brings to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are incredibly powerful. We really appreciate all of the work that you do, and all of the effort that you make to create a better Commonwealth. You are truly a great treasure," he said.

Guests enjoyed a spirited reception-style evening featuring a memorable and inspiring program that underscored the myriad ways we are all part of the JF&CS community. As volunteers, program participants, clients, donors, and event guests, we are all treasured members of the JF&CS family.

Our programs have continued to strengthen, and we collaborate both internally and with our partner agencies to make a difference in the lives of the families we serve.

Event support is just a portion of the resources needed to propel our mission forward. We thank you for all you have done to help us make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve.

Below, you can watch a moving video featuring our clients, staff members, and collaborators that premiered at the Benefit:

To see photos from the event, check out our Facebook album.

Tell Us Your CERS Story

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 16:01:29 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

The Center for Early Relationship Support® (CERS) is turning 30 years old, and we want you to join in the celebration!

JF&CS is collecting stories from the thousands of people who have been touched by CERS over the past three decades, including our program participants, volunteers, and donors. If CERS has made an impact on your life, we want to hear from you.

The personal narratives collected will be included in a 30th Anniversary Commemorative Book, which will be given to guests at the Women's Breakfast, benefiting CERS. Stories may also appear on the JF&CS website and blog.

To share your CERS story, please fill out this form.

Join Us at the Annual Women's Breakfast

We invite you to attend the Women’s Breakfast on Thursday, May 30, 2019! Held at the beautiful Boston Marriott Newton Hotel, the breakfast will celebrate 30 years of enhancing the earliest parent-child relationships and recognize the work of CERS Director Peggy H. Kaufman.

To purchase tickets and find out more information, please visit our Women’s Breakfast page.

An Update on Our CEO Search

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 13:10:24 GMT

Posted by Steve Weil, JF&CS Board Vice President

I am pleased to announce that we have chosen Isaacson, Miller, a nationally known, Boston-based search firm to aid us with our search for a new JF&CS Chief Executive Officer.

Since early February, a Search Firm Selection Committee composed of Board President Jamie Grossman, Vice President Andrew Pearlstein, and me, has been identifying and interviewing search firms with the requisite credentials to perform the search. Wendy Wilsker, Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement, and Carl Zack, Interim CEO, served as valuable staff to our committee. We interviewed four firms and ultimately selected Isaacson, Miller because of its long-standing reputation for conducting successful searches on behalf of numerous local Jewish communal organizations, as well as academic medical centers and human service organizations.

I am also pleased to announce that we have assembled a Search Committee that will begin its work soon. The members are:

Jamie Grossman, Board President
Andrew Pearlstein, Vice President
Steve Weil, Vice President
Alexandra Simes, Board member
Shari Cashman, Board member
Mark Belsky, former JF&CS Board member and long-time supporter of the agency
Neil Wallack, former Chair, Combined Jewish Philanthropies Board of Directors

We expect Isaacson, Miller to begin its work by mid-March. Initially, Isaacson, Miller will spend several days in a "discovery" phase at JF&CS's offices interviewing staff, Board members, and other constituencies, to better understand our culture and the qualifications and expectations we have for a new CEO. Isaacson, Miller will then prepare a "Position Description," find qualified candidates, and help us screen and interview them. The entire process is expected to take approximately six months. We will keep you informed as the search unfolds.

How to Make a Tax-Smart Charitable Gift from Your IRA

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 14:32:54 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Looking for a great way to make a tax-free gift to Jewish Family & Children’s Service? Consider an IRA charitable rollover.

Although the new tax reform act may limit the benefit of income tax charitable deductions for some people, donors can still make gifts to JF&CS and receive tax benefits using the IRA charitable rollover.

If you are 70½ or older, you can tell your IRA administrator to transfer your gift directly from your IRA account to JF&CS. You can make a gift of up to $100,000 to satisfy the required minimum distribution from your IRA.

You don’t get an income tax charitable deduction for the gift, but you don’t pay taxes on your IRA withdrawal, and the gift is not taxed as income.

If you are interested in making such a gift or would like more information, please call our Office of Gift Planning at 781-693-5059 or email Liz Cahn, our Senior Philanthropic Advisor, at ecahn@jfcsboston.org.

JF&CS to Host Passover Seder for Holocaust Survivors

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 10:49:57 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We are excited to announce that JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services will host its first Passover Seder on the North Shore for our Café Hakalah participants this April. Café Hakalah is a monthly gathering for Holocaust survivors that typically includes music, food, and discussion.

The idea to host a Café Hakalah Seder originated last December, when we had such a phenomenal turnout at our Café Hakalah Chanukkah Celebration. Inspired by the enthusiasm for the event, Inna Lyubimova, the North Shore Café Hakalah Coordinator, started talking with volunteers about planning a Passover event for the spring.

The Café Hakalah Seder will be held at the JCC of the North Shore on Wednesday, April 10, 2019 from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. The JCC is located at 4 Community Road, Marblehead, MA. Since Passover does not officially begin until the following week, we will be hosting a “mock Seder” with a light lunch.

Rabbi David Cohen-Henriquez of Temple Sinai in Marblehead will lead the Seder. Originally from Panama, Rabbi David brings a multicultural and multi-denominational approach to Judaism.

Guests at the Seder will read from special Haggadot that are written in English, Hebrew, and Russian. These trilingual Haggadot were compiled especially for JF&CS for our Friendly Visitor Program, which hosts its own Passover Seder.

Schechter Holocaust Services Director Lora Tarlin is expecting around 50 Holocaust survivors to attend the Café Hakalah Seder. Tarlin noted, “Having the chance to observe Passover is especially meaningful for survivors who lived in the former Soviet Union, where people were deprived of their Jewish heritage.” She added, “The story of Passover, which is about liberation from oppression, is particularly resonant for the survivor community.”

If you are interested in volunteering at the Café Hakalah Seder (or future Café Hakalah events), please fill out our Volunteer Registration Form. Survivors who would like to attend the Seder should call Inna Lyubimova at 781-693-5680 to RSVP. Please let Inna know if you will need transportation to the event.

Q&A with Alexandra Simes, 2019 JF&CS Benefit Co-Chair

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 15:55:38 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We sat down with Alexandra Simes, one of our co-chairs for the 2019 JF&CS Benefit, to learn more about her and her connection to JF&CS.

Tell us about your involvement with JF&CS.

My involvement with JF&CS began years ago when I volunteered at Family Table as part of a Combined Jewish Philanthropies committee I was on. I found it a meaningful and rewarding experience, and my older kids, who were elementary school age at the time, found it eye-opening. They were very proud that they could help make a difference.

About 4 years ago, I joined the Advisory Committee for the Center for Basic Needs Assistance, and I have learned about the amazing work that JF&CS is doing to help people in emergency situations and during difficult periods in their lives when they need help paying their rent, paying an electric bill, or obtaining groceries. The Center for Basic Needs Assistance jumps into action to help create a plan for these families to get through these rough patches with dignity and provides the resources needed to help alleviate some of their stress.

Tell us about your family.

Our family consists of me; my husband Jody; our daughter Jenna, who is a Junior at Gann Academy; our son Daniel, who is a Freshman at Gann; and our youngest son Jack, who is a 5th grader at The Rashi School.

What is your favorite JF&CS memory?

My favorite JF&CS memory is when my three children and I were delivering groceries for Family Table in Brighton. We dropped off the bags to an elderly Russian woman who was very appreciative. We said our goodbyes and then went on our way. A few seconds later, the door to the woman’s apartment opened, and she yelled out to us to come back. She handed my youngest, who was about 7 at the time, an orange as a gesture of thanks. My son held on to that orange for the rest of the day, so proud and so touched by the woman’s gift. He couldn’t believe that she would give up her own food as a way to thank us. He was glowing with pride!

Recommend a book.

A book that I recently read that I loved was Michelle Obama’s new memoir, Becoming. In my opinion, Michelle Obama finds the perfect tone of self-reflection, humor, and inspiration. After seeing the world and living in the White House for 8 years and mingling with heads of state, she is incredibly down-to-earth and thoughtful. She writes so beautifully, with profound insight and from the heart.

What is your favorite travel destination?

My favorite destination to travel to is the Amalfi Coast, specifically Positano. There is nothing like the gorgeous blue water framed by the colorful Mediterranean homes built into the mountainside covered in bougainvillea. Such a magical place!

What are you most looking forward to about this year’s Benefit?

I am looking forward to having the Benefit at the Fairmont Copley Plaza for the first time and the new cocktail-style format of this year’s Benefit. I think it will give guests the opportunity to socialize more freely with their friends, as well as enjoy a really well-orchestrated, short program that highlights the amazing work of JF&CS.

Join Alexandra and many others at this year’s JF&CS Benefit on Wednesday, April 3 at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel. Visit our Benefit page to purchase tickets and learn more.

Evaluating Medical Risk in Adoption

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 11:07:03 GMT

Posted by Deb Shrier

As anyone who has been through the process can tell you, building your family through adoption takes a lot of preparation. Most people are aware of home studies, in which pre-adoptive parents undergo a series of assessment meetings with a social worker. Another, less-well-known part of the overall adoption process centers on education. A recent change in Massachusetts law requires that prospective adoptive parents complete 10 hours of education before they are eligible to receive placement of a child.

JF&CS Adoption Resources offers a variety of workshops throughout the year to educate pre-adoptive parents. This month, we will be hosting a highly relevant workshop entitled Evaluating Medical Risk in Domestic Infant Adoption.

About the Speaker

Our speaker, developmental-behavioral pediatric specialist Lisa Prock, is the Chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Adoption and Foster Care. Her clinical specialization focuses on issues unique to adoption, such as understanding biological health history and prenatal experiences. Dr. Prock has led this workshop for Adoption Resources for many years, and the feedback from pre-adoptive parents has always been very positive.

In past years, clients have sometimes asked how this workshop differs from information their pediatrician will provide. While consulting with a pediatrician is ideal for day-to-day issues that may arise (such as illness, ear infections, and sleeping concerns), when it comes to evaluating medical risk in adoption, it is best to hear from a practitioner who specializes in this field.

Dr. Prock’s medical practice follows the latest trends and data regarding children being placed for adoption. It is critical that pre-adoptive parents understand the research around issues such as prenatal exposure and biological concerns, so they can make informed decisions.

Workshop Details

Evaluating Medical Risk in Domestic Infant Adoption will take place on March 28, 2019 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at JF&CS Headquarters, 1430 Main Street, Waltham, MA. The workshop is open to the entire community and is intended for pre-adoptive parents, who will receive a certificate for two hours of pre-adoption training.

Registration is $20 per person, cash or check only. To RSVP, please contact Neile Gordon, LCSW at ngordon@adoptionresources.org or 617-332-2218.

Deb Shrier, LICSW, is Associate Director of JF&CS Adoption Resources. Actively involved in the field of adoption both professionally and personally for over 25 years, Deb’s clinical interests include domestic/international adoption, transracial adoption, parenting issues, and search/reunion with birth parents and adopted persons. She has also provided clinical support to adoptive families on birth country tours that include the Philippines, Romania, Guatemala, and Russia. Deb enjoys writing and has contributed to various adoption-related publications as well as the JF&CS blog.

JF&CS is Working to Make Massachusetts More Age-Friendly and Dementia-Friendly

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 13:42:19 GMT

Posted by Kathy Burnes and Beth Soltzberg

Did you know that Massachusetts is one of only three “age-friendly” states in the nation? Massachusetts, New York, and Colorado have enrolled in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States, which means that their elected officials have made a commitment to making their state a great place to live for people of all ages.

The United States, like many countries, is going through an unprecedented demographic shift. Today, there are more people over age 60 than under 20 in the U.S. JF&CS is proud that Massachusetts is one of the first states to recognize both the opportunities and the needs brought on by this transformation. From the beginning, JF&CS has been a catalyst in the movement to make the Commonwealth more age-friendly.

Salem for All Ages

In 2013, based on the success of our work as a founding partner of Brookline Community Aging Network (BrooklineCAN), JF&CS partnered with North Shore Elder Services and the Salem Senior Center to reach out to Salem residents and organizations to identify what made Salem a good place to grow older and what could make it even better. We called our initiative “Salem for All Ages” – the name adopted by the city – and it provided important groundwork for the City of Salem becoming the first city on the North Shore to join AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly Communities in 2015.

Dementia-Friendly Initiatives

The age-friendly movement has been paralleled by a global dementia-friendly movement, that aims to help communities become more inclusive, respectful, and safe for the growing number of people living with Alzheimer’s or a related disorder and those who care about them. Massachusetts has been a leader in bringing the age-friendly and dementia-friendly movements together.

In 2015, JF&CS hosted the “Toward a Dementia-Inclusive Community” symposium to explore innovative responses by communities around the U.S. and globally that improve livability and quality of life for those affected by dementia. Using the momentum generated by the symposium, the JF&CS Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program partnered with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) to launch Dementia Friendly Massachusetts, one of the first state programs to join Dementia Friendly America. JF&CS co-led Dementia Friendly Massachusetts with EOEA for the first two years and continues as part of its leadership team.

JF&CS also runs the Percolator Memory Café Network and the Dementia Friends Massachusetts public awareness program, which address the key issues of reducing social isolation and increasing public awareness.

Give Feedback for the Age-Friendly Massachusetts Action Plan

The issues of isolation and public awareness are both spotlighted in the new Age-Friendly Massachusetts Action Plan, which was recently released online. The Governor’s office is seeking feedback on the state plan on an ongoing basis. Please join JF&CS in working together to make Massachusetts more livable for people of all ages and abilities!

For more information about our age-friendly initiatives, please contact Kathy Burnes, Director of Services for Older Adults and Aging Well at Home, at KBurnes@jfcsboston.org. For additional information about our dementia-friendly initiatives, please contact Beth Soltzberg, Director of Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program, at BSoltzberg@jfcsboston.org.

Q&A with Kim Creem, 2019 JF&CS Benefit Co-Chair

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 12:46:47 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

We sat down with Kim Creem, one of our co-chairs for the 2019 JF&CS Benefit, to learn more about her and her connection to JF&CS.

Tell us about your involvement with JF&CS.

My family began our involvement as members of Temple Emanuel of Newton. When our children went to pre-school, we were always given a paper bag with a listing of what was needed that month at Family Table. Each month, the kids and I would fill the bag with the necessary items to bring into our shul for pickup by JF&CS. We then started to bring the kids to Family Table and enjoyed packing bags and making deliveries as a family.

A few years ago, I was asked to sit on the Center for Basic Needs Assistance Advisory Council. This has been very interesting and informative as Family Table was my original pathway into JF&CS.

Since then, I have joined the board of directors, the development committee, and the nominating and governance committee, and I am co-chairing the gala! Jumped directly into the deep-end immediately and loving it!

Tell us about your family.

We are a family of four plus our dog Charlie. My husband Gary and I have two children: Jacob, age 17, and Lily, age 15.

What is your favorite JF&CS memory?

Our first-time bringing Jacob and Lily to Family Table we delivered food to an apartment complex in Brookline. I remember the children delivering to one of the couples in the building and receiving a little bag of candy from them - as a token gift for all of the bags that they brought into their apartment. The couple wanted our family to come in and chat with them. It was such a meaningful moment for the kids to see the appreciation on this couple’s face when they took the candy; it was their only way to show gratitude and thankfulness.

What is your favorite book?

My favorite book is Pachinko by Min Jin Lee. It is a historical fiction book that takes place in North Korea/Japan and tells a story about different generations of one immigrant family. It a fascinating read about the difficulty of poverty at various levels, immigrant life, and the bonds of love and family.

What is your favorite travel destination?

My favorite travel destination has been Israel. My first visit was at the age of 12 (1981) with my parents and brother on a temple retreat. My second visit was with my husband and children on our own temple retreat (Temple Emanuel of Newton in 2008). My most recent visit was with CJP on an Acharai trip last year (2018). Each trip to Israel, I learn more, feel more at home, and am fascinated by the rich history and stories of our people.

What are you most looking forward to about this year’s Benefit?

I am excited to co-chair the “year of change!” We have made a strong effort to create an event that will be very different from past years. A new venue, new format, new content and delivery, new seating style, and new advertising kiosks! I am very thankful that JF&CS has allowed us to think outside the box and be creative with a cutting-edge evening! I am excited to be a part of such a wonderful organization and to represent it at one of their biggest events of the year!

Join Kim and many others at this year’s JF&CS Benefit on Wednesday, April 3 at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel. Visit our Benefit page to purchase tickets and find out more information.

Carrie Berger Joins JF&CS

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 10:23:21 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is excited to welcome Carrie Berger as the new JF&CS North Shore Engagement Manager. With a background in both the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors, this role is a great fit for Berger, who is thrilled to be part of the team at JF&CS. Carrie will focus on continuing to bring meaningful programs to the North Shore and on building partnerships, with a goal of recruiting volunteers and clients to participate in the variety of programs provided by JF&CS.

As the Founder and President of CB Coaching and Consulting, LLC, Carrie works with individuals and small businesses focusing on career coaching, marketing, business development, special events, advertising, and client relations. Carrie received her B.S. in Sport Management from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and her M.Ed. in Organizational Management from Endicott College. Berger has strong roots on the North Shore, having grown up in Peabody, and currently resides in Marblehead with her husband and two children who both attend the Arthur J. Epstein Hillel School.

Prior to founding CB Coaching and Consulting, and after working for Sport Marketing/Advertising firms, Carrie spent 10 years working at the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore (JCCNS) in a variety of roles including Youth and Camp Director, Maccabi Games Delegation Head, and Human Resources and Special Projects Director. Following her time with the JCCNS, she worked for two years as the Marketing and Admissions Director at the Epstein Hillel School. Berger also serves as a faculty member at Endicott College and Salem State University. In addition to her professional responsibilities, Carrie has continually been an active volunteer in the community, having served on the Board of Directors at the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore and currently serving on the Marketing Committee at the Epstein Hillel School and the Voluntary Dues Committee at Congregation Shirat Hayam.

For more information on how to get involved with JF&CS on the North Shore, please email Carrie Berger at cberger@jfcsboston.org.

5-4-3-2-1: TeenSafe Breaks Down Dating Abuse

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 12:01:00 GMT

Posted by TeenSafe Cohort, 2018-19

Since 2014, the second Tuesday of every February has been Wear Orange 4 Love Day. This day was created to raise awareness about the prevalence of teen dating abuse. Although the entire month of February is dedicated to Teen Dating Violence Awareness, Wear Orange Day is a fantastic opportunity to show your support for others in a very simple way. Through wearing an orange shirt, shoes, jewelry, or even nail polish, you can easily foster conversation and spread awareness to others. All of the members of the TeenSafe cohort are very excited to participate in this event, and we encourage you to also wear orange on February 12!

Teen dating abuse can often be overlooked, but in this article, we hope to shed light on this widespread and significant issue. We will cover the many different forms of abuse, ways to help others in abusive relationships, questions to stimulate conversation, statistics about the prevalence of dating abuse, and an important message for those experiencing abuse. By reading this post, we hope you learn more about this pressing issue and feel empowered to tackle this problem in your community.

5 common types of abuse in relationships and a few examples of each type:

Physical abuse
- Hitting, slapping, or pushing
- Repeatedly interfering with your sleep

Sexual abuse
- Rape, sexual assault
- Pressuring you, not respecting your limits, embarrassing you for what you want or don’t want
Emotional/verbal abuse
- Name-calling, body shaming, embarrassing you in front of friends
- Forcing or preventing you from going to certain places, eating certain things, or dressing a certain way
- Controlling whether you can hang out with friends or go certain places
Financial/educational abuse
- Pressuring you to always pay for things or loan money on a regular basis, treating your money like it belongs to them
- Insisting that you go to a certain college or take certain classes
Cultural/spiritual abuse
- Saying racist/anti-Semitic/transphobic or other oppressive comments to humiliate or put you down
- Preventing you from spending time in a community with people who share your culture or identity

4 things to say to a friend in an abusive relationship:

Remind them why you love them and that they deserve to be treated with love and respect.
Tell them you want to help and talk about your own experiences in order to make the person feel like they are not different and they are not alone.
Ask how the different abusive behaviors make them feel. For example, “When your partner tells you that you aren’t allowed to spend time with anyone else, how does that make you feel?”
Invite your friend to talk through their feelings and don’t put the blame on them. Make it an open and honest conversation where you both are participating equally.

3 open-ended questions to start conversations about relationships:

What do you think is important in order to have a healthy relationship?
What are signs of an abusive relationship?
Why do you think it is important to know about abusive relationships?

2 important statistics about relationships:

One in three adolescents in the U.S. is a victim of physical, sexual, emotional, or verbal abuse from a dating partner, a figure that far exceeds rates of other types of youth violence.
Despite limited research, teen dating violence seems to affect LGBTQ youth at higher rates than non-LGBTQ youth. Many educational programs on teen dating abuse and sexual assault lack information about LGBTQ experiences – only four U.S. states and the District of Columbia require school sex education curricula to include LGBTQ-specific content.

1 thought to remember if you are in an abusive relationship:

Your feelings have value and you are not alone!

If you or someone you know needs help, the National Teen Dating Abuse Hotline is available 24/7. You can call them at (866) 331-9474, text LOVEIS to 22522, or live chat on their website.

This article was written by our TeenSafe peer leaders in collaboration with the program’s Youth Educator. TeenSafe, a program of Journey to Safety, is the JF&CS response to dating abuse in our community. Through leadership, skill-building, and education, TeenSafe gives teens the language and tools they need to recognize abuse in a dating relationship and know how to respond if they see, hear about, or experience it. To learn more about the program, schedule a TeenSafe workshop in your community, or find out how teens can join the program, email TeenSafe@jfcsboston.org.

CJP Women’s Philanthropy Hosts Event for Journey to Safety

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 13:13:10 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

On January 10, 2019, JF&CS was honored to host a CJP Women’s Philanthropy event at our headquarters in Waltham. Around 75 women gathered to learn more about Journey to Safety (JTS), the JF&CS response to domestic abuse, and to create care packages that were distributed to survivors of domestic abuse.

Women’s Philanthropy is an initiative of Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) dedicated to “harnessing the collective power of women to care for the most vulnerable populations, strengthen our Jewish community...and empower our families and friends to change the world.” As our single largest funder, CJP helps to support Journey to Safety and other JF&CS programs with an annual grant of more than $2 million.

The Women’s Philanthropy event at JF&CS was co-chaired by Laurie Gliklich, Robin Wolk, and Jennifer Drucker. Elizabeth Schön Vainer, the director of Journey to Safety, delivered a keynote presentation about JTS and its mission.

Creating Care Packages

Volunteers at the event made a tangible impact in the lives of domestic abuse survivors by crafting three different types of care packages for Journey to Safety clients. The first package consisted of dental hygiene products, the second package included shaving supplies, and the third package was dedicated to feminine care items. Domestic abuse impacts survivors’ economic security, often brings challenging financial choices, and can make basic toiletries difficult to obtain. Having these everyday items readily available can make a huge difference.

In addition to packing essentials in the care packages, attendees at the Women’s Philanthropy event also included items meant to foster hope and self-care. Volunteers wrote cards with inspirational quotes that were handpicked by those who have benefited from JF&CS services. Care packages were also decorated with ribbons and bundled with lavender sachets, to make them pleasing to the senses. Above all else, the care packages were designed to provide a sense of normalcy and dignity for women who are facing incredibly trying situations.

There was such a phenomenal turnout at the Women’s Philanthropy event that volunteers were able to make care packages for participants in our Center for Early Relationship Support^® programs as well. Much like JTS clients, the mothers in our Early Connections/Conexiones Tempranas and Healthy Families programs are often dealing with significant hardships, and receiving these essential supplies and notes of encouragement can help lighten their burden.

About Journey to Safety

Journey to Safety provides domestic abuse counseling, safety planning, and a host of other resources for women in crisis. As Laurie Gliklich noted at the Women’s Philanthropy event, JTS offers women “the choice of seeking support through a Jewish lens and in a way that allows them to maintain whatever level of religious observance (or no religious observance) that makes them feel whole.” Although Journey to Safety specializes in serving Jewish and Russian-speaking survivors, they offer assistance to anyone who contacts them for help, regardless of their religion, culture, gender, or country of origin.

To learn more about JTS, please visit our Journey to Safety page.

What JF&CS Kids’ Connection Corner Means to My Family

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 14:10:28 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

The mother of a new participant in Kid’s Connection Corner (KCC) wrote a beautiful thank you letter to Nicole Casty, the JF&CS donor who founded the program. Kids’ Connection Corner is a free program that provides children with autism ages 10 - 13 the opportunity to participate in creative activities while making friends.

Dear Ms. Casty,

I am writing to thank you for funding the Kids’ Connection Corner group run through JF&CS, of which my daughter Haley* has been a part since July 2018. Haley is a joyful and generally happy thirteen-year-old with significant special needs. We have worked hard to find enriching activities that support her, and the KCC group has been pure gold.

My friend told me about the KCC respite group while we sat together at our girls’ adaptive dance class. She said that her daughter loved the KCC group, in part because of the fact that the services were so comprehensive. My friend loved the group because it gave her a break and allowed her to spend focused time with her other children.

Although it sounded great, I was concerned that KCC wouldn’t work for Haley because her needs are so complex, and she is very low functioning. Haley didn’t walk until age three, she spoke her first word at age five, and she suffers from a rare seizure disorder. It was hard to imagine leaving her for three hours with people whom I didn’t know, as Haley has severely limited speech, as well as significant cognitive and motor deficits that mean she still needs assistance getting dressed and using the bathroom.

When I contacted Angela Waring to see if the program could accommodate Haley, I was impressed, not only with her organization and professional manner but even more with how she interacted with Haley. She had a cheerful and positive vibe that Haley could sense very quickly.

Despite this, on the first day, I was nervous leaving Haley. She had always had 1:1 aides in school, and I was concerned about how the 1:3 ratio would work. Nevertheless, when I picked up Haley after the first session, she was clearly having a blast. I saw the group in a music session, circled in a horseshoe with Joy, the music therapist, playing a guitar and singing. The kids were bouncing around and having fun on stage.

After I took Haley’s hand to walk back to our car, she turned and waved and said “goodbye” to the group several times. Other kids and adults waved and acknowledged Haley, who beamed happily. I knew that she would want to return again, and I knew that leaving her with the group would work. The kids were singing and dancing and enjoying the beautiful warm July weather.

I am so impressed by what KCC offers the public. There is a regular and committed staff who emanates warmth, caring, and patience (which must be in necessarily long supply). They are always focused on the kids, who are each demanding in their own way, but the staff is great in handling and helping all of them.

The group has, in many ways, helped fill a hole in Haley’s current education, which is an ABA school for kids with autism, where the majority of her instruction is done in isolation at a desk, away from other students. Haley seemed to be missing the social connections she formed during grade-wide recess games, PE, art, and music class at her former elementary school.

At KCC, Haley benefits from similar enriching activities along with stimulating and fun social interactions. The group has the perfect amount of structure and just-right activities (dance, music, arts and crafts, making bird-feeders, slime, playdoh, etc.) to allow the kids to be happy and connect with others. Haley has made friends with two other girls from KCC, and all three now participate in a weekly adaptive dance class, which enables their bonds to grow even deeper. (We learned about this awesome JAM dance class from Angela, who arranged for the director to run a free class during one of the KCC sessions.)

In addition, it truly is a gift for us to have her so well cared for away from home. Many special needs parents talk about the challenge of having time at home uninterrupted by the constant needs of their children. KCC is not only a gift to Haley but also a gift to her family. I treasure the free time I use to recharge and to be more present for my older daughter and husband.

Thank you for creating such an amazing program. It has made our entire family’s life so much better. Haley is happy and enriched and learning. My stress levels are lower and I can relax and breathe calmly for a few hours and focus on our upcoming week and be a better mom. Know that we are so grateful that you created KCC. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are your biggest fans!

To learn more about KCC, visit our Kids’ Connection Corner page.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Leadership Transition at JF&CS

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 15:07:29 GMT

Posted by Jamie Grossman, JF&CS Board President

On behalf of the JF&CS Board of Directors, I would like to announce some very important news. Earlier this month, the Board accepted Rimma Zelfand's resignation as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and she will be stepping down from her role in February. In light of this development, I want to share with you the Board's plan to ensure a smooth transition and maintain the strength of our organization.

Rimma’s Impressive Tenure

First, I would like to express the Board's thanks to Rimma for her passionate dedication to advancing the JF&CS mission and for her many accomplishments during her tenure as CEO. Rimma has served as a role model for her peers in Greater Boston's non-profit community, and Rimma and JF&CS have been recognized as one of The Commonwealth Institute's Top 100 Women-Led Businesses for the past four years. While inspiring efforts to deepen JF&CS's impact through greater program integration and focus, Rimma has also championed collaboration with dozens of partner agencies across Eastern Massachusetts, extending our reach and expanding our capacity to meet the needs of those we serve.

Carl Zack Will Serve as Interim CEO

I also want to announce that Carl Zack has been appointed Interim CEO and will be leading our agency as we conduct our search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer. Most recently, Carl served as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at 2Life Communities (formerly Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly). Carl has also served as President of the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center, Merrimack Valley Hospital, and Somerville Hospital. From 2002-2006, Carl served as COO at JF&CS and is remembered fondly by many staff members who had the pleasure of working with him. Please welcome Carl back during this time of transition.

In the coming months, I will be appointing a search committee to identify our next CEO and will engage a search firm to lead this process. As the process evolves, we will remain in communication with you, our family of supporters and friends, and we look forward to welcoming a new CEO in the coming year.

Our Mission Continues
In the meantime, we will continue to pursue a mission that has endured for more than 150 years, helping people from all walks of life build a strong foundation for well-being across the lifespan. Working together, more than 400 JF&CS employees and 2,000 volunteers now serve over 14,000 people every year. Through more than 40 high-quality programs, we are meeting the needs of new parents and their children, older adults and family caregivers, children and adults with disabilities, and people experiencing poverty, hunger, or domestic abuse.

As we enter this time of transition, I am confident that JF&CS will continue to move from strength to strength, with an unwavering commitment to its enduring mission.

Family Table is a Family Tradition for Jill and Stephen Kramer

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 14:33:29 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Why volunteer with JF&CS? For Jill and Stephen Kramer, as well as their 8- and 6-year-old children, it’s all in the name. As Jill put it, “– it’s Jewish, it's service, it’s for children and families.”

The Kramers volunteer each month with Family Table, a food pantry program that serves more than 100 towns – and more than 500 families each month – across Greater Boston, the North Shore, and the South Area. Last October, in order to help even more people, they sponsored the month’s distributions of food for families in need.

Dedicated to Giving Back

The Kramers have been volunteering with JF&CS and Family Table for nearly a decade. Volunteering has always been a core value for the Kramers, starting long before they even met. Both Jill and Stephen have been involved with philanthropy in the Jewish community for as long as they can remember.

Jill currently serves on the JF&CS Center for Basic Needs Assistance advisory committee. Stephen, who spent time in various leadership roles at Combined Jewish Philanthropies, including the Board, serves as Chief Executive Officer of Bright Horizons, a leading provider of employer-sponsored child care, back-up child/elder care, and educational advising. Giving back guides the Kramers both at home and at work – and these values are what inspire the Kramers to volunteer with Family Table.

The Perfect Family Activity

The Kramers wanted a volunteer opportunity that they could do as a family where both of their young children could take an active role. With Family Table, they found both.

On Sundays, all four of the Kramers work together to pack and then deliver groceries. Jill and Stephen both pointed out the tangible nature of Family Table as something particularly rewarding. According to Jill, “Family Table is a unique case where you can see the impact you’re making – you can touch it, you can feel it.” Being able to see, first-hand, how you’re making a difference makes the experience even more meaningful.

Showing their children how to help others is important to Jill and Stephen, especially as their children grow into the phase of asking “why” during every activity. “Our children are at the age when they ask a lot of questions, and volunteering is when many of the conversations about tikkun olam occur,” said Stephen. “It’s been a wonderful opportunity to talk about the importance of giving back to those who are less fortunate and need the support of Family Table. It’s a privilege to show them the importance of helping others.”

Passing On Their Values

Volunteering with Family Table helps Jill and Stephen pass on the values of their own family. While their older child was only a toddler when she started volunteering at Family Table, she was still able to be present and help. Now, both children are old enough to appreciate what the family is doing. “Ella and Evan have the ability to understand and participate in a tangible way,” said Stephen. “We think that’s incredibly important; we were both raised to understand the importance of volunteering and charity. Starting early with our children and impressing upon them our family’s values will hopefully stay with them over their lifetime.”

Volunteering at Family Table provides an outcome the Kramers can share with their children – they can see who and how they are helping when delivering groceries. They can help Jewish families in need provide for their families and celebrate Jewish holidays. While many families are Jewish, some are not. Family Table serves everyone it can in the community. In fact, in the last year, volunteers packed more than 26,000 bags and made more than 2,600 grocery deliveries to clients who might otherwise go without.

The Kramers aren’t done volunteering at Family Table. As Jill shared, “It’s something that, G-d willing, we will be doing for many more years – and I hope that Ella and Evan will have the opportunity to do it with their children.”

If you would like to volunteer at a Family Table food distribution, please contact us at familytable@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5593 and fill out this application form. A schedule of upcoming distribution days can be found here.

A Poem for Nancy Mazonson

Fri, 11 Jan 2019 11:54:30 GMT

By JF&CS

Nancy Mazonson Marilyn Neault

Nancy Mazonson, Director of the JF&CS Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson's Family Support program, retired on September 28, 2018.

During her last few weeks at JF&CS, she spoke about the incredible privilege she had in meeting so many wonderful individuals and families with whom she shared such powerful experiences.

At a celebration of Nancy's work at JF&CS, program participant Marilyn Neault shared this poem, which she wrote for the occasion as an expression of gratitude.

Ponder Us

You rub clear the fogged glass that daunts my gaze.
You meet us as baffled elders in the mirror,
Skewed shadows of the elders we thought we’d see.
How is it that you also see the “who” we used to be?
You spark one soul, then another, into motion,
one whose arm forgets to swing,
one whose leg drags heavily,
one whose limb taps time to a frail future.

You share my wonder for those who slow their stride
to raise me up so that I may come along.
You feel the gravity of my gratitude
to my family, to my friends, and to my heroes in crisp white
who trick stalled motors with tiny pills.

Now feel the levity of our gratitude
to you our givers, to our helpers
whose warm eyes heal our bruised steps,
and who give us again, then again, our greatest gift, tagged with a permit for joy,
wrapped in song or dance, ribbons of rhyme
tied slowly with kind words or shared silence,
the gift of each other, together.

To learn more about our resources for people living with Parkinson’s disease, visit our Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson's Family Support program page.

Healthy Families and One Family Scholars: Helping Single Moms Achieve More

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 11:40:05 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Daisy is a single mother of a three-year-old and a college student. She is close to graduating from Bentley University with a bachelor's degree in accounting and has eyes on graduate school. She is filled with confidence and poise, ready to take on the world. A few years ago, this wasn’t the case.

“My first year of college, I really struggled with finding and affording childcare. I had trouble paying for books and managing it all,” shared Daisy. “I struggled with my first few semesters of college; I felt like I had no support system.” Daisy was able to find her support system through JF&CS Healthy Families, a program for first-time parents under the age of 21, and later through One Family, a new partner organization for JF&CS.

A Network of Support
Daisy made it through her associate degree with support from Healthy Families and One Family. Being partnered with a coach who supported her and her daughter made all the difference. The challenges for at-risk single parents are immense; beyond studying and paying for college, they are also working to support and raise their children in a challenging economy. Healthy Families helps new parents find their strengths, learn more about child development, and work towards being the parent they want to be.

Healthy Families provided child development assessments for Daisy's daughter, giving her knowledge she needed as a young, first-time parent. Daisy’s coach assisted her in finding childcare, provided vouchers for textbooks, and supported her with home visits. Healthy Families and One Family helped Daisy find the confidence to complete her program at Mass Bay Community College. When Daisy graduated from Healthy Families last February, she was accepted as a One Family Scholar, where she was encouraged to continue her studies at Bentley University.

One Family, an organization working to prevent homelessness and promote economic independence for families in Massachusetts, partners with students like Daisy to ensure that they are on track to graduate and to enter a family-sustaining career in their chosen field. Nationally, the average graduation rate for single mothers is 28%. The Scholars saw a graduation rate of 75% in 2018 – much higher than the national average for all students, which falls at 46%.

A Winning Partnership
The One Family Scholars program served 100 single parents in the past year. “We rely on partners like JF&CS to refer families they are working with to the program,” said One Family Executive Director Val Paric. “JF&CS is doing amazing work; they exemplify a community partnership model. JF&CS is very mission and philosophically-aligned. Together, we work to leverage each other's expertise. I’m thrilled to have such a great partnership, and I’m excited to deepen the partnership in the future.” One Family provides Daisy with coaching and flexible financial aid.

One Family also brought in JF&CS staff to speak to their coaches about better understanding broader issues impacting Scholars – such as recognizing and supporting a client dealing with domestic violence. “JF&CS has staff that are experts,” shared Paric. “They brought in staff to work with our coaches - it’s something that our team members still talk about having made a huge impact.”

Before finding Healthy Families, Daisy wasn’t sure if she would be able to stay in school. The support of JF&CS meant the opportunity to achieve her dreams and the chance to continue her studies even further with One Family. “I did not believe I could ever attend a school like Bentley, or even think about affording it,” she shared. “I really struggled with having confidence in myself. One Family means having someone to support you and care about you – sometimes you just need a little push and someone to believe in you.”

To learn more about our resources for first-time parents under the age of 21, visit our Healthy Families page.

Cycling for Good: Family Table Director Fundraises on Two Wheels

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 14:11:30 GMT

Posted by Bernice Behar

A few years ago, I made a renewed commitment to personal fitness. As part of that commitment, I also rediscovered my love of cycling as a way of seeing new places and connecting to nature. My husband, Sam, got on board, and we started exploring many places by bicycle. We’re not hard-core cyclists, but our vacations often include some time for touring on two wheels.

The Ride for Food

This passion for cycling dovetailed beautifully with a new fundraising opportunity for Family Table. In 2014, we were approached by Three Squares New England (TSNE), a non-profit dedicated to helping food pantries in our area raise money to fight hunger. TSNE wanted to know if we were interested in gathering a team to participate in their signature event, the Ride for Food. We said “yes,” and it’s been an outstanding partnership ever since!

Now, every fall, Family Table fields a team of enthusiastic cyclists for the Ride for Food with each person committing to ride one of the designated routes (10, 25, or 50 miles) and to raise money for Family Table. This past fall, our team of 28 people raised more than $38,000. Importantly, these dollars went directly to Family Table and will help us provide food for hungry families throughout the coming year.

The Israel Ride
No sooner had last year’s Ride for Food ended than Sam and I got back on our bikes and starting training for another cycling fundraiser – the Israel Ride. This annual cycling adventure supports two exceptional organizations: The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies and Hazon. The Arava Institute brings together Israeli, Jordanian, Palestinian, and international students to prepare “future Arab and Jewish leaders to cooperatively solve the region’s environmental challenges.” Hazon is a nonprofit that “works to create a healthier and more sustainable Jewish community and healthier and more sustainable world for all” through retreats and educational programming.

In late October, we spent a week with more than 200 like-minded people from all over the U.S., Canada, and Australia, biking from Jerusalem to Eilat and the Dead Sea. Along the way, we learned about the important work conducted by Arava and Hazon and had the chance to experience Israel in a new way. It was, by turns, exhilarating, exhausting, fun, and spiritually meaningful for both of us.

What I have discovered is that being on a bike for long stretches gives me the chance to explore new places, challenge myself physically, and reflect on what really matters in life. Sometimes, I’m mentally absorbed in the challenge of a steep hill, or I am simply appreciating the scenery around me, but as I turn those pedals, my mind inevitably returns to the causes that I hold close to my heart. I am always grateful to be able to tack on another mile as a small way of making a difference in this world.

Bernice Behar is the Director of Family Table, the largest kosher food pantry serving Greater Boston, the North Shore, and the South Area. She joined JF&CS in 2010, having spent many years working in the financial industry as a chartered financial analyst and investment manager. Bernice brings to Family Table a passion for helping people access nutritious food and a dedication to working in the Jewish community. She sits on the Board of Directors of Three Squares New England, a non-profit dedicated to alleviating food insecurity in Massachusetts. Bernice is active in leadership at her synagogue and holds a BA from the University of California Berkeley.

Making Jewish Healing Possible

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 09:48:24 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

The Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing helps people feel a sense of connection when facing the challenges of illness, loss, or isolation. It’s a cause near and dear to Joyce Zakim, the Lenny Zakim Fund, and the entire Zakim family.

Joyce Wolf Zakim has always held a strong sense of commitment to Jewish values, as well as a connection to older adults. All four of her grandparents escaped Nazi persecution in Europe, settling in New York. There, they helped Joyce form her Jewish identity, filling her home with Yiddish and the celebration of Shabbat. They encouraged Joyce to further strengthen her Judaism, supporting her on a trip to Israel in her early twenties. This experience led her to later explore a philanthropic connection to Judaism.

Inspired by her connection to Judaism, Joyce has included the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing as part of her charitable giving. “The Center is so critical to the well-being of our community,” shared Joyce. “It’s important to me, and was important to Lenny as well, that all people are served. I am constantly moved by the work of the Center for Jewish Healing and by the work JF&CS does for our community. In my philanthropic giving, I have particularly focused on this incredible program, which is just so essential to our community.”

A legacy gift to the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing was particularly important to Joyce. “I really wanted to include JF&CS and the Center for Jewish Healing in my will. It is important to sustain this signature program, which supports so many people who might otherwise not be served.” For Joyce, planned giving is also a way to make a statement about what is important to her and her family, as well as demonstrating the connection she’s felt throughout her life.

“I am so grateful to my dear friend Joyce, who has been an invaluable member of our Advisory Council since its inception,” shares Marjie Sokoll, Director of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing. “She knows first-hand that the Center relies entirely on philanthropic support. In fact, funding from the Lenny Zakim Fund in 1996 was the catalyst that created the Nursing Home/Assisted Living Shabbat and Holiday Program. My heartfelt thanks to Joyce for continuing to support and be connected to this important work for so many years.”

The Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing provides support, hope, and community, all guided by Jewish traditions and values. Serving individuals facing illness, loss, and isolation, as well as working with the larger community to provide training and education, the Center for Jewish Healing incorporates a large number of programs. The Caring Communities Resource Network supports synagogue efforts to create and sustain caring communities through synagogue and community-wide trainings, consultations, and conferences. The Spirited Aging Program supports people of all ages in their search to find meaning, joy, and spirituality in their lives as they grow older. Bereavement Services offers support groups, spiritual support, and holiday bereavement workshops for people dealing with loss, while End-of-Life Services extends spiritual support for people facing terminal illness. The Friendly Visitor Program matches volunteers with isolated elders for companionship and a connection to the Jewish community. The award-winning Nursing Home/Assisted Living Shabbat and Holiday Program provides regular Shabbat and holiday gatherings for Jewish residents in assisted living facilities and nursing homes.

Holiday celebrations exemplify the spirit of the program for Joyce and it’s a gift that Joyce wants to continue. “I’ve seen through my personal connections with individuals I’ve met at the Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration and the Passover Seder how the programs enrich lives. These celebrations connect the community through the music, the food, and the companionship,” said Joyce. “I love being a part of it. These celebrations have an incredible moving spirit.

To learn more about the programs offered through the generosity of people like Joyce Zakim, visit our Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing page.

Meet Anne Muskopf, Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support Program Director

Mon, 31 Dec 2018 11:52:21 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS is pleased to introduce Anne Muskopf, the new Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support Program Director. In this role, Anne oversees all of the Parkinson’s programs at JF&CS, which include the Tremble Clefs choral group; the Therapeutic Movement and Dance group; a Quarterly Education, Networking, and Support Group; and the Care Partner Support Groups.

Anne is excited to join the JF&CS team, sharing that she is thrilled to “work at an agency that tries to say ‘yes’ to people; an organization that meets the needs of its participants where they’re at.” Prior to working at JF&CS, Anne spent more than a decade as a homecare occupational therapist for the Visiting Nurse Association of Boston.

Anne’s interest in Parkinson’s was sparked in graduate school at the Washington University School of Medicine, where she led an exercise group for people with Parkinson’s and worked with a professor to develop a wellness program for people living with the disease. As Anne explained, she developed a special interest in Parkinson’s when learning about the therapeutic technique of using intent to manage symptoms, such as making a conscious effort to speak louder and take bigger steps.

Anne was drawn to the Okonow Parkinson's Family Support Program Director position at JF&CS because, unlike other Parkinson’s organizations which focus primarily on research, our agency is dedicated to helping participants with their day to day lives. According to Anne, programs like our choral group and dance group are incredibly beneficial to people living with Parkinson’s because “music lights up so many parts of the brain; it’s therapeutic for movement, coordination, and balance.” Anne is certified in LSVT BIG, which is a regimented protocol that helps retrain people with Parkinson’s to move better.

In addition to therapeutic benefits, the Parkinson’s programs at JF&CS provide a much-needed community for people living with this challenging disease. As a homecare occupational therapist, Anne saw firsthand how Parkinson’s can leave people feeling isolated and depressed. In contrast, the people who participate in our Parkinson’s programs enjoy a sense of belonging and connection with others.

Anne said, “I’m so impressed with the dedication of our participants. I know from my time in homecare that it’s not easy to get out of the house when you have Parkinson’s, and it’s really impressive to make that effort. It speaks to the quality of our programs.”

When she is not at work, Anne enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, ages 5 and 10. Anne is also an avid baker, who specializes in sourdough bread. She even mills her own flour at home!

Now more than two months into her new job, Anne is really enjoying connecting with JF&CS participants. A highlight of her day is chatting with callers on our Information, Referrals, and Consultation phone line. “People are very appreciative,” said Anne. “They are so happy just to talk to someone who is supportive and listening on the other end of the line.”

If you have questions about Parkinson’s or would like more information about our programs, don’t hesitate to email Anne Muskopf at amuskopf@jfcsboston.org or give her a call at 781-647-JFCS (5327).

Q&A with Rabbi Marc Baker and Jill Baker

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 09:53:12 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Rabbi Marc Baker, former Head of Gann Academy, recently stepped into the role of President and CEO at Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP). Marc is a North Shore native, living now in Brookline, with his wife, Jill, and their four children, Elisha, Meital, Maor, and Alanna. We had a chance to sit down with Marc and Jill to chat about their Jewish identity, their volunteer work with JF&CS, and why CJP values an ongoing partnership with JF&CS.

Being a part of the Jewish community – personally and professionally – is clearly important to you both. How does the work you do reflect your Jewish values? Who – and where – did those Jewish values come from?

Marc: I was raised in a family that was deeply committed to the Jewish community and Jewish values. I have felt a strong sense of my Jewish culture since I was a child – formed also by time spent at Jewish summer camps and then as a young adult in Israel, where Jill and I met.

Professionally, I’ve devoted my life to Jewish education and the Jewish community. This comes from a deep sense of the power of community and the potential that living a Jewish life has to add meaning and purpose to our lives. We build a Jewish family because we feel that Jewish traditions, practices, and learning are compelling ways to raise kids and to create meaning for our family.

Jill: After college, I spent time in Israel where I became more connected to my Jewish identity. From there I’ve been committed to all aspects of Jewish life, such as raising our family Jewishly and sending our children to Jewish day school. Growing up, I was raised in a home that valued spirituality and had a deep commitment to giving back

I know you've been involved with a few JF&CS programs – specifically Jill as a Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Mom volunteer working with new moms, as well as giving back as a family with Family Table. What is important to you about volunteering with JF&CS? What has surprised you about your time with JF&CS?

Jill: I was pleasantly surprised to learn that JF&CS helps everyone, regardless of their background. Our family is so connected Jewishly – for example, our kids go to Jewish Day School and we observe Shabbat every week. And, volunteering with JF&CS has integrated our particular Jewish values with our more universal concerns for our broader community and the world. The Family Table and Visiting Moms programs mobilize people to do something meaningful, and the experience is so powerful because they enable us to help people directly.

Marc: This is a time when people are looking for meaningful ways to volunteer. People are looking to give back, add value, and make an impact. JF&CS is one of the premier volunteer opportunities. JF&CS has created really powerful and authentic volunteer engagement opportunities at a time when we need more of those as a community.

For the past three or four years, we’ve volunteered with Family Table. We volunteer with our children, who are 16, 14, 12, and 9. The facilitation of direct contact for our kids with the people who we’re serving is powerful. We’re not just packing the bags of food – with Family Table you actually go to someone’s apartment and meet them. There’s a dimension of this work that is highly interpersonal, that deepens empathy, and that gives our kids the skills to be in relationship with people who may be more vulnerable than they are, and certainly who are coming from a very different place and in very different situations than they are used to.

We also participated in a poverty simulation with our kids, and that was a great example of how JF&CS not only facilitates service but also tries to help change mindsets and broaden people’s understanding of systemic issues.

There are clearly big changes in your lives, as you step into this major role at CJP. How do you see CJP's relationship to JF&CS? Why is this partnership important to you?

Marc: JF&CS is a powerful vehicle for members of the entire Jewish community to live out their Jewish values and to volunteer in meaningful ways. CJP deeply values our partnership with JF&CS in part because of the incredible work JF&CS does to create a community that takes care of the most vulnerable. Through JF&CS, our community adds its voice to the world and gives back, not only to the Jewish community but to the broader community as well.

Much of people’s Jewish lives are lived inside their particular communities. I think because one of the core organizing principles of JF&CS is chesed, or acts of loving-kindness for those who are more vulnerable, JF&CS is able to bridge communities and bring together a range of people that many other experiences do not.

The reality is that even though many of us have a deep Jewish instinct to give back through acts of loving-kindness, it’s actually not always an easy thing to do. JF&CS facilitates living out one of our most core Jewish values: taking care of the vulnerable. This is really a gift to the community. They give us the gift of being able to give.

If you would like to make a difference with JF&CS, visit our Volunteering page to find the perfect volunteer opportunity for your interests and abilities.

New Partnership Brings a Bright Horizon for Adults with Disabilities

Wed, 26 Dec 2018 09:28:37 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

JF&CS Employment Services is built around the idea of supporting and creating meaningful, fulfilling work opportunities for adults with disabilities. For John Wills, Director of Employment Services, the fact that the program covers the “entire gambit” sets the program apart from others. The program supports both potential employees and employers in meaningful relationships, from start to finish.

A recent partnership between Employment Services and Bright Horizons provided Brad*, a young adult with a cognitive disability, with an opportunity for such employment.

A Continuum of Services for Adults with Disabilities
Employment Services works to nurture the skills of each person we work with, encourage their participation in the community, and ultimately find them a role that matches their social abilities and skills. JF&CS offers different types of Day Programming and Employment Services for adults with disabilities. Participants often split their time between multiple programs or grow from one opportunity to another. CHAI Works is a licensed and certified community-based day program, providing holistic approaches to learning skills through volunteering and recreation. Employment Services provides person-centered assistance for independent competitive employment.

Brad utilized the continuum of services, and like many other participants in these programs, he was set up for success in the workplace. For partner organizations, such as Bright Horizons, hiring an Employment Services’ client means creating a more diverse and accepting workplace.

A Commitment to Inclusion at Bright Horizons
Bright Horizons, a leading provider of employer-sponsored child care, education, and work/life solutions, seemed like a natural fit for Employment Services. Stephen Kramer, the CEO of Bright Horizons, has welcomed the new partnership with open arms.

“We have the great fortune to work with Jewish Family & Children’s Service to provide work opportunities for their clients while also helping us to fill important staffing needs at Bright Horizons,” shared Stephen. “JF&CS does more than make a match. They provide employment specialists on-site to help ensure a successful experience for everyone. Our partnership has helped enrich our workforce and plays a valuable role in helping Bright Horizons achieve our mission and commitment to diversity and inclusion.”

Supporting the Transition to Employment
A job was created for Brad at Bright Horizons through a process known as job carving: job responsibilities were taken from several individuals to lighten their loads, creating a regular job that Brad could take on. Once the position was fully developed, John sat down with the core team at Bright Horizons for a training, taking the time to answer any questions they had about the opportunity. Together, the team reviewed disability etiquette, as well as strategies for working directly with Brad.

Brad’s employment specialist provided job coaching each step of the way, from being a resource during the job interview process to attending training together. Brad’s employment specialist came with him to each day of work for his first few weeks, offering emotional and strategic support in the new environment. Now that Brad has worked at Bright Horizons for almost a month, his employment specialist no longer attends work with him each day.

Employment Services knows that transitions can be tough – this is why the same support staff is assigned to help an individual find a job and support the individual when they start a new job. This relationship-based approach is important. “Once the trust is there, the process of finding a good and realistic job and supporting an individual through their job is organic,” said John. Brad’s employment specialist played a crucial role in the transition to employment.

Finding the Right Fit
Most participants are attracted to our services because of the distinctive approach to employment. As John described it, “We have a few approaches to employment services, all of which are life-span support. We don’t find someone any job that is open and send them on their way with a wave of ‘good luck!’ We make sure the job works and continues to work.” It’s this type of support, coupled with the supportive environment of Bright Horizons, that makes this partnership work.

For more information about our job matching resources for adults with disabilities, visit our Employment Services page.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

A Mindful Experience: The Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 14:01:47 GMT

Posted by Sue Spielman

“Every day I see or hear something
That more or less kills me with delight,
That leaves me like a needle in the haystack of light.
It was what I was born for – to look, to listen, to lose myself
inside this soft world – to instruct myself
over and over in joy, and acclamation.”

- Excerpt from Mindful by Mary Oliver

Earlier this month, the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing hosted the 13th Annual Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration. Approximately 120 older adults, volunteers, and staff gathered together at JF&CS headquarters to celebrate Chanukkah as a community.

Everywhere I looked in the room, I saw people engaged in the joyous activities of Chanukkah. Whether it was reciting the Chanukkah blessings, dipping latkes (potato pancakes) in applesauce, laughing at a funny story, or reminiscing about a favorite memory, I could see the sights, sounds, and delicious smells of a warm Chanukkah celebration.

For many of our older guests, this is their only opportunity to celebrate Chanukkah and eat traditional foods like latkes. For others, it is a chance to have an engaging conversation with a group of younger folks. And for our generous volunteers, it is a joyful opportunity to do the important work of helping to lessen the feelings of isolation experienced by many older adults.

A JF&CS staff member recently shared with me comments she received from our clients about the Chanukkah celebration:

“Everyone around me was beaming with big smiles and happiness.”
“My mother discovered that she lives in the same town as another guest and they exchanged phone numbers so they can stay in touch and visit each other. They are both widows, and I’m delighted that my mother, who rarely goes out, made a new friend.”
"It was my first time. Thank you for the party. All the staff worked so hard to make it perfect, and it was!"

I also heard this wonderful story from a JF&CS staff member:

“My client traveled 60 miles to attend the Chanukkah Celebration. She called me the next day with joy in her voice, thanking us for making it possible for her to be there. She and her caregiver, who isn’t Jewish, had a great time and thought it was beautiful. As someone who isn’t around other people who are Jewish, the celebration was a very rich and uplifting experience for her.”

I want to thank our volunteers, members of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing advisory council, and JF&CS staff members who helped to create this meaningful intergenerational Chanukkah celebration. I am especially grateful to my colleague, Ruth Maffa, and her husband Phil, for the sounds of their beautiful music playing on the harp and violin!

Like Mary Oliver wrote in Mindful, I consider myself so fortunate to have the opportunity “to look” at a teenager holding the hand of an older adult, “to listen” to a toddler squeal as numerous voices recited the Chanukkah blessings, and to “lose myself” in the warm embrace of contented guests as they headed back home.

To see more photos from the Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration, check out our Facebook album!

Sue Spielman, MPA manages the Friendly Visitor Program and Caring Communities Resource Network, both programs of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing. She has run the Friendly Visitor Program for over 16 years. Sue also manages Café Hakalah Brookline, of Schechter Holocaust Services. Prior to joining JF&CS, Sue worked for 20 years in the world of parenting education and support as an educator and community organizer. Sue received degrees from Harvard University, Wheelock College, and the University of Massachusetts.

Three Generations Giving Back to JF&CS

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 16:43:21 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

Left to right: Whitney Rosenberg, Helaine Hazlett, and Karen Rosenberg

Karen Rosenberg can sum up her family’s philanthropy in just a few words: “It’s simply part of our everyday life.” For Karen, her husband David, and their four children, supporting the people and institutions of their community is part of their fabric. After all, Karen, also one of four children, has great role models in her mother and father, Helaine and James Hazlett. “When you see your parents giving back on a daily basis, it just becomes second nature. It’s how we function as a family

Making Tikkun Olam a Family Tradition

For Helaine, the answer is similar and thus the impetus for her lifetime of community service and strong ideology to create a better place for all. The values of tikkun olam, repairing the world, were taught and practiced with vigor throughout her childhood. Helaine remembers, “My parents were dutiful people who instilled in their four children a sense of Jewish connection in all that they pursued.” Jim, too, shares their mutual philosophy of doing for others in an unconditional way.

Giving back continues to be a core value for both the Hazlett and Rosenberg families. Helaine shared, “When we see someone who is in need of assistance, we, collectively, do something whether it’s with our pocketbook or by taking action.” Helaine recalls receiving a phone call just before Shabbat: a community member did not have enough food or money to get them through the weekend. Helaine’s immediate response to the news was to ask Family Table to open their doors and offer this individual access to several days’ worth of food and supplies.

Raising local consciousness of the vital and varied programs offered by JF&CS and supporting their fundraising events are priorities for Helaine and Karen. The Hazletts and Rosenbergs were honorary chairs for the 2017 Benefit and will serve as committee members again this year. Helaine and Jim celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and, in lieu of gifts, suggested donations to Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms, a JF&CS program designed to offer support to new parents. Twenty years ago, Helaine created the “North Shore Community Hero” event, honoring unsung heroes, only to become one of the first honorees herself. She also serves on the committee for the annual JF&CS Women’s Breakfast benefiting the Center for Early Relationship Support.

A New Generation of Volunteers

Helaine’s and Karen’s dedication to the community, and to JF&CS in particular, is now being embodied by a third generation, something which gives both women particular pride. When the Family Table distribution center first opened at the former Temple Shalom in Salem, Helaine took Karen’s two older children, Shelby and Amanda, to deliver groceries to those in need. When Karen’s third daughter, Whitney, was looking for volunteer opportunities, Karen suggested that she become involved with Family Table, and Whitney enthusiastically agreed.

Whitney and her younger brother, Andrew, would first sort and then deliver groceries to families in need. Packing and delivering groceries, a task that they undervalued prior to their exposure at Family Table, showed Whitney and her siblings that access to food was a very real challenge for these families. Furthermore, many clients were without full kitchens, pots, pans, cooking tools, or proper nutritional information, which impeded their ability to put healthy, balanced meals on the table.

After a summer internship with Family Table, Whitney wanted to continue to help the cause. “I originally thought that putting together a cookbook filled with simply-made and nutritious recipes would be a valuable tool, so I reached out to JF&CS,” Whitney shared. Soon thereafter, she discovered that a cookbook targeted toward those living in circumstances with access to only a microwave and a hot plate was already in the works. That’s when Whitney joined the JF&CS “Home Cooking without a Kitchen” team to further develop the cookbook.

Along with a member of the staff, Whitney traveled to motels in the Greater Boston area where homeless families lived. Her role was to prepare a meal from the newly developed cookbook, one that was mindful of grocery budgets and limited kitchens, and talk through the steps while demonstrating how to create a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal. As Whitney commented, “Now clients are able to make more than just mac and cheese in the microwave.”

Whitney is currently a sophomore at Syracuse University studying nutrition, and she credits her time with JF&CS for developing her interest in her chosen major. Even her essay for admission to college was about her experience at JF&CS. “Whitney is a ray of sunshine,” Helaine said with pride. “She’s a young woman who makes others feel happy and fulfilled, especially in difficult situations.”

The Tradition Continues

Whitney and her family continue to give back as often as possible through Family Table. David, Karen’s husband, supports JF&CS in numerous ways as well. Most recently, he assisted with the acquisition of several vans to service the JF&CS day program for adults with disabilities. Prime Motor Group also proudly employs adults from this crucial program.

All three generations of the Hazlett and Rosenberg families continue to give their time and resources to JF&CS because “working with JF&CS allows us to make a difference in so many ways,” said Helaine. “We cannot idly stand by,” stated Karen. Whitney added, “Volunteering at Family Table gives me a feel-good feeling.”

If you would like to make a difference with JF&CS, visit our Volunteering page to find the perfect volunteer opportunity for your interests and abilities.

2018 Tax Reform: Everything You Need to Know

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 10:11:18 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Cahn

As you consider your year-end charitable giving, it is important to understand the impact of the 2018 tax reform law. JF&CS has put together the following tax guide to help you make the most of your donation.

What’s New?

Income Tax Brackets

Whether you’re a single filer or a married person who files jointly, separately, or as head of household, you will likely fall into a new tax bracket.

The new law maintains seven tax brackets but lowers rates for most brackets. The new brackets are: 10, 12, 22, 24, 32, 35 and 37 percent. Most taxpayers will see their tax rate decrease. A married couple with a combined income of $150,000, for example, will go from a 25 percent tax rate to 22 percent under the new law.

You may be in a lower bracket this year and pay fewer taxes, which presents the opportunity to give more to the charitable organizations you care about, such as JF&CS.

Higher Standard Deductions

The new law nearly doubles the standard deduction to $12,000 for single filers, $18,000 for heads of household, and $24,000 for joint filers. This means that you may be less likely to itemize on your taxes and use the income tax charitable deduction.

Also, as you plan your giving to JF&CS and other nonprofits, you may now have an incentive to give more in one particular year over another—exceeding the standard deduction and justifying the itemization of your charitable deductions.

Itemized Deductions

If you elect to itemize this year, your deductions may look a little different. Although charitable deductions can be taken according to the new law, your ability to deduct state and local taxes will be limited to a total of $10,000.

Additionally, if you purchase a new home, there is now a cap on the mortgage interest deduction for the first $750,000 of debt on newly purchased homes.

Charitable Contributions for Cash Gifts

The new law increases the limitation of 50 percent of your adjusted gross income (AGI) for donations by cash, check, or credit card up to 60 percent. Higher net worth donors may want to consider increasing cash gifts.

Estate Tax Exemption

The threshold for triggering an estate, gift, or generation-skipping tax was raised to $11.18 million per person ($22.36 million for a married couple). Only an estimated 0.1 percent of estates will be subject to estate tax under the new law. (By comparison, the rates in 2017 were $5.49 million for individuals and $10.98 million for married couples.)

If you have a high net worth, you may no longer be subject to estate tax and have an incentive to make larger gifts during your lifetime to obtain an income tax charitable deduction instead of waiting until after your lifetime.

What’s the Same?

Charitable Deductions

You will still be able to deduct your charitable contributions provided you itemize your deductions on your tax return. You may find that you’d prefer to use the standard deduction in lieu of itemizing.

Long-Term Capital Gains and Dividends

The tax rates on capital gains and dividends remain the same at 0, 15, and 20 percent, depending on your tax bracket.

Charitable Contributions of Appreciated Property

The limitation on charitable gifts of long-term appreciated property to public charities will remain at 30 percent of your adjusted gross income. You can still carry over any excess for up to five additional years.

What Does This Mean for Me?

The lower tax brackets may mean that you are in a better financial position to help others this year. Here are two smart ways to be charitable as we close out the year:

1. Donate appreciated property.

If your assets have experienced strong growth in recent years, consider a gift of appreciated property to JF&CS, a tax-exempt entity. You can eliminate capital gains tax and may qualify for an income tax charitable deduction.

2. Name JF&CS as a beneficiary of retirement plan accounts.

Assets in your IRA, 401(k), or other qualified retirement plan accounts remain subject to income tax when distributed to you and your heirs. If you name JF&CS as a beneficiary of all or part of your retirement plan, your gift will pass to JF&CS tax-free.

Need Help?

If you have questions, please contact Elizabeth Cahn, Senior Philanthropic Advisor at ecahn@jfcsboston.org or 978-884-0653 . We’d be happy to help and can discuss how you can include JF&CS in your plans.

Fostering Resilience and Well-Being

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 11:07:46 GMT

Posted by Rimma Zelfand

When people ask me what JF&CS is all about, it’s tempting to talk about the many ways we’re there for people in times of need. But a mere inventory of our services will never capture what we’re ultimately aiming to achieve. Although our programs are designed to help people solve the immediate problems that bring them to our door, we set our sights much higher than that. Our aim, in all that we do, is to help people build a strong foundation that supports resilience and well-being across the lifespan.

Constructing a foundation for resilience and wellbeing means more than responding to a crisis. It also means connecting people with a caring community, helping them access essential resources, building life skills, and addressing the needs of the whole person.

By fostering resilience and well-being, JF&CS creates lasting change and, whenever possible, improves the trajectory of participants’ lives. For Sarah* and her family, the JF&CS approach is making all the difference.

Sarah – one of our Project NESST® moms in recovery from substance use – was connected to JF&CS when her three children were removed from her home. Understanding the difficulty of balancing the challenges of parenting and of recovery from a substance use disorder, Project NESST stepped in to make sure Sarah received the support she needed.

Once connected with Project NESST, Sarah was never really alone. Supporting her through recovery and to prepare for life after recovery, Project NESST helped her set goals and develop skills so that she was able to reunite with her children. Although she was overjoyed at the prospect, she was distressed that she couldn’t afford beds for them. Thanks to our partnership with the Boston Bullpen Project and the financial assistance they provided, Sarah was able to purchase the beds, and her children are now experiencing the security of sleeping at home. The combination of material help from the Boston Bullpen Project and therapeutic support from Project NESST are helping this family mend after suffering the trauma of separation.

Here at JF&CS, our volunteers, donors, and community partners come together every day to create a world where we can all experience increased resilience and well-being. I am profoundly grateful to our remarkable staff, our board members, and our funders who walk through our doors daily with a passion to improve people’s lives.

Rimma Zelfand is the CEO of Jewish Family & Children’s Service. Her first involvementwith JF&CS began with her joining the JF&CS Board of Directors and the Strategic Planning Committee in 2003. In 2004, Rimma joined JF&CS as Director of Senior Services. She came to her role with 15 years of a very successful track record in leading and managing home care, home health, disease management, and elder care programs. Under Rimma’s leadership, Senior Services grew and gained recognition. Her accomplishments included: launching the first NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities) project in Massachusetts, creating the Parkinson’s Family Support Program, and establishing the Geriatric Institute. From 2008 – 2011, Rimma served as the Senior Vice President for Programs.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

It Takes a Village: CHAI Works Partners with The Rashi School

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 10:41:13 GMT

Posted by Otis Dean

Otis Dean, a Program Coordinator for JF&CS CHAI Works-South, contributed this thoughtful reflection on a memorable volunteer outing to The Rashi School, where program participants serve lunch on a weekly basis. CHAI Works is a community-based day program for adults with disabilities.

It was a beautiful fall day when we entered The Rashi School. The air was crisp; sunlight was streaming through changing yellow-orange leaves on this wooded campus that borders the Charles River in Dedham, MA. My colleague and I, along with eight participants from CHAI Works-South, drove the short distance from our base in Canton, MA to be there. We served lunch, in three shifts, to roughly two hundred K – 8 students.

Let me start with the end of our day and say how impressed I was with our participants for serving a full course pizza lunch to the Rashi students, with hardly a break between the three lunch sessions. I know how challenging it was because I was serving right alongside with them. A tradition at Rashi is the prayer led by a teacher at the end of each meal period before returning to the classrooms. Here, the teachers added a special addendum, and asked the students to express their appreciation with a round of applause for our participant volunteers.

Of course, the staff and volunteer parents at The Rashi School have been instrumental in our visits, ensuring the conditions for our success and being supportive in every way. They helped train our volunteers in the multiple steps required to prepare and set up the lunch line, deliver the meal service, and wrap it all up.

The goal in selecting our volunteer sites is to foster job and life skills for our participants, including hands-on training, and the soft skills needed to navigate the interactions of daily life. At the end of the day in Dedham, with the sunlight now fading, our participants sang songs on the ride back to CHAI Works. During the ride, one of the participants said, “I really want to come back again.” I couldn’t help but wonder whether this congenial spirit was the result of the day’s hard work or the appreciation and respect our volunteers elicited from the Rashi community? Most likely, it was the result of both.

To learn more about our community-based day program with locations in Waltham and Canton, visit our CHAI Works page.

Holocaust Services Founder Izzy Arbeiter Retires

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 14:51:02 GMT

Posted by Schechter Holocaust Services

“Understanding makes the wise man stronger than ten rulers in a city.” (Ecclesiastes, 7:19)

Izzy Arbeiter understands.

After a quarter century with JF&CS, Izzy Arbeiter, the founder of our Holocaust Services program, is retiring. Izzy is stepping down as Chair of the Schechter Holocaust Services Advisory Committee to become the program’s very first Chair Emeritus. In recognition of Izzy’s decades of transformative work helping survivors live their lives with dignity, the Schechter Holocaust Services team has put together this reflection on Izzy’s legacy here at JF&CS.

Building a Safe Place for Survivors
In 1993, Izzy and Ellen Fishman started the Hakalah program at JF&CS, which is now known as Schechter Holocaust Services. Izzy had the forethought to solicit The Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany for funding to help survivors in the Greater Boston area. A Holocaust survivor himself, Izzy was keenly aware that other survivors would need financial and homecare assistance as they age. He knew that survivors needed a safe place to go to ask for assistance – a place they could trust.

Asking for help is not an easy task, especially for survivors, but Izzy made our Holocaust services program incredibly welcoming. Izzy’s courage has been a beacon of hope, and he has facilitated the trust of many a survivor who needed his help to feel safe. His comforting presence allowed our clients to overcome their fear of what might happen, to feel comfortable giving personal information to “strangers,” and to get the assistance from Schechter Holocaust Services that they need.

Izzy has been a tireless champion for Schechter Holocaust Services, fostering the program’s growth and longevity. He has advocated to help ensure that JF&CS has enough funds from the Claims Conference in New York to care for our growing client base. Izzy has also spent time educating the Claims Conference and other funders to help them understand the needs of this community. Driven by a relentless energy, each new mission for Schechter Holocaust Services was met with Izzy’s favorite mantra, “We need to do it NOW.”

A Stronger Man
Every member of the staff of Schechter Holocaust Services has been in awe of Izzy since the first day each of us met him. Izzy is gracious, warm, charismatic, strong, articulate, and persistent. He will not back down. We would not be sitting here today as such a well-established Holocaust services program if he had.

Izzy has been an invaluable resource and source of inspiration to all those who have been fortunate enough to cross paths with him. We have been inspired by his vision and passion to speak out against bullying and by the stories he has generously shared of his losses and survival during the Holocaust.

As Izzy transitions to his new role as Chair Emeritus, we want to say, “Thank you, Izzy Arbeiter, for being the stronger man.” Because of you, we will make sure that survivors continue to live with dignity and that their voices will never be forgotten. Izzy Arbeiter understands.

Taking the Call: Our Adoption Story

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 14:39:37 GMT

Posted by Michael and Lisa

JF&CS Adoption Resources thanks Michael and Lisa for sharing their family’s adoption story.

Having adopted a child six years ago, we are occasionally asked for advice about the adoption process by prospective adoptive parents. Much of what we say is passing along advice we received: Be patient. Talk to lots of people. Be ready for the unknown. And be prepared for a lot of phone calls.

We did our pre-adoption home study through JF&CS Adoption Resources in person, and we met our child and the birthparents in the hospital in person. In between were all the phone calls that we will never forget.

The calls to tell us that we were being considered by various birthmothers. The calls to tell us that we had not been chosen.

The calls to ask whether we would like our profile book to be shown to birthparents in a different state than we had planned on? Would we consider adopting a child with a possible medical concern? Would we like to know more about birthparents who were considering us? Yes, always yes.

The call to tell us that this time we had been chosen. We had a match. We would become this child’s parents. I know exactly where we were standing when that call came in, in my aunt’s apartment, barely able to breathe.

The calls became more frequent. Would we like to know more about the birthparents? Would we like updates from the prenatal checkups? Would we like to know the child’s gender? Yes, always yes.

The call to tell us the child had been born that day, to tell us that the Apgar scores were good, to tell us we should buy our plane tickets for the following day.

I know exactly where we were standing outside the hospital two days later when the agency counselor called to say that the birthparents had signed the paperwork, that we could come upstairs and meet this child with the wonderful shock of spiky black hair who was now our child.

We stood outside the hospital, alone as a family of three for the first time, not quite believing that we were now responsible for this new human being. We drove to our condo that would be our temporary home in this distant state. We made the long-awaited calls to our parents to tell them that they were now grandparents.

Nearly two weeks later came the phone call telling us that the interstate paperwork had been completed, that we could buy our plane tickets home.

Our child’s adoption was finalized three months after that, when a judge reviewed all the paperwork and declared that our child would forever be ours in the eyes of the law. The judge was in a courtroom in another state, and we were gathered in an office at JF&CS Adoption Resources. It was entirely fitting that the finalization was completed over the phone.

If you’re going to become an adoptive parent, prepare to open your heart and your life in new ways. And make sure you answer that call.

If you’re interested in starting your own adoption journey, get in touch with an Adoption Resources counselor by filling out our contact form.

One Hundredth Memory Café Opens in Massachusetts

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 10:12:42 GMT

Posted by Beth Soltzberg

“I’ve made so many friends here. This is what we need – a place where we’re treated like everybody else.”

“It gives me a feeling of home.”

These are the words of guests attending memory cafés, social gatherings for people living with Alzheimer’s or a related disorder, their family members, friends, and caregivers. When JF&CS started its monthly memory café in 2014, it was the second memory café in Massachusetts.

We are thrilled to announce that four years later, there are now more than one hundred memory cafés in the Bay State! Read on to learn all about the history of memory cafés in Massachusetts and the opening of the hundredth café.

History of Memory Cafés in the Commonwealth

Soon after JF&CS opened its memory café, our guests started asking for more meeting times and locations so that they could enjoy the café atmosphere more than once a month.

JF&CS responded by launching the JF&CS Percolator Memory Café Network, which assists other organizations in starting and running their cafés.

The Percolator offers a free Memory Café Toolkit, a directory to help café coordinators find guest artists to lead expressive arts activities at their café, and distributes tips and ideas so that no one has to “reinvent the wheel” when starting their café. It provides technical assistance and convenes quarterly meetings to share best practices. JF&CS also hosts a statewide Memory Café Directory, so Massachusetts residents can easily find cafés in their neighborhood.

About the One Hundredth Café

We recently added the one hundredth listing to the Memory Café Directory: “Break at Tiffany’s” café at the Bigelow Free Library in Clinton. Miatta Edi-Osagie, the founder of Break at Tiffany’s, is tailoring the café to fit the needs and interests of her local community. She plans to offer home-cooked refreshments, music, and other interactive creative arts activities. The creative arts are a core part of many memory cafés because they bring people together and are engaging for people with a wide range of interests, cognitive needs, and abilities.

Other recent milestones for memory cafés in Massachusetts include the launch of the second Spanish speaking memory café at the Salem Senior Center, joining Aroma de Café in Lawrence. Additionally, the first Portuguese speaking café, Café da Memória, just opened in New Bedford. We hope to see cafés become available to more linguistic and cultural communities and in every corner of Massachusetts over time.

Congratulations to Miatta and all of the other café coordinators who are providing places that “feel like home” to people living with dementia and those who care about them!

See Memory Cafés in Action

Want a sneak peek of what it is like to visit a memory café? Check out this one-minute video profiling our cafés in English and Spanish.

Beth Soltzberg, LCSW, MBA, is the director of the Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support program at JF&CS. Beth leads the JF&CS Percolator Memory Café Network and Dementia Friends Massachusetts and is a strategic partner in Dementia Friendly Massachusetts. Beth earned her MSW and MBA from the University of Chicago and a certificate in end-of-life care from the Smith College School of Social Work. She holds an advanced credential in hospice and palliative care social work.

Tremble Clefs Process Pittsburgh Tragedy Through Song

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 17:53:04 GMT

Posted by Marilyn Okonow

On the Monday morning following the horrific events at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, I was getting ready for our weekly JF&CS Tremble Clefs rehearsal, which meets at a church in Newton. I have been the volunteer musical director of this chorus of Parkinson’s patients and their caregivers for ten years, but this was no ordinary Monday. I checked my computer one last time and saw an email from Gary*, one of our singers. I can always count on Gary to contact me and suggest a relevant song for the day, to honor a just-deceased music icon, for example, or to celebrate an upcoming holiday. So it was no surprise that Gary suggested that we sing a song for the Pittsburgh victims.

On my way to chorus, I was thinking that “We Shall Overcome” would be appropriate. As I was setting up, another singer, Sue*, approached me with a request to sing something in light of the tragic events of the weekend. She suggested one of our “greatest hits,” Craig Taubman’s incredible song, “Holy Ground,” with its powerful lyrics. Gary came over to me in his wheelchair, and in our little huddle with Sue, we decided that, yes, “Holy Ground” would be perfect.

Of the 30 or so singers in Tremble Clefs who come every week, rain or shine, only about a third are Jewish. We also have three women from the Cambridge Community Chorus who volunteer and are lending their voices for the second year; they have become a part of our Tremble Clefs family. The comradery in the room is palpable; it is a safe place and time in the singers’ week where they can be with others with similar challenges, AND have FUN making music together. Singing helps those with Parkinson’s whose voices have begun to weaken; we work on the rudiments of singing, breath diction, and, perhaps most importantly, volume.

Our pianist, Joe Reid, began playing the introduction to “Holy Ground.” Then something unexpected happened. I gave the chorus the cue to start singing, and they did. Then I lost it. I couldn’t sing because I started crying as I thought of the victims and our world, and that we were in a holy place like countless other holy places where senseless tragedies have occurred recently. I looked over at one of our singers and she was crying too. But the REST of the singers carried on, singing without my voice to guide them, loudly, confidently in their own voices like never before.

These incredible individuals who I have grown to care so much about, admire for the way they face their physical challenges, whom I was there to help so that their voices don’t suffer the ravages of Parkinson’s disease, were actually carrying ME. As I stood before them, I scanned their faces. Jewish and non-Jewish, we were all suffering together and trying to process what had happened. That’s what the community that we have created is all about. I felt the power of that sacred moment. The singers gave me strength as I felt in my heart that we are all in this together. The worst anti-Semitic act in recent memory and all of our singers, Jewish and non-Jewish, were suffering. Without that reassurance that others care about us, how can we go on?

That moment reinforced for me what I have known my whole life: when we are at a loss for words, the act of singing, and the perfect blend of music and lyrics, as in Craig Taubman’s song, can help us express what is in our hearts:

Holy Ground

Ev'ry second, every minute, ev'ry hour, ev'ry day,
Ev'ry thing, ev'ry one, ev'ry place, ev'ry way,
Where you stand, where you walk, where you love, where you pray,
All of life is holy ground.

So walk as if it's holy ground,
Breathe as if it's all around.
Talk and make a holy sound,
Take your shoes off, you're on holy ground.

When you hurt, when you heal,
When you laugh, when you pray,
When you doubt, when you keep,
When you give it away,
Ev'ry second, ev'ry minute,
Ev'ry hour, ev'ry day,
All of life is holy ground.
Take your shoes off,
You’re on holy ground.

Words and Music by Craig Taubman

May the memory of those who lost their lives continue to inspire us to be a caring community.

Marilyn Okonow is the volunteer conductor of the Tremble Clefs choral group, a program of JF&CS Parkinson’s Family Support. Marilyn engages the singers with great sincerity and heartfelt warmth and acceptance. She creates a sense of community and makes each participant feel welcome and appreciated. Marilyn has a masters degree in Music Education from the New England Conservatory.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Finding a Family: National Adoption Awareness Month

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:59:45 GMT

Posted by Betsy Hochberg

This November, Jewish Family & Children’s Service joins families around the U.S. in observing National Adoption Awareness Month. The mission of this annual event is to spread awareness about adoption and to acknowledge those people whose lives have been touched by adoption. At JF&CS, we have helped families grow through adoption for more than one hundred years. We continue to build strong families through our program, Adoption Resources.

The History of National Adoption Awareness Month

The origins of National Adoption Awareness Month can be traced back to Massachusetts in 1976, when Governor Mike Dukakis proclaimed the first week of November as “Adoption Week.” In 1984, President Ronald Reagan made this a national effort and it was observed in all other states as well. Around a decade later, President Bill Clinton officially expanded National Adoption Week to an entire month. The mission of this observance continues to recognize the many families that have grown through adoption and to acknowledge the number of children still waiting for families in the foster care system.

Lifting Up Youth Voices

The theme for this year’s National Adoption Awareness Month is “In their Own Words: Lifting Up Youth Voices.” Although the Adoption Resources program of JF&CS only places newborns for adoption, we celebrate all children who have joined their families through adoption and recognize the significance of birthparents in an adoptee’s life story. The stories shared by young adoptees teach us a great deal as they reflect on their families by birth and adoption. Those same stories remind us of the ways in which young people contribute to our knowledge of this exciting process and the life-long journey of adoption.

About Adoption Resources

The Adoption Resources program of Jewish Family & Children’s Service assists individuals and couples that make the decision to grow their family through adoption. We work with all families regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity. For more information about our comprehensive services for birth and adoptive parents, visit our Adoption Resources page.

Betsy Hochberg, MSW, LICSW is Director of Adoption Resources, the adoption agency of JF&CS. She has held this position for the past 16 years and worked in the adoption field for 25 years. She is a clinical social worker and an adoptive parent. Betsy is a board member of the Adoption Professional Association of Massachusetts (APAM) and actively involved in Resolve of New England.

SPD is Now CHAI Services

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 09:50:27 GMT

Posted by Sue Stellick

The Services for People with Disabilities (SPD) division has changed our name to CHAI Services!

The SPD division began with our residential CHAI program in 1989 focusing on Community Housing for Adult Independence. As our division has expanded, “Services for People with Disabilities” didn’t seem to fit—not all the demographic we serve identifies with the term “disability.” As we do in practice, we also wanted our division’s name to focus more on abilities and support needs, rather than disability and deficits. When brainstorming new division names, we revisited our CHAI acronym, revamping it again to include the breadth of services we provide.

The division is now CHAI Services, promoting Community, Housing, Access, and Independence for people of all abilities. This change is reflected on our website and in our marketing materials. CHAI Services provide support, strategies, and solutions that strengthen individuals and families, build community connections, and enhance independence. We offer special expertise in addressing the needs of children and adults with developmental disabilities, mental illness, and autism spectrum disorder, while providing services that are inclusive of people with a wide range of strengths and needs.

CHAI Services currently has 14 programs in the Greater Boston and south of Boston areas, serving nearly 1,300 individuals, employing approximately 160 staff, and operating with a budget of over $9 million.

Sue Stellick is Associate Division Director - Day & Employment Services and has been with the program since 2006. She has worked in the disability field since 2000 with people who have intellectual, physical, neurological, and mental health support needs. Sue’s expertise is in vocational support, day program development, service coordination, and community inclusion. She also has experience in the direct service and coordination of in-home communication and behavioral therapies. Sue received a BS and MS in rehabilitation psychology from the University of Wisconsin. She is also a certified rehabilitation counselor, nonviolent crisis intervention instructor, and has a certification in job development.

Progress and Pain: Eighty Years After Kristallnacht

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 10:18:39 GMT

Posted by Lora Tarlin

On the evening of November 9, 1938, carefully orchestrated anti-Jewish violence erupted throughout the Third Reich. Over the next 48 hours, rioters in Germany, Austria, and the Sudetenland burned or damaged more than 1,000 synagogues and ransacked and broke the windows of more than 7,500 businesses. Some 30,000 Jewish men between the ages of 16 and 60 were arrested and sent to concentration camps.

Police stood by as the violence — often the actions of neighbors, not strangers — occurred. Firemen were present, not to protect the synagogues, but to ensure that the flames did not spread to adjacent “Aryan” property. The pogrom was given a quaint name: Kristallnacht (“Crystal Night,” or “Night of Broken Glass”).

Echoes of the Past

Eighty years after the most notorious pogrom of the Nazi era, the feeling that anti-Semitism is on the rise in America became all too real when a gunman opened fire and killed 11 Jews at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA. None of us can truly comprehend how or why this senseless tragedy occurred.

Yet the difference is remarkable from eighty years ago. The day after the shooting, I was sitting in a room full of Holocaust survivors at Café Europa at Temple Reyim in Newton, MA, and I heard several survivors say to the organizers, “Thanks so much for having a police detail for us today. I feel safe. The police are here to protect us.” The strength of these survivors must teach all of us to never forget and to never allow hate to win.

How to Help Holocaust Survivors

If you would like to help survivors living in your community, Jewish Family & Children’s Service offers a number of ways to get involved. Our Schechter Holocaust Services program is looking for volunteers to drive survivors to medical appointments, help with grocery shopping, and provide companionship. Volunteers are also welcome to work in our Waltham office or lend a helping hand with our monthly social gatherings for Holocaust survivors, known as “Café Hakalah.”

To start volunteering with JF&CS, please fill out our Volunteer Registration Form and be sure to check the box for “Holocaust survivors and their families” under Assignment Interests. Making a donation to JF&CS is also a wonderful way to help survivors. Thank you so much for your support!

Lora Tarlin is Director of Schechter Holocaust Services at JF&CS. She has a MA in Jewish Communal Service from Brandeis University. Lora has been with Schechter Holocaust Services for six years and has served as director since February 2017.

Words Matter: Supporting Survivors of Domestic Abuse

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 14:46:35 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

We have heard a great deal recently about the importance of “believing and supporting survivors.” In fact, our Journey to Safety staff say it often. But what does it mean to support survivors of domestic abuse or sexual assault? Beyond listening to what they have to say, what else can we do?

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. With a nod to raising awareness and some recognition that there has been much conversation about “supporting survivors,” we thought this might be a good time to share with you some of the key things you might say and think about if someone that you care about tells you that yes, they, too, are a survivor of domestic abuse and/or sexual assault.

“You are not alone.”

This statement has two meanings. First of all, abuse and assault are much more common in our communities than many people realize. Nearly one in four (and some research puts this number at nearly one in three) women will be physically or sexually assaulted by an intimate partner in her lifetime. The numbers for men, too, are higher than often thought. Survivors frequently feel alone, but in fact, many people are carrying these stories with them.

The statement “you are not alone” also means you (and perhaps others) are there to listen and talk through the feelings and decisions that come after an assault or ongoing abuse.

“I believe and support you.”

Tell people that you believe them. Survivors sometimes might not know what you are thinking after hearing a disclosure of deeply personal, incredibly painful information. Just saying that you believe and support them can be both validating and relieving.

“What happened to you isn’t your fault.”

It might seem obvious to you that what has happened is not the survivor’s fault, but we encourage you to say it anyway. We live in a world that blames survivors in many subtle and not so subtle ways for the abuse and violence they experience. Survivors routinely still face questions about why they were with that person in the first place, why they didn’t leave the relationship earlier, why they didn’t report something when it happened. And yes, they still hear even more basic questions about what they were wearing, what they had been drinking, how accurate their memory is, how big of a deal what happened really was or why they made any of the choices they made along the way.

To add to that, abusive individuals often blame their partner for everything. Many survivors report hearing things from an abusive partner like “If you hadn’t made me so mad, I wouldn’t have done that to you” or other blaming statements that place the responsibility squarely on the survivor. Abuse of any kind is a choice. When speaking with someone who has experienced abuse and/or assault, it is very important to put that blame back where it belongs -- with abusive individuals.

“Help is available.”

We sometimes hear from friends, family and professionals in the community that they are hesitant to talk about abuse and/or assault because they don’t know how to help. It is so important to recognize that you are taking action when you listen and believe people. You don’t have to have all of the answers, but you can be the bridge to those who are trained to help.

Moreover, don’t give up on people if they aren’t ready to talk or acknowledge the abuse. Provide support and validation whenever it’s possible. A colleague recently shared her concerns about a friend who often references her husband’s abusive behaviors (e.g. speaking badly about her in front of their children, screaming at her for no reason, or driving the car recklessly when the whole family is in it.) She can sense when her friend is receptive to comments like, “it’s not okay for him to blame you,” or “that kind of behavior is abusive.” She knows her friend isn’t ready to leave her husband and while my colleague avoids spending time with the husband she remains loyal to her friend and at times gently reminds her that his behavior isn’t her fault and that she doesn’t deserve to be treated that way.

There are a few other things to see if you can help with as well….

Does the person have a safe phone to call from or will their abusive partner look at the phone bill record and demand to know what all those calls are about?
Does the person have a private space to call from?
Does the person need help finding childcare or care for a vulnerable adult for a few hours?
Can you offer time on a computer or a ride to the library so that the person can learn more about abuse and local programs that offer services without the risk of leaving a search history on their phone or home computer?

In many Jewish communities, we talk about how we might participate in the work of repairing the world. Literally and metaphorically opening the door for survivors can change lives. You don’t have to be an expert to support someone. You just have to be a person with a little time to listen, a list of a few key things to say and some knowledge about who in the community to contact. And with that, we can help to change the world, one supportive conversation at a time.

Community Resources for Domestic Abuse Survivors and People Who Support Them

Elizabeth Schön Vainer has been the program director of Journey to Safety, the domestic abuse program of JF&CS, since March 2010. Elizabeth is passionate about Journey to Safety’s commitment to prevent domestic abuse. She believes that we must work at the individual, community, and legislative levels to shift our societal view that allows abusive behavior to remain so prevalent and damaging. When we focus on speaking up, listening to, and collaborating with others we can have a real impact. Prior to working at JF&CS, Elizabeth worked for 25 years in victim services at both the Middlesex and Suffolk County District Attorney’s offices. Elizabeth holds a BSW from the University of Tel Aviv and a MS in organization and management from Antioch University.

Reflection: The Ride for Food

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 13:55:41 GMT

On September 23, 2018, a team of 27 dedicated souls cycled for JF&CS Family Table at the 7th Annual Ride for Food. Sponsored by Three Squares New England, the Ride for Food creates greater awareness of hunger in our communities and raises critical funds for participating food pantries. This year’s Family Table team succeeded in raising more than $38,000, which will help Family Table provide healthy groceries and Jewish holiday items for more than 500 families each month in the coming year. Carol Laibson, a frequent rider on the Family Table team, works with Holocaust survivors as a Clinical Manager for JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services. She shared the reflection below.

Food – what does it mean to you? To me, it can be something that brings joy, eases pangs of hunger, but is often taken for granted and not considered. To my mother it was a precious gift that was shared with her best friend during their time in the Auschwitz concentration camp. To Holocaust survivors, it can bring back painful memories of a time when almost none existed.

As I fasted a few weeks ago during Yom Kippur and felt and heard my stomach grumble, I was reminded of those who survived the horrors of Nazi persecution. During the Holocaust, the feeling of hunger did not come from a choice, but a lack of food and starvation, that may have lasted days, weeks, months, and sometimes years. I thought how fortunate we are to have the luxury of choosing to fast or not fast. In my work with Schechter Holocaust Services, I have seen how prolonged hunger can be an ever present part of someone's life and how food from Family Table can bring relief from today’s hunger as well as relief from painful memories of hunger and one's past.

A few days after Yom Kippur, I became part of a community of people who joined together to donate their time, their money, and their hearts to make a difference in the lives of people of all ages and backgrounds who rely on the lifeline provided by Family Table. I feel so strongly about their work that I embraced the challenge to ride 25 miles as a part of the Three Squares New England Ride for Food. What a great feeling of camaraderie to ride with others who share the passion of helping people overcome food insecurity. Although I have been involved with Family Table for many years, riding that day instilled in me a deeper appreciation of what it means to be hungry and the importance of the tireless work the staff of Family Table do every day to ease the pain of so many people.

Making Healthy Choices Fun

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 08:55:00 GMT

Posted by Sara Freedman

Eating healthy is not always inherently fun or easy. But, with some simple guidelines, a little competition, and the promise of spending time with friends, it can be! Last week, Nora Saul, CHAI Services nutritionist, organized a salad competition and dinner for the CHAI residents at our Waltham office. The challenge? Make a salad that meets certain nutritional guidelines, while also being creative and delicious.

Seven residences rose to the challenge, using a wide variety of ingredients, including edamame, grapes, and quinoa. Residents described their salad and ingredients to the group before a group of staff volunteers dug in and tried them all. Each salad received a score based on appearance, taste, and texture. The competition was tight, with the top three salads being within four points of each other. The ultimate winner was the salad made by a Melton Road resident. All of the residents got to try one another’s salads, enjoy dinner together, and play a few rounds of “nutrition bingo.”

Earlier on at JF&CS, I worked in the residential programs. Between juggling a variety of different responsibilities, taking into account different residents’ food restrictions and preferences, and having a limited food budget, making healthy, appealing meals for dinner was one of the biggest challenges for staff. Easy access to unhealthy snack foods poses a tough challenge for our residents. Thanks to the added sugar, fats, and salt in these foods, we all find it difficult to know when we’ve had enough, which can lead to overeating. Adults with developmental or intellectual disabilities can be even more susceptible to the appeal of these unhealthy foods, and less motivated to refrain from consuming large quantities¹.

As a volunteer judge at the salad competition, I was able to see the impact that having a nutritionist on staff has had firsthand. Having a nutritionist on the CHAI Services team is made possible by the generous philanthropic support from Sunitha and Das. The residents were excited to show off their creations and talk about why certain ingredients were healthy. So, although a bowl of ice cream is delicious and will always be tempting, spending the night with our residents enjoying salads and talking about healthy food choices was even more so.

¹Palay, Laura. Stacked: The Odds Against People with Developmental Disabilities Making Healthy Food Choices. The Center for Systems Change, 2013.

A Deeper Look at Traditional Prayers of Mourning

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 08:55:00 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

“At the rising sun and at its going down; We remember them. At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of winter; We remember them.

As reward for [giving charity on the person’s behalf], may his or her soul be bound up in the bond of eternal life.

May we live unselfishly, in truth and love and peace, so that we will be remembered as a blessing, as we lovingly remember, this day, those who live on in our hearts.

May they be at one with God, who is life eternal.

May the beauty of their lives shine forevermore and may my life always bring honor to their memory.”

For many Jews, this is a season of remembering. For some, echoes of those recently or long gone blend in with the preparations for and observance of the upcoming holidays.

These memories are often beautiful. However, as a community, we frequently overlook the fact that not all memories are good ones and not all relationships are healthy, safe, and happy.

In particular, the readings and tone that surround Yizkor and the Mourner's Kaddish can be difficult. Many people welcome these words of comfort, finding solace in the notion that the person somehow lives on. For survivors of abuse, however, the idea that the abusive person is still with them can be both terrifying and literal, as they will carry painful memories and physical and emotional scars for the rest of their lives. Many survivors encounter prayers that ask that the deceased person be protected under a divine wing – protection they might not have felt for themselves when the person was alive. These can be tough words to say.

Moreover, some abuse survivors sit through these sections of the service feeling not only invisible and alienated, but also painfully reminded of the healthy and loving relationship they did not have with their partner, spouse, or parent. They might be ambivalent or even relieved that this person is gone, and also angry that they were left with a body and spirit that may or may not heal and will most certainly never completely forget.

So here is the challenge for clergy, lay leaders, and whole communities: Are there ways to create a safer and more welcoming space for abuse survivors who want or need to mark a particular passing, but find themselves feeling far outside the usual liturgy and therefore far outside the community? Validating words from the bimah can go a long way, as the service leader acknowledges abuse survivors’ experiences and creates space for people who have complex emotions after the death of a controlling, abusive, neglectful, or otherwise destructive partner or parent. Words from members of the community that acknowledge loss–but do not make assumptions about how a person might be feeling that loss–also can be both meaningful and validating.

During this season of remembrance and renewal, we encourage Jewish communities everywhere to create an inclusive space for abuse survivors as they, too, stand with their communities to mark a passing and try to make meaning of painful and difficult memories.

The staff of Journey to Safety and Jewish Family & Children’s Service join me in wishing everyone a safe, peaceful, and meaningful new year.

Elizabeth Schön Vainer has been the program director of Journey to Safety, the domestic abuse program of JF&CS, since March 2010. Elizabeth is passionate about Journey to Safety’s commitment to prevent domestic abuse. She believes that we must work at the individual, community, and legislative levels to shift our societal view that allows abusive behavior to remain so prevalent and damaging. When we focus on speaking up, listening to, and collaborating with others we can have a real impact. Prior to working at JF&CS, Elizabeth worked for 25 years in victim services at both the Middlesex and Suffolk County District Attorney’s offices. Elizabeth holds a BSW from the University of Tel Aviv and a MS in organization and management from Antioch University.

Back-to-School Considerations or Ideas for Parents

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 09:45:53 GMT

Posted by Peggy Kaufman, Director of the Center for Early Relationship Support

Transitioning to school in the fall, especially for young children, is an experience which is likely to be both exciting and stressful for the whole family. You might worry, “Is he ready? How will we all adjust? Will she make friends?"

Here are some suggestions for dealing with these transitions:

Your children are influenced by the things you say and do, and the feelings you express. If you convey a positive attitude, regardless of emotions you may be experiencing, then they will feel more confident.
Keep the lines of communication open. By talking with and listening to your children, you can lay to rest many of the fears and misconceptions they might have about this transition. Address your children’s questions and reassure them if they have concerns.
There are many good books to read together about starting school. Visit the library and check some out!
Recognize that behaviors such as clinginess, acting out, or nervous habits may be your child expressing their feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, or sadness.
Seek out your own supportive relationships, including connecting with parents of your children's schoolmates.
Create ritual(s) for marking this transition, such as taking photos in the same spot each year or making a special breakfast on the first day of school.
Transitions take time, sometimes longer than we imagine. Getting accustomed to new schedules, new teachers, and new environments may take many weeks or longer.

Peggy H. Kaufman, MEd, LICSW is the Founding Director of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support. With a background in perinatal emotional health and the growth and development of parents, her interests include the earliest relationships. Ms. Kaufman is the recipient of multiple awards for her groundbreaking programs and her commitment to increase awareness of postpartum depression and maternal and infant mental health.

Ask the Expert: Amy Willinsky

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Shared by Amy Willinsky

What are the goals of Emergency Financial Assistance?
The Emergency Financial Assistance (EFA) Program is one part of the Center for Basic Needs Assistance (CBNA), whose primary purpose is to ease the burden of poverty among members of the Jewish community in our service area. EFA provides case management and financial assistance, as well as information and support accessing additional resources. EFA’s primary goal is to provide one-time financial assistance to resolve an urgent/emergency situation related to basic needs, such as housing or utilities. The long-term goal is financial stability, but we are always looking at ways to assist with any factors that impact the ability to reach that goal, such as unemployment, mental health, or domestic abuse. Our far-reaching goal is to see our clients living stable and secure lives, with their basic needs being met in a respectful, predictable, and consistent way.

How are clients referred to you?
We receive referrals both from within and outside the agency. We collaborate closely with many other JF&CS programs, and with the Boston area Jewish partner organizations. We also work closely with Rabbis who are in a unique position to connect clients in need with our services. We have ongoing relationships with community agencies that regularly refer clients to us, such as ABCD, WATCH, Brookline Center, Newton Social Services, and many others. Clients reach us through our intake line, direct phone contact, info@jfcsboston.org, and walk-ins.

What happens after clients are referred to you?
Clients have an initial screening with an EFA case manager, by phone or in person, to determine eligibility for our services. We look at several factors in deciding whether to open a case, such as income, potential sustainability, and catchment area. We learn about their story. If eligible, we offer support for the client to complete an EFA application. While our initial focus might be on addressing the financial crisis that brought the client to us, we are looking at the whole person, frequently connecting them to other CBNA or JF&CS programs. Even when a client is not eligible for our services, we try to provide them with a referral or resource that could help to resolve their issue.

How did you get into this type of work?
During my three years working in JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities, I frequently shared cases with staff in the Center for Basic Needs Assistance. I was always impressed with the professionalism, compassion, responsiveness, and dedication—both toward clients and each other—shown by each person that I worked with. When the position of EFA supervisor became available, I was excited to become a part of that group. I have not been disappointed and continue to learn from my colleagues every day!

What do you think makes Emergency Financial Assistance at JF&CS unique?

Because EFA operates within the larger CBNA department, we have the unique opportunity to work as a team with other programs on behalf of the client. We believe that by providing an integrated set of core services under one roof, we help our clients meet their basic needs for food, housing, fuel, and utilities in the most holistic and comprehensive way possible. Although clients come to us seeking financial help, it is never just about the money. We see our role as far more significant than just sending out a check. We work to establish a respectful and compassionate relationship, and to understand a client’s needs as a whole person. We can then give far more to the client than money.

Please pose and answer the questions you are asked most frequently.

What does EFA provide financial assistance for?

We help with rental arrears, moving, move-in costs, utility arrears. We also administer Hebrew Free Loans, Rosenfeld Loans, summer camp scholarships, and holiday gift cards. We also offer specialized funding for Bar/Bat Mitzvah assistance and Jewish funerals.

What else does EFA help with?

We can negotiate with utility companies to arrange payment plans; calculate SNAP benefits; refer to furniture banks; provide emergency food; facilitate referrals to community services; review budgets; coach housing searches; encourage therapy; support lifestyle changes; advocate with landlords; coordinate with colleagues; support, listen, and be present for the client during crisis and beyond.

What is the financial eligibility for EFA?

We work with individuals or families who are at 300% of the Federal Poverty level or below.

Do I need to be Jewish to receive help?

We work with clients of all religious, ethnic, and racial backgrounds.

Disability Resource Network: Opportunities for Your Child This Fall

Thu, 16 Aug 2018 10:27:06 GMT

With summer coming to a close, the fall signifies the beginning of school and for many a new start with work. For those families with loved ones with disabilities, having support, advocacy, and someone to help navigate through the school system can be of tremendous help. There are several agencies that provide support to those within the Jewish community with advocacy, educational programming and, for teen/young adults, vocational services, all of which can make back to school time a little less overwhelming.

JF&CS provides educational advocacy through its Disability Lifespan Solutions program. Family advocates are skilled staff persons, who can provide assistance with creating and ensuring implementation of the Individualized Education Plans (IEP), assisting families with identifying out of district placements when needed, and obtaining referrals for assessments, testing, or in-home services.

Gateways: Access to Jewish Education provides a variety of comprehensive services to promote the meaningful inclusion of individuals of all abilities in Jewish life. They not only provide supports to individuals and their families, but also they are a huge resource to educators, day and congregational schools, preschools, synagogues, and organizations. Gateways provides on-site special education support and services to students with a range of learning needs in seven Boston-area Jewish day schools. They employ a team of skilled speech/language therapists, occupational therapists, behaviorists, and learning specialists to integrate personalized services within each day school. Children in participating schools receive direct services individually and/or in small groups, both in and out of classroom, to enhance their academic success and support their social, physical, and behavioral development. They also offer their own thematic Jewish education program on Sundays to students ages 4-18. The program is tailored to children who benefit from highly structured programming, individualized attention and small class sizes. Special education teachers utilize visual supports and differentiated instruction to present a multi-sensory curriculum that includes Jewish holidays, Torah stories, and Hebrew, as well as Jewish culture and traditions. Creative arts and music are included each week. All students receive one-to-one support from teen aides who receive ongoing training in working with children with special needs.

For teens or adults who are looking for assistance with job skills or vocational placements, Jewish Vocational Services’ Transition To Work program may be a good fit. This program is an extensive training and internship program which supports young adults with disabilities in developing the skills needed for employment. Through the internship, the individual has the opportunity to not only practice the job skills they’ve learned, but also receive a pay check and a sense of purpose. This model creates a collaboration with employers to raise awareness about inclusive hiring practices and to engage cooperate partners to consider young adults with disabilities as qualified candidates.

If you’re interested in learning more about any of these programs, or other education-related programs and services for individuals with disabilities, contact the Disability Resource Network at drn@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5640.

Humans of JF&CS Part 8

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring two different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

Behind our 40+ programs are compassionate, committed, and dedicated staff who care deeply about our mission and our agency. With this broad range of programs comes a team of staff members with diverse interests, passions, and skills, who all share a deep commitment to improve people’s lives. We hope these staff spotlights give you a taste of the incredible individuals behind our services and a sense of the deep compassion and dedication they bring every day.

Ruth Maffa

I am one of the Senior Development Officers within Institutional Advancement. My primary role is to raise the philanthropic dollars needed to support our life changing programs. I also reach out and thank current donors and ask what moved them to make a gift to JF&CS. I try to identify ways for them to become involved since we have so many great volunteer opportunities. I really believe that the more someone is engaged with the agency, the more connected they feel to us. Sometime this is an inspiration to become a donor, and sometimes it inspires a current donor to increase their support.

I also reach out to prospective donors, which is very fun. I make sure they learn about the whole agency and find out what at JF&CS touches them, because inevitably something “clicks.” It’s all about making a connection. If I know that someone has a parent who has Alzheimer’s, I’m of course going to let them know about the programs we have for older adults, or if they are a new mom, I’ll let them know that we have services for new moms. I like to say that I’m more of a relationship manager than anything else. I try to find something that’s unique and interesting about every single person that I meet since it’s about relationship-building!

What’s fulfilling for me is how each of the donors, prospective donors and volunteers that I work with are unique because they are each connected to the agency in their own way. I get to meet a variety of people with lots of different interests and backgrounds. I’m so interested in people and their stories, so it’s really meaningful for me. Working with all ranges of staff, from administrators to clinicians, I also learn so much.

Gail Leichtman

I am a Geriatric Care Manager and am a part of an amazing team of care managers at JF&CS. We get calls from people who need some help navigating the maze of resources available to help seniors. We go to the senior’s home and do a complete assessment. I look at what the older adults have, what they want and what their kids want, and try to fix whatever the problem is. I look at every different area of their lives: safety, medical care, finances, legal protection, social life and their mental and emotional health. I try not to change anything that’s already working.

I like my job because I like to fix things and I like older adults. I particularly like the clients who have multiple problems, because I love being able to help make their lives better. I like to visit people in their homes because I get to see the full picture and I can see what their lives are really like, in order to help them make the best decisions about how to live the fullest life possible.

I was in private practice for a long time and was hesitant to work for a human service agency. I have never regretted my decision because JF&CS is a great agency! The people here are so good at what they do and are such caring people. The people on my team are a particularly supportive bunch of people, and that is something that was impossible to find while working alone.

It Felt Like We Had All Adopted Her Together

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 09:00:00 GMT

By Jon Federman

“I had always thought that adoption was a great way to grow a family,” says Shari McGuirk. Along with her husband Steve, Shari had been trying to grow their family, but was unsuccessful. “Even though we had one child, we always felt that something and someone was missing. We had considered adoption but were too nervous to pursue it until I met Anne Woodfork, head of Adoption Services at Jewish Family Services (JFS) North Shore.”

At the time, Shari was working for the Jewish Federation of the North Shore in Salem as the head of the Women’s Division. JFS North Shore (which merged with JF&CS in 2011) was in the same building and Shari knew everyone there. Shari and Steve knew that when they were ready, JFS Adoption Services would be the perfect option for them.

Eventually, Shari met with Anne and her assistant. She told them that she was open to adopting a child of any nationality or any background. Anne suggested that because Shari and Steve already had a six-year-old daughter, they might be better off adopting a baby instead of an older child, so that there would be an easier adjustment at home.

As luck would have it, Anne received a call from a hospital shortly after their meeting, telling her that a young woman had just given birth to a girl and that she wanted to place her baby for adoption. Immediately, Anne called Shari to see if she and Steve would be interested. “Of course we’re interested,” Shari responded.

“It had been just six weeks from our initial meeting until Lily came home with us,” Shari remarks. “We hadn’t even gone through the entire process. I had not even told my friends and family because I expected it to be a very long process.”

Lily is now 16 years old and is going into her junior year of high school. “It’s been amazing,” Shari marvels. “We took a huge leap of faith in going this route, but it’s one of the best things we’ve ever done in our lives. Lily is a wonderful child with a huge soul and a big heart. Our older daughter, Emma immediately took to her and our entire family completely embraced her. She’s always known about her adoption. We’ve talked about it openly and read her stories about it. We gave her the Hebrew name Matana, which means “gift,” because we felt that we had been given the greatest gift when she came into our lives. We were blessed with her arrival and consider ourselves lucky every single day.”

Shari and her family continued the connection with JFS North shore for about five years after Lily was born. “To have that support from the agency and Anne helped us address any of the challenges that all adoptive families and new parents face,” says Shari. “It really felt like we had all adopted Lily together. It was a community of support that wrapped their arms around us and gave us the confidence we needed. To this day, we all think of Anne and Anne as our guardian angels because they brought Lily into our lives.”

For more information about adoption at JF&CS, please contact us at info@adoptionresources.org, call us at 800-533-4346, or visit JF&CS Adoption Resources at www.adoptionresources.org.

Help Introduce Your Community to Memory Cafés

Tue, 07 Aug 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Beth Soltzberg

A new, one-minute public service announcement (PSA) video in English and Spanish is available from the JF&CS Percolator Memory Café Network. Memory Cafés are welcoming social gatherings for people living with dementia and their family, friends, and caregivers. In Massachusetts, one out of every 8 people age 65 and over lives with dementia. Dementia often causes individuals living with dementia as well as their family and friends to become socially isolated.

The biggest challenge for most Memory Cafés is getting the word out to community members who could benefit from attending, but who have become isolated due to dementia and may hesitate to try something new and unfamiliar. The goal of the PSA video is to spread awareness that Memory Cafés are available and give community members a picture of what Cafés look like to help them feel more comfortable attending for the first time. To keep the video short, only basic information about dementia was included.

Since 2014, the JF&CS Percolator Memory Café Network has helped organizations to start and sustain Memory Cafés by providing technical assistance and a forum for sharing resources and ideas. The Percolator directly serves Massachusetts Cafés, but as the first network of its kind has welcomed participation from other states and countries. A hallmark of Memory Cafés is that they vary in terms of setting, activities, language, and other characteristics, so that they can fit their local community.

This video project and the Percolator’s ongoing work to support the spread of Memory Cafés has been made possible through support from the Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging (MCOA), the Rosalinde Gilbert Innovations in Alzheimer’s Caregiving Legacy Award, and generous donors including Rosa Rasiel, the Lebovitz Family Charitable Trust, Nancy Belsky and the Rita J. and Stanley H. Kaplan Family Foundation.

Singing to the Back Row

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 12:26:28 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

When Jeanne Andersen (pictured on the left) and Christine Pizer (pictured on the right) responded to a notice looking for volunteer singers last summer, they had no idea what a positive effect the experience would have on their own lives. Singers with the Cambridge Community Chorus, the two women saw a notice from the JF&CS Tremble Clefs, a choral group designed to help strengthen the voices of people with Parkinson’s disease, looking for volunteer singers to join the group. Intrigued, they contacted Nancy Mazonson, Director of JF&CS Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson's Family Support, and asked if they could both participate. Although both women were familiar with JF&CS, neither one had heard of the Tremble Clefs.

When the Tremble Clefs returned from summer break in September, Jeanne and Christine became the group’s newest additions. “We became friends through music and it’s wonderful to share this volunteering opportunity as part of our friendship,” says Jeanne. “Our primary reason for going every Monday is that we simply sing together. We also help greet people, pass out name tags, and on break, we assist with refreshments. But the primary thing is just singing. The therapeutic value of the Tremble Clef’s singing is boosted by having additional voices that encourage [the singers] to sing louder.”

Although Jeanne did not have any personal connection to Parkinson’s disease before volunteering with The Tremble Clefs, she has had a long history working with people with disabilities, having worked in special education and in hospitals. Her widest exposure to people with disabilities or illness was as a hospital chaplain. Christine, who has a family member with Parkinson’s disease, is a nurse. Together, Jeanne and Christine explain that they have had exposure to people with various degrees of medical infirmity. “We’re both very comfortable and patient and creative in dealing with people with varying disorders,” Christine remarks. “Because we’ve both worked in the field, we know if someone needs to slow down, to be patient with people.”

Both Christine and Jeanne find themselves inspired by the upbeat vibes of the group. “I’ve learned about courage through the individuals who have [Parkinson’s disease] and the way they address it is very inspiring to me,” says Christine. “They alter the words of songs we know in very humorous ways. The way they acknowledge Parkinson’s disease in these songs is just delightful. It’s very impressive.”

“It’s a surprisingly joyful group,” Jeanne remarks. People make humorous comments and make each other laugh. It’s a remarkable group of people who share a love of music and humor and are very courageous. It’s a wonderful way to get over any awkwardness.”

Both singers are also inspired by the volunteer conductor of the group, Marilyn Okonow. Okonow, a professional musician, has a “very upbeat and positive attitude. It’s not a sing-along. It’s truly a therapeutic group. She works hard to improve and offer new ways to expand voices and achieve breath control,” explains Jeanne. “The professional accompanist, Joe Reid, is also unbelievable. Together, they provide a level of respectfulness to the group. They set the tone. The quality of those two people shows the level of respect that JF&CS has for the group.”

Christine also notes that most of the participants are senior citizens and that many seniors have a jaded idea about sing-alongs in skilled nursing facilities. “It’s nothing like that,” she exclaims. “Marilyn gets everyone to ‘sing to the back row.’ That practice is important therapeutically.”

Asked how the Tremble Clefs experience has affected them personally, Jeanne and Christine respond favorably. “Every time I leave, I feel better. I feel lifted,” confirms Christine. I’m moved by the individuals and the caregivers and family members who join in when they can. Volunteering here takes me out of myself in a very positive way.”

“There are very few opportunities for small groups to interact with each other – people who are not friends but just community members who are just being their authentic selves,” adds Jeanne. “In Parkinson’s [disease], they talk about ‘the mask’ where you lose the ability to make facial expressions. No one wears the mask there. They’re confident about who they are and it’s a unique experience. The joy in this group is infectious.”

“One of the participants even calls us ‘The Sparkplugs,’ Jeanne reveals, “Because he feels that we inspire them to get going and sing even louder. We can’t wait for the group to return in the fall.”

“People make friendships there,” Christine explains. “It’s a fun way to learn about ways to cope, to get out of the house, to make friends. If someone in your family has Parkinson’s disease, this is the place to go.”

Q&A with Isabel Lopez

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Shared by Isabel Lopez

What is your role at JF&CS?
I’m a Family Support Partner in Early Connections/Conexiones Tempranas (ECCT), in CERS. Our program provides clinical and support services to address traumatic stress and build resilience in children ages birth to five and their families.

I work with families in Waltham, MA. My main goal is to welcome families to ECCT and help them access community resources, enhance parenting skills, navigate community agencies, and empower them to advocate effectively for themselves. My work every day inspires me to work with more enthusiasm for each family.

What is your favorite travel spot?
My favorite spot is Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

Do you have a favorite quote? If so, what is it?
My favorite quote is “Nothing in the world is ever completely wrong. Even a stopped clock is right twice a day” by Paulo Coelho.

What is your favorite thing to do?
I love to play volleyball.

What is the most important thing you have learned in the last five years?
In the last five years I have learned how to be patient.

Celebrating National Disability Independence Day

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Annie Toth, member of the JF&CS Diversity & Inclusion Committee

National Disability Independence Day is celebrated each year on July 26. This day commemorates the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990. The ADA provides protection from employment discrimination as well as better access to goods, services, and communications for people with disabilities.

DID YOU KNOW…

Musician, singer, and songwriter Stevie Wonder was born blind. Considered a child prodigy, Stevie signed with his first record label at age 11, and he’s been performing since.
Injured in a trolley accident when she was a teenager and forced into bed rest for several months to heal a broken back, Mexican artist Frida Kahlo is one of the most well-known artists with disabilities of the 20th century. She is known for her self-portraits, many of which portrayed her in her wheelchair.
Until the age of 3, Albert Einstein could not speak and was severely dyslexic and autistic. As he grew older he started to focus on the only thing he was exceptional at: math. His theory of relativity is said to be the most revolutionary theory of physics and he won a Nobel Prize for his photoelectric effect theory in 1921.
By his late 20’s, famous composer Beethoven’s hearing began to deteriorate, and by the last decade of his life he was almost completely deaf. Many of his most admired works come from these last 15 years of his life including the Ninth Symphony which was completed after he lost all of his hearing.

Interested in services for people with disabilities? JF&CS CHAI Services provide support, strategies, and solutions that strengthen individuals and families, build community connections, and enhance independence. We offer special expertise in addressing the needs of children and adults with developmental disabilities, mental illness, and autism spectrum disorder, while providing services that are inclusive of people with a wide range of strengths and needs.

Humans of JF&CS Part 7

Tue, 24 Jul 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring two different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

Behind our 40+ programs are compassionate, committed, and dedicated staff who care deeply about our mission and our agency. With this broad range of programs comes a team of staff members with diverse interests, passions, and skills, who all share a deep commitment to improve people’s lives. We hope these staff spotlights give you a taste of the incredible individuals behind our services and a sense of the deep compassion and dedication they bring every day.

John Wills

I am the Director of Employment Programs and I oversee Pathways to Employment and JF&CS Employment Services. Pathways is a community-based day program where the participants develop their work-related soft skills through volunteering in the community and interactive classroom sessions, discussing social skills related to employment, and learning what their skills sets are and how those skills match to certain jobs. JF&CS Employment Services helps to support individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining employment. These programs are a part of our continuum of day and employment services for people with disabilities here at JF&CS. CHAI Works day program, which is more holistic and varied, is where we start and really get to know people, Pathways is where we challenge them a little more and fine tune skills, and JF&CS Employment Services says, ‘Okay, you’ve gotten there, let’s go get that job now.’

Every part of my work excites me. The biggest and most important thing is educating the outside world about people with disabilities, their capabilities, and ability to contribute to society. Any time we are able to increase individuals’ ability to be as independent as possible in their lives and to be contributing, integrated members in society, that’s really our goal and it’s very exciting to see. Just like the goal of JF&CS, helping them find their purpose.

Recently we’ve been doing a lot more community outreach and connecting with different businesses. Babson College, for instance, hired one of our participants a couple of years ago, and started working with me around growing their inclusion of people with disabilities within their workforce. They actually just funded four new positions which I have been directly involved in developing. We have been able to place a participant of JF&CS Employment Services in one of those positions and, hopefully, we will be working with participants who are good fits for the others. Even if we don’t, it will be people with disabilities working these jobs, so that’s really exciting.

Marissa Levenson

What’s most meaningful for me is knowing that I am making a difference in the lives of my clients. We are able to make sure clients who were at risk before are safe now so they can continue living their lives with the most support possible.

I would say my success story is the first case I took on from the beginning. The client was living in a condo that was in foreclosure. Her grandson struggled with opioid addiction and had taken all of her money, so she was going to be evicted. She also wasn’t taking her medications or going to medical appointments. Protective services could not do anything else to help her, so we were appointed guardian. We ended up finding a room for her at a very nice rest home and coordinated her move. She now socializes with people at the rest home, participates in activities, and receives oversight for her medical care. When I visit her, she says “This is such a great place” and “I’m so lucky to be here.” That’s a great feeling. Even though she can be challenging in other ways, it is nice to have a client express gratitude for the work we do. Especially when you are moving someone out of their home, which is a really hard thing for clients. To move someone and have them really flourish in their new setting is a nice feeling.

Marissa Levenson is a Case Manager in the Guardianship Program.

Bringing Dementia Friends to High School

Thu, 19 Jul 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Beth Soltzberg

JF&CS recently launched Dementia Friends Massachusetts, a public awareness program that is part of a global movement to change the way people talk, act, and think about dementia. JF&CS trains volunteer “Champions” across Massachusetts to lead hour-long Information Sessions in their community. We talked with one of these Champions, rising high school junior Maggie Chiffer in Topsfield.

Why did you decide to become a Dementia Friends Champion?

I became involved with dementia awareness and education through my Girl Scout Gold Award Project, Dance Out Dementia: Train Your Brain with the Beat of Your Feet. I teach dance classes to members of my local Council on Aging, and I also wanted to educate my community about dementia.

You have led Information Sessions for your high school classmates. How did they respond to this topic?

They were genuinely interested. Many of them have family members with dementia. I think it will allow them to empathize with older people in general, and help to bridge that gap between younger and older generations by breaking down the stereotypes surrounding dementia.

Tell us about the next step that you took: asking your high school administration to make Dementia Friends part of the health curriculum.

After learning so much about dementia through my Gold Award and becoming a Dementia Friends Champion, I felt that it was my responsibility to pass down the knowledge I had gained to the rising generation. Dementia is not just a concern for older people, and it is important for people of all ages to be thinking about brain health, as changes to the brain begin to occur many years before a diagnosis is made.

In order to get my school administration’s agreement, I had to present my proposed addition to the Comprehensive Health Curriculum to my health teacher. My teacher then took my proposed addition to the rest of the School Board. The Board was very receptive, and agreed to include this information in the Health Curriculum. The administration was surprised to learn about the number of people living with dementia and its global impact, and were happy to be providing this information to students.

Is there anything you’d like people to know about the importance of this issue for people your age?

I hope for a world in which those of younger and older generations understand the struggles that each generation faces. Everyone is at risk of getting dementia, so older people and younger people can unite around this issue.

To learn more about Dementia Friends Massachusetts, please visit www.dementiafriendsma.org or contact Beth Soltzberg at bsoltzberg@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5628.

Navigating Towards a Better Future

Tue, 17 Jul 2018 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2018

Education is one of the most important aspects of a child’s life. What a child learns in school, through the curriculum as well as through socialization with peers, provides them with the building blocks to start working towards the future they envision. Children with disabilities are entitled to the same enriching educational experience as their peers, but they and their families are often met with roadblocks along the way.

For parents who are trying to juggle work, family, and a multitude of other responsibilities, understanding education law and advocating for services for their child often falls to “tomorrow’s to-do list.” Adding to the never-ending to-do list is the question of supporting a child when they age out of the State’s education system. When a child with disabilities turns 22, their support system is upended.

For Ed Bell, a parent of a child with disabilities and a key funder in JF&CS Disability Lifespan Solutions, approaching his son’s 22nd birthday was an overwhelming prospect. “Every parent who has a special needs child dreads this turning point at 22. You’re basically on your own – every single parent with whom I have met in the last 22 years has said the same thing: as their child approaches 22, they are looking into the abyss. Very few of them, us included, were ever really prepared. No matter how knowledgeable you are, there is both too much information and too little information; it’s hard to sort through it. Moreover, you’re facing this situation: what happens if my kid has to stay home all day? What am I going to do? Who is going to pay for it? How are we going to manage?”

The JF&CS team of family navigators helps families like Ed’s get the most out of the educational experience. Some families approach Disability Lifespan Solutions for guidance with every step of the process; others benefit from brief consultations around specific issues. Ed found JF&CS helpful “from start to finish. JF&CS helped us with research, with understanding the options; they even filed all the paperwork.” He added, “The people in the program stay in touch and keep following up to make sure there are no bumps along the way.”

Another family shared their story, echoing similar concerns around how daunting the system can be. “As anyone with a child of special needs can attest, the overall process of not only understanding, but maneuvering the Special Education system, can be daunting, frustrating, and simply stated, overwhelming. I can say, unequivocally, that without [Family Navigator] Joan Munnelly's assistance, I'm sure I would not have survived the process and more importantly, my son would not have received the services he needed, deserved, and was entitled to. Joan and the Family Navigation team stood out as one of the best in the field. Without their direct input, guidance, and knowledge, I'm confident that my son would have fallen through the cracks. Joan’s skill, enthusiasm, professionalism, and business acuity have enlightened me to the critical value of partnering with such an advocate.”

The support system provided by JF&CS is a lifeline for many families. Ed shared that, “the reality is that anybody with a special needs child is a member of a club they never planned to be in,” stressing the importance of a support system. “JF&CS and the people involved with the program helped me with a roadmap, and without that roadmap, I don’t know how you get this done.” Our family navigators are able to help families who have a loved one with a disability, at any stage of their lives. For more information, visit our website at www.disabilitylifespansolutions.com or call us at 781-693-1216.

Helping New Families in Central Massachusetts

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2018

When Irina* came to the United States from the Former Soviet Union, her support system was simple: her husband and the university where they both studied. Plans changed, as they sometimes do, and she found herself a stay-at-home mother without much connection to the world around her. She struggled to learn and practice English, and found the paperwork required to stay in the country confusing. Despite a supportive partner and a healthy baby, she felt isolated and overwhelmed.

* * *

When Beth’s* twin babies arrived, she and her husband were ready. As a teacher
of young children herself, she knew the ins and outs of playtime and learning, as

well as what to expect in the first year having kids.

What she didn’t expect was just how acutely she would feel the absence of her mother as she became a mother herself. Missing her mother, who had passed away years ago, wasn’t new; but this feeling of loss was different. She wished she had a confidant, someone who had been in her shoes with their own children, to share her feelings and experiences.

* * *

For both of these mothers, being referred to the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms® program made all the difference. The program links experienced parents with new parents. Volunteers are trained and supervised to support parents who are adjusting to parenthood, isolated, or overwhelmed. The Visiting Mom volunteers meet new
parents in their homes and provide a weekly visit for at least two months or up until the baby’s first birthday.

For Central MA volunteer Amy Drotch, Visiting Moms is a chance to provide a new mom with judgment-free support from a mom who has been there. Amy has been a volunteer for two years, and worked with two very different moms. As Amy explains, she is drawn to the program and the impact JF&CS has on its clients and volunteers. “This program hits on a passion of mine. I have worked with young mothers in the past and being a mother is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. When volunteering, you look for that one special activity; I’ve volunteered for a lot of different organizations, but nothing really stuck or was as rewarding as this. I’m in it for the long haul.”

Every other week, Amy and the Central MA volunteers meet for supervision with Carrie Powers, the Central Mass Visiting Moms coordinator, at Congregation B’nai Shalom in Westborough. The sessions are confidential and provide a chance to share experiences, brainstorm, receive and give guidance, and process any emotions that might arise for the volunteers.

Carrie joined the thriving Visiting Moms program in November. A clinical social worker by training, she worked in community mental health programs for over a decade before transitioning into her private practice five years ago. In her role, Carrie does outreach to referral sources such as MDs and hospital nursing staff members, as well as provides supervision for the Visiting Moms volunteers. “We are eager to expand,” explained Carrie.

In addition to the Visiting Moms program, JF&CS offers a weekly parent support group in Westborough and 10 other communities throughout Greater Boston. The group is open to any parent with a baby up to age one and aims to foster a community of support among parents. The groups are not structured, but facilitated by experienced, trained, and supervised group leaders. Diane Gardner, Visiting Moms Supervisor, explains that a main focus of these groups is to give parents the opportunity to develop their own community. Some parents even leave the group with life-long friends. “The Visiting Moms program and the parent support groups are both fantastic opportunities for parents with newborns to gain footing in the parent world,” Diane notes.

The Visiting Moms program is open to all who need it; you don’t have to be Jewish to volunteer or to participate in the program as a mom. For Carrie, the program is one that fills many needs, including helping a new parent grow. “The program is about listening and helping a new mom develop her own reflective capacity. Our volunteers aren’t therapists or friends, but fill a unique role of bearing witness to motherhood.”

*Names changed to protect privacy.

Ride for Food: Biking for Family Table

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 16:28:13 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2018

The 6th Annual Ride for Food was held on a beautiful fall day in September, with 350 people turning out to cycle 10, 25, or 50 miles in support of hunger relief. This year, the JF&CS Family Table team showed up in full force with 30 riders, all raising funds and biking the course to support Family Table.

Family Table is already in the planning stages for this year’s Ride for Food, which will take place Sunday, September 23, 2018.

While some riders have been biking with Family Table for several years, the JF&CS Family Table team is always joined by first-time riders like Andrew Abraham. For Andrew, the work Family Table does to eradicate hunger inspired him to join the team. Family Table is the largest kosher food pantry in New England and provides groceries to more than 500 families a month. Andrew believes in the importance of fighting against hunger, sharing, “The ability to provide proper nutrition is incredibly important, especially for kids. If a child isn’t fed properly, they could endure the effects for life.”

Another Family Table team rider, David Goldstone, shares this sentiment and implored his friends and family to donate to the cause, writing in an email, “Nothing is more basic than food, and yet it is a sad fact that about 1 in 10 people in Massachusetts struggles to put food on the table. The Ride for Food partners with 17 local food relief organizations to help meet this need.” He wrote, “I'm personally riding to support JF&CS Family Table. Our family has actively supported Family Table for years, including packing food for clients and making deliveries. My daughter’s mitzvah project was packing and delivering food for Family Table.”

Andrew feels a similar personal connection to Family Table and is grateful for the opportunity it provides for his children to deliver food to families in need. “Family Table is so important for my kids. The idea of someone not having food is foreign to them, so Family Table really opened their eyes to see that not everyone lives like they do.” Andrew and his family continue to be inspired by the breadth of services JF&CS provides and the work Family Table is doing to fight for hunger relief.

Andrew, David, and their teammates raised $39,000 for the 2017 Ride for Food, surpassing Family Table’s goal. Each dollar raised by the JF&CS riding team directly supports Family Table, making it the biggest fundraiser of the year for Family Table. Three Squares New England supports food pantries and hunger organizations in Greater Boston by organizing the Ride for Food and raising awareness around problems of food insecurity and waste. The entire event exceeded its goal by raising more than $500,000.

The miles the JF&CS team biked and the funds they raised all bring critical awareness to the goals of Family Table. “Our primary mission is to end hunger in the Jewish community,” said Bernice Behar, the Director of Family Table, “but we are there to help anyone who needs assistance.” Please support the Family Table team by joining us as a rider or a volunteer, or by donating to your favorite rider! Visit www.jfcsboston.org/RideForFood to learn more.

JF&CS Annual Meeting 2018

Fri, 06 Jul 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This year, JF&CS enjoyed great success, including our record breaking Benefit. Over the past year we have also faced, and will continue to wrestle with, the many challenges facing the agency. As we adapt to the changes taking place, I know that we will have to make hard choices, and that we will make those choices together. The staff, Board, and committee members work incredibly hard to ensure that we stay true to our core values and our mission, by continuing to provide thousands of clients with the support they need and deserve.

In order to maintain the vibrancy of this organization, and to plan for the future, we have embarked on an intensive Strategic Planning process with Deloitte Consulting. With great collaboration of staff and Board, we are working on the development of a three-year plan which will convey a focused strategy for JF&CS. Over the summer the entire Board will be invited to share their input as together we create a road map to guide us forward. This tremendous effort will enable JF&CS to face necessary change, while embracing new areas of growth and improvement.

L’dor v’dor refers to continuity, to the responsibility of passing on knowledge and traditions from one generation to the next. At JF&CS, we all carry a torch that was lit over 153 years ago. We bear the weight and responsibility for caring for those in our community in need. We care for the youngest and the oldest, the hungry and the lonely. We care for survivors as long as they need us, and we watch families blossom through adoption. We have learned how to take care of our community from the generations that came before us, and together we will pass on what we know to those who come next.

Serving Up Smiles at Maimonides

Thu, 05 Jul 2018 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2018

Lunchtime at the elementary school at Maimonides in Brookline was not always stress-free. Parent volunteers would help Maimonides staff serve lunch to the children, but parents were not always available to volunteer, and those who were available would sometimes have to cancel due to work commitments, family matters, or sudden emergencies. Additionally, only one parent would be scheduled to help out at a time.

Deb Milgram, former JF&CS Board member and Maimonides parent, suggested that JF&CS could get involved with the lunch program in some capacity and contacted JF&CS CEO Rimma Zelfand. Rimma brought up the idea of volunteers from JF&CS CHAI Works Day Program for adults with disabilities assisting in serving lunches to the Maimonides elementary school. CHAI Works participants began helping with weekday lunch service. The program has been an enormous success since it started in September 2016.

From Monday through Thursday, five or six CHAI Works participants and a supervisor go to Maimonides. They serve lunch directly to students in early childhood care, kindergarten, and first grade right in their classrooms. Students in grades two through five come to the cafeteria for lunch, where the CHAI Works participants plate the food, count out accurate numbers of fruits and vegetables for each plate, gather and set out juice boxes, and serve the lunches directly to the grade school students, collecting wristbands from the students when they receive their meals. After lunch, they assist with cleaning up. Point person for the Maimonides lunch program, LaShanta Freeman, prepares a daily list indicating what hot lunch item each student will receive, as well as the quantity.

“Volunteering at Maimonides has been a rewarding experience for CHAI Works participants,” says Alex Tierney, CHAI Works Assistant Program Manager. “They’ve enjoyed having the opportunity to work on vocational skills, time management skills, and general professionalism, all while engaging with members of the Maimonides community who have welcomed us with open arms.”

“They’ve been awesome. The servers have all been pleasant, consistent, and extremely helpful,” says Freeman. “We try to teach our students to understand our differences and to learn about people who have challenges in life. This is a super opportunity to have these servers come and share their stories while the kids learn that no matter what their differences, people should be treated the same.”

“At Maimonides, we are always seeking to make our school a place of inclusion,” says Naty Katz, the head of Maimonides school. “Programs with JF&CS really strengthen our community and we feel it really helps to build our students into the kind of adults we hope they will all become. It is my hope that the adults who come to serve here at Maimonides benefit from this program as much as our children and our school.”

“It’s been wonderful having them here and we look forward to and have already asked for their help for next year. We couldn’t ask for anything more. It’s a win-win situation for both JF&CS and for Maimonides.”

Women’s Lunch Place

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 09:00:00 GMT

For almost 11 years, Waltham CHAI Works (CW) participants have been volunteering at Women’s Lunch Place (WLP), a day shelter for women experiencing homelessness and poverty. The staff at WLP know CW participants and staff by name and are always friendly, accommodating, and highly appreciative of the hard work the group does. They are familiar with each participant’s skills and strengths, assign tasks accordingly to ensure a meaningful and productive experience, and help foster relationships between CHAI Works participants and other volunteer groups. The CHAI Works group looks forward to their visit each Friday.

Kathryn Friel, the director of Waltham’s CHAI Works program, talked with a CHAI Works participant about his experience at his favorite site:

Kathryn: Where is Women’s Lunch Place?

Participant: It’s on Newbury St. in Boston and we take the green line to get there.

K: When does CW go?

P: Every Friday.

K: Who are the guests there?

P: They are not rich persons, they are homeless women, mostly. We go to help them.

K: What type of services does WLP offer?

P: Lunch, counseling and advice.

K: What do the CW volunteers do?

P: We do lots of different tasks – we serve meals to the guests, wash dishes, clear plates, and serve dessert and fruit.

K: What are you most proud of?

P: Oh my goodness this is a tough question – so much to say here! I am really proud to serve them great food. It’s food you could serve to your family at your house too; it’s really good quality.

K: Is there a job at WLP that was difficult at first but got easier over time?

P: Plate counting, at first. I need to count stacks of 100 clean plates to make sure there are enough for all the guests. At first, that was a lot and they are big plates. It’s easier now because I took my time counting and since I practiced, now it’s not hard at all.

K: Did volunteering at WLP help you learn skills that you use at your current paid job?

P: Yes! I learned independence. Like with the dishes, they helped me make sure I was doing the job right and then I didn’t need help any more. Now at my job I do lots of things independently.

K: How is the food?

P: Phenomenal!

K: What type of food is served?

P: All different kinds, you never know what they’re going to cook because the menu always changes.

K: Are there any other groups of volunteers at WLP?

P: Yes, Boston Cares. They’re nice, we talk sometimes.

K: What would you tell someone who was thinking of volunteering at WLP?

P: It’s nice to work here for the ladies because they need good food.

Family Separation

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 15:53:30 GMT

Posted by Karen Garber

In the recent weeks and days, we have had to bear witness to the forced separation of children from parents crossing the US-Mexico border. The JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® feels the responsibility to speak up about the serious negative health consequences that this practice has on children.

Over the past 29 years, the Center for Early Relationship Support has focused its work on supporting the earliest infant-parent relationship. Through our clinical work and research, we have learned about the negative impact that even short separations can have in the wellbeing of children and the relationship with their primary caregivers. Parents serve as vital protective buffers for children impacted by severe trauma and the presence of a caring parent is the best predictor of successful adaptation and survival.

The mission of Jewish Family & Children’s Service is to care for individuals and families by providing exceptional human service programs, guided by Jewish traditions of social responsibility, compassion, and respect for all members of the community. It is with these principles in mind and our commitment to tikum olam (repairing the world) that JF&CS joins other organizations in recommending the reunification of families who have been separated and to keep families together in the least restricted setting while they await the opportunity to appear in front of an immigration court.

Please visit https://www.nctsn.org/what-is-child-trauma/trauma-types/refugee-trauma for more information and resources related to traumatic separation, refugees, and immigrant trauma.

Shari and Robert Cashman: Looking Toward the Future with Their Planned Gift

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“I really love seeing the difference you can make when you get involved,” shared Robert Cashman. The sentiment is one also held by Robert’s wife Shari, and their two daughters, Alyssa and Haley. The Cashmans give back in not just time and money, but also as they look ahead. This commitment to the future has been made clear with their planned gift to JF&CS.

Shari and Robert recently included JF&CS as a beneficiary to their estate and are proud to join the Tree of Life Society. By making this planned gift to Jewish Family & Children’s Service, the Cashmans are ensuring that the legacy of JF&CS and their personal giving continues beyond their lifetime. “We’re looking to the future; even if we’re not here, a planned gift guarantees that the programs we support can continue,” said Shari.

Planned giving ensures that one’s tradition of caring and giving is carried on – no matter what might happen in the world. For the Cashmans, this means supporting the wide spectrum of programs offered through JF&CS. “It is very important to us that Jewish people in need have an agency that they can reach out to; supporting JF&CS feels like it’s a perfect fit for us as a family,” said Shari.

Shari and Robert hope others will follow their lead and also prioritize planned giving as a way to support the longevity of JF&CS. Recent studies show that while Americans give regularly and generously to nonprofits, less than 10% of the population considers planned giving.

“We hope that people hear that we’ve stepped up to the planned giving program and that others do the same. The more people that do this now, the better for the future,” shared Robert. “It was important for us to make those decisions for our family upfront, and to make it easier for future generations to benefit from the wide range of services and programs offered by JF&CS.”

The Cashmans’ support of the future makes sense; they are long-time members of the JF&CS family. They first became involved with JF&CS when Jewish Family Services of the North Shore merged with Jewish Family & Children’s Service in 2011. Robert served as president of Jewish Family Services and remained a member of the JF&CS board after the merger as well as an active participant and donor. Shari has been a long-time volunteer at Cafe Hakalah North Shore, a monthly gathering in Marblehead for Holocaust survivors.

Chairing the 2018 JF&CS Benefit is the latest in the long line of contributions the Cashmans have made to JF&CS. “The Benefit is a great evening; not only were we there to raise money, but it was also a chance to recognize the volunteers, to celebrate JF&CS and the employees, and to thank the community for their hard work.”

If you would like to learn more about the Tree of Life Society, contact Jill Snider at jsnider@jfcsboston.org or 508-208-2341.

Our Way of Giving Back

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2018

When Aimee Stashak-Moore was pregnant with her second child, everything had been moving along as planned. But when she found herself unexpectedly giving birth three and a half weeks before her due date, everything was turned upside down. “We were immediately scooped into the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and we were frightened. There were lots of feelings and emotions. Harlan was born prematurely. He was fine, but just not breathing on his own that well,” Aimee explains.

A good friend who was a psychologist and had worked with JF&CS put Aimee in touch with Oliver, Ian, and Serenity Wolk Fragile Beginnings, a JF&CS program committed to improving the lives of parents of premature infants and othe rinfants who have had a stay in the NICU. “Right away, Fragile Beginnings sent in a clinician, Karin Lindfors, to talk with me on the first day and listen to my fears and worries about having a premature baby,” says Aimee. “She was beyond lovely. We spoke about things like ‘baby wearing,’ in which wraps are used to promote skin to skin contact and bonding between the mother and the baby. She brought in four different wraps for me to try. I still have the wrap we used – I can’t give it away.”

Harlan was in the NICU for nearly four weeks. Aimee went to the NICU to see Harlan every day, sometimes twice a day. “I also had an 18-month-old, Lucian, at home and I was trying to maintain a sense of stability and normalcy for him, as well,” Aimee adds. “Karin came to our home a few times after we returned from the hospital. She helped me sort through my emotions and was very supportive throughout. It was exactly what I needed at that time. I have a wonderful husband, family, and friends, but she provided a sympathetic ear and someone to talk to about what it’s like to have a prematurely born baby. I will never forget the kindness she showed me during probably my most vulnerable time in life.”

Today, Harlan and Lucian are happy, healthy little boys, ages 7 and 8, respectively. They go to Epstein Hillel Academy in Marblehead. A couple of years ago, Aimee and her husband were at school watching Harlan perform with his classmates at his kindergarten graduation when suddenly she realized that on that same exact date four years ago, they had brought Harlan home from the NICU. “It was a very emotional day, reflecting on our struggles with him and our fears that had been completely put at ease through Fragile Beginnings,” says Aimee. “It was the day we brought him home and we’ve been so lucky to see him grow into this wonderful little human being.”

Through Epstein Hillel Academy, Aimee and her family learned about Family Table North Shore. They became active in the program, volunteering to pack and deliver groceries to those less fortunate. “The boys have a blast at Family Table packing the bags. They get a sense of independence and accomplishment when they go down the list, check things off, and pack the bags. They take their jobs very seriously,” Aimee notes. “Once, when we were out delivering bags of groceries, Lucian came back to the car teary-eyed. I asked him what was wrong and he said, ‘Thank you, Mom, for allowing me to do good things for people who are not as lucky as we are.’ I never felt prouder of anything in my life.

“I want to teach my children how important it is to pass onto others what people have passed onto us,” explains Aimee. “We’ve been so lucky to have been shown such love and compassion through Fragile Beginnings, that [volunteering at Family Table] is our way of being able to give back.

“We live in Lynn and the boys go to school in Marblehead. There’s a lot of privilege in our area and I think it’s very important for my children to know that that’s not everybody’s life. Taking just three hours out of your month to deliver food to people who can’t afford it isn’t that much. We can always find that time.

“I hope people have the opportunity to learn about these programs,” adds Aimee, “because you don’t necessarily think you would need them but you never know what situation life is going to throw at you and just knowing that you have that support system available to you is invaluable. It’s something I’ll never forget.”

Providing Fuel Assistance for Holocaust Survivors

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2018

“It’s a nice thing to help people who are in need, particularly people who were in a situation like what Holocaust survivors went through,” says Richard Slifka. “It’s a mitzvah.”

Slifka, Chairman of Global GP, LLC, one of New England’s largest fuel wholesalers, makes a generous gift each year to JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services, specifically to assist elderly Holocaust survivors who are otherwise unable to pay for home heating oil. Without Richard’s annual gift, local survivors of Nazi persecution would otherwise go without heat or other necessities during our treacherous New England winters.

“When I first met with [JF&CS CEO] Rimma Zelfand and members of the JF&CS Development team in 2015, I realized that there was such a great need for fuel assistance among this population,” explains Richard. “They thought that since I was in the oil business, it was a natural fit – and they were right. It’s actually a monetary donation, not fuel,” he adds, “which allows the benefit to reach more people.” Richard made the gift in addition to an unrestricted yearly gift he had already made to JF&CS. Richard has continued to make both gifts annually.

Although he did not have any family members who were personally affected by the Holocaust, Richard remembers working in his father’s business, Slifky’s Reliable Oil Co. on Blue Hill Avenue in Dorchester as a teen and meeting many Holocaust survivors. “Sometime in the mid ‘50’s, there started to be an influx of survivors into our neighborhood. They were our customers. I listened to their stories and I developed an appreciation for what they went through,” Richard recalls. “It affected me.”

Richard still thinks of those survivors, who were 20 to 30 years his senior, today. “The truth is, the Jewish community is blessed to be, essentially, a pretty well-to do community, but it hides the fact that, believe it or not, there are still plenty of poor Jews, especially elderly Jews, some of whom are Holocaust survivors. People don’t like to talk about it. The assumption is that everyone is well-off, but that’s not really true,” he notes. “It is our duty to help these people and make sure they are not forgotten.”

“Recent studies show that more than 25% of Holocaust survivors live in poverty,” says Lora Tarlin, Director of Schechter Holocaust Services. “Most of the 356 Holocaust survivors that our program currently assists are living below the poverty line. We’re so grateful that Richard stepped up to help people who truly need support staying warm in the winter.”

Richard credits his father, Abraham, for setting an example in helping others who were not as fortunate. “We were not by any means wealthy when I was a kid. But my father always had an open door, whether it was to help others in the religious community or with social issues. We were not religious, but my dad was active in the Jewish community. He belonged to five synagogues. He supported these little shuls, and he was very involved in the Dorchester Free Loan Society. He was very welcoming and he cared,” explains Richard.

“When I first visited JF&CS, I could see how passionate they were about helping
people,” adds Richard. “It resonated with me. I was amazed at the breadth of what
[JF&CS] does. It helps so many different populations.”

Letter from Our Senior VP of Institutional Advancement

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2018

Like many of you, I have known Barry Shrage for more than 25 years. And every time I ask him how he is doing, he replies, “Never better” in his Brooklyn accent that reminds me of my family members from Williamsburg and Sheepshead Bay. In celebration of his three decades of dedication, JF&CS honored Barry last month and I’m excited to report that we achieved “never better” fundraising results! Our success in raising more than $1 million set a new record for JF&CS. This accomplishment truly demonstrates the “power of community.” I am so grateful to all of our donors who shared their “power of philanthropy” in giving to JF&CS.

The annual Benefit raises what we call “unrestricted” funds. Many people equate “unrestricted” contributions with general operating support. I recently read a blog from a website called Geofunders.org that equates general operating support directly to an organization’s mission. I can’t tell you how much that resonated with me and with the reality of some of the greatest needs at JF&CS. The article goes on to articulate that general operating support enables nonprofits to build a strong and sustainable infrastructure to offer services that will have the greatest impact. Early in my career, we talked about keeping on the lights and heat. However, the reality for JF&CS and non-profits across the country is that today, more than ever, as we face state and federal cutbacks, we must have a strong base of donors whose support allows us to serve our clients in the greatest capacity.

We are also looking forward to another event coming up in June. This year’s Women’s Breakfast, benefiting the Center for Early Relationship Support®, will honor community leader and philanthropist Kathleen VanDernoot. The theme for this year’s Breakfast is “Strength, Empowerment, Kindness.” Over the last decade, Kat has dedicated her volunteerism and philanthropy to spreading acts of kindness and teaching children the impact that one simple act of kindness can have. Our work at JF&CS is complex. Everyone who walks through our doors is facing a challenge, a crisis, a moment in their life when they need help and support. Our community of dedicated professionals, loyal supporters, and devoted volunteers ensures that our clients will get the help they need. That is the power of community.

For your support, I am most grateful.

Why We Need a JF&CS

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2018

When Benson Shapiro was six years old, he witnessed an act of philanthropy that has stayed with him for more than seven decades. Benson (or “Ben” as he prefers to be called) grew up in working class Saugus, Massachusetts. His father was the secretary of their small, local synagogue, which had just sustained severe roof damage due to a hurricane. It would cost $200 to repair the roof – quite a sum of money in 1947. There was lots of “pulling of hair” and “gnashing of teeth,” according to Ben, as to whether the small congregation could raise that much money.

Ben’s father called upon members of the congregation for donations to fix the roof. One day, a man named Sam Yanofksy came to Ben’s house. Ben recalls seeing Sam reach into his wallet and pull out two $100 bills and say, “I think this will take care of it.” Ben had never seen that much money before. The image of Sam Yanofsky reaching into his wallet has stuck with him since that day. “It was the first time I realized that a single person could have an impact on an institution that was important to many people,” says Ben. I understood that one person could make a difference and if you believe that, then I think that you have to make a difference.”

Ben is now the Malcolm P. McNair Professor of Marketing Emeritus at The Harvard Business School, where he taught full-time for 27 years. The author of 14 books and 19 Harvard Business Review articles, Ben brought that lesson in philanthropy with him into his adulthood. He and his wife, Norma, have been married for almost 54 years. Together, they believe in giving back.

“We both feel that we were exceedingly lucky where and when we were born. Together, we owe it to the world to repay some of that,” Ben explains. A political activist, Norma was the legislative director of the ACLU of Massachusetts for more than 20 years.

Ben became active as a donor and then a fundraiser for Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP). In 1974, he met Bernie Olshansky, then CJP’s Executive Director, which began a consultantship that has remained to this day. “I’ve worked as a pro bono strategy marketing consultant for CJP,” adds Ben. “I became aware of who [CJP’s] constituent agencies were. I don’t remember when we started to give to JF&CS, but it was a long time ago and it started out quite modestly.

“Our first contact with JF&CS as a client was actually when we were adopting our children in 1971, although the adoption finally took place through the State Division of Child Guardianship,” says Ben. He notes that JF&CS had been very helpful in sorting things out.

In recent years, Ben was introduced to JF&CS Services for Older Adults when he and Norma were interested in learning about elder housing. “We’re not getting any younger and at some time we think we will need support and, if we’re lucky, we will move into independent housing,” Ben explains.

“We met with Karen [Wasserman, Director of JF&CS Your Elder Experts], and she helped us understand the entire process as well as the landscape. We are planners and although we do not expect to move into independent housing for another five to ten years if we’re lucky, it was incredibly useful,” says Ben. “After that, we increased our donation to JF&CS, even though we paid for this service, because we thought we got much more value than what we paid for.” Ben and Norma have included JF&CS in their estate plans, as well.

Ben has gotten to know JF&CS CEO Rimma Zelfand well. “JF&CS is a wonderful organization. In many ways, the organization represents how a community should work, both at the local level and at the broader level. It makes life function better for a lot of people. It improves life for everybody, both the recipient and the donors and everyone else. You are creating an enormous amount of good across religious and socio-economic class boundaries.”

In addition to JF&CS, Ben and Norma support other charities, as well. “We tend to support what we consider as complicated stories that find it hard to garner support,” Ben notes. “We are very committed to civil liberties and civil rights. So the ACLU is important to us, as is University of Michigan, because we appreciate programs that deal with issues that are broadly important – like Michigan’s Interdisciplinary Poverty Initiative.

“It’s also nice to have in that portfolio some organizations like JF&CS that are direct caregivers, particularly in the local community, and particularly when we can take advantage of it, as well.”

Asked whether he has any advice on philanthropic giving, Ben says, “People of means have a responsibility to make sure that other people have opportunity and are taken care of to some degree. This is most powerfully done through hardworking, private non-profits. I’m very impressed with what I’ve seen at JF&CS. It serves a lot of different constituencies in lots of very efficient and effective ways and I love to see that.”

Ben currently maintains an office in Concord, where he says he is now about one-third retired, one-third active in marketing and business consulting, and one-third active in pro bono non-profit consulting. He and Norma live in Concord, as well. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, model railroads, and he has also attended blacksmith school, and steam locomotive firing and driving school. Ben and Norma have three children and five grandchildren.

Meet Our Newest Board Members

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 12:33:53 GMT

At our annual board meeting on June 5, JF&CS welcomed three new members to our Board: Shari Cashman, Kimberly Creem, and Alexandra Rand Simes. We are excited to have them join the JF&CS Board!

•

Shari Cashman and her husband, Robert, live in Swampscott. They have two daughters, Alyssa and Haley. The Cashmans are members of Congregation Shirat Hayam where Shari was a past board member. Shari has strong ties to the Jewish community on the North Shore, serving as the current Vice President and Membership/ Marketing Chair of the JCC of the North Shore, and she is a current member of the ADL North Shore Advisory Committee. Shari is also very active with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and is a current Board member and serves on the Gala Committee and Outreach Committee. In 2014 Shari was honored as a JF&CS Community Hero and she was the JDRF Honoree in 2015. This year Shari and Robert co-chaired the JF&CS Benefit, helping to raise a record-breaking $1 million. In her free time Shari enjoys strength training and rowing.

•

Kimberly Creem lives in Newton with her husband, Gary, and their two children, Jacob and Lily. A graduate of the University of Vermont, Kimberly received her MBA from Boston College. She was a member of the Temple Emanuel Board for seven years and is a current member of the Sisterhood after serving as president from 2015-2017. She is a member of the JVS Scholarship Committee and the Mayyim Hayyim Development Committee. Kimberley has held a leadership role at CJP for more than 26 years, serving as a member of the Young Leadership Board, Ben Gurion Chair, Young Couples Chair, Lawyers and Accountants Event Chair, POM Event Chair, and a member of the Budget and Administrative Committee of the Women’s Philanthropy Board. In recognition of her work at CJP, the organization honored her with the Campaigner Award, Young Leadership Award, and the Accountant of the Year Award. For more than 26 years Kimberly has worked as a CPA with Coopers & Lybrand/PwC. At JF&CS she is a member of the Center for Basic Needs Assistance Advisory Committee. Kimberly enjoys reading, scrabble, piano, and exercising

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Alexandra Simes was formerly a marketing consultant for the retirement division of Fidelity Investments. She serves as board president of The Second Step, a domestic violence agency in Newton, MA, and as vice president of fundraising for The Rashi School Parent Teacher Organization. Alexandra is on the Board of Overseers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and is also a member of the Temple Beth Elohim Development Committee, the JF&CS Advisory Committee for The Center for Basic Needs Assistance, and the JF&CS Development Committee. She has been the recipient of the International Association of Business Communicators Gold Quill Award. Alexandra received her MS in marketing from Boston University and her BA in political science from Union College. She and her husband, Jody, have a daughter at Gann Academy and two sons at The Rashi School. They reside in Newton. Alexandra’s leisure pursuits include travel, boating, and skiing.

Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Awarded to Andrew Cornell

Tue, 05 Jun 2018 09:46:25 GMT

The Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award was created in 2001 by Sandy Lottor and his family in memory of Simone Lottor, who for many years was a dedicated JF&CS volunteer. This year’s recipient is Andrew Cornell. The depth of Andrew's volunteerism for Journey to Safety has made him a superb choice for the award.

Andrew provides a unique and invaluable service for JF&CS as the Volunteer Mentor Attorney for Journey to Safety’s (JTS) Reduced Fee Legal Service (RFLS). With grant funding, JTS provides free legal services to survivors of domestic abuse in family law cases, which often present with urgent needs. A panel of private attorneys represent our clients at a reduced-fee. Andrew volunteers his expertise to mentor and supervise these attorneys. The panel is comprised of newer attorneys who are eager for mentoring. With Andrew’s guidance, the panel assists JTS clients (all survivors of domestic abuse) in high stake cases with complex legal needs.

Andrew has practiced family law since 1994, concentrating on representing victims of domestic abuse in complex family law cases. He was awarded the Adams Pro Bono Publico Award by the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts in 2009. He also received the Thurgood Marshall Award from the Boston Bar Association in 2005 and the Pro Bono Publico Award from the Massachusetts Bar Association in 2003.

Andrew is an adjunct professor at New England Law and was recently a clinical instructor at Harvard Law School. In addition to his teaching and private practice, Andrew has been a volunteer attorney and mentor for Community Legal Services and Counseling Center in Cambridge, MA as well as mentoring attorneys for the Women’s Bar Foundation.

Andrew lives in Arlington with his wife, Francesca, a medical writer. They enjoy their occasional visits from their daughters, Kate and Emma.

Message from our CEO Rimma Zelfand

Thu, 31 May 2018 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2018

Some people think JF&CS does it all. And while it is true that we do a lot, quite simply, we cannot and do not "do it all." Nor should we. We are privileged to live in a region with so many nonprofit organizations, as well as a mecca for healthcare and stellar academic institutions. Headquartered in Waltham, we have opportunities to partner with a variety of businesses. One of my personal priorities is to leverage and increase our collaborations. We have seen first-hand the greater impact we can have on the lives of our clients when we share resources, expertise, and time. Let me share a few recent examples.

We have been working closely with Catholic Charities for many years,referring clients with immigration issues to their legal team. As a result of CJP’s initiative last year to raise funds to support immigrants, Catholic Charities has increased their legal staff. As of February, ten of our clients enrolled in our Early Connections/Conexiones Tempranas program are working with Catholic Charities on the path to citizenship.

Also in February, we became a One Family Scholars Community Partner. Through this partnership, JF&CS will be working to help break the cycle of poverty and family homelessness for low-income single parents in Massachusetts by promoting pathways to economic independence through advocacy, education, and innovation. And in March, members from our Journey to Safety staff did a training for One Family caseworkers on how to talk to clients experiencing domestic abuse.

Recently, our Parkinson’s choral group, which is directed by Marilyn Okonow, was invited to perform at a symposium at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. This opportunity gives greater evidence of the impact of music therapy for people with neuro degenerative diseases.

And later this spring, we will begin to expand our Employment Services program, supporting employers in creating job opportunities for people with disabilities. Based on our success working with Babson College, we aim to engage with local academic institutions and companies.

On April 12, we celebrated the Power of Community at our annual Benefit, honoring Barry Shrage. This year’s theme is not just a tagline for our event; the Power of Community is at the very core of our work. In the weeks that follow, you will read stories of how our community of clients, funders, volunteers, and collaborative partners are truly improving lives.

For your abundance of support, I am profoundly grateful.

Jewish Family & Children’s Service Accepted as a One Family Scholars Community Partner

Tue, 29 May 2018 09:50:47 GMT

We are excited to announce that JF&CS has been accepted as a One Family Scholars Community Partner. Through this partnership, JF&CS will be working to help break the cycle of poverty and family homelessness for low-income single parents in Massachusetts by promoting pathways to economic independence.

JF&CS has a long history of helping families with low income. Our Center for Basic Needs Assistance (CBNA) is a comprehensive response to issues most commonly facing people with low income in our community and is integrated with all JF&CS programs. CBNA programs include emergency financial assistance, a food pantry, pro bono legal services, and benefits advocacy.

Established in 2004, One Family envisions, and is currently helping to build, a Commonwealth where all families have secure housing, access to education leading to employment, and the ability to build assets to create a brighter future. The One Family Scholars Program values higher education as the surest pathway out of poverty for families.

JF&CS CEO Rimma Zelfand shared,

The One Family Scholars program is an extraordinary resource that will be invaluable for our eligible JF&CS clients. We are proud to have been chosen as an official partner. Both of our agencies are continuously working to help our clients move from crisis to stability and independence, and in working together, we can be that much more impactful.

One Family Director of Programs Matthew Miller echoed this, saying,

We are delighted to be working with such a wonderful organization that shares our vision and aspirations for assisting low-income single parents to obtain college degrees that will enable them to achieve economic self-sufficiency.

Q&A with Joanne Peskowitz

Thu, 24 May 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Shared by Joanne Peskowitz

Tell us about your role at JF&CS and how you got here.
I am a Care Manager with Your Elder Experts. About 10 years ago, I was looking for a new job and decided to call some people I knew in the social work field. I had been acquainted with Karen Wasserman, the Director of Care Management at JF&CS, through professional and social circles, so I called her to see if she knew of any leads. Serendipitously, Karen excitedly told me that JF&CS was hiring for a full-time Geriatric Care Management position.

Karen invited me to come in and speak to her and Senior Service director at the time, Marsha Frankel, and the rest is history.

10 years later, here I am! I love working at JF&CS. I have such wonderful colleagues. Plus, Karen has been the best supervisor I have ever worked for. She runs a good ship without micromanaging us.

A Geriatric Care Manager, or what is now called an Aging Life Care Professional/Expert, is someone who helps older adults to assess their care needs, come up with a care plan, and help carry out that plan.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Well, as a girl growing up in the sixties and seventies, there were few women athletes and women’s basketball was barely existent in high schools and colleges. Even so, my goal was to play in the NBA, like Ann Meyers did briefly.

Do you have a favorite quote and why?
I have two. The first is from Eli Weisel, “For the dead and the living we must bear witness.” One thing I learned back in social work school is often there is not much we can do to help a person except sit and listen to them. I find that bearing witness to others’ struggles and triumphs is not only rewarding, but it is what connects us to each other. To me it is one of the most important things I do as a social worker. If there are no witnesses, it almost feels like our experience did not happen.

The next is, “Things are the way they are when we understand them, things are the way they are when we do not understand them.” This quote has helped me to accept what is, and that I simply do not have control of some (many) things. I also say the serenity prayer a lot, “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

What is your favorite city in the world?
I have not traveled the whole world so this may change in the future. Right now, I would have to say that it is a tie between New York City and Jerusalem. NYC because of the diversity of people and things to do and see. And Jerusalem because it has the new and the old, it holds sacred space for many people of faith, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim.

Finding Gold at the End of the Rainbow in Jewish Meditation

Tue, 22 May 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Devorah Steinberg

Have you heard of Jewish meditation? Yes, it does exist! Jewish meditation is a practice that provides a beautiful mix of insight, spirituality, mindfulness, and connection with Jewish words, teachings, prayers, and rituals. For me, it’s a combination of so many things that I love! I have been meditating for 35 years and when I discovered Jewish meditation about 20 years ago, I felt like I had found the gold at the end of the rainbow.

I have heard it said that prayer is speaking to G-d, and meditation is listening for a response. This feels true to me. I love and appreciate the opportunity to be quiet, present, and open to enjoy the peaceful communing with G-d and myself, while focusing on my breath and Hebrew phrases, teachings or “mantras” (many people are familiar with the traditional Sanskrit mantras used in Hindu or Buddhist meditation.)

Jewish meditation has been an inroad into knowing myself and to directly experiencing a more mystical side of Judaism, which has been very meaningful not only for me but also for those I have been teaching for the past fifteen years. When the body is overwrought or bound-up, or when the thoughts are too loud, fast, and debilitating, meditation is an amazing tool to calm the mind and find a peaceful place inside. This is especially helpful if one struggles with finding a place that feels that way inside him- or herself, when struggling with physical pain, illness, or emotional or mental challenges.

Want to experience Jewish meditation for yourself? Join Chaverim Shel Shalom, a social group for adults with psychiatric illnesses, on June 4 at the Center Communities of Brookline for an evening of community, sharing, and Jewish meditation, a practice that we can learn and experience together. The event is free but registration is required. RSVP to Laura Shulman Brochstein by emailing jewishlife@jfcsboston.org or calling 781-693-5004.

Humans of JF&CS Part 6

Thu, 17 May 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring two different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

Behind our 40+ programs are compassionate, committed, and dedicated staff who care deeply about our mission and our agency. With this broad range of programs comes a team of staff members with diverse interests, passions, and skills, who all share a deep commitment to improve people’s lives. We hope these staff spotlights give you a taste of the incredible individuals behind our services and a sense of the deep compassion and dedication they bring every day.

Christina Horvath

I am the Foundations Relations Associate so my responsibilities are grant writing and researching potential institutional funders. I look at potential funders to see if their funding priorities line up with our programmatic strengths.

I get really excited learning about all of the program areas as I am researching funding sources, especially about how the work is carried out in the community and how everything in JF&CS intersects. I also just love to read and write.

I think JF&CS is unique because it’s a family environment. It’s a place where everyone is compassionate and that, combined with their expertise and knowledge within their field, is a very powerful force for positive social change and carrying out good work to support our clients. I just love being surrounded by people who build each other up and care about what they do.

Christina Horvath is the Foundations Relations Associate.

Ava Harder

What’s exciting to me about my work is seeing the connections volunteers make with our clients and the agency. Many group volunteers come to us because their company says they should do volunteer work, but in many cases, they leave JF&CS having made meaningful and lasting connections with our programs and our agency. Even with our younger volunteers, it’s exciting to see kids making choices to come here on a Sunday to support other kids and families or to see synagogue’s mitzvah projects benefiting our clients.

What’s special about JF&CS is the amazing people who work here. I think the care they give to the work they do is extraordinary. It’s wonderful to see a client benefit from so many different services that we provide. A client may come to us for one thing, but often will end up connected to many more resources and opportunities. It’s extremely powerful.

Ava Harder is the Volunteer Services Manager.

I’ve Found My Place at JF&CS

Tue, 15 May 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“I’ve found my place at JF&CS,” says Angela Gordon. Angela started her journey as a JF&CS volunteer about four years ago as a Visiting Mom in the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program. “I’ve always been someone who likes to contribute and give back.”

With her two children leaving for college, Angela was looking for an opportunity to give back, and went on a women’s philanthropy trip to Israel. On the trip, she met a JF&CS Visiting Mom. Intrigued, Angela contacted JF&CS when she returned.

After several weeks of comprehensive training, Angela was ready to meet with her first new mom. “The training program helped me learn so much about myself and has helped me in my own personal relationships, even with my own children” says Angela. “It taught me that sometimes you don’t necessarily need to solve a problem, but just be a better listener – an active listener.”

At the two-year mark, Angela was invited to facilitate a JF&CS new parents’ support group in Watertown. “It’s challenging because you never know what the issues will be from week to week,” she explains. “But it’s also incredibly rewarding. I’m meeting people from all over the world and seeing them come together as a community. It’s so nice to see it play out.”

Now, Angela is a valued member of the CERS Advisory Committee, and she has recently become involved with JF&CS Healthy Families: a home visiting program for first-time pregnant and/or parenting moms and dads under the age of 21. “It’s something different and it keeps me learning and growing and meeting different kinds of people. I’m so fortunate. I keep taking on more things at JF&CS because they’re so enriching. JF&CS is unique because it has so many things to get involved with,” she remarks.

“It all really comes back to JF&CS and how well thought out these programs are and how much support there is for them and how much of a need there is for them in the community.

“Every year at the Women’s Breakfast, I hear from the young people and families who have been supported through these programs. It’s just amazing and it makes me feel good. They have such an appreciation for the volunteers.”

Director of the Visiting Moms program, Debbie Whitehill, remarked, “Angela is a dedicated and enthusiastic volunteer who is committed to her families as well as to her colleagues in supervision group. She is eager to learn, opening herself willingly to feedback about her work, which makes her a joy to supervise.”

“JF&CS is such a great place for me,” adds Angela. I’m constantly hearing about new things and new programs. There is so much to do there. I walk in and I see so many faces I know and I get to hear what everyone is involved in. It’s been a totally enriching experience for me.”

Jon Federman is the JF&CS Staff Writer. A practicing attorney for more than 15 years, he is thrilled to bring his legal and persuasive writing skills to the JF&CS Marketing Communications department. Jon has a BA from Tufts University and a JD from Boston College Law School. In his spare time he is an exhibiting photographer and an award-winning cartoonist. Jon lived in London, England for five years before returning to Boston in 2011.

Mother's Day Isn't Just About The Roses

Thu, 10 May 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Debbie Whitehill

With Mother's Day just around the corner, we are overwhelmed with advertisements urging us to send flowers, buy gifts, and treat our moms to a meal, that is, if we can find a restaurant with an opening or time to cook. All of this assumes a lot, but mostly, that we are blessed with mothers to honor and appreciate. Plus for new moms, it may set our expectations that someone will celebrate our motherhood.

This is not the case for everyone. Some of us don’t have our mothers anymore, and some of us have mothers who did not provide a model for the way we would like to mother our children. Some of us have partners who support us, and some of us don’t.

One of my colleagues wrote a column about her experience with Mother’s Day. She said:

“How I felt about Mother’s Day was pretty clear for the first seven years after my mother died: I was not a fan. But eight days before Mother’s Day of 2003, I gave birth to my twin daughters. Suddenly, the day had new meaning. Mother’s Day, with all its hoopla and commercialization, no longer felt like a day whose sole purpose was to remind me–and others like me–that my mother had died. No. Now, it’s so much more complicated.

Life without my mom is frustrating and sad. And it’s lonely, despite my abundant circle of family and friends. Of course, I wish she could witness the milestones: my wedding, the girls’ births, birthdays, recitals. But almost more importantly, I wish she were a phone call away (better yet, a short car trip) to share our daily lives. So many years later, I’m still surprised sometimes when I realize I can’t call her. I think about my mother every day.”

On the other side are moms we meet who say, “My mom never told me she loved me,” or “I don’t feel like my mom was emotionally there for me,” or “It’s always about her and her needs, including as a grandma. She will only help when it suits her, not when I need her.” It’s also not uncommon for us to hear, “I could never be good enough for my mom. She would say she loved me, but then turn on a dime to let me know how I failed.” Understandably for these women, Mother’s Day can feel more like a harsh reminder, rather than a day of joy and celebration.

This year on Mother’s Day, let’s try to be sensitive to others. This year, let’s find a moment to be grateful for the special, supportive people in our lives, even if they’re not our moms. And this year, on Mother’s Day and beyond, let’s give ourselves a much-deserved pat on the back for doing the hardest job on the planet every day of the year.

Celebrating the Art of Resilience 2018

Tue, 08 May 2018 13:38:17 GMT

Posted by Nancy Mazonson

Parkinson’s disease is a puzzle for families living with the disease, for doctors, and for researchers. On Sunday, May 6 more than 115 people came together at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham for a community celebration of the JF&CS Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program with entertainment by the Parkinson's Dancers, Tremble Clefs choral singers, and community partners from the Cambridge Community Chorus and the Renegaydes Dance Troupe. The event focused on the resilience of program participants, caregivers, family, community members, and supporters, each of whom, like puzzle pieces, offers valuable connections that help to form a larger whole.

This years’ event celebrated our cutting edge community-building programming. It was also a wonderful opportunity for family members and people with Parkinson’s to have fun together and toexperience a sense of community in this uniquely uplifting setting.

Each person who attended had the opportunity to share a thought on a puzzle piece. Together, the assembled pieces sent a strong message about the value of our programming:

“I’m so happy to be part of this puzzle.”

“Never alone!”

“I was a piece in the wrong box…or so I thought. Thank you for the right box!”

Thank you to all who made this program possible, and to those who came from near and far to attend. The event was an inspiring afternoon that truly celebrated the resilience of the Parkinson’s Family Support program participants.

Watch a video from the event, here.

Nancy Mazonson, MS, OTR/L, has coordinated the Parkinson's Family Support program of JF&CS since its inception in September 2006. The program is a leading resource in the Boston area with its unique programs, including Parkinson’s Dance, Adult Child and Care Partner support groups, and Tremble Clefs choral singing group. Prior to her work at JF&CS, Nancy worked extensively as an occupational therapist in inpatient and community-based rehabilitation settings, specializing in helping people with degenerative neurological conditions.

Coming Together to Help our Neighbors

Thu, 03 May 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Young children face disproportionate rates of trauma exposure when compared to the rest of the population. And for immigrant families, the risks of exposure to trauma are compounded by high poverty rates, discrimination, and the threat of immigration enforcement. This places them at high need for mental health treatment while also facing barriers to seeking and obtaining appropriate services.

JF&CS hopes to reduce the disparity in access to services that exists among marginalized populations, particularly the local Latino immigrant community. This is being accomplished through the Family Resilience Network of Waltham (FRNOW), created by JF&CS as part of a $2 million grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health services Administration (SAMHSA).

Through FRNOW, JF&CS is partnering with organizations in Waltham (see list of partners below) to support families with young children in our community. Creating a network of providers to build community-wide awareness and collaboration that meets the needs of trauma-exposed, marginalized young children and families is just the first step.

“The ultimate goal of the program,” explains Karen Garber of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support, “is to bolster the health of the Waltham community as a whole – its providers and families – through a combination of direct service, trainings and learning communities, and bringing resources from across the nation and world to Waltham. This includes building the competence of other Waltham agencies by sharing our expertise in trauma-informed, culturally-attuned treatment.

“There has been a lot of enthusiasm for the program,” adds Garber, who was born in Venezuela. “Especially about having a place where we can address the issues that non-English speaking people have in Waltham.”

FRNOW meets every other month to discuss everything from immigration issues to child care concerns. “We’ve had an immigration lawyer address the rights of immigrant families, as well as a number of child care agencies who came together to discuss how families in Waltham could gain access to quality, affordable child care,” says Garber. “We’ve also had an attorney speak about how these families can navigate public benefits and other resources available to immigrant families.”

Most recently, FRNOW invited a number of first responders from Waltham, including representatives from the Police and Fire Departments, as well as EMT’s and ambulance services, to speak at its bi-monthly meeting. “An interesting conversation followed regarding what social service agencies see as the role of first responders, what the first responders understand as their responsibility, and what their intentions are when they come to someone’s home. Interestingly, they’re not always the same,” Garber points out. “It was a learning experience for everyone involved.”

In May, FRNOW will meet again to discuss the issue of domestic violence in the community. Journey to Safety, the JF&CS response to domestic abuse, will be present, along with representatives from REACH Beyond Domestic Violence and the Waltham Police Department, in order to combine forces and become more powerful and more efficient in addressing domestic abuse in the Waltham immigrant community.

“Through FRNOW, there is now a lot more collaboration,” Garber remarks. “We feel better connected to other programs and understand what services are available for families and in turn, our families are better served.

“It’s very exciting to have an exclusive program just for the Waltham community. We have a responsibility for our neighbors. Once you realize there’s a need, it’s hard to ignore it.”

Family Resilience Network of Waltham Members/Partners
Charles River Health Center
WIC
Waltham Public schools
Wayside
Charles River Early Intervention
Waltham Partnership for Youth
Waltham Family School
Family Access
Communities United
Department of Children and Families
YMCA
REACH Beyond Domestic Violencerea
Head Start
Edinburg Center
Waltham Police
Waltham Housing Authority
SMOC
Brandeis University
Boston University
WATCH
Boston Medical Center

Ask the Experts: Lindsey Daley & Rachel Kinney

Tue, 01 May 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Bet Tzedek Legal Services promotes social and economic justice for our clients by providing free legal services to those with low income. We also provide legal advocacy to help those we serve access food stamps – known as SNAP benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

Why are SNAP benefits so important?

SNAP is our nation’s most effective anti-hunger program, helping 1 in 8 Americans put food on the table. In Massachusetts, SNAP benefits bring over $1.2 billion of food dollars annually to the Commonwealth’s most needy residents. Older adults, people with disabilities, and children under age 18 make up the majority of those who receive SNAP benefits. In addition to providing food sustenance to people in need, SNAP also has a positive ripple effect through the economy.

What are the challenges in accessing SNAP?

Many people who are eligible for SNAP are unaware that the program even exists. Those who do know about the program are often afraid to apply because they have heard that the application process is complicated and demoralizing. People that apply may encounter bureaucratic obstacles. They may have difficulty gathering the paperwork to prove their eligibility, or they are wrongly denied benefits because of errors in processing their applications. After people are approved for SNAP benefits, they must follow strict rules to recertify and report changes in their income. The amount of their benefits is sometimes miscalculated or their SNAP case is improperly closed. Bet Tzedek and CJP Anti-Poverty Initiative identified SNAP advocacy as a crucial need of those we serve. I was hired as Bet Tzedek’s SNAP/Benefits advocate in 2011. We now have two SNAP/Public Benefits advocates who serve a large number of JF&CS clients, as well as clients of our Jewish partner agencies (JFS Metrowest and Yad Chessed), in difficult and complex SNAP cases.

What are the goals of Bet Tzedek’s SNAP advocacy program?

Our primary goal is to directly help clients served by JF&CS and our Jewish partner agencies access benefits to which they are entitled. We help clients who are unable to complete applications on their own to file their applications or recertifications. We represent clients in appeals when their SNAP applications or recertifications are improperly denied, or when their SNAP benefits are improperly reduced or terminated. We also advocate for our clients to receive the maximum benefits and retroactive benefits they are entitled to receive.

A secondary goal of our program is to provide education about SNAP. We conduct SNAP training sessions for case workers in JF&CS programs and our Jewish partner agencies so that they can identify those who may be eligible for SNAP or who may need assistance from our SNAP/Public Benefits advocates. We also provide detailed information about SNAP to all agencies under the CJP Anti-Poverty Initiative.

Lastly, a significant goal of our advocacy program is to work for systemic improvements to SNAP in Massachusetts. Our SNAP/Benefits advocates are members of the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute’s Boston SNAP Coalition and the Department of Transitional Assistance Advisory Board. We play active roles in developing recommendations for improving policy, removing barriers, and expanding access to SNAP benefits.

What led to your work in helping people with SNAP benefits?
Lindsey: My personal experiences led me to the work I do today. I grew up in a low-income single parent home. My family faced the challenges and stigma associated with accessing safety net resources. I remember lacking access to healthy food as a child. Then, as I started a family of my own and my circumstances changed, I again had difficulty accessing healthy food. I encountered the barriers placed on those who seek the SNAP benefits they are entitled to receive. So many forms and verifications, all the hoops to jump through only to have paperwork lost or not processed in time. Thankfully, I received help to navigate the system. The kindness and support I experienced motivated me to support other struggling families.

Rachel: I first became interested in hunger when I was working at an orphanage in Guatemala. Most of the girls there were physically stunted and suffered from many other malnutrition-related health issues. I came to believe that if we could ensure that every needy person is provided with nutritious food, we could not only solve hunger, but also work to reduce many other problems that arise when people lack adequate amounts of healthy food. During college, I founded a nutrition outreach organization. My work at JF&CS as a SNAP/Benefits Advocate continues my goal of helping to make sure that everyone has access to an adequate amount of healthy food. Every day I have the opportunity to help vulnerable families navigate a challenging system of accessing food assistance. It is wonderful to know that my work directly impacts the lives of our clients.

Flying Back to Safety and Stability

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

Recently, we received a call from a rabbi who was seeking assistance to help a woman who had a small child and had recently left her spouse who was physically abusive. She was Israeli and wanted to return home where she has family and a support system; in the US she has none.

Luckily, JF&CS Journey to Safety has a federal grant from VOCA (Victim of Crime Act) that provides some financial assistance for relocation. Time being of the essence, our staff needed to quickly have this vetted with the grant contact to ensure that international airline tickets would be an “allowable use” of funds.

Remarkably, we received a quick approval and this woman and her child flew out a few days later. She sent us a note to let us know she was okay, and ended with:

“Thank you so much! You are such an angel to me!”

It was wonderful to hear from her and learn that she had landed safely and was on her journey to put her life back together with her support system. Additionally, we made sure she had information about appropriate resources in Israel as we know that even when safe from an abusive partner there are many needs including emotional support and financial assistance. I know we are all wishing her well and hoping that she will find stability and safety.

I Love My Sister

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Sarah Murphy

My name is Sarah. I am 9 years old. My sister Kaylah is 10 and she has autism. Sometimes it can be hard to spend time with her because she likes being alone, but other times we have lots of fun together like playing games or going to playgrounds. I go to the Sib Shop once a month, I love it because I get to talk with other kids and they understand what I’m saying like if I was talking about going out for dinner. Sometimes it can be difficult if we have to wait for the food to come and Kaylah gets frustrated with waiting. She shouts and gets annoyed. Sometimes I think my sister finds it hard to have autism but I love my sister.

Here is a picture of us at the water park for her birthday!!!!!!!!!

JF&CS Celebrates National Volunteer Week

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Ava Harder and Vivian Samson

It’s National Volunteer Week! We thank you, our community of volunteers!

In today’s tumultuous world, it is sometimes hard to remember that one person can make a meaningful difference. People say, “What can I do? I’m just one person.” Our volunteers answer the call in so many ways. They help provide companionship to isolated elders. They help a new mother overcome her fears or lack of self-confidence. They deliver nutritious groceries to members of their community. After long days at work, our volunteers lend their time and expertise to help give back.

Last Thursday, April 12, JF&CS hosted our annual Benefit centered on the theme of the ‘Power of Community.’ The Power of Community is the collaboration of individuals, family members, synagogues, and corporations partnering to make a difference through philanthropy and volunteerism. Realizing that no one person can change the world on their own, JF&CS inspires and engages individuals to unite to improve the lives of more than 14,000 people annually.

When you walk through the doors of our Waltham Headquarters, you see the following quote on our wall: “Everyone has a purpose in life. Ours is to help people of all ages and backgrounds pursue theirs.” We do not do this work alone. The Power of Community is our ability to come together to give purpose, offer support, and change lives for generations to come.

To our volunteers: we would not be able to offer this support and change lives without you. You ARE the Power of Community, and we thank you.

If you would like to learn more about volunteering with JF&CS, please check us out here.

Celebrating Military Kids

Tue, 17 Apr 2018 10:38:30 GMT

Posted by Stacie Fredriksson & Jennifer Baublitz

A parent’s military service affects the whole family, including the kids, from the youngest baby to the high school senior and beyond. Sometimes the impact is positive. For an active duty family moving to a new place, the move might bring new friends, interesting places to visit or live, new adventures, and new cultures. Children can take pride in their ability to adapt to new situations and learn valuable skills for reaching out and connecting with others.

However, many times, those same opportunities also pose challenges. Leaving what feels comfortable for something you don’t know can be scary, especially for younger kids. Changing schools can be a significant challenge as well, especially for older kids moving between states where educational requirements may be different. For military families who don’t relocate frequently, facing repeated short-term separations (due to monthly drills and annual tours) or longer-term deployments can be trying. Kids miss their parent(s) at their sports games or school events, which can be a common occurrence due to the requirements of military life.

In these situations, it is important to encourage open communication within the family and acknowledge the sacrifices each family member makes. Below are some practical tips for encouraging resilience within your military child.

Schedule time to be together as a family each day

We all know life can be hectic, and with sports, dance, clubs, work, camps, etc., it can feel downright crazy. Unstructured family time, like playing catch in the yard, having a conversation over dinner, or watching a favorite TV show, is so important in allowing families to connect and manage stress.

Incorporate down time

Children are inundated day to day with over-stimulation from multiple sources including access to media, structured activities, and academic demands. This can lead to overwhelming stress and anxiety. To manage all of this and regulate emotions in the process, one must be able to hit the “pause button” and try to be present in the moment. Some ways we can help our children hit pause include encouraging them to turn off electronics, spend time in nature, try meditation, and engage in gentle exercise like walking or yoga.

Let them be bored

Too often we find ourselves taking responsibility not only for our children’s basic needs, love, and care, but for their entertainment as well. Rather than responding to each cry of “I’m bored, there’s nothing to do!” with a trip to the bowling alley or a play date, try letting your child simply figure it out independently. Children need space to explore their environment and develop essential problem-solving skills. “Obstacles” such as boredom present the perfect opportunity for doing just that. This is a task best accomplished when they are made to get creative, so be prepared to let them make a bit of a mess and take risks!

Provide opportunities for contribution in the home and community

Following a chore chart, participating in community clean-up day, volunteering at the local food pantry, and other opportunities for taking on responsibility fosters a sense of competency, independence, and belonging in our children. The more children believe they are capable of impacting their environment in a positive way, the more likely they are to be optimistic about the future.

Resources

Talking to younger children about some of the challenges that come with a military lifestyle can be difficult. Both Sesame Workshop and ZERO TO THREE have some fantastic resources that help parents start conversations with their kids about moving and deployment, among many other situations. Military Child Education Coalition and National Military Family Association also provide information and tools for supporting military connected children.

The 2018 JF&CS Benefit

Mon, 16 Apr 2018 13:41:16 GMT

Posted by Rimma Zelfand

Last Thursday night, April 12, JF&CS celebrated the Power of Community and honored Barry Shrage. It was a moving evening that demonstrated the impact of how, as a collective group, we as individuals, family members, synagogues, and corporations can make a difference in our community through philanthropy and volunteerism.

We are extremely grateful to event co-chairs Jill Cohen & Michael Savit and Shari & Robert Cashman, as well as the Benefit event committee for all their hard work. We would also like to thank Governor Charlie Baker for sharing such inspiring words of support for Barry and our agency.

The evening was a great success with more than $970,000 raised and over 550 guests in attendance. Funds raised ensure that JF&CS is able to continue to provide innovative and comprehensive programs that benefit the 14,000 individuals who come to us in need of help.

Thank you for helping us make an impact.

View photos from the event here.

Care for the Care Partners

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 10:49:07 GMT

Posted by Jordyn Rozensky

Forty-five years ago, at the time of their wedding, Richard carried Myra over the threshold of their home. Now, after several years of him fighting an aggressive form of Parkinson's disease, Myra finds herself helping Richard in a similar way. The poignancy - and challenge - of this moment is not lost on Myra. "We lived such an extraordinary life. And now, we have had to change everything," shared Myra. "I am a person with an incredible amount of gratitude and love of life; every moment is a blessing beyond belief. Even so, it’s hard to feel that these days."

One place where Myra continues to find blessings is with the JF&CS Parkinson's Care Partner Support Group. The group is just one aspect of the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program at JF&CS. The support program specializes in helping families live life as fully as possible despite the many challenges of Parkinson’s disease.

Myra meets regularly with the caregiver support group. She found the group in quite a fortuitous way - Myra was selling a pair of chairs on Craigslist when she met a woman whose husband also had Parkinson's. The two shared stories, and Myra learned of the educational programs offered around Parkinson's at JF&CS. From there, the support group was a natural next step. The professionally-facilitated group meets twice a month, and the women who attend have grown to rely on each other for support, advice, connections, and humor. The group leader, Barbara Sternfield, makes sure everyone is heard and honored.

Myra shared that "there are so many benefits from being with a group of people who understand. We bring up things that are going on in our lives, and it’s like opening Pandora's box: someone says something, and the rest of us open up and share on that topic. For me, that’s a really important part of the group—sharing the feelings, sharing the difficulties, and sharing the things we really wouldn't feel as comfortable sharing with people who wouldn’t 'get' it."

Myra, who is Jewish, appreciates the non-denominational nature of the group. Everyone has something to bring to the table, and the diverse backgrounds and religions of the group add to the mix. "The group offers information and resources that we could never all know about on our own, " Myra shared. "Everything from products that could be helpful to caregivers, to medical support, to doctors and studies. When someone has a question, we know that among the eight or nine of us, there will be somebody there that knows the answer."

Throughout the course of their marriage, Myra, Richard, and their daughter traveled the globe. They've seen it all, often acting as a goodwill ambassador for the Boston area and the United States as they sought out new destinations and experiences. At the height of their travel, they were taking seven international trips a year, many in search of wildlife and remote corners of the world. Their life now, which was recently blessed with a new grandbaby, is entirely different. While they still welcome world-travelers to their Boston-based Bed and Breakfast, traveling is now more about appointments, specialists, and complicated logistics. The partner support group helps Myra process these kinds of life changes.

The group comes out for one another in other ways as well; recently, Myra, who is an oil painter, held an open studio event. Members of the group came to see her work and to celebrate her success. The group is there for one another, providing support in ways Myra could have never imagined.

Humans of JF&CS Part 5

Wed, 04 Apr 2018 13:25:48 GMT

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring two different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

Behind our 40+ programs are compassionate, committed, and dedicated staff who care deeply about our mission and our agency. With this broad range of programs comes a team of staff members with diverse interests, passions, and skills, who all share a deep commitment to improve people’s lives. We hope these staff spotlights give you a taste of the incredible individuals behind our services and a sense of the deep compassion and dedication they bring every day.

Sara Freedman

I think individuals with disabilities are a really marginalized population, but one that doesn’t get a lot of publicity, particularly adults. The individuals we serve are really motivated to lead meaningful and productive lives, they just need a little extra help. The fact that this population is rarely talked about or highlighted just motivates me more to help them and work with them to bring their support needs front and center.

In our Clinical Case Management program we work with individuals with mental illness and/or autism spectrum disorders. There are not a lot of public services for individuals with mental illness so I think that’s where I have the hardest intakes, but also the greatest successes. We have clients who come to us who have nothing, they’ve burned all the bridges with their family so they really have no support. One recent success that I can think of is an individual who came to us with a history of depression and anxiety, which had eventually led her to become an alcoholic. She’s been sober for over a decade, but she has some medical complications that are still lingering as a result from her alcoholism, and were hindering her from keeping a job. She couldn’t fill out any of the benefit applications and her MassHealth insurance had lapsed, so she wasn’t able to get the medical care she needed. Working with her clinical case manager, we were able to help her get on food stamps, reinstate her MassHealth and apply for jobs in her neighborhood. I think this is a good example of how some people can look at the food stamp application and think ‘okay, I can do this on my own,’ but a lot of our folks can’t for a variety of reasons, so it’s great when we are able to help them gain that level of independence and find stability in their communities.

Sara Freedman is the Associate Division Director of Individual & Family Support Programs for Services for People with Disabilities.

Ernst Jean Jacques

I am a program coordinator for CHAI Works, which means that I'm responsible for bringing the participants out into the community to do things that you and I do everyday and making sure they are as independent as possible. It feels fulfilling to see them have a good time and to see them feel just like everyone else, it means a lot to me.

I've always been a people person. For a while I thought working with children was what I wanted to do, but it sort of transitioned into working with individuals with special needs. I actually met some of the CHAI Works participants where I was in my last place of work, before I started the job here. They made me feel so welcome, before I was even here, which is what drew me to them and to JF&CS.

I'm grateful for the things that I'm learning from the participants. They are learning from me, but at the same time I'm learning from them about myself. I feel like I can get more out of working with them than they can get from working with me. While that may not be true, I really feel like they can teach me a lot.

Ernst Jean Jacques is a Program Coordinator for CHAI Works.

True Intergenerational Joy at Passover

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 15:37:41 GMT

Posted by Sue Spielman

This past Sunday, the Friendly Visitor Program, a program of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing, hosted 130 people at its 13th annual Friendly Visitor Passover Seder with the generous support of Claire and Norton Sherman, of blessed memory. The program began with a warm welcome from Steve Sherman, Claire and Norton’s son, and Steve’s wife, Alison. We were delighted that the weather held up and they were able to make the trip together with their children, Zach and Annie, from Connecticut!

One of the goals of the Friendly Visitor Program is to make sure vulnerable older adults know they are part of a vibrant and caring community. One of the ways to help achieve this goal is by bringing together JF&CS older adult clients, Friendly Visitor volunteers, volunteers from the greater community, and dedicated JF&CS staff members to participate in this unique Passover Seder. For many guests, this is the only Seder they will attend. It is hard to express the importance of so many community members joining together with JF&CS older adult clients to create an intergenerational experience and a true sense of communal joy.

Dan Miller, husband of Betty Ann, of blessed memory, along with members of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing Advisory Council, engaged in conversation with many of our older adult guests. Three of our members, Marilyn Ross, Joyce Pastor, and Bruce Bell, helped in a variety of ways including serving the delicious full-course meal, driving guests, and guiding a guest through the reading of the Haggadah (the book that tells the story of Passover).

One notable intergenerational experience was the precious moment when 7-year-old Alison Darish, daughter of JF&CS board member Danielle Darish, accompanied Marjie Sokoll in the singing of Hine Mah Tov, a song of welcome. Marjie is the director of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing.

There were other poignant moments during our Seder that will remain in my mind: watching two old friends embrace who only see each other at our Friendly Visitor holiday events, seeing guests of all ages passing around ritual Seder items like matzah, parsley, and bowls of salt water, and the blush on the face of one of our volunteers as four older guests tried to match him up with their granddaughters. I also cannot forget the look of surprise and joy on the faces of our Russian-speaking guests, most of them Holocaust survivors or victims of Nazi persecution, hearing Marjie Sokoll, who led the Seder, speaking not only in English and Hebrew but also in Russian, while using our amazing Haggadah, written in English, Hebrew, and Russian.

We want to thank members of Congregation Mishkan Tefila for the beautiful floral centerpieces and delicious gift bags they created for each of our guests. Together, the volunteers, members of our community, JF&CS staff, and older adult guests experienced an intergenerational gathering and a true sense of communal joy!

View photos from the event here!

The annual Friendly Visitor Passover Seder is made possible through the generosity of the George & Beatrice Sherman Family Charitable Trust.

Sue Spielman, MPA, has worked with JF&CS for more than 14 years managing the Friendly Visitor Program and the Caring Communities Resource Network, both programs of JF&CS Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing. Sue also manages Cafe Hakalah of JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services. In her work with people of all ages, Sue has developed a deep appreciation for the positive impact a feeling of connection can make on one's quality of life, and she is honored to be able to help create those connections. Prior to her work with JF&CS, Sue worked for 20 years in the world of parenting education and support as an educator and community organizer. Sue received degrees from Harvard University, Wheelock College, and the University of Massachusetts.

2017 Was a Pivotal Year for JF&CS on the North Shore

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Robert and Shari Cashman

2017 was a pivotal year for JF&CS on the North Shore. In our role as co-chairs of the North Shore Ambassador committee, we’ve been privileged to see the expansion of Family Table, now serving 56 families and individuals on the North Shore, with a total of 74 volunteers helping to facilitate the monthly distributions and delivery of food to clients. We’ve seen the number of clients grow in Café Hakalah to more than 55 individuals in the first two years of the program. However, an increase in participants isn’t the only measure of success. What used to be a group of individual survivors coming to watch a performance is now a community that gathers monthly to chat, share holidays, and enjoy Yiddish, Russian, and classical music performed by members of our own Greater Boston community. The warmth in the room is palpable, due in large part to the consistent group of volunteers that attend each month, providing food, rides, and friendly conversation to the Café Hakalah participants.

Starting this month, the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program will run an eight-session Parkinson’s Disease Care Partner Support Group in partnership with Harriet and Ralph Kaplan Estates and the American Parkinson’s Disease Association.

In addition, we’ve launched a new Parent Support group for parents with infants under 12 months in Salem, and maintain a thriving Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program based in the North Shore.

Due, in large part, to our committed group of volunteers, donors and staff, we’ve seen a stunning increase in donor and volunteer engagement with JF&CS. We saw 20 North Shore women join us at last year’s Women’s Breakfast, an event that raised more than $250,000 to benefit the Center for Early Relationship Support®. This year we are proud to be co-chairs of the JF&CS Benefit honoring CJP President Barry Shrage, who has dedicated his career to mobilizing people to make change, grow community, and deepen our connections to each other through tzedakah and learning. Joining us in support of the Benefit are three honorary co-chairs from the North Shore as well as seven active committee members.

We invite you to join us on April 12 at the Castle at Park Plaza for the 2018 JF&CS Benefit. By supporting the Benefit, through your attendance and/or a gift of any size, you are helping us to serve the approximately 14,000 clients that JF&CS works with every year through our network of 40 programs. We look forward to seeing you there.

Reflecting On "The Bigger Picture"

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 11:22:39 GMT

Posted by Laura Shulman-Brochstein

One weekday a few months back, I was asked by Family Table staff if I could do a special, mid-week grocery drop off at a home in Lynn. It was a busy day at my job, in addition to picking up the kids from school and after school activities, but I would drive by this apartment building on my way home from work and figured, “What’s one more thing on my ‘to do’ list?"

After grabbing the groceries at the storage facility at the JF&CS Waltham office and picking up the kids, we all got out to deliver the three bags of fresh fruits and veggies, eggs, chicken, and non-perishable goods to an elderly man living on his own. After we dropped the food in his kitchen and exchanged some pleasantries, we turned back towards the elevator and I paused for a moment. I had approached this moment as a task, a to-do list item, a favor for a colleague. But these small moments make a big difference in ways that are sometimes impossible to see. This may have been a client who was isolated in his apartment, for whom leaving the home to shop and purchase food may have been a significant challenge. Even our short visit was a bit of human contact that could improve his well-being because he knows that there is a larger community looking out for him. My kids also learned about the importance of making time to help others, even when it isn’t always convenient. When I stopped rushing from one thing to another, I got the satisfaction of knowing that I have the opportunity care for others as a part of my daily routine.

Moments like these make me remember the many times I heard Barry Shrage, outgoing president of Combined Jewish Philanthropies, speak about the imperative of creating communities of learning, service, and compassion. He would say that while the United States had given us Jews many opportunities as a community, it was incumbent upon us to create lives of meaning and purpose. Through learning about our own history and development as a people, by actively giving back to others through the numerous volunteer opportunities available in the Jewish and larger community, and doing so with deep compassion for the many varied challenges individuals encounter, we create a fulfilling life and build something greater than ourselves.

On April 12, 2018, JF&CS will honor Barry at our annual Benefit for his three decades of service to the Boston Jewish community. The event is chaired by Shari & Robert Cashman and Jill Cohen & Michael Savit. We invite you to join us for this special evening to honor the career of Barry Shrage and to support the mission of JF&CS.

Humans of JF&CS Part 4

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring two different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

Behind our 40+ programs are compassionate, committed, and dedicated staff who care deeply about our mission and our agency. With this broad range of programs comes a team of staff members with diverse interests, passions, and skills, who all share a deep commitment to improve people’s lives. We hope these staff spotlights give you a taste of the incredible individuals behind our services and a sense of the deep compassion and dedication they bring every day.

Amy Sommer

I am the Clinical Coordinator of Project NESST®, which offers support and therapy for substance-exposed newborns and their families. I’m responsible for a lot of the day-to-day and clinical vision for Project NESST.

I started my social work career working with young parents and their infants in a Healthy Families program. From the beginning, it’s been clear that the work has an exponential impact. You impact a parent, you impact an infant, and you impact the ways that they impact each other. So, there’s this feeling of an exponential value to the intervention, especially when it goes well.

Before this job, I had not worked with people exclusively with a substance use disorder. I’ve found this work so rewarding. People with substance use disorders is a population that is drastically under served and sometimes those who provide services unintentionally contribute to stigma by using coercive tactics and by tapping into women’s guilt, shame, and fear.

Amy Sommer is the Clinical Director of Project NESST.

Michael Totagrande

What brought me here was the human point of view. I was working in finance in downtown Boston and we were handling a lot of money, but for me it didn’t translate into anything of real importance. I’m sure the money was important to the people who had invested it, but I was looking for the human connection. So, I started looking at non-profits and I was fortunate enough to land here.

I am the accountant for the Guardianship program. We have 50 clients and we’re either their guardian so we look out for them personally or we’re their guardian and conservator, in which case we’re also looking out for them financially. There are four case workers in our department and they just do the most magnificent work, it’s impossible to convey. It’s inspiring to me, because they go out and do battle on behalf of our clients, dealing with really difficult situations. They come out having taken the best care of the client and really represented the agency in a positive way.

It’s kind of hard to say that that’s exciting, but it is in a way, our own little battles that when we win we all come together and cheer over that. These really are life and death situations so it’s kind of hard to feel like “hey, good job”, but it warms your heart when you rescue someone, when you know they’ve been placed in a secure place.

Michael Totagrande is the staff accountant for the Guardianship program in Waltham.

Examining the #MeToo Movement Within the Jewish Community

Thu, 15 Mar 2018 09:13:58 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

Many people who identify as part of the Jewish community are very familiar with the idea of a “nice Jewish boy” or “nice Jewish girl.” We live with the myths that Jews don’t behave abusively and certainly never physically harm their partner or children. Our culture tells us that a Jewish home is loving and safe. While that happily is often the case, it is not always so.

People outside the Jewish community also know these myths. We received a call a while back from a woman who had contacted a domestic abuse hotline in another state years ago. When she started to tell the hotline worker her story, the worker replied, “My mother told me that Jewish men don’t do that!” The caller–startled, embarrassed, and upset–got off the phone quickly and did not reach out for help again for another five years. The worker’s reaction made her feel like the hotline’s services were not meant for her.

These kinds of myths can make it hard to recognize dating and domestic abuse. They can make it hard to understand controlling behavior when it happens in the home of a fellow congregant or a friendly neighbor. When someone in our community says, “My partner hates my cooking” or “My partner hates the way I look now,” we often rush to offer Bubbe’s unfailing brisket recipe or suggest a makeover day at a favorite salon or store, rather than stepping up to ask some deeper questions and invite further conversation.

These well-meaning responses send the message that the person should find ways to fix themselves rather than opening a door to allow them to talk about what’s really going on at home. We also often don’t think to challenge the statements themselves, saying things like, “Don’t worry, you look fine” rather than “I don’t think that’s an okay thing to say to you” or “What else does your partner say that isn’t okay about you?” or, even in certain circumstances, “What happens when you disagree about something?”

The #MeToo movement has given voice to many who have experienced harassment and abuse in professional and personal relationships. It has begun to shed a bit of light on the depth and prevalence of the closely-related issues of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and domestic abuse. It has offered a glimpse into the many faces of those who have experienced this behavior and, in some cases, those who have perpetrated it. A number of people have been surprised by how many #MeToo voices are family members, peers, and friends they know and care about. Additionally, a number of people have been surprised to hear about Jewish people being violated and Jewish people abusing power in such ugly ways.

It is time to examine our own myths about harassment and abuse in the Jewish community and reach out to those who might need help or support. Looking ahead, we will soon be preparing for Passover, a festival celebrating both the long-awaited arrival of spring and new beginnings, as well as the powerful story of a people moving from enslavement toward freedom. It is a meaningful season to open or strengthen this dialogue about acknowledging and ending abuse in our own community. Change is surely in the air.

JF&CS Journey to Safety is committed to preventing domestic abuse in the Jewish community and beyond. To have community-wide impact we offer awareness-raising workshops to congregations, organizations, and social groups. For more information about how we can help you bring this conversation to teens and adults in your community, please contact Elizabeth Schön Vainer.

Humans of JF&CS Part 3

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring two different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

Behind our 40+ programs are compassionate, committed, and dedicated staff who care deeply about our mission and our agency. With this broad range of programs comes a team of staff members with diverse interests, passions, and skills, who all share a deep commitment to improve people’s lives. We hope these staff spotlights give you a taste of the incredible individuals behind our services and a sense of the deep compassion and dedication they bring every day.

Bernice Behar

I came to JF&CS through a not very traditional route. I was in the financial industry for almost 25 years, but increasingly became interested in doing non-profit work. I was working as a board member for my temple and the work on the board really inspired me to do Jewish community work professionally.

What’s exciting is thinking everyday about how we can do better, how we can be better at reaching people who really need us, and reach them in a way that has the greatest impact on them. Not just how many people can we reach, but how can we continue to improve the nutritional value, how can we give them more food, more access. Those challenges are always exciting.

What’s meaningful is working in a place where there are so many good hearted people. Being surrounded by people who really want to help other people is incredibly meaningful to me. My job is really a blessing for me.

Bernice Behar is the Director of Family Table.

Sue Stellick

I’ve been at JF&CS for a little over eleven years and the Day and Employment Programs for people with disabilities are really my children. I take a special pride in where they are now and where they started. The past summer we had our bi-annual licensing and certification through DDS, the department of developmental services, our state funder. There were a whole bunch of new regulations and standards, but both Day Programs and Residential services got 100%. DDS said that they don’t think they’ve given that out yet since they implemented the new regulations. It’s really exciting to have other people take a look at your work and see it from an outside perspective. Our participants are out in the community leading integrated and meaningful lives. They are out and about doing things that are important to them and not just doing what we think they should be doing, but doing what is important to them. And we live that on a daily basis. To have somebody come in and comment on the fact that the agency does a really good job is great. It’s really exciting to see.

I’ve always enjoyed working with people with disabilities and helping people to really live their lives in whatever way they want to. When I came to Massachusetts, I wanted to find a place that already had the same ideals and values that I hold and the same values for what I wanted to be doing. Here at JF&CS, being able to start from scratch, as opposed to starting from something that wasn’t working, was really exciting. It’s been great to build these programs from the ground up and see the change in the participants, how much pride they have in the things they are doing and the confidence they gain by being part of the program.

Sue Stellick is the Associate Division Director for Day and Employment Services for People with Disabilities.

Spirited Aging Program Comes to JF&CS Staff: Part II

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

In Part I of this story, we heard from two JF&CS Spirited Aging participants, Kathy Burnes (age 67) and Christine Guarino (age 35). In Part II, we'll hear from an anonymous woman in her 30's, and Barbara Sternfield (age 68).

The Spirited Aging program started four years ago with generous funding from the Rita J. and Stanley H. Kaplan Family Foundation. This enabled us to bring the program to vulnerable older adults in the community. Additionally, Marjie Sokoll, Director of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing, thought the program would be beneficial for JF&CS staff, so in 2014, she started a Spirited Aging group for employees. The group meets approximately once a month, at lunchtime, in a space that allows them to talk frankly about many topics related to aging in a supportive atmosphere.

Woman in her late 30's

Question 1: What motivated you to want to take the time out of your busy weekly schedule to be part of this group?

I have always been interested in aging and spent the majority of my career so far working with older adults, so this group was of immediate interest to me. I was convinced that this would be something that I should attend after speaking with Marjie for whom I have great admiration and from whom I have learned so much.

Question 2: What have you gotten out of your participation in this group?

It is difficult to describe what an amazing group this is and how upon entering the room it feels as if you have left the office and are now in a completely different space, free of judgment and full of support. Marjie does an incredible job of leading by example and facilitating discussion about truly important and challenging topics. While only separated by a door, I feel miles away from the stresses of the workplace and feel I am in a space where I can be myself and share things that I may not have ever shared with anyone before. Learning about my colleagues in such a unique atmosphere has been incredibly rewarding and is truly a very unique experience.

Question 3: How has this group impacted your own feelings about aging?

While aging is often portrayed negatively as the process of losing things (youth, health, attractiveness, productivity), I was very fortunate to have grown up with a grandmother who showed me that with age comes wisdom, strength, acceptance, a different perspective on what really matters, and an ability to enjoy life in a way that is difficult to do when you are young. I continue to learn from those in the group that while loss is an inherent part of life, there can be much to gain as we get older.

Barbara Sternfield, 68 Years Old

Question 1: What motivated you to want to take the time out of your busy weekly schedule to be part of this group?

All my life, I’ve been committed to fostering a positive attitude about the aging process. I’ve spent most of my professional life working in this field, but I never had the rare opportunity to learn from my own colleagues and explore our feelings about aging.

Question 2: What have you gotten out of your participation in this group?

A greater appreciation of the complex issues facing us on our journey of aging in an ageist culture. It makes me feel good about the personal growth work I have done in this area, enabling me to be a deeper and more effective professional.

Question 3: How has this group impacted your own feelings about aging?

Our culture doesn’t support talking about growing older in a meaningful way. This group has given people a chance to share their thoughts and concerns that they thought were only theirs. This group has validated our feelings and helped us to know we are not alone.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Amanda Derby

February is recognized nationally as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). Members of TeenSafe, JF&CS Journey to Safety’s response to teen dating abuse in the Jewish community, have spent the past few weeks raising awareness for this very important issue. Recently, there has been a lot of publicity about controlling relationships, abuse, and gender-based violence with the #MeToo movement, which reinforces our desire to inspire change in our community.

This past weekend, TeenSafe hosted an event to welcome teenagers into our safe space at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham. Our trained peer educators – all volunteer high school students – spoke with event attendees about ways to recognize and respond to all kinds of dating abuse. Knowing that one in three teenagers is in an abusive relationship, our goal in all of our workshops is to begin conversations that empower teens to address dating abuse with their friends.

In order to better reach teens, we utilized popular social media platforms. We designed a Snapchat filter, featuring the message “Love Should Be Safe,” and shared the flyer for our event on Facebook and Twitter. Around Valentine’s Day, we custom-designed conversation candy hearts with messages of “Love Should Be Safe” and “TeenSafe,” deliberately made orange to symbolize TDVAM. They bagged these candies, attached a card encouraging the recipient to learn more about the issue, and distributed them to classmates, friends, and family. Additionally, JF&CS is tweeting about TDVAM throughout February, using the national hashtag #TeenDVmonth and our own, #loveshouldbesafe.

We know that in some families, kids may not talk about dating violence, or even dating at all, with their parents or guardians. We also know that while not all teens are dating, most know someone who is. Given that 73% of teens in abusive relationships would turn to their friends first for help, our goal is for everyone to learn more and to raise awareness among teens so they can recognize abuse and know what to do if they see or hear about it.

On a smaller scale, ask yourself if you can imagine starting a conversation with your family members and friends. What do you need to know or do to take that first step? Would it be in person, or perhaps better if you shared an article to lay a foundation for a follow up discussion? While the topic may not feel relevant to everyone, the recent publicity through the #MeToo movement provides us a foundation to discuss these important issues and strive for healthy relationships.

Spirited Aging Program Comes to JF&CS Staff

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 10:27:14 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Every day we are bombarded with messages in the media about aging – some subtle and some blatant. It is drilled into our heads that as we get older, we “can’t do this anymore” or we’re “too old” for that. Shockingly, for those of us who believe these negative images and internalize them, studies show that it can affect our life expectancy by seven and a half years.

Marjie Sokoll, Director of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing, decided to fight back against ageist stereotypes and mindsets by starting the JF&CS Spirited Aging program. “I was angry at our culture for making me feel badly about myself as I found myself internalizing ageism. I started to do research on aging and found that stereotypes of all older adults being cranky or rigid were untrue and in fact, as people age, they become more authentic versions of themselves and more different from one another. That is a very positive message,” says Marjie.

No matter where you might be chronologically, the reality is that we are aging every day. The Spirited Aging program supports people of all ages and backgrounds in their search to find meaning, joy, and spirituality in their lives as they grow older. With Marjie leading each group, members read aloud and discuss articles, poems, and/or contemplative texts to spark conversation about aging, in a confidential and safe space. Participants have ranged from 21 to 78 years old.

The Spirited Aging program started four years ago with generous funding from the Rita J. and Stanley H. Kaplan Family Foundation. This enabled us to bring the program to vulnerable older adults in the community. Additionally, Marjie thought the program would be beneficial for JF&CS staff, so in 2014, she started a Spirited Aging group for employees. The group meets approximately once a month, at lunchtime, in a space that allows them to talk frankly about many topics related to aging in a supportive atmosphere.

Four of the participants in the JF&CS staff Spirited Aging group were asked questions about their experiences in the program. Hear from two of those participants, Kathy and Christine, below, and stay tuned for two more accounts next week!

Kathy Burnes, 67 years old

Question 1: What motivated you to want to take the time out of your busy weekly schedule to be part of this group?

I wanted to experience Spirited Aging first-hand and contribute to what is a growing body of Spirited Aging work that is being tailored to different groups (e.g. older adult consumers, and aging service providers).

Question 2: What have you gotten out of your participation in this group?

The discussion is incredibly varied and both personally and professionally relevant. Importantly, I am reminded that while we have much in common and can feel validated, there are also new and differing perspectives that make the group experience very rich.

Question 3: How has this group impacted your own feelings about aging?

I often feel that, as a result of a longer lived life I know a lot and, at the same time, I know very little. The Spirited Aging group allows me to experience both of these feelings at different times!

Christine Guarino, 35 years old

Question 1: What motivated you to want to take the time out of your busy weekly schedule to be part of this group?

I wasn’t sure what the group was going to be all about, but I heard positive things about it from colleagues who had participated. I also think Marjie is an inspiring and fascinating person, and I’ve appreciated the healing circles she offers here, so I knew that any group she was leading was sure to be interesting and thought provoking. To be honest, I wondered whether I would be too “young” to participate, but Marjie is very clear that the group is for people of any age, and I feel that I’ve gotten a lot out of it.

Question 2: What have you gotten out of your participation in this group?

It’s a wonderful way to get to know colleagues in an entirely different context. I am constantly amazed by how much wisdom is in the room, and I have learned so much by listening to other people talk about their experiences and feelings on a particular topic. We’ve talked about everything from parenting to familial relationships to the #metoo movement to body image, and I always leave the group meetings with a lot to think about. Marjie chooses relevant articles and readings for us to discuss, but also keeps a very flexible format so participants can drive the conversation. The conversations feel like ones I would have sitting around with friends, which is a really unique opportunity in the workplace. I don’t think many people get to have these kinds of thoughtful and enriching discussions at work, and I feel lucky that this group exists at JF&CS.

Question 3: How has this group impacted your own feelings about aging?

I think our society/culture teaches us that aging is something to be feared, like it’s this negative force we have to constantly fight against, and certainly that there are “right” and “wrong” ways to do it. I think for me this group has helped to dispel a lot of that fear. It’s given me the space to think about the fact that we’re all aging, all the time, and instead of fearing what getting older might bring, we can embrace it and learn more about ourselves and the world as we age.

Follow the link to read Part II of our series on the JF&CS staff Spirited Aging program.

Humans of JF&CS Part 2

Thu, 22 Feb 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring two different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

Behind our 40+ programs are compassionate, committed, and dedicated staff who care deeply about our mission and our agency. With this broad range of programs comes a team of staff members with diverse interests, passions, and skills, who all share a deep commitment to improve people’s lives. We hope these staff spotlights give you a taste of the incredible individuals behind our services and a sense of the deep compassion and dedication they bring every day.

Beth Soltzberg

I’ve always loved working with older adults and I have a background in the creative arts. I’m an art school drop-out and I never thought I would be lucky enough to be able to bring that piece back into my work. But it’s very relevant, because the creative arts can enhance self-expression and communication for people who have lost some of their memory or other cognitive abilities, but who have a lot to share with the world. I feel that the prevalence of dementia is one of the things that makes people afraid of growing older. By helping to reduce stigma, and helping people who are living with dementia to express themselves and stay involved in their community, we help to decrease the fear of aging in general.

A new program I’m working on is called Dementia Friends Massachusetts. Dementia Friends is an international program that was developed by the Alzheimer’s society in the UK. This particular program is all about raising public awareness and reducing stigma, which is something sorely needed. It’s very exciting to be working with our many close partner organizations to think together on how to roll this out. I really love being able to take ideas from international sources and collaborate with many partners here across Massachusetts. So I feel very fortunate that here at JF&CS there is so much intellectual curiosity and willingness to look at ideas that come from abroad, but that we are also deeply rooted in our local communities so that we can figure out how to make things work here.

Beth Soltzberg is the Director of Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program.

Peggy Kaufman

I think the most meaningful part of my work comes from both the work with the staff, which is having the privilege to witness and be part of their growth, and likewise with our families, the ability to witness the brilliance of human resilience and the capacity to thrive, despite the multiple obstacles.

Recently we’ve contacted some of the alumni of our Infant-Parent Training Institute to invite them to adopt scholars to participate in our two year Infant Mental Health Training program. We’ve had several alumnae come forth and make scholarship donations for people of color, professionals of color to participate in the fellowship. We had more applications than we could accept and we are very excited about increasing the diversity of our students and the possibility of being able to bring training in infant mental health back to their communities.

What’s unique and special about JF&CS is the people who work here. And even though, like any other agency, there is turnover, we continue to attract an incredibly high quality of dedicated people. I continue to marvel at the personal touch of the staff here and the quality of the work with clients and families.

Peggy Kaufman is the Director of the Center for Early Relationship Support. She has been at JF&CS for 28 years.

Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms Visits Dnepropetrovsk

Tue, 20 Feb 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

You’re a new mom trying to adjust to the stresses of being a new parent and you need a non-judgmental, supportive ear. If you live in Greater Boston, Central Massachusetts, or Boston’s North Shore, you can call the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program of JF&CS. Soon, you’ll be matched with a trained and supervised volunteer Visiting Mom who will visit you in your home.

But what if, in addition to the stresses of being a new mother, you live in a climate of political unrest? What if you are a new mother who lives in Dnepropetrovsk (“Dnep”), Ukraine who needs that same maternal support and empathetic listening? Who do you call?

Now, you can call Mentor Moms in Dnep and receive the same type of support that new moms in Eastern and Central MA have been so fortunate to have in their lives.

A joint effort between JF&CS, the CJP Dnepropetrovsk Kehillah Project, Project Kesher Ukraine (a Ukrainian social action project to empower women), the Dnep Mentor Moms program (known in Dnep as “Momma to Momma”) got off the ground last September and is based on the JF&CS program. In both programs, the role of the Visiting or Mentor Mom is to establish a nurturing and supportive presence to recognize and reinforce the new mom’s strengths and to listen and provide guidance in order to enhance the mom’s own capabilities.

With financial backing from CJP’s Dnepropetrovsk Kehillah Project, JF&CS serves as the primary contact for Project Kesher Ukraine, the program’s facilitator, answering questions and providing advice and insight on how to best facilitate the Mentor Moms program in Dnep. JF&CS has already put together a team, headed by Debbie Whitehill, Director of the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program, to provide support, mentorship, and encouragement through Skype phone calls to Project Kesher Ukraine leaders. Project Kesher administers all aspects of the program and determines how to best implement the spirit of the JF&CS program for the Ukrainian audience. Eventually, Project Kesher hopes to roll out the program across the entire Ukraine.

In just the first six months, the program has attracted nine new mothers and a second cohort will be starting imminently. Demand is high and the Mentor Moms (who are all Jewish) are ready to take on more new moms. More than 70% of the new moms are Jewish. Materials such as flyers and leaflets have been distributed throughout the Dnep Jewish community and through psychiatric, pediatric, and women’s clinics.

Barbara Gaffin, Director of the CJP Dnep Kehillah Project, shared, “We are delighted that JF&CS is partnering with us through Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^®, which has brought so much comfort and support for many new, young mothers in Dnep.

“Every staff person has been enormously helpful from the CEO [Rimma Zelfand] to the social workers to the project managers. Everybody has been extremely generous with their time in making this project a success and they have really improved people’s lives in Dnep and changed things for the better.”

“There has been a deep connection between JF&CS and Dnep over the years,” adds Debbie Whitehill. “There was talk about staring up the Visiting or Mentor Moms program 10 years ago but we didn’t think they had the infrastructure back then and we placed it on the back burner. Now, they’re better situated and they get what we do at a level that amazes me. They’ve sent us great questions and we have been there for them. We hope to make more connections between their volunteer moms and ours in the future. They’re doing amazingly well.”

Humans of JF&CS Part 1

Thu, 15 Feb 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Welcome to Humans of JF&CS! Periodically, we will be featuring two different staff members to highlight the amazing work they do.

Behind our 40+ programs are compassionate, committed, and dedicated staff who care deeply about our mission and our agency. With this broad range of programs comes a team of staff members with diverse interests, passions, and skills, who all share a deep commitment to improve people’s lives. We hope these staff spotlights give you a taste of the incredible individuals behind our services and a sense of the deep compassion and dedication they bring every day.

Angela Waring

I am the Recreation and Respite Program manager, which means I have a lead role in the Kids’ Connection Corner, which is a respite group for kids with autism. I am also in charge of the HALO Sunday Swim & Sing program. Our programs are held on Sunday and when I say I work on Sunday, people are like “ugh, why?” But once you’re there, it is a totally consuming, silly, goofy way to spend your Sunday and it is just so fun.

I think a lot of our success stories are kids making friends in the programs and something as simple as a child saying to me, “He remembered my name!” Some things that we might consider small successes are considered huge successes for our participants. The work itself is really rewarding. We played a game of red light green light and one little boy walked up to everyone, shook their hands, looked them in the eye and said, “Good game, good game.” In any other setting that would be a little unusual or a little forced but he was just so happy to be playing the game and didn’t care who won or who lost.

Angie Waring is the Recreation and Respite Manager for Kids’ Connection Corner and HALO Swim & Sing

Ira Schor

Among the things I am most proud of is having developed and implemented many staff training and development opportunities over the years. Examples include the Introduction to Management series, various management discussion and reading groups, and several forums for staff education and support such as the Ethics Committee. In providing services to vulnerable populations, our staff are often faced with ethical conflicts and the need to conduct a harms analysis. In addition to assisting staff faced with these challenging circumstances, the Ethics Committee has been a great opportunity to promote cross-program and cross-discipline collaboration and advance our collective knowledge.

What makes me excited about my work is a combination of the nature of the work (the services we provide), and the people who provide it. My colleagues are highly motivated and dedicated individuals; I am inspired by what we can accomplish by working together.

Ira Schor is the Senior Vice President of Operations. This is his 27th year at JF&CS.

New Prayer Book for Nursing Home/Assisted Living Shabbat and Holiday Program

Tue, 13 Feb 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“May the peace of Shabbat fill our hearts and fill the world.” -Prayer Book, Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing

JF&CS is proud to announce the arrival of a new prayer book for our Nursing Home/Assisted Living Shabbat and Holiday Program. Older adults living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities who participate in this program can look forward to meaningful new prayers and poetry when they come together as a community for Shabbat or holiday services.

The prayer book is dedicated to Dr. William Herman, who found great comfort as a participant in the Shabbat program. Dr. Herman was the father of Marilyn Ross, who provided funding for the new prayer book through the CJP Donor Advised Fund of Marilyn Herman Ross and Mitchel S. Ross. Marilyn wrote the JF&CS Jewish Healing Guide on Death and Dying in 1999 and is also a supporter and co-chair of the JF&CS Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing Advisory Council and a dedicated volunteer with many other JF&CS programs.

The Nursing Home/Assisted Living Shabbat and Holiday Program was started in 1996, with financial assistance from the Lenny Zakim Fund. Led by Barbara Sternfield, the award-winning program brings together residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities for services right in their own residences. The program acts as a bridge to join isolated and often marginalized Jewish older adults together with other Jews, providing a connection to both their cultural heritage and to the Jewish community. It has reached more than 1,000 Jewish residents in more than 20 facilities, enabling them to gather in shared prayer, uplifting song, and inspirational readings. For some, it is their only connection to a Jewish presence or community.

“When the JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections program was renamed the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing in late 2016, we thought that after 20 years, it was time to update and improve the prayer book—reflecting our experience over that time,” says Marjie Sokoll, the program’s director. The Center’s mission is to help people feel a sense of connection when facing the challenges of illness, loss, or isolation by offering spiritual and communal supports to foster hope, comfort, and wholeness guided by Jewish tradition. “It is not good for people to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18).

“I am so grateful to Marilyn and Mitchel Ross for their generosity in supporting the revision of our Shabbat prayer book,” adds Marjie. “I am especially moved that the revised edition’s beautiful new cover now bears the name of my dear friend of blessed memory, Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller. The image of a flowering tree graces the cover and reminds me of the inspiring Jewish wisdom quote, ‘As my ancestors planted for me before I was born, so do I plant for those who come after me.’ Our Jewish elders will be the recipients of this profound sentiment.”

Creating Connections Through Cell Phone Photography

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 09:23:57 GMT

Posted by Kelley Annese

As Program Coordinator for the Aging Well at Home Program in Salem, my job is to offer programs that promote healthy aging to residents living in affordable housing. My aim is to keep the residents mentally stimulated, as well as to raise their spirits with fun, engaging projects. I am always looking for creative and functional activities that are not only of interest to residents, but also provide the opportunity to facilitate connections.

Often, I get questions from residents about how they can use simple functions on their phones, such as sending and receiving text messages, or simply taking pictures. So, I decided to offer a class on cell phone photography. We are fortunate to live in an area of the country that has so much seasonal beauty and character: the golden tones of autumn, the glimmering whites of winter, the pastel brightness of spring, and the sun-washed colors of summer.

We started with spring. After teaching them the basics, I asked folks to take pictures that evoke a feeling of spring. Those who had cell phones with cameras were to take pictures and then text or email them to me (putting all their new skills to the test!). Those who did not previously know how to do this received a one-on-one lesson on the process.

I had a few goals with this project. The first was to get them thinking creatively by finding the beauty in their environment. It was an opportunity for me to give them pointers on how to use their phones more efficiently, therefore allowing them to be more connected to friends and family through picture sharing. There was even a photo exhibit at the end, which provided an opportunity to socialize and share a talent that many never knew they had.

Some residents did not have cell phones but still wanted to participate, so they used a digital camera. Everyone really enjoyed going outdoors and finding flowers to capture, or just taking pictures of family members and pets. It was rewarding to be able to help facilitate a new, creative way for participants to communicate with their friends and family.

On the day of the exhibit, photos were matted and posted in a hallway for all to see (and you can see them throughout the blog, here). Many of the photographers were pleasantly surprised with how the pictures came out and were excited to share the stories behind the photos.

Projects like this are so rewarding for me. It correlates to the greater mission of Aging Well at Home, which is to combat social isolation and foster healthy aging. Not to mention, it satisfies my own desire to be creative!

A Day of Giving Back

Tue, 06 Feb 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Hilary Tolan

“Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.” -Ryunosuke Satoro

Aging Well at Home, a JF&CS wellness program designed to help keep people feeling vibrant and healthy in their own homes, co-hosted A Day of Giving Back with Washington Square Minyan, a lively, egalitarian Jewish community located in Brookline. The two communities came together at The Village at Brookline residential apartment building. Older adults from the Aging Well at Home program paired with folks from the Washington Square Minyan made 34 "baby bundles," beautifully packaged, essential baby products for clients of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support. There were children, their parents, young adults, some recent college graduates, and older adults all working together.

Valerie, 71, said, “For me having neighboring communities coming together to give back and do something positive was fulfilling and fun.” Pearl, 85 shared, “What I enjoyed was that it was a nice change to work with a different community other than those we already know. To be part of doing something that helps families with new babies was a fantastic idea. Thanks for the privilege of being part of this.” Ava Harder, JF&CS Volunteer Services Manager noted that even during lunch, everyone stayed and mingled together, swapping stories and making connections.

As people were gathering their coats and leaving, I saw an exchange between a 10-year-old boy and his 85-year-old baby bundle partner. They said goodbye to one another and then, as he was walking out the door, he looked back under his long bangs and nodded and smiled one more time at her, to which she nodded and smiled back one more time at him. The feeling of connection between them was subtle yet palpable and it was one of my favorite moments of the morning.

We truly had a great time from start to finish. There was a feeling of great energy and joy in the room. When we wrapped up the event there were many satisfied smiles and folks saying, “That was great, when can we do it again?” Ya’ara Oren, a member of Washington Square Minyan and co-coordinator of the event, reached out to Harder asking the same question, “When can we do this again!?”

Music, Memory and More!

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Robin Krawczyk

Music & Memory, a nonprofit organization, brings a personalized music program to individuals experiencing memory loss. At JF&CS, we set up highly personalized music playlists on iPods for our clients who are experiencing symptoms due to mental or physical illness, including memory loss, agitation, pain, or anxiety. Specific artists and songs are the key to Music & Memory’s success because musical favorites tap deep memories that can restore a sense of peace and comfort, bring individuals back to life, and help people feel like themselves again.

On a beautiful spring afternoon, five of the Music & Memory participants who are diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease gathered along with their “listening partners” (who happen to be their spouses) to share their playlists with each other. Each one brought their iPod shuffle, which we attached to a portable speaker for all to hear. The first song played was Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Who’ll Stop the Rain.” The song began with the lyrics “long as I remember…” and someone interjected with, “that’s not very long with this group.” The group broke into laughter and eased into the day.

The next song played was the Beatles “With a Little Help From My Friends” and the tone was set! Everyone relaxed into the atmosphere of love, friendship, and music, where they could be themselves. As each person shared their playlist with the group, we got a glimpse into their soul. The group discussed memories and thoughts attached to each of the songs and I was amazed at the level of meaning attached to these very personal playlists. This structured gathering allowed everyone a unique and easy way to offer a part of themselves, when typical communication and socialization can often be challenging. There was a lot of laughter, a few tears, much affection, some incredible whistling, feet tapping in unison, dancing, and lots of singing!

I was struck by the level of comfort present in the room and the feelings of sheer joy as everyone lost themselves in the music. It was clear to me on this beautiful day that even though Alzheimer’s can steal your memories, it clearly cannot rob people of their ability to feel and express love, friendship, and the joy of music.

Robin Krawczyk, LICSW, is the Community Education and Training Specialist for Services for Older Adults. She is a Mental Health and Housing team member providing training and consultation for staff and residents in independent senior housing. Robin has worked with older adults in hospital, hospice, and residential settings. Previously, she was a Case Manager in JF&CS Guardianship for elders at risk of abuse and neglect.

Making Sure They Are Not Forgotten

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Recently, Lora Tarlin, Director of Schechter Holocaust Services, toured the International Museum of World War II in Natick, along with 27 survivors, many of whom are also JF&CS clients. The tour was originally conceived by JF&CS Past President David Schechter and American Association of Jewish Holocaust Survivors of Greater Boston Past President Izzy Arbeiter.

"When Izzy Arbeiter, the founder of the Holocaust Services program, first brought me to The Museum of World War II some years ago, we discussed putting together a survivor's group to visit,” says Schechter. “However it was not until recently, when the Museum hired its new Education Director, Susan Wilkins, that we had a staff person to coordinate the trip. It was Susan working with Lora at JF&CS, Judi Bohn at Facing History and Ourselves, Emily Reichman at JCRC, and especially Janet Stein, the President of the American Association of Jewish Holocaust Survivors of Greater Boston that allowed the trip to be a success."

Tarlin describes walking through history with people who lived the Holocaust as “bittersweet.” The museum documents how Jews were excluded from everyday life, with survivors describing their experiences in their own words.

“The pain these people endured is beyond comprehension, yet they are able to teach us and our children about anti-Semitism,” Tarlin explains. “We can hear about their families and the horrors, but only they remember their experiences. Our job is to listen and retell the story so that these events are never forgotten. These people themselves are the history.

“Today, as many as one-third of all survivors live below the poverty level. We need to make sure that survivors are cared for and never suffer such pain again. The exhibits show how people were tormented.

“After visiting the museum, I was struck by how important it is that we ensure our survivors have basic needs met: heat, food and clothing. Seeing the reactions of the survivors, it reaffirmed to me why we need to come together to help this population now.”

"The trip was important in the life of the community of survivors as well as the Museum itself,” adds Schechter. “As Janet Stein said in her remarks, ‘The Survivors who are here know this history; they lived it. Rather, it is the recognition of the centrality of the Holocaust to the history of the Second World War, that makes this Museum and this day an important milestone for both.’”

“The time is now to make sure that those who survived the Holocaust live the rest of their lives with the dignity they deserve,” Tarlin notes.

Schechter Holocaust Services addresses the needs and concerns of Holocaust survivors and their families as they change over time. In an effort to assist survivors of Nazi persecution to age with dignity, we provide confidential, comprehensive assistance to survivors and their families at no cost. This includes emergency financial assistance, homecare subsidies, and reparations and restitution assistance.

JF&CS Awarded $10,000 Grant from Eastern Bank

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 09:05:00 GMT

We are proud to announce that Jewish Family & Children’s Service has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation’s Targeted Grant program to fund home visits and support groups for immigrant parents of young children through the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support® (CERS).

Each year, the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation’s Targeted Grant program focuses on a different need in the community. In 2017, the Targeted Grant program will donate more than $1.5 million to organizations working to support immigrants in communities served by Eastern Bank. In recent months, new parents who are immigrants have become especially vulnerable due to rising fear,isolation, and emotional strain caused by uncertainty surrounding their sense of belonging in their communities.

Our Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms® program supports these families throughout the critical first year of life when a secure relationship with a responsive caregiver– usually the mother – is essential to healthy development.The grant will enable CERS to increase the hours of our Spanish-speaking staff to serve additional Spanish speaking new moms, as well as immigrants from other areas of the world. Almost 50% of the new parents served by the Visiting Moms program are immigrants to the US.

For more than 25 years, the Visiting Moms program has been providing mother-to-mother support through weekly home visits throughout the first year of parenthood so that parents can provide the responsive,consistent care their babies need to thrive. The goals of these visits are to improve parenting competence, reduce maternal depression, and strengthen the mother-baby bond. Additionally, the program provides free weekly support groups that empower parents to find out what works best for them while helping to build a peer supported community. The Eastern Bank grant will also help fund our Spanish-speaking support groups.

As part of a larger human services agency, JF&CS can provide our immigrant clients with access to additional services such as our food pantry, benefits and legal assistance, and other programming to support vulnerable immigrant populations.

“Every parent dreams of a bright future for their newborn and yet, being a new parent is a daunting task for all of us,”says Laura Kurzrok, Executive Director of the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation. “We believe this program will help ease the burden for immigrant parents who are already coping with an overwhelming number of issues as they adjust to their new lives.”

We are honored to be able to offer the services provided by the Visiting Moms program to vulnerable immigrant families in our community thanks to this very generous grant from the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation.

Your Elder Experts: Providing Answers and Assistance

Tue, 23 Jan 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Picking up the phone and declaring “I need help” can often be an overwhelming moment. When you need help for your aging parent or an older adult who doesn't have family support, that call can be down right daunting—especially when you are starting down a path with hundreds of options and no idea where to begin.

That’s where the aging life care managers of Your Elder Experts come in. Karen Wasserman, Your Elder Experts Director, explained, “The Your Elder Experts team can help a family navigate what options best match their personal resources, and what solutions are appropriate, both for right now and in the future.”

That first phone call can be tough, but Your Elder Experts is there to offer the level of help that feels right for you. Sometimes what you need is some advice to get you pointed in the right direction, and sometimes you need someone to walk step-by- step with you through the entire process.

“Consultations,” shared Wasserman, “are where we meet with an older adult, a family, or a caregiver to offer education and advice on the process and what is available. We can also be a part of the whole process, from acting as eyes and ears for someone who is unable to be as hands-on as they would like, to supporting transitions around living situations, medical issues, or crisis management.

“It can be incredibly difficult to go to a nursing home knowing you’re looking for[a place for] yourself or your parents – no one wants to,” Wasserman continued,“but sometimes it’s the appropriate place. Going in with someone who can have a professional distance and then talk about it after can be very helpful.”

Your Elder Experts can be the teammate of an only child – or serve as a buffer when familial relationships are strained. For children who live in a different state than their parents, Your Elder Experts can act as ‘Johnny-on-the-spot’ during a crisis, updating you on the situation and keeping medical professionals in the loop regarding medications and healthcare needs of the older adult.

For Andrew Shure and Jeffery Musman, Your Elder Experts meant answers where they previously had none. When their business partner, Joe, fell ill, they had no idea how to find the end of life care he needed. Luckily, a co-worker recommended they call Your Elder Experts.“We went from having no idea how to start—one day he was working, the next day he was never to return to his home,” said Andrew and Jeff. “Thankfully, we had help with every piece of that process. Susan, our care manager, helped us understand the process and make an educated decision.”It was important for Joe, their partner, to be a part of this process. Andrew and Jeff both worried about how he would react to someone coming in and offering to take the lead, but Joe very quickly realized that he could trust Susan and his team at Your Elder Experts.

Andrew and Jeff agreed; “Susan, who we knew not at all, has become one of our friends. She was an incredibly important person in the process. We would not have been able to get through this without her—she had options for us when we had no options. For anyone going through these kinds of issues, this is the best money you’ll spend in the process.”

Andrew and Jeff know personally just how daunting the process of caring for a sick loved one can be, but they both agree: pick up the phone and call.

Percolator Memory Café Network Receives $20,000 Award

Fri, 19 Jan 2018 09:05:00 GMT

We are so excited to be selected as one of three winning organizations—each with outstanding programs that address the needs of caregivers for people with Alzheimer's disease—to receive $20,000. In celebration of the 10th year of the Rosalinde Gilbert Innovations in Alzheimer's Disease Caregiving Legacy Awards, Family Caregiver Alliance and The Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation awarded the JF&CS Percolator Memory Café Network this grant, in the category of Creative Expression.

Beth Soltzberg, Director, Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program coordinates the Percolator Memory Café Network, which meets regularly to offer memory café coordinators a forum to share ideas and work together toward common goals.

Said Beth, "I want to thank the leadership of JF&CS for supporting this experimental, open-source model, and our donors including the Lebovitz Family Charitable Trust, Nancy Belsky and the Rita J. and Stanley H. Kaplan Family Foundation, and Rosa Rasiel. I want to thank café coordinators around the country and throughout Massachusetts for their collaboration. Finally, I am grateful to the Gilbert Awards and the Family Caregiver Alliance for this recognition. It will truly support the development of the Percolator and our ability to share this model with other parts of the country."

Memory cafés offer social connection, support, invigorating activity, and information. Cafés are for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or a related disorder and they are also for family members, friends, and professional caregivers of these individuals. Cafés are a cost-effective model that can be developed and run by many types of organizations, including social service or health care providers, faith communities, colleges, museums, restaurants, and more. Memory cafés are part of the growing movement to make our communities “dementia friendly.”

The Percolator Memory Café Network (Percolator) reduces social isolation and increases meaningful activity and creative expression among people living with dementia and their caregivers by scaling access to high quality memory cafés throughout Massachusetts. The Percolator has enabled dementia support providers to share knowledge and resources rather than competing, thereby making Massachusetts home to the largest number of memory cafés in the nation. Accomplishments include supporting the launch of more than 70 new memory cafés, including two Spanish speaking cafés and 13 cafés designed to include people who have both dementia and a developmental disability. The teaching artists—who lead dance, singing, drumming, theater games, poetry writing, art making, and more—share their expertise among the cafés.

JF&CS opened the second memory café in Massachusetts in spring 2014. Guests immediately asked for more hours and locations. JF&CS responded by starting the Percolator to help other organizations launch cafés, a sustainable approach that would foster cafés to fit each unique neighborhood. The Percolator has grown to 418 participants; 62 teaching artists participate in the guest artist directory; more than 2,500 caregivers and persons with dementia participate in a café activity annually. The Memory Café Toolkit (also in Spanish) has been downloaded over 450 times since its release in August 2016. New community sectors, including two libraries and several houses of worship, have used the Toolkit for help in starting their own café.

Taking the Lead: Supporting People Impacted by Dementia

Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Starting a Memory Café: The JF&CS Massachusetts Memory Café Toolkit

Isolation… fear…embarrassment. These emotions are often experienced by people living with Alzheimer’s or a related disorder and their care partners. Memory cafés have been created to combat these feelings, and to promote new friendships and a sense of community.

A memory café is a social gathering for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. It provides a welcoming atmosphere and offers social connection, enlivening activities, and information to an often neglected community.

Last year, JF&CS helped support the spread of cafés with its introduction of the Massachusetts Memory Café Toolkit. Developed by Beth Soltzberg, Director of JF&CS Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support, with generous support from the Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging (MCOA), this is the only memory café resource to include downloadable templates that can be edited and adapted for use by a new memory café and include sample flyers,planning worksheets, a guide for guest artists, registration and budget templates, and a tip sheet for volunteers.

"Our family, through the Lebovitz Family Charitable Trust, has sponsored both the leadership summits and the Memory Café. We feel so proud to support JF&CS and the initiatives they have created. They have truly been leaders in our community and pioneers in the Alzheimer’s area. They are really making a difference in the community and we’re thrilled with the results.It has been so gratifying to get feedback from the participants showing that JF&CS and the Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support team are really making an impact in this area."
—Beth Backer, Trustee, Lebovitz Family Charitable Trust

Balancing Act: A Support Group for Adult Children of Parents with Dementia

“I fought it for so long. I didn't want to believe that my accomplished and competent mother had dementia,” says Heather. “As soon as I gave into it and opened myself to being educated and supported,I found another whole world out there, beginning with JF&CS.”

Heather is a participant in Balancing Act, the JF&CS monthly support and discussion group for adults who have a parent with dementia. Facilitated by experienced social workers, the group encourages participants to share wisdom and encouragement. “Just knowing that this group is there with information, support, and understanding is helpful. It's so nice to know that I'm not alone in this, nor is my mom,” adds Heather.

Did You Know?

The first memory café was started in 1997 in Holland and the model spread around the world. By 2011, Massachusetts had its first café in Marlborough. The second memory café opened at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham in 2014 and after receiving many inquiries and requests for assistance, JF&CS started the Percolator Network, a mutual assistance forum for those wanting to start or sustain a memory café.

The Percolator Network: Success through Collaboration

In 2014, JF&CS launched the Percolator Memory Café Network,which was started with generous funding from the Rita K. and Stanley H. Kaplan Family Foundation, to encourage the efficient and coordinated development of memory cafés throughout Massachusetts. Thanks to the Percolator, Massachusetts is now home to more than 70 memory cafés, one of the largest concentrations of cafés in the country. Leaders in other states are increasingly seeking to learn how our network has made this possible.

Without the Percolator, most memory cafés in Massachusetts simply would not exist, and its impact has been profound. As one guest shared, “This is the first positive activity we’ve had in months…we are ready to become café groupies!”

JF&CS Leads Dementia Friends Implementation in MA

Dementia Friends is a global movement launched by the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK to change the way people think, act, and talk about dementia. Recently, Dementia Friends has come to the US, and JF&CS is leading its implementation in Massachusetts. We decided to take on this role because we know that reducing stigma and increasing public awareness can make communities more inclusive,respectful, and safe for people living with dementia and those who care about them. This is exactly what Dementia Friends aims to do.

As the Master Trainer for Massachusetts, JF&CS will train volunteer Champions to lead information sessions in their communities,organizations, and workplaces. These sessions teach participants key messages about dementia and help them explore how dementia affects daily life. Participants then turn their understanding into practical actions that can help those living with dementia in their communities.

JF&CS is honored that the managing organizations of the Dementia Friendly Massachusetts Initiative support its role in spearheading this new program, and are assisting in its rollout across the state.

In Case You Missed It: The Best of JF&CS 2017

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 09:00:00 GMT

2017 was a busy year for Jewish Family & Children's Service! With your help, we improved the lives of individuals and families, responded to the needs of isolated community members, supported adults with different abilities, new parents, people with low income, and people with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. In 2018, we will continue to strive to strengthen families, enhance the quality of life for older adults and people with disabilities, and provide a safety net to people in need.

In case you missed it, take a look back at some of our favorite highlights.

2017 JF&CS Videos:

HALO Swim & Sing CJP Senior Direct Babson College

Top Blogs of 2017:

An Unexpected Gift On My Path To Adoption

Bob's Discount Furniture Donates To Those In Need

Sniffing Out A Solution

The Power Of 100 Women: Needham Group Raises $10,200

I've Learned So Much From Being A Visiting Mom

Community Supports And Resources Matter

Facebook Albums

Donor Profile: Cindy & Rubin Gruber The Importance of Giving Back

Thu, 11 Jan 2018 09:05:00 GMT

When Cindy Gruber was a small child, her grandmother kept a tin can in their kitchen. The can, which served as a tzedekah box (away to collect donations for the Jewish community), was a daily reminder of the importance of giving back.

Now, quite a few years later, those values remain strong with Cindy and her husband Rubin. The Grubers' recent support of Jewish Family & Children’s Service is already making a difference. Their gift through CJP is helping the Bet Tzedek Legal Services and Emergency Financial Assistance programs flourish.

“The Grubers’ gift has been critical in enabling us to expand our capacity in the area of benefits advocacy. Many JF&CS clients are low income and struggle to navigate the complex rules that govern assistance programs,” shared Rachel Pemstein, the director of JF&CS Bet Tzedek Legal Services. “As a result of this generous contribution, our benefits advocates are able to focus on the needs of these clients as they seek access to public benefits, primarily SNAP (food stamps). Cindy and Rubin have been crucial partners in these efforts.”

The Grubers are no strangers to philanthropy, having given generously to CJP in the past as well as providing scholarships to students in need at the irrespective alma maters. Cindy is also a founding member and former Chair of the Women's Leadership Council at Lahey Health in Burlington, MA, former Board Chair of The Wellness Community, former board member of the Walker School in Needham, MA, a member of the Hestia Fund in Boston, MA, and a member of Women of Impact, a national group of women leaders trying to make an impact on healthcare.

Cindy and Rubin Gruber are also personally familiar with the feeling of need.

Rubin’s story starts with humble beginnings and Cindy herself experienced tough financial times when she was young.

As a single mother, Cindy struggled through a difficult child support battle,an experience that resonated with her when she first heard about Bet Tzedek Legal Services. "I know how difficult it can be to keep fighting for your legal rights when you don't have the financial resources." Thanks to the support of her parents, she was able to build a successful career but never forgot her earlier struggles.

The importance of community, and the very real way that JF&CS supports the Jewish community, made the Grubers’ very generous gift an easy decision.

Cindy shared that it is important to support “Jewish organizations that lend assistance to the community. These are challenging times for people, and we never know when we’re a heartbeat away from needing help—whether it be legal help, an issue with mental or physical health, or financial stress. The one thing that should connect us all is that we care for people in our community.We must look out for each other and show kindness to each other.”

While Cindy’s Jewish values influenced her decision to give to JF&CS, she was quick to point out that “Jewish values are universal human values that we should all share as citizens of the Earth.”

My Journey to Motherhood

Tue, 09 Jan 2018 14:05:00 GMT

My name is Kate Rooney and I am a recent graduate of Jewish Family & Children’s Service Healthy Families program. My daughter Ariya and I participated in Healthy Families for over three years, and we owe so much of where we are today to the support and guidance given through this program. I would like to share my story with you, in the form of snapshot moments over the past four years.

May 6, 2013

The pregnancy test is positive. My head is spinning. I feel like a walking stereotype; I never imaged I’d be the one 16 and pregnant.

How can I take care of a child when I can barely take care of myself?

I’ve dug myself into a hole these past few years,with my depression as my shovel. I’m in state custody, and in and out of treatment facilities every month. I’m supposed to be a junior in high school, but I have barely any high school credits to my name.

What will my mother say? What will my probation officer say? All I know is that right now I’m on a road to nowhere, but soon I’ll have a tiny life that will be walking beside me. I need to change my path, but how?

September 2013

It took four months, but I’m slowly but surely turning myself around. I attended summer school and got my driver’s license.

My sobriety has given me a newfound clarity, and the shadow of depression is falling further behind me every day.

I’ve been released from state custody and juvenile probation, and have enrolled in night courses at MassBay Community College with the hopes of graduating high school in the spring. I feel healthier than I have in years, but I still feel like I am only at ground zero.

My family is in disbelief. While my mother respects that it’s my decision, and will never stop loving me,I can sense her doubt at the thought of me being a mother.

I definitely have a long way to go to be ready to take on motherhood.

January 2014

My pregnancy has gone smoothly but I am so nervous about my imminent due date.

Thankfully, I found support from Jewish Family & Children’s Service Healthy Families.

This program serves to guide young moms through the challenges of new motherhood and ensures that both parent and child are thriving. Through this program, I found Rachel Wallace, a family support advocate. Rachel radiates compassion and wisdom,and helps me set goals for my parenting, as well as my academic and personal aspirations.

It’s a relief to know I’ll have her guidance when my daughter arrives in a few short weeks; but at the same time I am overwhelmed just thinking about all of the logistics and details that need to be figured out before my baby comes.

One of the first things Rachel helped me to do was to obtain clothing and baby items from the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support. This helped me to feel a sense of independence and optimism.

On January 10, 2014, my daughter, Ariya, was born healthy and beautiful at 6 lbs, 13 ounces.

June 2014

Against all odds, I received my high school diploma with my class.

It was difficult because of my challenges with finding child care: I was denied childcare vouchers when it was time for me to return to school.

Rachel immediately guided me to a different organization that could provide vouchers. Although there was a three-year waiting list, Rachel found away to get them to me on time, and helped me find the perfect daycare for my daughter.

It was such a relief to have a place for Ariya, but I have to admit it was challenging to find myself at a child care center with women in an entirely different place in life than I was. But that feeling was fleeting as I knew I had the community of other young mothers who were also in the JF&CS Healthy Families program.

With the help from JF&CS I graduated from high school, accepted a job, and confirmed my attendance to Wentworth Institute of Technology beginning in the fall. JF&CS seems to have an endless network ofservices, and has put me in touch with college programs, legal consultants, early intervention, and nutritional advisors… Rachel is always on top of making sure that Ariya and I are healthy. And Ariya sure is healthy; she’s five months old today, and a truly beautiful little ray of sunshine.

June 2015

I’ve been seeing Rachel for close to three years and during that time the Center for Early Relationship Support has been my lifeline. Rachel has provided infinite wisdom on every phase of Ariya’s growth, routinely checking that she is meeting her developmental milestones.

Rachel helped me through a rocky path in my breastfeeding relationship with Ariya and we are now approaching a year and a half of nursing.

Last week, Healthy Families organized an outing to Drumlin Farm. It was so nice to let Ariya explore the farm with kids her age while I got to spend time with moms my age. Outings like these, and the six-week group series that Healthy Families hosts several times a year, remind me that I am not alone.

June 2017

I can’t believe that in just a year I will receive my bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering.

This summer is going to be a busy one,with twenty credits of courses, two research projects, and working part-time as are search assistant, but I’ll balance the stress with plenty of time in the sunshine with Ariya.

I can’t believe what a beautiful three-year old she has grown into. I feel grateful for the balance I have achieved between being a mother, a student, and an employee.

It feels so good to be acknowledged for what I have accomplished: last week, I was inducted into the national honors society for engineering technology, Tau Alpha Pi, and I’ve consistently been acknowledged on the Dean’s List during my time at Wentworth.

Healthy Families has been such an important part of my support system, getting me to where I am today – a healthy and happy place.

Motherhood is mentally, physically, and spiritually transforming. I am making sure to take what I have learned from this experience to create a loving and secure environment for my daughter. I am eternally grateful for all that JF&CS – and particularly Rachel Wallace – has done for me and my family.

Actually, I have recently completed an ambassador program so I can be a role model for other new moms!

A Respite for Us, a Safe Space for Sophia

Tue, 09 Jan 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Shared by a parent of a HALO Swim & Sing participant

Our daughter Sophia has been attending the HALO Sunday Swim & Sing one-to-one respite program since early 2011. We came to learn of the respite program through Sophia's Early Intervention Nurse, Michelle, with whom we've stayed in contact.

The program offers my husband and I a unique opportunity to have three precious hours to ourselves—to relax, catch up on work, have lunch together—knowing that Sophia is happy and safe in a beautiful space with engaging staff and volunteers. The Sunday Swim & Sing program is important to Sophia. Occasionally, she is invited to an event on a day that the program is scheduled. Given a choice, Sophia always chooses to attend the Sunday Swim & Sing Program, even if the alternative is another enjoyable activity.

Sophia has bonded very well with the Swim & Sing musical therapist. We often receive videos and selfies of them together. There was once a breakthrough moment when Sophia approached the music therapist to strum her guitar. When I informed Sophia's school, Perkins, of the breakthrough, her teacher enrolled her in an autoharp class. Sophia is typically more of an observer than a participant, so anytime she participates in or initiates an activity is appreciated by us. Participation has long been on her IEP (Individualized Education Plan) at school. Sophia continues to challenge herself with the autoharp, though she really cannot play a song, the activity works into some of her Occupational Therapy goals as she is reaching and strumming. Even though there is no IEP at Swim & Sing, the staff still encourage Sophia to reach her goals in a social and recreational environment.

The Swim & Sing program staff are also flexible and respectful of Sophia’s needs. Sophia chooses not to participate in the swim section, so someone entertains and engages her in social skills while the other participants are swimming. Sophia went gluten-free last year so we send in a snack for her, and the staff have been respectful of that as well.

Sophia always looks forward to attending Sunday Swim & Sing, and she is always beaming when we pick her up. While she is mostly non-verbal, she can express happiness and joy.

Everybody Could Use a JF&CS

Tue, 02 Jan 2018 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by JF&CS

“People shouldn’t be so shocked to hear about making a bequest,” says Jackie Bechek. “When you’re nearly 60, it’s not a big deal to have a will. You need to be realistic and you need to have things in place for the future.”

Jackie, a long-time JF&CS supporter, recently surprised us by including the agency with a very generous gift in her estate plan. She is part of a growing trend of younger individuals and families who are crafting estate plans to include charities like JF&CS that are meaningful to them.

“The only way for organizations that you believe in to continue, is to put your money where your mouth is and make a bequest so you can be sure that they can continue,” adds Jackie, who first connected with JF&CS several years ago through friends who volunteered in the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^®program.

Soon, Jackie became a volunteer Rubin Visiting Mom herself. “I love the program,” says Jackie. “Every single young mother could use it. I certainly could have used it when I was a young mother – my mother didn’t live nearby."

"I think every city in the country should have it, and that’s why I continue to support it," says Jackie. "Because I feel that the strength of that program should spread to other cities, and now I see that it’s already spreading to Tel Aviv, Australia, and Ukraine. It seems so obvious – it’s not technical, it’s not difficult. It’s just being there for somebody, and that’s just what young mothers really need because it can be so isolating being a young mother.”

Jackie’s connection to the Rubin Visiting Moms program became so strong that she also joined the advisory committee for the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support ^® (CERS), which is responsible for early parenting groups like Rubin Visiting Moms within the agency. She became a valued supporter of the annual JF&CS Women’s Breakfast, as well.

She had been a volunteer Rubin Visiting Mom for more than five years when Jackie separated from her husband and, through a twist of fate, moved to Greenville, South Carolina in 2012.

Although Jackie no longer lives in Massachusetts, her commitment to JF&CS has not diminished. Last year, she flew from South Carolina to Boston five times to attend CERS committee meetings. “If you make a commitment, you have to be there,” she remarks. “If you believe in a cause, you have got to do the work.” Jackie also points out that she and her family have always been involved in Jewish social service organizations. Both her mother and mother-in-law were social workers at Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit, each for more than 30 years.

In choosing to include JF&CS in her estate plan, Jackie notes that it was a natural fit. A strong supporter of many charities, including Brown University and Milton Academy, she included them in her estate plan, as well. “I don’t think it’s fair to put the burden of deciding which charities to support on my children after I’m gone,” she notes.

“We are so grateful to Jackie for her legacy gift,” says Wendy Wilsker, Chief Advancement Officer at JF&CS. “As a Rubin Visiting Mom, Jackie understood the importance of the early bond between a mother and infant. The support she provided literally planted seeds for the parent-child relationship to blossom. By including JF&CS in her estate plan, Jackie is again ensuring a strong future for generations of families.”

“JF&CS is always working so hard to raise money,” Jackie adds. The work JF&CS does is phenomenal. It’s life changing for people. I want this to continue beyond me, beyond [CERS Founding Director] Peggy Kaufman. I really want it to be part of the next generation, too. Everybody could use a JF&CS.”

If you would like to learn more about leaving a legacy with JF&CS, contact Jill Snider at jsnider@jfcsboston.org or 508-208-2341.

Adoption Resources Receives Grant from Krupp Family Foundation for LGBTQ Equality Project

Thu, 28 Dec 2017 09:05:00 GMT

We are pleased to share that JF&CS Adoption Resources was granted funding by the Krupp Family Foundation to deliver targeted support to LGBTQ families who pursue adoption as a means of creating and expanding their families. Adoption Resources plans to mitigate the financial burden and the financial risk of adoption for LGBTQ families,boost the program’s capacity to provide LGBTQ-inclusive services, and provide support specifically to LGBTQ adoptive families through community outreach and education programming.

For many LGBTQ families, the financial obligation and risk of adoption will necessitate a delay to start their family while they work to save the necessary funds. Sometimes these financial barriers preclude adoption altogether. While there are other financial resources available for adoptive parents, many of these exclude LGBTQ families because of religious restrictions and are simply insufficient to meet the needs of the many families who require financial assistance in order to adopt. Thanks to this newly awarded and very generous funding, Adoption Resources will be able to pilot a new loan program to allow LGBTQ families to undertake the adoption process when they are ready by partially funding their placement fees and providing flexibility to repay the loan over time with zero interest.

In addition, Adoption Resources is excited to create workshops and educational sessions for pre- and post-adoptive families on topics such as transracial adoption, financing adoption, private adoption, navigating open adoptions, and caring for substance-exposed newborns. A number of these workshops will be co-sponsored by Keshet, a national organization that works for full LGBTQ equality and inclusion in Jewish life. While these educational workshops will be targeted to the LGBTQ community, they will be open to the community at large and many topics will be relevant to adoptive families of all backgrounds.

Betsy Hochberg, Director of Adoption Resources, shared, "JF&CS Adoption Resources has a rich history of serving all families. Our work focuses on finding homes for every baby. We hope that this grant will enable us to develop a truly diverse group of waiting adoptive families."

Idit Klein, Executive Director of Keshet, stated, "We applaud JF&CS Adoption Resources and the Krupp Family Foundation for their leadership on this important issue. Responding to a critical need in the LGBTQ community, we hope that this initiative will set a new standard for LGBTQ-inclusive adoption practices for JF&CS and other adoption providers nationwide."

My Road To Independence

Wed, 27 Dec 2017 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Sara Freedman

At 23 years old, Ann* desperately wanted to move out of her parent’s home and establish her independence. She and her parents were fighting constantly, and realized that if she was going to improve her mental health, it was important she find other housing. Ann had been struggling with a seizure disorder since she was a child, along with anxiety and depression. Her mom supported her desire to move out, but neither of them knew where to start. Then, her mom suggested that they contact JF&CS. From the beginning, it was clear that Ann could benefit greatly from JF&CS’ case management services, and started working with her case manager to determine next steps right away.

Finding housing and creating a budget were the first goals Ann identified. Although she was on the subsidized housing lists, she knew her name probably wouldn’t come up for years, and she was determined to find housing as soon as possible. Her case manager helped her scour Craigslist and local university websites for apartment and rooms for rent in her price range. Within two months of working with her case manager, Ann found an apartment that fit her needs. Her case manager helped her find, apply for, and access a local food pantry in her new neighborhood, since most of her income was going towards her rent. Simultaneously, Ann and her case manager started to work on budgeting and money management skills. Her parents had offered to provide a monthly stipend to ease the burden on Ann, but she refused. She didn’t want to have to rely on them anymore—she wanted to become as independent as possible. Ann was a part-time student at MassBay, but wasn’t sure if she could continue due to the costs. Her case manager helped her access benefits through the Mass Rehab Commission, which resulted in her tuition for school being waived, along with financial assistance for transportation and textbooks.

Everything seemed to be going well, but two months after moving into her apartment, Ann found out that her landlord had decided to sell the house and gave her 30 days to find new housing. Ann and her case manager went back to the housing search, and within the month, located a new apartment nearby. After her move, Ann’s case manager encouraged her to apply for food stamps. Within a week, Ann submitted her application and all supplemental documentation independently, and was accepted only two weeks later! She and her case manager then started to work on meal planning. This helped Ann not only stick to her budget, but also learn to cook – another skill she was hoping to acquire.

Over the next several months, Ann continued to manage her newfound independence with the support of her case manager. When new difficulties arose, Ann found ways to deal with them head on and did not let them “derail” her, as she would say. As Ann became more independent, her relationship with her parents started to become more positive. She became actively involved in multiple clubs at MassBay, served as a club leader for two groups, and as treasurer for another. Ann was doing great.

Then, within a month, Ann’s girlfriend broke up with her and, on top of that, she found out that her landlord would not be renewing her lease. This left her devastated and depressed, and her seizures increased. Although Ann cancelled several of their meetings, her case manager persisted, and reminded Ann how far she had come. Together, they searched for and found yet another apartment that fit her needs. The moment she moved in, she knew it was a perfect fit. Her roommates were so kind, and she became fast friends with all of them. When she met with her case manager, her happiness was palpable. As a final goal, she and her case manager practiced time management skills. Each week, Ann and her case manager would meet and input every appointment, meeting, and school assignment into her Google calendar on her phone. Ann was no longer missing meetings or assignments and was doing really well. At this time, Ann realized she had reached all her current goals, and was able to see how far she had come in just a year and a half. Ann told her case manager she was ready to close her case – knowing that if she needed help in the future, JF&CS would only be a call away.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Meet Joan Ingersoll, Vice President of Disability Services

Tue, 26 Dec 2017 09:05:00 GMT

It is such a privilege for me to be the new Vice President of Disability Services at JF&CS. After many years living and working outside of Massachusetts, I am thrilled to have returned to this area and excited to be part of such an amazing organization. I have joined a talented and compassionate team of colleagues who are invested in providing exceptional services to our participants and their families.

Like many people in this field, I had a family member with a developmental disability.

My grandmother’s older sister, Dora Goldsmith, was born with disabilities that impacted her cognitive and physical development. The oldest of three children, Dora lived with her family in Winthrop until her mother died when Dora was 16. My grandmother and her brother were sent to live with different relatives, but no one would take Dora. So my great-grandfather brought her to the Wrentham State School. Dora lived at Wrentham for the next 40 years.

In the 1960’s, as the state tried to address the overcrowding and poor conditions at Wrentham, Dora was moved to the Cushing Hospital in Framingham. That is when I got to know her. I would visit her with my mother and grandmother every couple of months, and each summer she stayed with my grandparents for a few weeks. Dora was a kind and dependable companion to me; we played cards and jacks and board games – I looked forward to her visits and we were both sad when she had to go back to Cushing.

Although Cushing was definitely an upgrade from Wrentham, Dora spent most of her time in a large “day room” doing puzzles and knitting items like potholders. She never attended school or received educational services, but she could read, write, use a calendar, and do basic math. Her mother must have taught her all of these skills as a child.

My grandmother learned to accept Dora’s living situation, but I never did.Although the group home movement had taken hold in the 1970’s, the state decided Dora was too old to live in the community.

In 1976 my grandmother received notification from the state that they were moving Dora out of Cushing and into a nursing home in Brookline. And that is where she spent the final 15 years of her life. When she died at the age of 88 there were just a few of us at her funeral.

Since joining JF&CS, I have reflected on what a perfect place this would have been for her. When I attend our Shabbat dinners and see the community that is created, I know that Aunt Dora would have found friendship and spirituality. When I talk with participants about their volunteer work, I can picture how proud Aunt Dora would have been to help others. And I imagine that with support, she could have held a job and had financial independence.

I have often thought about how different Dora’s life would have been if she were born 50 years later. Her experience inspired me to choose a career in this field. My personal vision is that every one of our participants finds purpose, friendship, community, joy, and meaning in their lives.

Donor Advised Fund Simplifies Giving

Thu, 21 Dec 2017 09:05:00 GMT

What does Debby Stein Sharpe like about giving through her Donor Advised Fund? In short, everything. “I love my donor advised,” Debby shared. “It makes my life so much easier.”

It’s a good thing that Debby’s Donor Advised Fund simplifies giving, as she and her family donate often! Tzedakah, or the importance of charity, stands at the center of her Judaism. During a recent service her rabbi spoke about what it means to “give until it hurts,” and Debby had to smile. She knew exactly what he meant: giving is a priority for the Stein Sharpe family.

The value of tzedakah is one that she learned from her parents; even with limited resources, they gave with their time and their money. It’s also a value that Debby is reminded of with her involvement at Temple Beth David of the South Shore in Canton, Massachusetts. Debby spent ten years teaching preschool at Temple Beth David, and each week began class by speaking about the importance of giving back.

Giving is also something that Debby hopes to pass along to her own children. While her three children are adults now, Debby first learned of JF&CS when her kids were young. Temple Beth David of the South Shore joined JF&CS in sponsoring drivers for JF&CS Family Table, New England’s largest kosher food pantry. Debby and her children were looking for a service project that the family could engage in together, and Family Table was the perfect fit. Together they helped pack and deliver food throughout the community. Assisting around hunger remains an important part of Debby’s giving.

Debby’s Donor Advised Fund keeps her giving by simplifying and streamlining the process. “Back in the day, before the fund, I had to write checks to everybody, which was really cumbersome,” shared Debby. “With my Donor Advised Fund, it’s just a few clicks of the mouse and the money can go where I want it to go. It makes it easy to manage my charitable budget.”Debby also pointed out that her Donor Advised Fund helps her track her tax deductions, and, because it’s so tax efficient, she’s able to give even more.

“There is hunger in our community and there is hunger in the greater community,” Debby told us. “JF&CS does good work and I’m glad to support the program through my Donor Advised Fund.”

True Communal Joy for Elders at Chanukkah

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 11:44:58 GMT

Posted by Marjorie U. Sokoll

This past Sunday, we celebrated the 12^th Annual Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration sponsored by Claire and Norton Sherman, of blessed memory. Sadly, Claire and Norton are no longer with us physically, but they are certainly with us in spirit. Their support enabled us to create a community of vulnerable elders, including Holocaust survivors, who connect with each other, and with the next generation via the many volunteers who attend. Claire once described how much this gathering, along with the Friendly Visitor Passover Seder that they sponsored, meant to her and Norton. About her personal experience of aging she said, “At this age, invitations are few and far between. No one wants to feel like a third wheel. Even at friends’ houses, you’re sort of outside looking in the window. Here you’re an insider – you’re an integral part of it.” Read more about the Shermans' contributions.

Most meaningfully, you could feel Claire and Norton’s presence through the heartfelt words of their son, Steve Sherman, who attended the celebration. “My parents, may they rest in peace, were avid supporters of JF&CS and it brought them great joy to be able to sponsor this event year after year. Last year, I escorted my mom to this celebration. This year, I am privileged to carry on the tradition of sponsoring this celebration in their honor. On behalf of my parents, Claire and Norton Sherman, myself, and the entire Sherman family, I want to wish all of you and your loved ones a very Happy Chanukkah and all the best that this holiday season and the New Year has to bring.”

Among the many guests were members of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing Advisory Council, and Dan Miller, husband of Betty Ann, of blessed memory. We were delighted that Steve Siagel of Siagel Productions entertained us and shared his talent by playing keyboard and singing some of our favorite Yiddish, Hebrew, and English songs from the Jewish songbook!

We also had many dedicated JF&CS staff members who helped drive elders to the event and helped with Russian translation, as well as volunteers from the Friendly Visitor Program and the greater community. These staff and volunteers helped to create an intergenerational experience and a true sense of communal joy.

“Please thank the staff and the volunteers. It must have been a tremendous effort to plan every detail for such an elaborate and enjoyable Hanukkah party. It was wonderful to be among so many good and dedicated company and also meet other survivors.”
-Anonymous participant

We want to thank the participants in CJP LEADS and incoming freshman in the Tufts University FOCUS program who decorated the gift mugs, students from Temple Sinai in Brookline who decorated the gift bags, and the Kinsella family of Wellesley and their extended family who made the “winter warmer” bags filled with goodies.

Last but not least, I want to thank the awesome Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing team, Barbara Sternfield and Sue Spielman. Sue Spielman, Manager of the Friendly Visitor Program, who planned and organized the entire event which has grown so much over the years, received a beautiful thank you note from an Advisory Council member that captures the essence of Sue’s amazing efforts!

Dear Sue,

Another magnificent Chanukkah Celebration: Carefully planned, beautifully produced, amazingly well staffed, and creating enough nachas (joy) to fill every heart. Mazel tov for fashioning such a warm, welcoming, and high spirited holiday event. Thanks to all your dedicated staff and volunteers. This was community building with deep spiritual roots. JF&CS is blessed in having the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing outreach to a congregation of grateful recipients. A mitzvah! May you continue to go from strength to strength.

Chag Sameach/Happy Chanukkah!
David Breakstone

The annual Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration is made possible through the generosity of the George and Beatrice Sherman Family Charitable Trust.

Marjorie U. Sokoll, MEd is the founder and director of the JF&CS Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing and director of Spirituality and Aging. Marjie also provides oversight for the JF&CS Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program, spiritual support for the JF&CS Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support Program, and is a founding partner at the Kalsman Institute for Judaism and Health. Marjie earned degrees in sociology and social work from Boston University and Tel Aviv University respectively, a graduate degree in counseling from Northeastern University, and holds a certificate of thanatology from the National Center for Death Education.

Letter from Our Senior VP of Institutional Advancement

Tue, 19 Dec 2017 09:05:00 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2017

Posted by Wendy Wilsker

Recently, my younger son was watching Back to the Future for the umpteenth time and in an attempt to make the most of some family bonding, I sat down to watch with him. I was struck by one of Doc Emmet Brown’s lines, “Your future is whatever you make it, so make it a good one.” I let that line sink in for a few minutes and it struck me that at JF&CS, we are working very hard to make our future a good one. We are literally as focused on the present as we are on the future.

Our agency is fiscally sound, thanks to the generosity of our loyal supporters and the wisdom of the leadership of our Board of Directors, Finance and Development Committee members. In fiscal year 2017,we engaged more new donors and volunteers than ever before. Our Corporate Partners Program is flourishing with volunteer engagement and sponsorship from close to a dozen new organizations meaningfully engaged in our work. And our special events not only achieved our fundraising goals, but engaged new committee members and guests. In fact, our Women’s Breakfast realized more than 25% new attendees and our CHAI event welcomed 100 new guests!

For more than 150 years, JF&CS has literally been “Caring for Generations,” and as we look ahead to the next 150 years, we must be certain to ensure our agency remains fiscally sound, able to provide support, resources, and services to improve the lives of each person who walks through our doors. As we look ahead to the future security of the agency, I am proud to announce the launch of the Tree of Life Society, the JF&CS Legacy Society.

In his book, “Legacy: The Giving of Life’s Greatest Treasures,” Dr. Barrie Sanford Greiff shares,“… the answer for tomorrow, is to build a legacy today, to bequeath not only what we have earned, but what we have learned.” Often, people equate estate planning with one’s death, but I believe that Dr. Greiff sheds a new light on the concept of “legacy.” How can we ensure that those values and ideals, that the passion of our life continues long after our own lifetimes?

This year, we are eager to debunk some widely held myths about Planned Giving. First, Gift Planning is not complicated. And second, making a Legacy Gift is not only for people over 70. At JF&CS, we are eager to talk about the very simple ways that anyone who cares about our work can easily ensure that your values will enrich our agency for generations to come.

I hope that you will be inspired by the stories of the impact we are making on our clients’ lives and our community and that you will be motivated by the stories of how philanthropy is making a difference today and well into our future.

My personal thanks is beyond measure for your generosity, your kindness, and your commitment to improving lives.

Different Cultures, Same Sacrifice

Thu, 14 Dec 2017 09:05:00 GMT

We met dedicated people who work effortlessly to help all Israelis – soldiers and civilians – who experience trauma as a result of ongoing conflict in this sacred land. Although their work is much broader than JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder’s work, their commitment to try to positively impact the family is the same,” says Stacie Fredricksson, JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder program manager and former US Air Force Reserves member. Fredricksson was one of four Shoulder to Shoulder staff and advisory board members who visited Israel in May as part of a collaborative research project through a grant awarded by the Andrea & Charles Bronfman Philanthropies in 2016. Focusing on innovative practices addressing the integration of military members into civilian life, the collaboration could not have been a better fit. Shoulder to Shoulder provides unique home-based services, along with connections to community resources and family events, to strengthen the resiliency and improve the lives of military and veteran families throughout Eastern and Central MA.

Margot Davis, PhD, a member of the Shoulder to Shoulder Advisory Committee, is Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Behavioral Health at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University. Davis was responsible for drafting the grant proposal for the project and for bringing Shoulder to Shoulder together with the Israeli groups and universities that became part of this initiative.

Davis, Fredricksson, and Shoulder to Shoulder founder and JF&CS Board President Jamie Grossman and Major (US Army, retired) Bob Kinder, met with numerous Israeli resiliency programs and mental health professionals to study how Israel deals with the effects of trauma on military members and the reintegration of military members back into society and back into their family units after service. Because of its long history of addressing noncombat community crises as well as the diverse needs of post-deployment reintegration, Israel is a good collaborator for the development of best practices in the US.

Focusing on the family as an agent of both change and stability, the JF&CS delegation sought to answer the following questions:

1) What innovative practices are promoted in Israel to foster family resilience?

2) What indicators are used to measure program impact?

3) What policies are in place to support the work of reintegration into the soldiers’ home community?

They learned that despite some obvious differences between service in the US and in Israel, the struggles faced by soldiers upon deployment were strikingly similar.

“As staff and advisory committee members of Shoulder to Shoulder, we took with us the experience of serving US military and veteran families. We shared some of the struggles and challenges US military and veterans face, and in turn, learned how IDF soldiers deal with those same challenges,” Fredricksson remarks. “We learned quite a lot about resilience,” she adds.

“Military families are at greater risk of facing major adversities, which may result in damage to relationships, depression, anxiety, PTS, and numerous other stressors," continued Fredricksson. "Thus, it is essential to tend to our resilience stores regularly to insulate us from these unique risk factors. By doing so, we can ensure that we are more capable of ‘weathering the storm’ when we have to.”

“In the US, service members do not share stories and emotions, which results in a lack of empathy from civilians as well as a stoicism about the military. There’s a disconnect,” remarks Grossman. “Israel recognizes that families are on the front line of seeing the need for help. They realize that families must be supported. A stronger family equals a stronger service member. In Israel, we learned that outreach is a key component of our program as military members often shy away from asking for assistance. We continue to identify need and increase our outreach efforts, ensuring that the military communities know that JF&CS is here for them.”

Shoulder to Shoulder hopes to work together more in the future with the people and organizations it called upon in Israel. “You never know what will come of these collaborations. They can be quite fruitful,” says Davis. “We came away with such a breadth of understanding. It was great. This is the beginning of many other collaborations with Israel and the military population and other populations that experience trauma. We all learn from each other.

“I want to give kudos to the Bronfman Family Foundation,” she adds. “Programs like this have real vision. The model of an academic institute collaborating with a community program like Shoulder to Shoulder is quite a wonderful synergy.”

Many Clergy Voices Send One Important Message

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 10:52:41 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

As we prepare to light Chanukkah candles during this darkest period of the year, we are thrilled to announce that more than 100 rabbis and cantors have signed on to the Many Voices, One Message Campaign. By adding their names to this simple statement – “We join together in saying we will not tolerate domestic abuse in the Jewish community” – these members of the clergy have together shed a light on this dark issue and highlighted their own role as resources for survivors of domestic abuse. (We use the term survivor, rather than victim, to emphasize individuals’ resilience and strength.)

While the Jewish community is broad and diverse, spanning a wide spectrum of affiliations and denominations, Massachusetts rabbis and cantors joined together to endorse this message.

You may ask, why this issue?

Domestic abuse is far more common in the Jewish community than most people recognize. Abuse occurs at about the same rate in Jewish homes as in the general population – 1 in 3 women will experience physical abuse by an intimate partner in her lifetime. Because controlling behavior is at the heart of domestic abuse, survivors also tell us about their partner’s efforts to isolate them from friends and family; rob them of feelings of self-esteem or self-worth; deny them access to financial resources (including, in some cases, money they had earned); berate and undermine them constantly; blame them for everything; bully them and subject them to countless other forms of controlling, coercive, and intimidating behaviors.

We know that it can be incredibly difficult to leave an abusive relationship. People stay for many different reasons, including fear of physical harm, economic and housing concerns, custody issues, caregiving issues, and family pressure to name only a few. Abusive individuals often set out to make their partners feel they have no options and that leaving either is impossible or will have dire consequences.

An invitation to reach out and seek help can make all the difference.

Clergy voices matter. Research shows that people are more likely to disclose the abuse to someone in their faith community than they are to seek help from the police. The Many Voices, One Message campaign is just one of many ways that Jewish clergy can (and do) speak out against domestic abuse and let survivors know they can safely reach out for help and support.

Imagine (and we know many people reading this won’t need to imagine) how you might feel if you were a survivor and you heard your rabbi speak and write about domestic abuse in a way that acknowledged the relevance of the issue in not only the Jewish community but in your congregation.

The #MeToo campaign shows us the power of individuals speaking out to demonstrate how pervasive sexual harassment and sexual assault really are. In a similar way, when voices across the entire Jewish community, speaking as one, send the message that domestic abuse won’t be tolerated, we take a step toward real and lasting change. Looking ahead, we encourage everyone to reach out to survivors with resources and support and find other ways to convey that together we will not tolerate domestic abuse in the Jewish community.

If you have a controlling or abusive partner and would like to talk to someone about it, please consider making a confidential call. You can reach out to JF&CS Journey to Safety at 781-647-5327 (open 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday – Friday) or SafeLink at 877-785-2020 (available 24/7).

The Many Voices, One Message campaign is a joint effort of Safe Havens Interfaith Partnership Against Domestic Violence, the Jewish Domestic Violence Coalition, and Journey to Safety, the Jewish Family & Children’s Service response to domestic abuse.

Message from our CEO Rimma Zelfand

Thu, 07 Dec 2017 09:05:00 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2017

“I don’t know where I would be without JF&CS”

“JF&CS saved my life”

“Because of JF&CS I can give my family a better life”

These profound statements illustrate the work and mission of JF&CS. Every single day we improve people’s lives, and in some cases, we change lives for generations to come. We do this by establishing relationships with our clients and taking the time to get to know them and their families. We talk with clients about their objectives and goals and the obstacles they face such as hunger, homelessness, and financial instability, and we try to support them by giving them food, emergency financial assistance, and legal advice. We also provide the tools to develop positive connections with their children and to help them navigate services for aging parents. We strengthen families and create generational change by giving loans and scholarships to advance educational and professional opportunities.

However, we do not do this work alone. On the pages that follow, you will learn about our partnerships with donors like Cindy and Rubin Gruber, Jackie Bechek, Debby Stein Sharpe, the Krupp Family Foundation, and remarkable corporations like Eastern Bank. In addition you will learn about our proud associations with Keshet, CJP, Alzheimer’s Association, and the Executive Office of Elder Affairs of Massachusetts.

I call this “the Power of Community,” and on April 12, 2018, I hope you will join us as we celebrate and honor Barry Shrage, President of Combined Jewish Philanthropies. More than any person I know, Barry has the gift of mobilizing people to work for and give back to their community. Over the past 30 years, Barry has strengthened our community by creating partnerships with synagogues, agencies, and day schools, and most recently with Catholic Charities to address the legal issues facing immigrants. I think that Barry’s greatest lesson and legacy is that we each have the power to change lives and make a difference.

I am inspired every day by our donors, volunteers, and staff who give their time, talents, and resources to transform and enrich the lives of families for generations. I look forward to seeing you on April 12!

Tremble Clefs Reflection

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 10:05:00 GMT

Posted by Jamasb Sayadi

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first stepped foot in the United Parish of Auburndale last February. While I was eager to begin singing with the JF&CS Tremble Clefs, there seemed to be more than a few degrees of separation between its members and myself, a 21-year-old Iranian-American student from California. I worried that it might take weeks for me to warm up to the group and become a real member of their community. I couldn’t have been more wrong.

My relationship with the Tremble Clefs began through a course called “Music and Disability,” taught by Dr. Andrew Clark at Harvard. The class covered topics ranging from the social construction of disability to the use of neurological music therapy in stroke rehabilitation. Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the course, however, was its requirement for students to spend the semester learning from a “community partner.” In turn, Dr. Clark hoped we would see the concepts discussed in class being put into practice in the real world. For me, this community partner was none other than the Tremble Clefs. When I saw the option of singing in a choir of Parkinson’s patients on my syllabus, I knew I had found the right fit.

At this point, you might be wondering why a 21-year-old student like myself has such a keen interest in Parkinson’s. The answer lies in the fact that I have spent my entire life witnessing the effects of this disease firsthand. My father was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease at the age of 39, one year after I was born. I grew up attending monthly Parkinson’s support group meetings attended by dozens of families across Orange County, California who also had loved ones with the condition. These support group members eventually became some of my closest friends.

Interestingly, I have experienced a similar bond with the Tremble Clefs since that first rehearsal back in February. There’s something about listening to life stories, discussing symptoms, and talking about upcoming doctor’s appointments in a room full of people afflicted with Parkinson’s that feels natural to me. Yet, there is an element to the Tremble Clefs that goes beyond anything I have experienced before: the singing. From its cheeky name to their ingenious reworking of classic tunes to incorporate lyrics that make light of their disease, the Tremble Clefs’ approach to music exemplifies their strength and optimism in the face of Parkinson’s. There is no doubt in my mind that singing with a group of such optimistic people every Monday can work wonders on one’s attitude toward life’s challenges, whether they involve Parkinson’s disease or not.

Given my family’s experience with Parkinson’s and my personal aspiration to one day become a physician, I feel honored to have been welcomed into the Tremble Clefs community over these past few months. With college graduation now in the rear view mirror, I am currently working as a clinical research assistant in the Neurology department of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Under the guidance of Dr. David Simon and Dr. Samuel Frank, I will help coordinate the hospital’s Wellness Works program that extends opportunities like Rock Steady Boxing, Yoga, Tai Chi, and Boot Camp for Parkinson’s patients throughout Boston. In addition, I will be working on research projects related to Huntington’s, a debilitating neurodegenerative disease. Finally, I am also applying to medical school and hope to begin my studies in the Fall of 2018.

Q&A with Deb Shrier

Tue, 28 Nov 2017 10:00:00 GMT

Shared by Deb Shrier

How many years have you been with JF&CS? How did you first get involved?
My first introduction to JF&CS was in 2008 when I was working at Wide Horizons for Children (an adoption agency in Waltham) and collaborated with Carol Sheingold of JF&CS on educational workshops for adoptive parents. I later met Betsy Hochberg, Adoption Resources Director, at a RESOLVE conference when we both had tables displaying our respective agency materials. We had very similar professional interests and began discussing the increasing educational needs for adoptive families after the placement of their child(ren). I joined the staff in 2009 in Mental Health and to assist in Adoption Resources’ post adoption efforts.

What is one of your favorite JF&CS memories?
There are so many, really! The most fun would be participating in the Purim Shpiel, the annual JF&CS staff celebration. Not only was it fun, but I really loved getting to know a variety of colleagues throughout the agency. The most memorable is the day I saw “The Ben Schulman Center” on the front door of this building (since my dad’s name was also Ben Schulman). The most meaningful is my work on post adoption search and reunion cases.

I’ve got one day in Central MA. Where should I eat? What should I visit? Anything that should not be missed?
Start your day early with brunch at BirchTree Breads on Green Street. In an old renovated mill, this busy spot is a fabulous stop to enjoy delicious homemade breads, baked goods, salads/soups/sandwiches. They also offer live music on the weekends. Next door is Crompton Collective, a funky retail shop that boasts all sorts of vintage and handmade items. They have a small farmer’s market all year long on Saturdays with great local vendors.

If the weather is nice, take a drive to Tower Hill Botanical Gardens in West Boylston where you will find beautiful walking trails with a wide variety of flowers and trees. It’s a great place if you are a gardener or enjoy taking photos. In the winter, Winter Re-imagined is Tower Hill’s beautiful light display for the holidays. If you’d rather spend time indoors, be sure to check out the Worcester Art Museum or the Worcester Center for Crafts.

My all-time favorite spot in Worcester for dinner is Bocado Tapas & Wine Bar on Winter Street. It is best to go with several friends so you can sample a variety of Spanish dishes. If you enjoy theatre, be sure to check out what might be headlining at the beautiful Hanover Theatre. There really isn’t a bad seat in the house!

Tell us about a book you recently enjoyed.
I relish listening to audiobooks during my commute and have recently discovered the work of author Thrity Umrigar. The Story Hour is an incredible narrative that centers on a relationship between two characters, Lakshmi, an immigrant Indian woman and Maggie, her African American therapist. The story involves critical exploration around relationships, connections/loss, race and culture – topics that I find quite interesting.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received and who gave it to you?
“Great people are measured by the lack of distance between themselves and others.” Eli Segal, CEO of American Publishing, a small company in Watertown. When I was 24 years old, he offered me a job at APC which took me out of NY and brought me to MA – a move that would change my life forever.

An Unexpected Gift on My Path to Adoption

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 15:22:50 GMT

Posted by Susan Migliorisi

In the summer of 2011, I sat in a conference room at JF&CS Adoption Resources eating Panera sandwiches with five women that I didn’t know at all. We were there because we had one thing in common: we were all single women who wanted to become moms through the gift of adoption. Fast forward to this October, we are all together again. This time, at a local farm, munching on cider donuts while our kids, ranging in age from three to six, play together in a vat of corn kernels. This journey from strangers to friends has been one of the most amazing blessings of my life. Of all of the surprises that my path to becoming a mom has brought me, the relationships that evolved from the adoption of my daughter via Adoption Resources are the sweetest.

In the beginning, I was just grateful to know that I wasn’t alone in hoping to adopt a newborn baby domestically as a single woman. Slowly, as we were each matched with birth parents and babies, our Adoption Resources “support group” became a true anchor for each of us. We calmed each other when birth parents wavered, sent emails and pictures when babies were born, and cried with joy when adoptions were finalized. We visited each other during maternity leaves, texted advice on how to use Yoga to calm a crying baby, and handed down onesies. We began meeting four times a year for a playgroup and slowly, our circle was widening. We met other single adoptive moms in our neighborhoods, through Adoption Resources, and even online. We gathered at playgrounds to push our babies in swings, at farms to stop our toddlers from jumping in mud, and at beaches to watch our kids run into the waves. We hosted loud, messy Halloween parties filled with costumed children, caramel apples, and laughter.

Over the years, people have come in and out of our playgroup, but the core five of us have remained. While we all know how important and wonderful it is for our kids to have each other, to know other children whose families are like theirs, I think we have remained close for another, just as important reason. We have been with each other from the beginning, when motherhood was only a hope. We now live through the uncertainties as well as the joys of parenthood with each other. We have become more than a “waiting support group,” more than an adoption playgroup. We have become family.

Bob’s Discount Furniture Donates to Those in Need

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 09:18:27 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Residents of the JF&CS Ransom Road residence in Brighton were elated when a truck from Bob’s Discount Furniture pulled up in front of their home on Thursday, November 2. The residence, a five-person home for adults with developmental and physical disabilities, is currently undergoing renovations to enhance accessibility and update flooring, lighting, and living space.

Bob’s Discount Furniture very generously donated $5,000 worth of merchandise almost immediately after being contacted about this project. Not only did Bob’s deliver the items free of charge, but a representative of Bob’s contacted JF&CS Director of Operations, Breanna Robinson, to schedule a time for her to visit the Bob’s Discount Furniture store of her choice.

A Bob’s Discount Furniture manager came to meet Breanna and the JF&CS team and together they shopped the Framingham store. “There were no limits,” says Breanna. “If we liked it and they had it in stock, the only question they asked was ‘when do you need it?’”

Together, they measured and selected specific pieces for the Ransom Road residents. “The manager and sales staff at Bob’s answered multiple questions and reviewed many options to meet the needs of the individuals living in the home,” Breanna notes.

Now, thanks to Bob’s Discount Furniture, Ransom Road residents can enjoy a full leather living room set, including a media center and three end tables, a dining table set for eight, and a hallway console. Also included was an electronic recliner that easily moves from a sitting to a standing position, which is very helpful for those with physical disabilities. “JF&CS is extremely grateful to Bob’s Discount Furniture for their generous donation and for responding so promptly and thoughtfully to our request,” says Joan Ingersoll, Vice President of Disability Services. “The new furniture makes the living room and dining room very comfortable and inviting and has been enthusiastically received by the residents as well as the staff.”

“Charitable giving is an important part of company culture here at Bob’s Discount Furniture,” remarks Cathy Poulin, Outreach and Public Relations Director at Bob’s Discount Furniture. “We are honored to help and partner with agencies like JF&CS that share similar values, working hard every day to give back and improve people’s lives.” Cathy also plays an instrumental role in the Bob’s Discount Furniture Charitable Organization, Bob’s Cares. Through Bob’s Cares, Cathy and the Bob’s Discount Furniture team ensure that the Bob’s team is always supporting and involved in their local communities.

Sniffing Out a Solution

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 10:13:33 GMT

Posted by Nancy Mazonson

When the doorbell rang, Susan was grateful to welcome the long-awaited painter to her home to start on a new project. When he approached the house, he immediately smelled a gas leak, quickly found the source, and turned it off. Susan, who has Parkinson’s disease, had been unable to detect the odor of leaking gas.

Cheryl, sifting through her mail, found a scratch-and-sniff card from National Grid. As a responsible homeowner, she scraped her nail along the designated area, but found that she did not smell the anticipated odor.

How are these stories woven together? Both Susan and Cheryl attend a group at JF&CS for women living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). When each heard the other’s story at a recent meeting, their awareness of the danger that a diminished sense of smell can pose to people with Parkinson’s disease was heightened.

When these stories were shared with me, I felt determined to learn what could be done for Susan, Cheryl, and others with PD who cannot detect certain dangerous smells, such as that of a natural gas leak. While following the “scent” of a solution, clear answers did not immediately emerge. Google, National Grid, the gas pipe fitters’ union, and even the local plumber could not provide the information I sought and needed.

Then, I visited a large hardware chain store where I scanned the shelves, and stumbled upon this item:

A call to the manufacturer, Kidde, and an email from the Parkinson’s Foundation help line both confirmed that this product is the ONLY one of its kind that is available for residential dwellings. According to Kidde, it should be mounted high and requires an electrical source (no batteries).

Our hope is that this information, including the existence of the Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm, can be shared as widely as possible with all of those living with Parkinson’s disease so they can feel safer in their homes.

Nancy Mazonson, MS, OTR/L, has coordinated the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson's Family Support program of JF&CS since its inception in September 2006. The program is a leading resource in the Boston area with its unique programs, including Parkinson’s Dance, Adult Child and Care Partner support groups, and Tremble Clefs choral singing group. Prior to her work at JF&CS, Nancy worked extensively as an occupational therapist in inpatient and community-based rehabilitation settings, specializing in helping people with degenerative neurological conditions.

The Power of 100 Women: Needham Group Raises $10,200

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 15:14:17 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“To the world you may be one person; but to one person you may be the world.”
-Dr. Seuss

We all know that one single person can have a transformative effect on the life of another or others. Whether through a philanthropic donation to an agency like JF&CS, or through volunteerism, one person can truly improve lives and change someone’s entire world.

But what happens when that effect is multiplied by 100 people? What happens when 100 people pool their resources to make a difference in the lives of others? Together, they can become a powerful force for change. One such example is “100 Women Who Care of Needham.”

Started by eight Needham residents about two years ago, 100 Women Who Care of Needham is a community philanthropic group whose theme is “the power of many.” The group is the local chapter of an organization called 100+ Women Who Care that has more than 490 chapters worldwide. The organization’s originator, Karen Dunigan, realized that when 100 or more people come together, each person becomes a powerful entity for doing good work and lifting up the community.

Typically, each group meets four times a year to learn about local charities and each member donates $100 to the charity selected by the group at that time. The combined donation of $10,000 makes a tremendous impact without time-consuming fundraising events or planning.

According to Susan Abraham, a JF&CS Board member who is also a member of 100 Women Who Care of Needham, each participant can nominate a charity at each quarterly meeting. Three nominations are then drawn from a hat, and each person responsible for submitting one of the three charities chosen does a short presentation or pitch about their nominated charity.

Susan, who is also on the JF&CS Center for Basic Needs Assistance (CBNA) Advisory Committee, submitted JF&CS Family Table, New England’s largest kosher food pantry, as her charity in February. As luck would have it, her submission was one of the three chosen charities. “I spoke about client stories – and they really resonated with the group; they really mattered. Of course, not all the 100 women are Jewish, so I explained that JF&CS serves all families in crisis, without regard to race, religion, or ethnicity. The group [now actually consisting of 102 women] selected JF&CS as the ‘winning’ charity and each woman wrote a $100 check to JF&CS, raising $10,200 for [Center for Basic Needs Assistance].”

The checks were written and collected right then and there at the February meeting and given directly to JF&CS. “The [100 Women Who Care of Needham] gives its members a great exposure to different charities,” remarks Susan. “We created a great awareness of JF&CS and a lot of visibility. Now a bunch of our women have gotten involved with Family Table. One woman even brought friends to the JF&CS Women’s Breakfast in June. It was great to be able to spread the word and to touch people’s lives.

“JF&CS is such a great organization and everyone involved is so passionate about its mission. It does so many good things for so many people. The work JF&CS dows improves lives and helps people in need. I’m truly honored to have represented JF&CS to the 100 Women who Care of Needham.”

Community Supports and Resources Matter

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 14:32:08 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

As stories from communities devastated by natural disasters continue to unfold, I, like many others, am struck by how much of a difference it makes to have financial resources and social support in the face of danger and destruction. True, a storm does not discriminate, and huge numbers of people from all walks of life lost power, water, and in some cases sustained significant injury or major property damage. But being able to afford housing that is built to modern code, or simply owning a vehicle can make all the difference when facing these hurdles. Similarly, so can having the support of family or friends who can afford to take you in and provide a safe haven, or even send money for the unexpected expenses that emerge in the weeks and months after a disaster strikes.

The same applies to survivors of domestic abuse, who face a different kind of ongoing trauma and catastrophe. Having resources like access to strong legal representation, safe housing, and a network of people who can offer help all pave the way for an individual to feel safe in their choice to leave an abusive relationship.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. While Journey to Safety and other domestic abuse programs try to raise awareness about this issue all year long, in October, there is a spotlight that challenges us to think about how we can create a safer community. So many of the people who seek services from Journey to Safety have stories that begin with someone reaching out to them at a key moment. One woman called us because a friend asked her whether she felt safe at home and she realized that in fact, she did not. Another called because she shared a brief glimpse of her life with a stranger on the playground and that person referred her to Journey to Safety. Many others call at the gentle suggestion of clergy, friends, family, co-workers…all forms of community support. Some even call because they simply found the number on a poster on a bathroom stall door, placed there by someone who wanted to help.

October is a good time to ask our communities and ourselves how we might continue to build support for survivors in our midst. Are there posters with helpline numbers up in restrooms and other private spaces? Are our community leaders encouraging survivors to reach out for help and holding abusive individuals accountable? Are we talking about this issue, particularly within the Jewish community, where there is still a common belief that Jews neither behave abusively toward their partner nor get involved with people who do? Are our teens aware of dating abuse and how to recognize it?

As we look ahead to this new year, please let us know how Journey to Safety can support your efforts. We can send helpline posters for your restrooms. We can work with you to plan an awareness-raising program for teens or adults. We can help identify helpline numbers for bulletins and newsletters or help you think about creative and interesting ways to bring this issue to groups with which you are involved.

Support can make all the difference in the world to a person who is in a controlling or abusive relationship. We hope that you will join us in helping to make our communities safer and healthier for everyone.

Our Journey to Safety staff joins me in wishing you and your families peace, health and joy in this new year.

Your Time is Your Most Valuable Gift

Wed, 16 Aug 2017 09:21:35 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

When Loren Kovalcik heard about JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder, a JF&CS program that provides support for families facing the unique challenges that accompany military service, it seemed perfect for her. “I am the wife of a military husband and the mother of a military son,” Loren says. “The program was interested in people with my background. Before long, I was training to be a Shoulder to Shoulder volunteer.”

More than a year later, Loren has the unique distinction of being one of the first volunteers to have completed a full year of visits with her first assigned Shoulder to Shoulder family.

“My number one role for these families is to be a support for them – a lifeline. As is often the case, the husband might not be deployed overseas, but might be serving on evenings and weekends. (Most military families in MA are part of the National Guard and are spread across the state.) Unlike when you live on or near a military base with the support of an extended military family right there, in MA families may feel isolated [Shoulder to Shoulder] is a great thing to have to help these families connect with someone who understands their service.”

With her experience as a military wife and mom, Loren was accepted by her Shoulder to Shoulder family in no time. “They knew I would get it,” she notes. “They felt comfortable because of the shared background. Even though we had just met, we weren’t strangers. I let them know I was not there to judge, but rather to make suggestions and give names of other organizations (that might be helpful as well). I was there for them to bounce questions and ideas around and to be a friendly listener. That is how I would gain their trust.

“Gaining the family’s trust is paramount,” Loren explains. “They know I’m coming back and that I’m going to see their progress. I could see that this young woman had doubts about herself as a mother. I was there to remind her about what a great job she was doing, pointing out everything from how polite her kids were to how she got them to eat all their vegetables. I made her feel good about herself and I saw her confidence grow. Seeing her success, it was beautiful to watch.”

With four grown children and one grandchild all living out of the house, Loren explains that she still had more love to share. “What do I get out of it? I get such warm fuzzies after being with my Shoulder to Shoulder families. It’s not like I’m just writing a check.

“Your time is your most valuable gift that you can give to someone. Just caring and loving them as human beings, just listening when they’re in a difficult spot. I think it grounds me.

“These military moms need to feel valued and sometimes they do not get that from their families or peers. They’re reaching for something – and I’m thrilled to be able to help them in some way.”

LGBTQ Adoption Equality Project

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 10:50:12 GMT

Posted by Betsy Hochberg
JF&CS Adoption Resources was granted funding by the Krupp Family Foundation to deliver targeted support to LGBTQ families who pursue adoption as a means of creating and expanding their families. Adoption Resources plans to mitigate the financial burden and the financial risk of adoption for LGBTQ families, boost the program’s capacity to provide LGBTQ-inclusive services, and provide support specifically to LGBTQ adoptive families through community outreach and education programming.

Betsy Hochberg, LICSW, is a clinical social worker who has extensive experience working with birth and adoptive families. She began her work in the adoption field 25 years ago after adopting her daughters and has been the Director of Adoption Resources for the past 15 years. In her role as Director, Betsy has spoken widely about adoption-related issues and has served on the boards of RESOLVE New England and Adoption Professionals Association of Massachusetts. Betsy’s warmth and sense of humor are appreciated by all who work with her.

Meet Our Newest Board Members

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 09:05:00 GMT

At our annual board meeting in June, JF&CS welcomed four new members to our Board, Susan Abraham, Sunitha Das, Ginny MacDowell, and Leslie Zients Pucker. We are excited to have them join the JF&CS Board!

Sunitha Das and her husband, Professor Das Narayandas, live in Newton with their two children, Rohan and Amit. Sunitha graduated from Bangladore University with a BA and earned a BS from Purdue University. She also has an MBA from Boston University and is currently a Special Student at Harvard University, pursuing graduate studies in Indian art, Hindu studies, Sanskrit, and Tamil. In 2008, Sunitha was runner-up for India New England Woman of the Year. She is a member of the Board of Overseers at the Museum of Fine Arts; Vice Chair of the Visiting Committee, Arts of Asia, at the MFA; member of the Visiting Committee, Peabody Essex Museum; and on the Board of Directors of Understanding Our Differences. At JF&CS, Sunitha is a member of the Disability Advisory Committee. In her free time she collects modern and contemporary Indian art and enjoys entertaining.

“The breadth of services and the professional yet compassionate manner in which they are delivered to the community are really what draw me to JF&CS. I'm personally familiar with the amazing impact that the Disability division has on the lives of its clients and really look forward to learning about and supporting the other areas of JF&CS.”

Ginny MacDowell and her husband, Roy, live in Wayland. They have 5 children and 10 grandchildren. They are members of Shir Tikva in Wayland. Ginny performs leadership roles in many organizations. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and the Shapiro Institute, a member of the Board of Directors of Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston and a Board member of the Affiliated Physicians Group. She is past Board Chair of the Anti–Defamation League, New England Region, and a past board member of CJP, Boston Boys & Girls Clubs, Mayyim Hayyim, and the Silent Spring Institute. Ginny is Trustee Emerita of the Meadowbrook School, the Rivers School, and Babson College. Ginny, a former Board member of JF&CS, is returning to JF&CS to serve on the Board.

“I chose to re-join the JF&CS board because I believe in the mission, the message and Jamie Grossman!”

“I’ve Learned so Much from Being a Visiting Mom…”

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Having a baby is an experience that’s often filled with joy, love, and happiness, as well as feelings of stress, incompetence, isolation, and frustration. These challenging feelings can be amplified when a mom has no support system in place for this momentous change in her life.

The JF&CS Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program is for pregnant women and parents of newborns who need support and companionship. Visiting Mom volunteers come to the home of a pregnant mom or parent of a newborn, free of charge, for one hour a week; they visit for anywhere from two months to the baby's first birthday, depending on the family’s wishes. Parents can talk confidentially and share their feelings and observations with trained and empathetic Visiting Mom volunteers.

It’s not always just the parents who benefit from the wisdom and experience of their volunteer visitors, however. Quite often, the Visiting Moms share their sage wisdom with moms outside the JF&CS setting, from family members to friends and even complete strangers.

Recently, we heard from one of our Visiting Mom volunteers whose young cousin had just had a baby and was in the throes of early adjustment. Sensing her cousin’s panic, she sent her this email:

Take it slow, and allow yourselves the time to figure things out. VISITORS CAN WAIT! And sometimes they stay too long. Don't be afraid to ask people to leave if you're tired, hungry, or need quiet time. The important thing is taking care of you and [your baby]. Don't forget to eat and drink, sleep when he sleeps. EVERYTHING else can wait...laundry, cleaning. Your body's been through a lot and needs time to recover and adjust to your new normal.

If you're nursing and need support, lactation specialists can be an amazing resource. I can put you in touch if you want. It's very common to have issues with nursing.

If I can be of any help, I'm here for you.

Penny Goodman, a JF&CS Visiting Mom as well as a member of the JF&CS Board, had a similar story. Her niece recently had a baby and was experiencing frustration and other challenges. She was getting tired of hearing “you should do this” or “you should do that” by well-intentioned people.

“I felt it was important to give her an alternative way of looking at things,” explains Penny. “I told her to go with her instincts because they are usually correct – to do what works for her and not to do something if it doesn’t feel right.

“As a new mom, a hundred people will tell you what to do but platitudes are not helpful and there are no right answers. The rules have changed and are continuously changing. What works for one mom might not work for another,” she adds.

A Visiting Mom for more than 13 years and a mother of two children who are now in their twenties, Penny cautions that today, there is “too much information out there,” from a myriad of books to the internet. “New moms want answers, but sometimes there are just no answers. As a Visiting Mom, you have to be a good listener,” she adds.

“One of the many upsides of being a Visiting Mom is that [your skills] translate into your everyday life,” says Penny. I’ve watched my niece become more competent over time. She had a good support system and has the happiest little baby. As a Visiting Mom, my goal is to give new moms confidence. It’s about empowering a new mom to do what she thinks is right.”

Q&A with Angie Waring

Tue, 25 Jul 2017 09:05:00 GMT

Shared by Angie Waring

Tell us about your role at JF&CS. How did you first get involved?
I am the Respite and Recreation Program Manager for Kids’ Connection Corner, a social skills group for kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and a respite for parents hosted at the Leventhal-Sidman Jewish Community Center in Newton, and HALO Swim & Sing. My passion for working with kiddos with ASD stemmed from a summer job as a nanny for a family who has a son with ASD and his younger sister. I enjoyed developing a unique relationship with the entire family. In fact, I am still considered a part of the family! I started doing In-Home Therapy for JF&CS and moved into my current role as Program Director of Kids’ Connection Corner in May of 2016 and then to Program Manager for Kids’ Connection Corner and HALO Swim & Sing in June of 2016.

Where is one of your favorite places to travel?
I always love going home to the comforting woods of New Hampshire. Outside of the country, I really enjoyed exploring the history of Munich, Germany.

You have a free Saturday – how do you spend your day?
I start every day with walking my puppy, Layla, and a cup of coffee. After some morning relaxation, I go to the gym and then to the dog park. When the weather is nice, my friends and I play cornhole, KanJam, and card games in the front yard. If it’s gloomy, I post up on the couch and watch baking shows (a guilty pleasure).

What’s your favorite dessert?
I studied abroad in Florence, Italy in college and, since then, gelato has a special place in my chocolate-loving heart.

Recommend something to us.
If you’re looking for some yummy Italian or pizza, I recommend the Brick House in Dedham. Also, I suggest taking a day trip to Portsmouth, New Hampshire for the many restaurants on the water where you can enjoy the seafood and live music.

Wayne Ushman: Betsy Gross President's Award

Thu, 20 Jul 2017 11:12:51 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

The Betsy Gross President's Award recognizes outstanding leadership and significant contributions to JF&CS. This year's President's Award recipient is Wayne Ushman.

Wayne has more than 35 years of experience in the investment management arena. He founded Assabet Advisors LLC, a registered investment advisor that develops customized investment solutions for individuals, families, businesses, and foundations. Previously, Wayne was the Vice President in charge of the Portfolio Management Department of State Mutual Life Assurance Company of America where he developed the investment strategies for the company’s $9 billion portfolio and subsequently formed a private investment management firm for the purposes of managing a significant portfolio.

A graduate of Franklin and Marshall College, Wayne received his MBA from the Amos Tuck School at Dartmouth College and is a CFA charter holder. In addition to joining the Board of JF&CS in 2015, he has held various leadership positions in the Worcester community, including President of the Worcester Jewish Community Center, Chairman of the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts Endowment Committee, Board Member of the Jewish Health Center, and Corporator of the Greater Worcester Community Foundation. In 2012, Wayne and his wife Suzan were honored by Israel Bonds and received the Israel Unity Award.

Wayne lives in Northborough with Suzan, their two sons, Benjamin and Dov, and their goldendoodle, Ted Williams. He enjoys spending quality time with his family, skiing, and traveling. The Ushmans are members of Congregation Beth Israel in Worcester.

Jon Federman is the JF&CS Staff Writer. A practicing attorney for more than 15 years, he is thrilled to bring his legal and persuasive writing skills to the JF&CS Marketing Communications department. Jon has a BA from Tufts University and a JD from Boston College Law School. In his spare time he is an exhibiting photographer and an award-winning cartoonist. Jon lived in London, England for five years before returning to Boston in 2011.

Providing Loans and Scholarships to Jewish Women

Tue, 18 Jul 2017 09:05:00 GMT

JF&CS is proud to announce the Max Rosenfeld Fund at JF&CS, a successful transfer of full management of the Max C. Rosenfeld Foundation funds to our agency.

The Max C. Rosenfeld Foundation (the Foundation) was established on September 23, 1923 to provide interest free loans and/or scholarships to Jewish women to ensure they had access to training and education to gain employment and become self-sustaining. Max Rosenfeld, a Boston bottle supply dealer, owner of the M.C. Rosenfeld Company, and the namesake for the Foundation, specifically provided for this purpose in his will. He described the Foundation as “for the benefit of needy Jewish women living in the city of Boston or its suburbs. It is my desire in making this bequest to relieve a situation which my observation leads me to believe exists, the result largely of the inability of young Jewish women to secure adequate training or education to enable themselves to be self-supporting.” The Foundation has been supporting Jewish women by offering loans since 1935.

JF&CS and the Max C. Rosenfeld Foundation have had a long-standing relationship. Former JF&CS CEO, Sy Friedland, served as a trustee of the Foundation for many years. After Sy’s retirement, JF&CS CEO Rimma Zelfand continued the relationship and also joined the Foundation board of trustees. In addition, Ruth Wolf, administrator of the Foundation, worked from donated desk space at JF&CS headquarters in Waltham for many years. When Ruth retired in 2013, JF&CS began managing the Foundation’s scholarship program. Current Foundation trustees, including president Ruth Nemzoff and members Brenda Freishtat, Cecily Morse, and Deborah Offner, were impressed with JF&CS’s management of the program, initiating a full transfer of the management of the Foundation scholarship funds to JF&CS this year.

Rimma Zelfand, JF&CS CEO, shared, “The mission of the Foundation is closely aligned with the mission of JF&CS, providing people the tools and resources they need to improve their lives. The JF&CS Center for Basic Needs Assistance, which already manages the Hebrew Free Loan program for CJP, was able to seamlessly adopt the program into their offerings.”

Ruth Nemzoff shared, "This is the second transition of a Jewish organization that I have shepherded. The first, Etgar L'Noar and the Jewish Special Education Collaborative transitioned to become Gateways: Access to Jewish Education. As that effort led to synergies, I expect similar positive outcomes for JF&CS’s assumption of the Max C. Rosenfeld Foundation scholarship program."

JF&CS is thrilled to become the provider of scholarships and interest free loans (through what is now known as the Max Rosenfeld Fund at JF&CS) to women entering college, taking educational courses, or looking for professional training. Applicants must be Jewish and demonstrate a financial need, in accordance with Max Rosenfeld’s bequest.

Contact Meredith Joy, Director of the Center for Basic Needs Assistance, at mjoy@jfcsboston.org for more information.

Meet Our Newest Board Members

Wed, 12 Jul 2017 09:10:32 GMT

•

Susan Abraham lives in Needham with her husband, Andrew, and their two children, Barrie and Brayden. A graduate of Tufts University, Susan received her Master of Business Administration from Boston University. She is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma, a national honor society for students of business and management. Her areas of expertise include business strategy, program management, product management, and development. Susan is involved with 100 Women of Needham, a community charity organization and is an AIPAC club member. At JF&CS she is a member of the Center for Basic Needs Assistance Advisory Committee. She is currently head of multi asset managed account solutions at Fidelity Investments and a member of their women's leadership group. Susan and Andrew are active members of Temple Aliyah in Needham. In her free time Susan enjoys tennis, running, decorating, and spending time with her children.

“I am excited and proud to join the JF&CS Board. I have been inspired by the mission of the Center for Basic Needs Assistance and look forward to learning more about the broader programs that we offer.”

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Leslie Zients Pucker and her husband, Ken, have two daughters, Hannah and Isabella. They live in Newton. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Emory University, Leslie earned her master’s in social work from Catholic University. As a social worker, Leslie worked in medical settings, parenting education, and trauma. She serves on the advisory council of the Jewish Teen Foundation of Greater Boston and formerly chaired the board of Families First Parenting Programs in Watertown. She is currently a board member of the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center and volunteers at CJP, co-chairing the Boston Haifa Connection. As of July 2017 she will also be co-chair of Israel and Overseas Commission. At JF&CS, Leslie is a member of the CERS Advisory Committee, Visiting Moms Vulnerable Families Team, and is co-facilitator of a New Parent Support Group. Leslie enjoys reading, cooking, baking, hiking, and crafts in her free time.

“I am excited to join the JF&CS Board. I am so impressed by the services offered through CERS and look forward to learning more about the many other programs and services provided through this amazing organization.”

For Her and Her Alone

Fri, 07 Jul 2017 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Zachary Sclar, Grade 11, The Bromfield School

This past year I was fortunate enough to be part of JF&CS Legacies: High School Visits and met with a Holocaust survivor for 25 community service hours. Regina survived the Warsaw Ghetto uprising and several concentration camps, ultimately losing her entire family. She is one of the most inspirational and courageous individuals I have ever met and it was a gift to work with her and hear her story. In the course of working on a project together, she showed me the page in the book at Auschwitz when they logged her in. I did not know this but, at their discretion, the Nazis would at times change someone’s name if it didn’t sound “Jewish” enough or force someone to use their Hebrew name. The following poem was inspired by her story.

I have a name

By the grace of god I have a name
Descended from ancient majestic temples
Kings and queens who ruled thousands of years ago
Shared with mighty women from past generations
Their blood flowing through my veins

Yes, I have a name
You have shaved my head and forced me to wear rags
Starved me
Murdered my entire family
Even if anyone was alive
I am not sure I could recognize them
Without the sweet sound of their voices…
Calling out my name

I stand before you
Number tattooed on my arm as if I were cattle
Please, don’t change my name
Whether it sounds “Jewish” enough to you –it does not matter…
Write it down as it is
It is my name…It is me
It is all I have left

There is no way I could repay Regina for the gift of the experience of getting to know her and her story but I did want her to understand her impact on me and that her story matters and will be remembered and retold. “I have a name” was my attempt at this. I entered this poem into the Mass State Poetry Society contest for Regina and Regina alone. And I chose to donate the first place prize money to support JF&CS, the agency that promotes making these connections and part of whose mission is to make sure we all never forget.

Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Awarded to Laurie Brownstein

Wed, 05 Jul 2017 09:05:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

The Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award was created in 2001 by Sandy Lottor and his family in memory of Simone Lottor, who for many years was a dedicated JF&CS volunteer. This year’s recipient is Laurie Brownstein. The length and breadth of Laurie’s volunteerism at JF&CS have made her a superb choice for the award.

Laurie has been involved with JF&CS Hunger and Nutrition since 2012, first as a committee member and volunteer, and more recently as committee co-chair. In her three years in this role, she has demonstrated her natural leadership skills and engaged the committee in thought-provoking conversation, bringing her passion for providing access to fresh and healthy food to her work at JF&CS. She has also volunteered as a workshop assistant, Family Table nutrition assistant, and recipe developer.

Laurie has additionally been a Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® volunteer for more than a decade. Her passion for helping others and her extraordinary listening skills are shared with the new moms she visits, as well as the other Rubin Visiting Moms in her supervision group. With her quiet wisdom and insight, she has served countless new moms and is often tasked with some of the more challenging clients. As a Welcome Baby visitor, sponsored by CJP, Laurie welcomed moms to the Jewish community and checked in to see how they were doing. A dedicated member of the CERS Advisory Committee, Laurie was co-chair of the Women’s Breakfast in 2016.

Laurie has a Bachelor of Science from Boston University and is certified as a Health Coach from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. Aside from her work at JF&CS, she has volunteered with the Share Our Strength Cooking Matters program as a nutritionist and cooking instructor for low-income families. Laurie volunteers for Springwell Inc., where she leads the Stanford evidenced based Diabetes Self Management Program and Chronic Disease Self Management Program for seniors. She also leads Healthy Eating Programs for seniors, a program through Hebrew SeniorLife. Laurie is a co-group leader for the CJP Women’s Philanthropy cookbook project. Thanks to her involvement at multiple community organizations, Laurie adds valuable insight and perspective to our programs and organization.

Laurie lives in Newton with her husband, Rich. Together they enjoy skiing, golfing, hiking and boating. They have a son, Ian, who is attending graduate school at Stanford, and a daughter, Nicole, who recently received her Masters degree from Champlain College.

Marsha Frankel: 18 Years of Devotion to JF&CS

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 15:32:08 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“Nobody ever leaves JF&CS,” says Marsha Frankel, who until her official retirement on March 3, was the Clinical Director of JF&CS Services for Older Adults and the Director of Mental Health Services. “I’ll always be part of the JF&CS family.”

Marsha knew for more than a year that she would retire around her 70th birthday. When she saw that her 70th fell on a Friday this year, she knew that the date was right and that it would be her last day -- of full-time employment at JF&CS. But in keeping with the adage that “nobody ever leaves JF&CS,” Marsha is still putting in a substantial amount of time to help others in her new role as an hourly JF&CS employee.

“I’m still working with Services for Older Adults doing training and consultation work around mental health and older adults, particularly in addressing bullying among older adults – that’s been my thing for the past few years,” she explains. “My friends call me the “Bullying Queen;” it’s my claim to fame.”

Marsha had been managing gero-psychiatric programs for Horizons Mental Health at Norwood Hospital some 18 years ago when a position opened up at JF&CS for Director of Geriatric Mental Health. The position, according to Marsha, “changed dramatically over the years” and included a wider range of responsibilities than she ever would have imagined. After a few years she became the overall Director of Mental Health Services. Marsha was also instrumental in starting up Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support and helping launch Your Elder Experts, our geriatric care management program. Marsha also oversaw Schechter Holocaust Services for the last several years.

“I’m blessed to have had exposure to a wide range of JF&CS programs. Being the director of Mental Health Services, I often did trainings for the agency as a whole, when needed, and I’d be called upon for consultations in other programs,” Marsha remarks. “That’s been one of the best things for me; having the opportunity to really get to know the work my colleagues did in other areas of the agency was pretty special. And it was special to be involved in the start-up of so many wonderful services and programs.”

Asked what she is most proud of at JF&CS, Marsha responds, “Probably helping JF&CS build its reputation as the ‘go to’ organization for working with older adults with mental health challenges. That’s probably the thing I’m most proud of personally and I consider the bullying related to the mental health work. Bringing attention to bullying as not just an issue for children, but the serious impact it has on older adults and their mental well-being. I like to think we played a role in getting the spotlight shined on the issue.”

Kathy Burnes, Division Director of JF&CS Services for Older Adults, worked (and still works) closely with Marsha. For her, Marsha’s retirement has been bittersweet. “I’m happy she’s still working with us. We’ve had a transition plan for more than a year and it’s nice to see it unfolding in a way that keeps us connected and allows JF&CS to be the continued beneficiary of her talents,” says Kathy.

Despite what it sounds like, Marsha’s hours have decreased at JF&CS. “I look at JF&CS emails every day but right now I’m reading a novel,” she adds. “I’m not sure how much I’ll be doing after June.”

Marsha is looking forward to having more time off and traveling including visiting her brother in New Jersey and son in California. “Retirement is good. I’m just getting used to a different routine and trying to balance things,” she remarks.

For Marsha, retirement certainly doesn’t mean an end to her work with older adults, mental health, or JF&CS. She notes, “I’m still figuring out how I can use my interests and skills to make a difference in the world.”

The Power of a Song

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 10:50:31 GMT

Posted by Sue Spielman

I’ve always enjoyed Yiddish music. It helps me feel connected with my Jewish roots in some sort of unspoken way. In the last few years my appreciation for Yiddish music and language has grown exponentially since I have been running JF&CS Café Hakalah, a social and cultural program for Holocaust survivors.

Each month we invite Holocaust survivors to enjoy music performances, participate in discussions about Jewish holidays, or watch a film in Yiddish. Our discussions are lively as guests reminisce about their childhoods, their families, and favorite foods and music. And something magical happens whenever we have an opportunity to sing Yiddish music and especially the song Tumbalalaika.

Tumbalaika is a riddle song seeped in ancient European tradition. A boy asks, “What can grow without rain? What can burn and never stop burning? What can weep and never shed a tear?" to which a girl answers, “A stone can grow without rain, love can burn and never end, a heart can yearn, cry without tears.” Our guests have sung this song since childhood whether they are from Russia, Vienna, or Italy. It’s a song that connects older adults with their roots, their families, old friends, and traditions.

At Café Hakalah, singing Tumbalaika always inspires at least one guest to stand and lead the song. There is laughter, dancing, and a feeling of joy. And for those few moments the years seem to slip away. While singing together, I gain a clear sense of what it may have felt like to be a Jew living in pre-war Europe, singing, dancing, and laughing with family and friends.

Please enjoy this video of a recent Café Hakalah program on Jerusalem Day. Marjorie U. Sokoll, Director of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing, leads survivors in singing Tumbalalaika.

Sue Spielman, MPA, has worked with JF&CS for more than 13 years managing the Friendly Visitor Program and the Caring Communities Resource Network, both programs of JF&CS Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing, and more recently, Cafe Hakalah of JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services in her work with people of all ages, Sue has developed a deep appreciation for the positive impact a feeling of connection can make on one's quality of life, and she is honored to be able to help create those connections. Prior to her work with JF&CS, Sue worked for 20 years in the world of parenting education and support as an educator and community organizer. Sue received degrees from Harvard University, Wheelock College, and the University of Massachusetts.

CHAI Works South Awarded for Outstanding Volunteers

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 12:11:08 GMT

Posted by Heidi Isler

“Outstanding.”

How would you define outstanding?

The School on Wheels of Massachusetts (SOWMA) defines outstanding as JF&CS CHAI Works South volunteers!

Barbara Fox, Program Assistant for SOWMA contacted me earlier in May to eagerly announce that they had chosen CHAI Works South participants as their outstanding volunteers of the year. She proudly told me that it was a unanimous decision by everyone in the organization. She cried on the phone as she shared how the participants had touched everyone in the office. “They are so excited to be here. They work so very hard and they truly inspire us all.”

CHAI Works South volunteers go to SOWMA to help assemble backpacks for homeless children. CHAI Works South participants love to volunteer at SOWMA and they are excited and proud to greet me back at the office after their volunteer time. “Heidi, guess how many backpacks we filled today? 50! Yes Heidi, we put together 50 backpacks! Can you believe it Heidi?”

SOWMA recently had an awards dinner where they honored our volunteers. When Barbara Fox took to the podium to announce our award she was already crying. So was I. I sat at the table with one of our volunteers and her parents as I listened humbly to Barbara talk about what an impact our group has had on their organization.

“Some people come just to fill a requirement for volunteer hours. CHAI Works South volunteers come in eager to work, eager to help with any task given. This group inspires me every time I watch them. Their enthusiasm, how genuine they are…” she paused as she cried audibly, so moved by our group. I was moved as well. I walked up to the podium with one of our participants to receive the award, Barbara out of focus because of my happy tears.

Heidi joined the Pathways for Employment team in August 2015 and became the Program Manager of CHAI Works South in July 2016. She graduated from Eastern Nazarene College in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in social work. She has worked with children, teens, adults, and seniors with mental illness at Riverside Community Care, Community Counseling of Bristol County, and DOVE Battered Women’s Shelter. She also has extensive experience working with people with substance abuse issues. Heidi has also started programs in middle and high schools to help build better body awareness and positive body image. She is a Reiki master and has taught yoga and wellness programs for more than 25 years in schools, private organizations, and companies. In her spare time she loves cooking, hiking, and biking.

JF&CS to Honor Barry Shrage at 2018 Benefit

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 15:47:40 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

JF&CS is thrilled to announce that we will honor Barry Shrage, Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) President and CEO, at the 2018 JF&CS Benefit, to be held on Thursday, April 12, 2018.

The theme of the 2018 Benefit is the power of community and we cannot think of anyone in Greater Boston who epitomizes the meaning of the word “community” more than Barry Shrage. For almost three decades, Barry has been at the helm of CJP, one of the most successful nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts. In his tenure at CJP, Boston’s Jewish federation, he has raised more than $1 billion for the local Jewish community, developed partnerships with many other charitable organizations, and invested in Jewish institutions that serve refugees, people with disabilities, the marginalized, and the poor.

Barry broke new ground by building a community based on Jewish learning, focusing on Jewish day schools and initiating the CJP Me’ah program, a study program for adults that offers a foundation in Jewish culture, civilization, and its rich traditions and history. His understanding of the role the foundation could play in partnering with other agencies has had an enormous impact on countless people through programs like the CJP Anti-Poverty Initiative. His actions as President and CEO of CJP have served to strengthen every aspect of Greater Boston’s Jewish community.

“When you think about the Jewish community of Greater Boston, the first person that comes to mind is Barry Shrage,” says Rimma Zelfand, JF&CS CEO. “All the goodness the Jewish community brings to its members would not be possible without him. His objective to help others is squarely aligned with our own mission at JF&CS and he has inspired innumerable people in our community, myself included.”

“Barry Shrage is an institution in the Boston Jewish community,” adds Jill Cohen, who along with her husband, Michael Savit, and Shari & Robert Cashman, will be co-chairing the 2018 Benefit. “Barry has done an amazing job of inspiring people to get involved in community. His example has shown so many people how they can allocate their time and resources in a similar way that CJP excels at allocating its resources and always being there for the Jewish community.

“As CJP is an umbrella organization, so too is JF&CS responsible for so many programs. We look forward to working with the Cashmans to make the event a great success to help our community.”

For the most up-to-date information about the 2018 Benefit, visit the event webpage. Please contact Raquel Morales, Special Events Coordinator, at events@jfcsboston.org with any questions.

Q&A with Jamie Grossman

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 10:03:36 GMT

Shared by Jamie Grossman, JF&CS Board President

How did you first get involved with JF&CS?
I grew up outside of Philadelphia where my mother was very involved with JF&CS Philadelphia. She actually served on their Board and was Board President as well! Many years later, when my daughters were at the Rashi School, my friend Liz Baum asked me if I would be interested in joining the JF&CS Board here in Boston. It was an immediate yes for me and I have served on the Board for 17 years!

What are you most looking forward to in your time as JF&CS Board President?
I often tell my friends that I am proud of JF&CS and I really am. I have had the good fortune to watch a program being built from the start (Shoulder to Shoulder). This process provided me with invaluable insight into how the programs are operated, the tremendous collaboration that takes place among staff throughout the agency, and the care taken for each individual client. I have enjoyed many one-on-one meetings with Board members and I am most excited by their enthusiasm. We have an incredible Board made up of caring and passionate individuals who are constantly and consistently asking what more they can do for JF&CS. There is an excitement for the work we are all doing. I am looking forward to building on that enthusiasm both within our Board and throughout the community.

Share with us your favorite JF&CS memory.
The first thing that comes to mind is the Board meeting several years ago where we presented Shoulder to Shoulder. As a new program focused on the military, an unfamiliar client community for JF&CS, I was unsure how the Board and staff would react. The response was overwhelmingly positive. I received immediate offers for assistance and connections from the Board. Many staff members shared stories of military service in their families. JF&CS demonstrated their capacity for inclusion for community members who may not be obvious clients. For me it was a powerful experience to see just how far JF&CS will go to make sure that people in need know we are there to help.

What is the best advice you've ever been given?
To believe that I can accomplish any goal I set for myself.

Recommend a book.
Killer Angels by Michael Shaara. A fictional account of the battle at Gettysburg, this novel places you in the mind and hearts of the soldiers who fought so bravely during the Civil War.

JF&CS is a Lifeline

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 11:47:37 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2017
Posted by Rimma Zelfnad

Earlier this spring, JF&CS celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program. At our event, Celebrating the Art of Resilience, more than 50 of our Parkinson’s Dance and Tremble Clefs group participants gave a moving and brilliant performance of songs and routines they have been practicing over the past year. These groups of people affected by Parkinson’s disease have truly become a community. I am always struck by the joy in their faces when they are dancing or singing and I am completely in awe of their commitment to this program.

Our Parkinson’s Dance class meets on Wednesday mornings. One Wednesday this past winter as I drove to work in the afterglow of a snow storm, I imagined that the class would be cancelled. To my surprise, the parking lot was packed. When I entered the building, one of our participants had just arrived. I remarked to her that I was surprised to see her. She said, “JF&CS is my lifeline – I look forward to this all week.” Those words, “JF&CS is my lifeline,” have stayed with me. I remember going into the elevator with chills, realizing the impact that our programs have.

JF&CS is a lifeline to a family with a child on the autism spectrum. When they receive in-home support from Children’s Behavioral Health Services, our clinicians strengthen the entire family by helping a child learn how to communicate effectively, solve problems, self-regulate, and manage emotions.

JF&CS is a lifeline to a family of a premature baby. Skilled clinicians from the Center for Early Relationship Support^® help new parents as they make the scary transition from NICU to home by providing direct support services, educational materials, and connections to community resources and to other preemie parents.

JF&CS is a lifeline to a family facing financial stress. Just one call to the Center for Basic Needs Assistance can help a family with emergency fuel assistance and heat in the winter, put food on their table, keep a roof over their heads, and provide access to additional benefits, giving them the tools they need to make changes, become self-sufficient, and meet their basic needs independently.

JF&CS is a lifeline to an adult with disabilities seeking to live a meaningful and independent life. Through the CHAI Works program, we provide training to help adults with disabilities lead productive and integrated lives in the community by providing employment and volunteer opportunities, recreational activities, and social enrichment events.

We cannot do this work without our loyal volunteers and supporters. Your selfless generosity of time and money creates these lifelines.

I hope that you will enjoy the articles in this summer's e-newsletter and be inspired by them. Our more than 40 programs are here for you, your friends, and neighbors. In times of crisis or need, please remember to make JF&CS your first phone call. We are the lifeline for our community.

View all articles from the JF&CS News Summer 2017 edition.

With Gratitude

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 14:59:02 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2017
Posted by Wendy Wilsker

John F. Kennedy said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” Since joining JF&CS three years ago, I have heard many people share with me their gratitude for JF&CS.

The first Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms ® volunteer I met with shared that she is grateful for the opportunity to be a volunteer, that through the experience, she had become a better parent.

Recently, one of my children’s former teachers emailed me to share how grateful she was to have found JF&CS during a challenging time in her life. She told me that no other agency treated her with respect, dignity, and the willingness to help her find solutions to a myriad of challenges, not the least of which was finding a home for her family after living in their car for one week.

And, surprisingly, every time I thank a donor for their generosity, more often than not, the response is how grateful they are for the opportunity to make a difference and how enriched their own lives are through the act of philanthropy.

In the JF&CS Summer 2017 eNewsletter you will read stories of people like you and me – parents, children, spouses – who have expressed their gratitude to JF&CS through philanthropy.

We are exceptionally grateful to be participating in the Harold Grinspoon Life & Legacy Program. I have had the distinct honor of meeting Harold on many occasions. Grateful for his own good fortune, Harold has inspired thousands of caring individuals across the country to consider the impact their philanthropy can have both during and after their lifetime. Concerned about the future of the Jewish community, Harold has invested in the Life & Legacy Program as a way to sustain our agencies well into the future. If you have already included JF&CS in your estate plan, please let us know so that we can express our gratitude to you. If JF&CS has been a meaningful part of your life, please consider the continued impact your support can have after your lifetime. Call me; I’d love to talk with you about the simple ways to sustain JF&CS long into the future.

This summer's newsletter also includes our Annual Report of Donors for Fiscal Year 2016. Thanks to you, we surpassed our goals, raising more money than ever before and welcoming new donors at every level. Your gift – of any amount – is deeply meaningful to me personally. I am so very grateful for your loyal support.

View all articles from the JF&CS News Summer 2017 edition.

The Harold Grinspoon Life & Legacy™ Program Comes to JF&CS Central MA

Tue, 06 Jun 2017 16:21:34 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2017

We are excited to announce that JF&CS has been selected to partner with 10 other local Jewish organizations in the Harold Grinspoon Foundation Life & Legacy™ program. Together with these other agencies, JF&CS will be working with the Life & Legacy™ program to establish a culture of legacy giving in Central Massachusetts.

Philanthropist Harold Grinspoon established Life & Legacy™, a national effort, six years ago. It launched in Western Massachusetts four years ago. . The program assists Jewish communities in promoting after-lifetime giving to benefit local Jewish organizations. Life & Legacy™ asks the question, “Can Jewish communities be motivated to become proactive in encouraging widespread legacy giving?” It then provides the tools necessary for organizations to encourage and secure these gifts.

The program also provides the structure, training, mentoring, workshops, and even financial incentives to ensure success in building legacy giving into the philanthropic culture of Jewish organizations. Emphasizing collaboration, it works to create a united and strong Jewish community for the future.

Wayne Ushman, a member of the JF&CS Board of Directors and the JF&CS Finance Committee, facilitated the connection between Life & Legacy™ and JF&CS. A former JCC Worcester president, Ushman is well known in the Central Massachusetts Jewish community. He met with JF&CS CEO Rimma Zelfand as well as JF&CS Board president David Schechter, who immediately jumped at the chance to be a part of the program. Ushman explains,

I believe that the legacy program is a key support for the continued long-term viability of JF&CS. As a Board member of JF&CS, a nonprofit organization serving those in need, I am keenly aware of the necessity to raise funds for these services. The legacy program offers those who have supported JF&CS during their lifetime the opportunity to maintain their support of JF&CS long after they have passed on. A legacy gift also allows individuals and couples who have never donated before and/or are unsure of their future financial needs the opportunity to help provide for JF&CS at the end of their lifetimes by allocating a specific percentage of their final estate or any of its assets rather than a fixed dollar amount. Over time, as the legacy program matures, it is my hope and belief that these gifts will become an important source of long-term funding that will become a key component for providing for JF&CS’s next 150 years.

As of December 31, 2016, with 391 organizations participating in 36 communities throughout the US, Life & Legacy™ has helped its partners secure more than 12,550 legacy commitments with an estimated value of nearly half a billion dollars in future gifts to the Jewish community. With the addition of the Central Massachusetts cohort, along with six other new communities, the number of geographic communities partnering with the Life & Legacy™ program has risen to 43.

"The Harold Grinspoon Foundation is very excited to be working with JF&CS as part of our partnership with the Jewish Federation of Central MA to integrate legacy giving into the organization's philanthropic culture,” says Arlene D. Schiff, National Director of Life & Legacy™. "The time is right. Implementing a legacy program now will make the most of the generational transfer of wealth, change the language and landscape of giving, and provide generous and forward thinking donors of JF&CS with the opportunity to further express their passion, purpose, and commitment to this wonderful organization that improves people's lives.”

“This is a wonderful opportunity to work with other Jewish organizations in this region as a collective group,” adds Deb Shrier, JF&CS Director of Community & Program Development. “Participating in Life & Legacy™ allows JF&CS the opportunity to join with others to ensure a vibrant Jewish future in Central Massachusetts.”

Agencies included in the Harold Grinspoon Foundation Life & Legacy™ program include JF&CS, Jewish Federation of Central Mass (Worcester), Beth Tikvah Synagogue (Westborough), Clark University Hillel (Worcester), Congregation Beth Israel (Worcester), Congregation B’nai Shalom (Westborough), Congregation Shaarai Torah West (Worcester), Jewish Healthcare Center (Worcester), Temple Emanuel Sinai (Worcester), Temple Israel (Athol), and the Worcester JCC (Worcester).

View all articles from the JF&CS News Summer 2017 edition.

Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms Receives North Shore Funding

Fri, 02 Jun 2017 12:12:12 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2017

The importance of family and of giving back have been central themes throughout Arthur Epstein’s life, so funding Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^®on the North Shore fit squarely in line with his priorities. It also appealed to the North Shore native’s sense of responsibility for an area to which he feels strongly connected.

While the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program has been successfully pairing thousands of new parents with trained, experienced moms in Greater Boston for 28 years, it has only been available on the North Shore for the last five years. We have also brought the program to Central MA. Rubin Visiting Moms brings volunteer moms to the homes of pregnant women and parents of newborns who want support and companionship for an hour a week through the trying first months of infancy or up to the baby's first birthday, providing an opportunity to talk confidentially, ask questions, and share concerns or feelings. To date, 59 new moms have been visited on the North Shore; Epstein’s donation makes it possible to expand and increase visibility on the North Shore.

Epstein – the father of Lauren Rubin and her husband, Mark, for whom the overall program is named – well understands the importance of the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program and the value of expanding it on the North Shore.

“I really think this makes a difference,” said Epstein, who has roots in Malden and Marblehead but now lives in Brookline and Florida. He believes that whatever you do, you should make a difference, whether it is giving money or time.

“My father would rather give to someone else than to himself,” said Lauren, who knows first-hand about the results of the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program, having watched the program from the start (she convinced her mother-in-law, Arlene Rubin, to be one of the first volunteer moms) and becoming a volunteer mom herself 14 years ago.

“When I became involved, I could see the results,” said Lauren, of Newton. “I really enjoy witnessing the transformation of a new mother who at the beginning has a lot of anxiety and insecurity and doesn’t trust her own judgment, and who turns into a sure-footed, more confident mother.”

Diane Gardner, coordinator for Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^®on the North Shore, hopes additional exposure on the North Shore will allow more people to gain from the program. “On the North Shore, we are not that well known because we are still a new program there,” said Gardner, adding that JF&CS also operates a new parents’ support group at the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore in Marblehead. “We would like to serve as many parents as possible because Rubin Visiting Moms offers such a unique form of support.”

For more information about the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program on the North Shore, call Debbie Whitehill at 781-693-5625. Volunteers from across the North Shore are welcomed.

View all articles from the JF&CS News Summer 2017 edition.

Creating Community in a Safe Space for Kids with Autism

Tue, 30 May 2017 09:07:10 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2017

Eight-year-old Max Mascia enjoys spending time on Sundays at Kids’ Connection Corner – a new, free program offered by JF&CS that provides children with autism the opportunity to participate in creative activities and make friends. His older brother Vincent, 11, is equally pleased with the chance to spend rare quality time alone with their parents, Jessica and Chris Mascia, while Max is happily occupied.

“It has worked out really well for all of us. We never get to spend time alone with Vincent since our family time generally involves accommodating Max’s needs.” said Jessica, of Bedford.

According to Kids’ Connection Corner Program Coordinator Angela Waring, parents of kids with autism like the Mascias don’t often get a break. This new program serves the dual purpose of providing a social skills program for kids ages 7-14 diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and of being a well-deserved respite program for their families.

The idea for the program was formed by donor Nicole Casty in conjunction with JF&CS staff as a way to directly reach people and provide a service that insurance does not cover.

Casty, of Newton, is the mother of two young boys. “I know how much of a handful that is and I have a lot of empathy for parents who have a bigger challenge,” she said. “As a former teacher, I have encountered many children who have to be approached in many directions. I wanted to create something that would give parents a break."

Started in May 2016, Kids’ Connection Corner launched through a donation from the Ronald G. Casty Family Foundation. Additional support is welcome as the program continues to grow.

Kids’ Connection Corner takes place a few Sundays per month from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Leventhal-Sidman Jewish Community Center in Newton. Children, who are screened by Waring, are divided up according to their abilities and participate in a range of activities involving gross motor skills, art, a sensory table, and snack making, with time for free play and lunch. The program can accommodate 15 kids on any given Sunday on a first come, first served basis. The ratio of children to staff is 3:1 and enthusiastic volunteers add to the experience.

“This is an opportunity for kids to make friends, develop connections, and practice the social skills they need in the community in a safe space,” said Waring.

Nicole Casty is thrilled that children with autism and their parents are showing interest and benefitting from the program. “I am so happy that it is making a difference in parents’ lives,” she said.

For more information about Kids’ Connection Corner, contact Program Coordinator Angela Waring at awaring@jfcsboston.org or 781-697-7232.

View all articles from the JF&CS News Summer 2017 edition.

Chaplain Support Program Brings Spiritual Connection to Those With Mental Illness

Fri, 26 May 2017 12:35:45 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2017

Todd Beyer was many things – intelligent, a caring son to his mother Judy, an avid Red Sox fan, and a devoted Jew. He was also someone who struggled for many years with mental illness before he passed away in 2015 from health complications at age 59. While he was well-served by many JF&CS programs and services, including Supported Housing, Chaverim Shel Shalom, and Your Elder Experts, what became most meaningful toward the end of his life was weekly one-on-one tutoring by rabbinic interns organized by Your Elder Experts.

“The idea was to study Hebrew and the Torah portion of the week but it grew into so much more,” said Susan Bernat, a licensed clinical social worker who worked with Todd for several years through the geriatric care management program Your Elder Experts. She shared that Todd enjoyed singing songs with his tutors in addition to studying and “kibitzing.”

“Todd really loved having this spiritual and Judaic connection,” Bernat said. “The rabbinic interns truly enriched his quality of life, and helped his mother as well by providing her with some peace knowing that her son was getting additional emotional and spiritual support.”

After Todd died, his mother wanted to express her gratitude to JF&CS in a meaningful way and she remembered how much the rabbinic interns helped. “I thought it would be wonderful if some of the other people served by JF&CS could have that experience,” said Judy Beyer of Delmar, NY. “People with mental health challenges could be uplifted. This would be something a little extra.”

With a generous donation in memory of Todd, JF&CS now provides five hours per month of chaplain support for people with mental illness. Serviced by Chaverim Shel Shalom, the program hired a chaplain, Hali Diecidue, to do group work and provide one-on-one visits for people who are experiencing mental illness anywhere that individual would be, whether it is at home, on the phone, in a hospital, or in the community. The program is funded for five years; additional donations would increase availability options.

Since the program began last fall, Hali has been there to support several people with mental illness who are served by JF&CS and who have experienced the loss of family members. For this, Judy is grateful.

“It makes me feel good to think that something that was a tragedy for me could turn into something meaningful for others,” she said.

For more information about the chaplain support program, contact Sandy Slavet at sslavet@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5640.

View all articles from the JF&CS News Summer 2017 edition.

Q&A with Leslie Pucker, 2017 Women’s Breakfast Co-Chair

Wed, 24 May 2017 09:54:56 GMT

Shared by Leslie Pucker

Tell us about your involvement with JF&CS and CERS.
I first met Peggy Kaufman, Director of the Center for Early Relationship Support^® six years ago as a volunteer with CJP’s Boston Haifa Connection. I was so impressed with what I learned about CERS that I decided to get involved. I started as a Lauren & Mark Rubin^® Visiting Mom on the Vulnerable Families Team about three years ago. I also co-facilitate a support group for new parents. To further my understanding of the moms and babies with whom I volunteer, I have taken the Maternal Mental Health and Infant Observation courses taught by the skilled faculty in the Infant-Parent Training Institute.

Tell us about your family.
I am blessed to have a wonderful family - my husband, Ken, two daughters, Hannah, age 20, and Bella, age 17, and our beloved dog, Lala. My husband and I are on the brink of a significant milestone as our younger daughter, Bella, will begin college next year.

What is your favorite JF&CS memory?
As a Visiting Mom, I have the privilege of witnessing both the ups and downs in the lives of the moms and babies. Recently, a homeless mother of two children completed her GED. This family had lived in four different shelters during our time together. She invited me to attend her graduation ceremony. Being witness to this mom’s pride and joy in achieving her goal given numerous obstacles was very moving.

What is one piece of parenting advice you’d share with others?
As a new parent I naively thought there would be one “right” answer to my parenting dilemmas – a “magic bullet.” In hindsight, I recognize how silly and counterproductive this sort of thinking is. The important learning for me is that there is an abundance of expertise and advice available on parenting and what works for one parent or child may not work for another. Being aware of what feels right for you and your individual child is critical. So too is recognizing that it is okay to not get it right the first time.

What is your favorite children’s book?
I love children’s books so it’s hard to choose only one. Favorite books that I read with my daughters evoke fond memories of reading and cuddling together. I can still recite from memory Jamberry by Bruce Degen. Kevin Henkes’ strong, quirky characters like Chrysanthemum and Wemberly Worried and Kate DiCamillo’s tales of animals are among my favorites.

What are you most looking forward to about this year’s Women’s Breakfast?
The testimonials from clients, volunteers, and staff about their experiences and the impact that CERS programs can have on changing their lives is always very moving and compelling. I also find it powerful to have more than 475 women together in one room in support of the critical work of CERS!

Join Leslie and many others at this year’s Women’s Breakfast on Wednesday, June 7 at the Westin Waltham. Visit the event webpage to purchase tickets and for more information.

Moved to Write at the Art of Resilience

Tue, 23 May 2017 09:56:59 GMT

Posted by Nancy Mazonson

Many of us have experienced being moved beyond words. At other times, we turn to words as a tool to describe the experience of being moved.

Such was the case when Dan Crowley and Gil Aliber returned home from Celebrating the Art of Resilience, an annual event for the participants, family, and friends of the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program. This year was a milestone, celebrating the tenth year of programming. Dan and Gil, program participants, were both moved to write poems about their experience sharing dance, music, and camaraderie at this special event.

In reflecting on the day, Gil said, “It was almost overwhelming. We performed and the whole event built to a crescendo with everyone singing and dancing. There was a powerful sense of community - a very special community - coming together dancing and singing with exuberance.”

Poems written after Celebrating the Art of Resilience 2017

Thank you for bringing us all together!
Dan Crowley

Resilience…Resurrection
go together.
Death becomes Life.
Darkness becomes Light.
Fear becomes Hope.
Doubt becomes Confidence.
Loneliness becomes Love.
Resilience/Resurrection is not a skill-not a talent.
Not an art-not an asset
Rather, it’s a process of discovery
and wonder…
It needs a community that comes
Together

The Sounds of Tomorrow
Gil Aliber

What joy resounded throughout the room ...
Voices uplifted in gratitude ...
Gratitude for the Community we are ...
The gift of being which is special ...
For each moment we are grateful for that we are given ...
The support of a loved one ...
The circle of Family ...
And a Community that is welcoming ...
Voices strong ...
Reaching beyond ...
Sensing the Light ahead that beckons to the future ...
Yes, we each have challenges ...
Challenges that are faced with Dignity.
And With Love.

It is with sincere gratitude that we thank Dan and Gil for sharing their poetic talent with us. We are honored by these words and moved by their beauty.

We Always Believed in Giving

Fri, 19 May 2017 10:41:45 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2017

“We tend to be philanthropic without huge means. I give to charities that are near and dear to my heart,” says Sue Melvin*, who recently made a simple bequest to JF&CS Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support. “So when I was re-thinking my will after [my husband] Harvey died in 2016, I decided we would make this contribution to JF&CS. We always wanted to do that. All I had to do was fill out a simple JF&CS form and call my attorney, who then re-wrote my will. It couldn’t have been easier.”

Both Sue and Harvey came to JF&CS Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support after Harvey was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2007. Harvey’s neurologist had referred them to Nancy Mazonson, director of the program, for an occupational therapy (OT) evaluation. “Nancy is a model for anyone who wants to do good, helping work,” Sue notes.

The program was a “wonderful connection for both of us,” explains Sue. The couple used to enjoy folk dancing, so Harvey joined the Parkinson’s Dance program. He was also in the first JF&CS Parkinson’s Drumming class. “He enjoyed it so much that our children gave him an African drum,” she adds.

Sue also joined a care partner support group. “It was enormously helpful for me. The programs supported us together and separately through the Parkinson’s experience because it was all new to us,” Sue points out. “Meeting people in similar situations, forming friendships with patients and spouses, helped us to better understand the illness. Otherwise, it could have been lonely and isolating at home.”

“It gave us a sense of community and perspective and was extremely helpful for us. I’m a strong believer in community,” adds Sue. “The key value to us was a sense of calm and peace during a time that could be overwhelming, distressing, and unknown. I couldn’t really talk to many people about what I was going through, so I went to the [care partner support] group. It was so wonderfully supportive. I felt love, affection, connection, and honesty. It was such an important resource. It was my therapy.”

“We always believed in giving. Now, with our joint resources, I can do that through my will,” explains Sue. “JF&CS has been a wonderful resource and many of the services and support we received were free. This is our way of giving back. Unlike donors who are able to make an outright gift, I am not in that position – my resources are essentially in my real estate until I am gone someday. So I made a simple bequest out of my estate.

“I’m so glad to be able to give back in this way and I know it’s exactly what my husband would have wanted us to do. I would certainly encourage others to do the same. It’s exceedingly easy and I would assure anyone it will make them feel good for having done it. It’s a wonderful thing to do.”

Thinking About Tomorrow

It’s never too soon to start thinking about the future and a philanthropic planned gift is the ultimate act of kindness and generosity. It’s as simple as making a phone call to your attorney.

In addition to helping others, a planned gift can benefit you in a number of ways, such as reducing estate and income taxes, providing additional income for you or your heirs, and helping you achieve your personal and charitable objectives. One you have provided for loved ones in your will, you might consider a gift of money, property, or stock to JF&CS.

One of the simplest planned gift vehicles is a bequest through your will. Adding a charity as a beneficiary of a retirement plan or insurance policy is another easy way to ensure the future strength of JF&CS. Your gift will be a lasting tribute to your support of our mission while helping to guarantee a strong, viable, and vibrant future for JF&CS.

For more information, please contact Wendy Wilsker, Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement, at wwilsker@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5674.

*Names changed to protect privacy.

View all articles from the JF&CS News Summer 2017 edition.

Back on Their Feet, Thanks to JF&CS

Wed, 17 May 2017 14:11:00 GMT

Amy* was a Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® client when she was pregnant with her first child. A trained JF&CS volunteer visited Amy in her home for a weekly visit to provide her with confidential support and an empathetic ear so that she could be a confident new mom. But when her baby was born with unforeseen medical issues, life changed for Amy and her husband.

Amy had to leave her job to stay at home and take care of the baby. She had been working full-time and her husband had been working part-time. Together, they had just been making ends meet. In a very short time, the family began to struggle financially and could no longer afford to pay their rent. Although their landlord had been very patient, they were four months in arrears and the landlord informed the couple that he would soon have to serve them with a Notice to Quit. It was clear that Amy could not return to work anytime soon and it was also clear that the landlord would not renew the lease when it would come up for renewal in just a few weeks.

When Amy’s Visiting Mom learned of the situation, she referred her to Ellen Jawitz, the Family Resource Coordinator at the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS). Ellen met with Amy and did an intake evaluation. First, she directed her to JF&CS Bet Tzedek Legal Services, where she could obtain pro bono legal counsel and assistance. There, Amy worked with volunteer attorneys who put the necessary paperwork in place in case Amy received a Notice to Quit and gave her tips on how to negotiate with her landlord.

Then, Amy met with Lindsay Goldberg from the JF&CS Center for Basic Needs Assistance. Together, Lindsay and Amy worked to come up with a way for Amy to obtain the funds to pay off the arrearage, now more than $4,000. Lindsay also helped the couple figure out a plan for employment and soon, the father was able to find a job that allowed him to bring the baby to work with him. Amy was then able to return to her full-time job.

Although the family’s income flow had been restored, they still couldn’t pay the amount necessary to renew the lease and there was a chance they would wind up homeless. Lindsay contacted outside organizations for help. The Center for Basic Needs Assistance gave Amy and her husband an emergency grant and continued to work with Bet Tzedek to secure a tax refund for the couple – to which they did not even know they were entitled. Additional grants were obtained from the Howard Benevolent Society and the Lend a Hand Society. JF&CS staff, through partnership with Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD), was also able to secure a grant from Family to Family.

When enough resources came together for the couple to pay off the arrearages, Amy’s Visiting Mom accompanied her to meet with the landlord, check in hand. With the arrearages paid off, Amy was able to use the negotiation skills she had learned to get the landlord to renew the lease for another year.

Now Amy and her family are doing great and the financial and landlord issues have been fully resolved. To lighten her family’s load going forward, Amy was referred to JF&CS Family Table, New England’s largest kosher food pantry, and her JF&CS caseworkers helped her apply for fuel assistance and utility discounts.

"One of the wonderful things about JF&CS is that we have talented staff from a number of different programs, each with their own area of expertise, who pull together on a regular basis to help clients like Amy,” says Ellen Jawitz.

"Our partnerships with outside organizations enabled us to obtain additional support for Amy that made all the difference in this case. We are grateful to those organizations for their support.

"Finally, this couldn't have come together without Amy's own dedication and perseverance. She is a remarkable woman, who stayed the course in the face of many challenges and I am inspired by her example."

*Name changed to protect privacy

View all articles from the JF&CS News Summer 2017 edition.

Q&A with Beth Schlager, 2017 Women’s Breakfast Co-Chair

Wed, 10 May 2017 15:46:52 GMT

Shared by Beth Schlager

Tell us about your involvement with JF&CS and CERS.
I have been involved with JF&CS for more than 20 years. My original involvement was serving on the JF&CS Finance Committee and I later joined the JF&CS Board. As a Board Member, I discovered the work of CERS and knew that I really wanted to become a Visiting Mom, which I did about nine years ago. My family has also enjoyed participating in Family Table from time to time over the years.

Tell us about your family.
We are a family of six plus a dog named Brady. My husband, Eric, and I have four children, two boys and two girls, ranging in age from 17 to 23.

What is your favorite JF&CS memory?
That’s a tough one because I have a few! My proudest moment was the first time I got a midweek text from one of the moms I visited with a cute photo that she just “knew” I would love to see!

What is one piece of parenting advice you’d share with others?
We have two ears and one mouth so always try to use them in that ratio. This is way easier said than done, at least in my parenting.

What is your favorite children’s book?
Which Pig Would You Choose by Edith Kunhardt is an interactive book that allows the reader to choose from several options to determine the way the story goes each time it is read.

What are you most looking forward to about this year’s Women’s Breakfast?
I always love the energy of the Women’s Breakfast. This year, I am really looking forward to hearing from Carnie Wilson, our guest speaker, as I find her story and struggle with postpartum depression very compelling. I also have a secret wish for the breakfast: I am a big fan of Carnie Wilson’s music so I would be thrilled if she sang even one or two notes. I know it’s not likely but I would be elated if it happened!

Join Beth and many others at this year’s Women’s Breakfast on Wednesday, June 7 at the Westin Waltham. Visit the event webpage to purchase tickets and for more information.

Hunger and Nutrition Recipe

Thu, 04 May 2017 12:43:47 GMT

Posted by Jennifer Heinen

Spring is a great time to be inspired for new flavors and recipes. This Asian-Style Noodle Salad uses a fresh, tangy dressing that you will come back to time and again. Thanks to whole grains, colorful vegetables and edamame this recipe is packed with 11g of fiber per serving and 16g of protein to keep you feeling satisfied. This noodle salad makes a great meal on its own and is perfect for leftovers or to bring with you to a potluck party.

Hunger and Nutrition provides recipes for clients, community partners, and the general public. Recipes cost $2.50 or less per serving and meet nutrition guidelines consistent with the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Visit the Hunger and Nutrition recipe page or sign up to receive the recipe of the month in your inbox.

Jennifer Heinen, MS, RD, LDN, is a licensed, registered dietitian for the JF&CS Hunger and Nutrition. Jennifer began her work at JF&CS as a Boston University intern during the early production stages of the Home Cooking without a Kitchen cookbook. She has a passion for educating and empowering others to make healthy choices easy and delicious. Previously she worked as an inpatient and outpatient dietitian and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Dietetic Association. Her favorite food is avocado smashed on whole wheat toast.

Musing on 16 Years of Volunteering with Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms

Tue, 02 May 2017 09:26:39 GMT

Posted by Daphne Petri

I read the names of the 37 new parents and their babies whose lives have touched me in the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program over the past 16 years. I visited them for 3-10 months in the first months of their parenthood. They were young women and men taking on the lifetime responsibility for their child, for another human being.

They let me in because the first steps on this journey as a new parent are often not easy. They each brought and bring their own particular challenges and their common path. Each brought the courage to have a child and get up each morning and care-take a new human being, their child. Each brought a commitment to do and feel better. Each was willing to let another person, a mother, walk with them on their journey from the intimacy of their own home. Each found their own way to say thank you. Each taught me something about myself and about parenting; its joys and challenges. I learned to listen deeper and more honestly by meeting them where they were without the intent to change them. And with each new parent, I saw and believed in the power that lives in all people to be whole and healthy.

And so it is to them that I offer my gratitude today, 16 years since my first meeting with the first new mom and her daughter. They have all given me the gift of trust and I have given them my honesty, my patience, my humor and humanity, and my steadfast belief that they would find their footing and become the parent they wish to be.

There was a story I told many new parents. This parenting job is a job they would not likely apply for. No strict set of guidelines, a client who can only minimally communicate, no clear way of knowing what to expect in the weeks and months ahead, no way of planning their day as some days stretch into working through the night while others are quiet and sleepy, many separate references and consultants who try to influence and judge their work, and no quick way of knowing if you have done the ‘right’ thing. On top of all that, for many the hard part was how to find the love for their new baby that they thought would be built in to the job from the get go. And yet people keep giving birth and becoming parents even as it’s not always easy.

It was my mother in law, Judith Schwartz, who inspired me to give back to others what she had given me. I learned from her the comfort and power of listening, encouraging, not judging, and, above all, trusting that human strength and compassion would guide the process, mine and the new parent’s together. And it was Judith who helped me see that I loved my own newborn children beyond my sweetest dreams. She helped me to notice the big and little miracles that were unfolding every day in their lives, in my life, and between us. To her I owe a deep gratitude.

And I also owe a huge gratitude to my guides in this work: Terri, Peggy, and Debbie of JF&CS. In different ways you each have helped me grow as the program grew. You have been firm and loving hands on the tiller. This work is important. Your leadership will carry it on. And your friendship and guidance will shine in my life forever and forward.

Daphne shared her story for the 2014 JF&CS Women's Breakfast. Learn more and join us for this year's Women's Breakfast.

Daphne Petri thrives on an active life of fun and service at home and abroad with her husband, two grown daughters, extended family, friends, and colleagues devoted to the healthy development of children and girls in Rwanda and Massachusetts. Her life has been enthusiastically divided between enjoying a long term relationship and adventures with her husband, nurturing and supporting her daughters in San Francisco and developing her professional and personal commitment to a career in architecture and her community at home and far away.

She began work on the Maranyundo Girls School in 2009 and has been on the Maranyundo Initiative Board since 2011 and Chair since 2013. She is also the principal of Daphne Petri Architects and serves on the Board of Directors of Gardens for Health International and on the National Advisory Board for the Union of Concerned Scientists. She is on the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support Advisory Committee and was a longtime volunteer with the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^®.

Honoring the True Stories of Holocaust Survivors

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 11:15:02 GMT

Posted by Carol Laibson

While we observe Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, JF&CS honors the true stories of and pays tribute to Holocaust survivors, including those served by JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services. We continue to be inspired by the story of Izzy Arbeiter, current chair of the JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services Hakalah Advisory Committee:

The four-minute, award-winning* documentary, produced in conjunction with Embryo Creative, is a first person account of Izzy Arbeiter, a Holocaust survivor now living in Newton who lost both parents and two brothers while being held at the Auschwitz concentration camp. The founder and past president of the American Association of Jewish Holocaust Survivors of Greater Boston and Their Descendants, and a member of the founding committee for the New England Holocaust Memorial, Izzy volunteers with JF&CS to help Holocaust survivors live with dignity as they age.

*The Communicator Awards honored the online documentary “Izzy” with a first-place prize in the nonprofit category in 2014. This leading international awards program recognizes excellence in marketing and communications. Founded two decades ago, The Communicator Awards receives more than 6,000 entries each year from companies and agencies of all sizes, making it one of the largest awards of its kind in the world.

Carol Laibson, Manager of Case Management Services for JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services is a licensed clinical social worker. She has more than 20 years of experience helping older people age well with dignity, works directly with Holocaust survivors and their families, and provides training and consultation to professional staff on the special needs of aging Holocaust survivors.

It is National Volunteer Week

Tue, 25 Apr 2017 12:49:08 GMT

Posted by Ava Harder

It is National Volunteer Week!

Thank you for volunteering your time with us. We are grateful for your dedication.

With so many options available to you, we appreciate that our volunteers have chosen to devote time to our clients. Have you distributed food for Family Table? Or danced or sang with Parkinson’s Dance or Tremble Clefs? Have you dedicated your skill to Bet Tzedek or are you on a JF&CS committee? Are you visiting a new parent or leading a support group for new moms and dads? Have you celebrated Shabbat with older adults in retirement homes or people with disabilities?

Volunteers are an integral part of everything we do at JF&CS and we are grateful to you, our volunteers, for sharing your time and your lives with us.

What? You haven’t volunteered with us yet and would like to get information on becoming involved? Check out the volunteer section of our website to see a list of all of current volunteer opportunities.

We are honored that you have chosen JF&CS!

Ava Harder is the JF&CS Manager of Volunteer Services. She is passionate about weaving volunteerism throughout the agency. When not at work, Ava enjoys time with her husband and their two daughters, as well as their sweet little dog.

A Better Life

Wed, 19 Apr 2017 14:16:20 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

When Ellen* contacted JF&CS Children’s Behavioral Health Services for her seven-year-old son, Davi*, she never imagined that he would come so far – and that in turn, she would be able to return to work, rent an apartment, and give them a better life.

A single mother, Ellen moved to the US from Brazil 11 years ago. When her boyfriend was deported before Davi was even born, Ellen faced a dizzying number of challenges as a single parent. Then, when Davi was three years old, he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Davi was aggressive and uncommunicative and Ellen had to quit her job to take care of him because his behavior would not allow for a babysitter or daycare.

Realizing she needed help, Ellen was ultimately referred to JF&CS. Davi started working with Angie Ware, a clinician for JF&CS In-Home Behavioral Services (IHBS). Angie encouraged “functional communication” through the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), which uses illustrated squares to help a child communicate his emotions, wants, and needs. Angie also created a daily picture activity schedule for him so that he would know what his day would look like in order to reduce his anxiety. She encouraged Ellen to get a weighted blanket for Davi because studies have shown that weighted blankets can help reduce agitation in children on the autism spectrum. Finally, Angie met with school administrators to help them develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for Davi that would meet his special needs.

In January, Davi “graduated” from IHBS. With an effective IEP in place at school, he no longer needs IHBS assistance. He has even started reading and is beginning to thrive at home and in school.

Since Davi is now able to take the school bus and can go to a babysitter after school, Ellen has been able to go back to work and doesn’t have to worry about picking him up during her work day.

“Life without JF&CS would be difficult because I would be suffering,” says Ellen “I would still be struggling with my son’s behaviors. But now he can attend his friends’ birthday parties, he can follow directions and I’m no longer afraid he’ll hurt himself. He can even go to Chuckie Cheese and have fun on the weekends!”

Angie credits Ellen for Davi’s remarkable progress. ““What made this truly outstanding was the hard work and dedication of this single mom, teaming with JF&CS to overcome her son's difficult behaviors at home and in the community. After helping her understand the function of Davi’s behaviors and adapting communication, we were able to strengthen the loving relationship between the two, which was the most rewarding part of all.”

*Names changed to protect privacy.

My Passover Observance

Fri, 14 Apr 2017 10:50:30 GMT

Posted by Sue Spielman

Though Passover officially began the evening of April 10, my own observance of the holiday began a week earlier at the annual JF&CS Friendly Visitor Passover Seder; it’s a time when elders and volunteers gather together to celebrate the holiday.

Twelve years ago, with generous support from the George and Beatrice Sherman Family Charitable Trust, we began the tradition of hosting the Seder. Our first Seder was attended by approximately 20 guests and volunteers, offering an opportunity for isolated older adults to gather with volunteers to participate in a Seder, something they might not have been able to do otherwise.

Over these past 12 years, the Seder has evolved and grown into a celebration of more than 140 older adults, friends, volunteers, Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing Advisory Council members, and JF&CS staff. We gather to read the Haggadah (the story of Passover), recite traditional prayers, sing familiar holiday songs, and share a delicious meal with many holiday favorites – all taking place in a room beautifully decorated with artwork created by families from four different synagogues. This year, we were especially delighted that Claire Sherman of the George and Beatrice Sherman Family Charitable Trust was able to join us.

Marjorie U. Sokoll, the Director of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing, used her newly acquired basic skills in Russian to guide Russian-speaking guests through the reading of our English/Hebrew/Russian Haggadah! We also celebrated the birthday of our oldest guest who recently turned 100 years old!

As for me, I had the rare opportunity to create a celebration filled with friends, whether I’ve known them for 12 years or we’ve just met. I hear comparisons of the charoset we were eating (a dish of apples, walnuts, and cinnamon) with charoset made by someone’s mother in 1935 and I observe the line between volunteer and guest blur as everyone enjoys an afternoon filled with meaning, community, and sweet memories.

Sue Spielman, MPA, has worked with JF&CS for more than 13 years managing the Friendly Visitor Program and the Caring Communities Resource Network, both programs of JF&CS Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing, and more recently, Cafe Hakalah of JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services. in her work with people of all ages, Sue has developed a deep appreciation for the positive impact a feeling of connection can make on one's quality of life, and she is honored to be able to help create those connections. Prior to her work with JF&CS, Sue worked for 20 years in the world of parenting education and support as an educator and community organizer. Sue received degrees from Harvard University, Wheelock College, and the University of Massachusetts.

Chaverim Shel Shalom Seder and Haggadah

Mon, 10 Apr 2017 09:24:23 GMT

Posted by Sandy Slavet

If Rosh Hashanah brings Jews to synagogue, Passover brings Jews to the table. At the Seder, friends and families gather for an evening of shared stories, food, and song. Passover is the holiday when we are actually commanded to sit and eat together!

And Passover is a time to celebrate freedom and hope: it is a time we tell our story of oppression and redemption. A time in our collective history that we experience the degradation of slavery and celebrate our transformation into a people who had to overcome paralyzing fear to become willing travelers on the road to sovereignty.

But for some, Passover can be far more personal: their story is not only about the struggles of the ancient Israelites but it is a personal story of challenges, illness, and struggle.

Mitzrayim is not just a place on an ancient map
Where a narrow strait blocks the way between two seas.
Mitzrayim is a place in us
Where a narrow strait blocks the sea which is our soul
From reaching the sea which is its Source.

Even more importantly it is a story of healing and recovery. JF&CS Chaverim Shel Shalom (CSS) is a social program for Jewish adults with psychiatric conditions. Perhaps the hallmark of the CSS year is the annual Passover Seder. And the hallmark of the Seder is the Haggadah. You might ask “Why is this Haggadah different from all others?” This Haggadah was written by participants of CSS as a Haggadah of healing and wholeness. The creators of this Haggadah wanted the emphasis to be on their story from illness and struggle to one of wellness and recovery, opening the narrow strait to the sea. Our Haggadah tells the story not only of the journey from slavery to freedom but of the journey from isolation to strength through support, compassion, and community.

The Seder is open to all CSS participants and their family and friends and includes a full kosher for Passover meal at no cost to our guests. CSS is grateful to Combined Jewish Philanthropies for their continuing support of CSS and for making this Seder possible.

CSS meets four times a month to learn, share, and celebrate Jewish life together. For more information, please contact Sandy Slavet at 781-693-5640.

Sandy Slavet is the Director of Jewish Life Services for People with Disabilities. Sandy works with CHAI and CHAI Works participants providing social, educational, and Jewish programs including Shabbat and Jewish holiday celebrations as well as participation in community activities at local synagogues and other community locations. She also leads several social programs for adults with disabilities including Chaverim Shel Shalom, Chaverim Chaim (Friends for Life), and Jewish Signers of Massachsetts. Before coming to JF&CS in 2001, Sandy was an ASL Interpreter in private practice. Sandy is active in many community organizations and is an active member of her synagogue. Most importantly, she and her husband, Joe, have four wonderful daughters; her youngest daughter, Marie, is a beautiful 26-year-old who happens to have Down syndrome.

Offering a Free Farmers Market in Salem

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 15:23:47 GMT

Posted by Kelley Annese

This past year I have been working closely with older adults living in two adjacent affordable housing buildings in Salem, coordinating a variety of programs including arts and crafts, intergenerational projects, yoga and stress management, nutrition classes, and mental health lectures. Through these programs, our Aging Well at Home program in collaboration with North Shore Elder Services (NSES) and the Salem Housing Authority, hopes to build a sense of community and increase awareness of healthy aging. I have noticed that, regardless of how well marketed and executed, these programs attract the same group of social and motivated residents. Those in the housing buildings who do not participate may not like groups, may not be interested in what is being offered, or may choose to stay socially isolated, something we know can be a health risk. So last summer, I set out to encourage those who do not come to the structured programming to come out, even for five minutes, and hopefully make a connection.

With help from the Boston Area Gleaners, based in Waltham, we piloted the Free Farmers Market in August for residents of these two housing buildings in Salem. Boston Area Gleaners distributes high quality produce to food pantries and meal programs by working closely with local farmers and providing volunteer labor to harvest what would otherwise be plowed under. I was excited to discover that JF&CS already had a relationship with this organization through JF&CS Family Table. Matt Crawford, Boston Area Gleaners distribution manager, and I worked together to coordinate a bi-weekly distribution of produce that I picked up from the Gleaners on Tuesday mornings to give to residents in Salem in the afternoon. I also worked with Jennifer Heinen of JF&CS Hunger and Nutrition to include a healthy and easy recipe that featured that delivery’s produce as the main ingredient. One of the favorites of the season was a corn, zucchini, and tomato salad.

This new program had been a great success. After a few months, I connected with so many more residents than I had previously known. Some residents stopped by for a few minutes to pick up produce and a recipe; others hung around for the full two hours, talking with one another about how they planned to cook the produce or simply had a friendly conversation before going back to their apartments.

The harvest season has drawn to a close but I look forward to refining and expanding the program this summer to continue developing these wonderful connections.

Kelley Annese is the Program Coordinator for JF&CS Aging Well at Home in Salem, MA, a suite of services that support the interdependence and well-being of older adults living in community with a focus on naturally occurring retirement communities (NORCs) where there are high concentrations of older adults. She has immersed herself in the Salem community, getting to know all that Salem has to offer adults as they grow older. She has spent time interviewing older adults and organizations, offering various programs to educate and motivate residents, and assisting in the creation of the age-friendly Salem action plan for AARP. Kelley has a background in marketing and is a certified yoga and meditation teacher with many years working with all ages in hospitals, senior centers, and schools.

#UniteForParkinsons on World Parkinson’s Day

Tue, 04 Apr 2017 11:55:32 GMT

Posted by Nancy Mazonson

2017 marks 200 years since Parkinson’s disease was recognized as a health condition. For the first time, April 11 has been designated World Parkinson’s Day in honor of James Parkinson's birthday.

At JF&CS, we embrace the idea of Parkinson’s efforts being made on a worldwide scale. I have twice had the privilege of attending the World Parkinson’s Congress (WPC). Last year, I proudly displayed a poster that told the story of our work in the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program.

In order to spread the same message on one day all over the world, the WPC, the European Parkinson’s Disease Association, and Parkinson's UK are launching the #UniteForParkinsons campaign. How exciting to be part of an effort to help unite the global Parkinson's community and create such a broad focus on the condition!

These organizations are encouraging the community to use the hashtag #UniteForParkinsons on April 11 or any time during the month of April, which is Parkinson’s Awareness Month.

Interested in getting involved in April to help raise awareness about Parkinson's in your community? Share this blog on social media with the hashtag #UniteForParkinsons!

The staff and participants of the Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program are proud to support World Parkinson’s Day and to be part of this global awareness raising effort.

Seven Things I’ve Learned from Having a Child with Autism

Fri, 31 Mar 2017 11:42:24 GMT

By Joan Munnelly

Sunday, April 2 is the ninth annual World Autism Awareness Day.

I am the mother of a fantastic almost 20-year-old son with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here are just a few things I have picked up on my journey:

Having a child with autism is not your fault. The cups of coffee or glasses of wine you drank or the vacation you took in a tropical disease zone or the hours you spent talking on your cell phone are not the reason you have a child with autism.
Your friends and family are not always going to understand your parenting choices or how you feel about your child. Most will have an imperfect or incomplete understanding of your life and daily challenges. They may say or do ill-considered or harmful things and judge your parenting using unfair or irrelevant standards. You can help yourself and your child by helping them understand.
Keeping good records is essential when it comes to accessing needed resources. An amazing amount of reports, individualized education plans (IEPs), authorizations, and other documents will come into your home. Try and keep them in one place so that when someone asks for a copy, you can easily provide it.
Sibling relationships are complicated for all children and even more complex when a sibling has developmental challenges. The siblings of a brother or sister with autism often benefit from extra support from professionals and peers who understand their atypical experience. Sibshops can be a great experience for siblings, providing a chance to have fun with other youth who “get it.”
When a child has autism, family vacations are often more stressful than daily life at home. Sometimes, the very idea of taking a vacation seems like pure fantasy. If you can find one low-key vacation spot where the child with autism can become familiar with surroundings and routines that stay the same from year to year, that spot can become a refuge for the whole family. Familiarity and predictability can make all the difference.
Everyone knows that caregivers need to take care of themselves but finding time for yourself usually means finding a respite program or babysitter who can care for your child with autism and that’s rarely easy. JF&CS offers such a program on 20 Sundays a year called Kids’ Connection Corner. This program is free of charge and will give you three precious hours to spend as you like – with your spouse, other children, or just by yourself with no external demands.
You will have to advocate for your child but you don’t have to do it alone. There are programs that can help families of a child with autism needs every step of the way, like JF&CS Autism Navigation.

Joan Munnelly joined JF&CS following a successful career as an independent special education advocate and consultant. Her knowledge and expertise cover the full range of services and benefits for people with autism spectrum disorder, including early intervention, neuro-psych testing, the individualized education plan (IEP) process, various therapies, autism-friendly activities, school choices, transition planning, guardianship and financial planning, and options for financing needed services. Joan is formally trained as a special needs advocate and consultant through the Federation for Children with Special Needs.

Visiting the Visitors

Tue, 28 Mar 2017 14:23:47 GMT

Posted by Rimma Zelfand

Last year, I had the privilege to visit with all of our Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® supervision groups, from Canton in the South Area to Danvers on the North Shore. I have always admired the dedication and altruism of people who give of themselves – their souls and their emotions – to others in the community. I have also always been interested in the idea of women connecting to one another and changing each other’s lives. I thought it would be a good idea to meet with these wonderful women and acknowledge them for their selfless work.

No matter the location, it was heartwarming to hear that each group was 100 percent convinced that they were “the best group,” the “most dedicated group,” and had the best, most talented volunteers and the best supervisor. Each and every participant felt that she was doing very important work and that this was the best thing to happen to her in her professional life. The volunteers felt that they were making a tremendous impact on an underserved community and without exception, each volunteer was grateful for the opportunity to do something good for others. Each participant seemed to feel nourished by each other and by their supervisor. I was thrilled to see how happy these volunteers were with the program and how each group had become a cohesive small community on its own, in which unbreakable bonds of friendship and camaraderie had been formed.

I asked them to share their stories with me. I heard about different cultures and customs of the new moms. The moms’ ages also varied greatly. I even learned that not all of the moms were moms – some were stay-at-home dads who needed the same type of support in their lives as the new moms in the program. Despite the differences between the volunteer Visiting Moms and the new moms they visited, I learned that there was a universal understanding about being a new parent – something that transcends cultural, ethnic, geographic, and economic boundaries.

No matter what their backgrounds, these new moms (and dads) were experiencing a crucial time in their lives, filled with pride, happiness, insecurity, fear, and many other emotions, all typical for new parents. Without exception, they were grateful to have a caring and empathetic person just show up, be present, listen to them, and support them. Some of the new moms didn’t even speak English, but the commonalities of motherhood and bonding between these women exceeded all their differences. There was a palpable, unspoken, common understanding between them all.

As I left each group, I was not only extremely grateful for the experience of meeting with such amazing women, but I was also in awe of these volunteers, who year after year give their time, their commitment, their wisdom, their strength, and most of all, their hearts. They truly make profound differences in the lives of others.

Rimma Zelfand is the CEO of Jewish Family & Children’s Service. Her first involvement with JF&CS began with her joining the JF&CS Board of Directors and the Strategic Planning Committee in 2003. In 2004 Rimma joined JF&CS as Director of Senior Services. She came to her role with 15 years of a very successful track record in leading and managing home care, home health, disease management, and elder care programs. Under Rimma’s leadership Senior Services grew and gained recognition. Her accomplishments included: launching the first NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities) project in Massachusetts, creating the Parkinson’s Family Support Program, and establishing the Geriatric Institute. From 2008 – 2011, Rimma served as the Senior Vice President for Programs.

Music & Memory and More

Wed, 22 Mar 2017 12:12:36 GMT

Posted by Robin Krawczyk

“Music can transport an individual to another place and time, often unlocking fond memories from their youth or special events in their lives.” –Music & Memory

Last summer JF&CS received a generous grant from the Association of Jewish Family and Children’s Agencies (AJFCA) to become certified in Music & Memory. Music & Memory is a nonprofit organization that brings a personalized music program that is traditionally used in residential settings to individuals experiencing memory loss. At JF&CS, we are expanding the scope of use to include the different populations we serve. We set up highly personalized music playlists on iPods for our clients who are experiencing symptoms due to mental or physical illness, including memory loss, agitation, pain, or anxiety. Specific artists and songs are the key to Music & Memory’s success because musical favorites tap deep memories that can restore a sense of peace and comfort, bring individuals back to life, and help people feel like themselves again.

After only a few months of working with Music & Memory, I have been humbled and heartened to bear witness to some amazing reactions. With each participant, I find a new and important benefit. For some, it is simply the re-introduction of music into their lives since many older adults have albums and cassette tapes with no way to listen to them. For others, it has provided care partners an opportunity to make a phone call while their loved one is fully engaged. In today’s world where prescriptions are so widely used, it is refreshing to have an intervention available with no risk of side effects. We are grateful to have access to this wonderful tool to share with our clients.

Memories and Connections

Ann*, a Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support client smiled as she listened to the Beatles and recalled memories of kids playing. She shared that this specific music marked the time in her life when her children were young and playful.

Mike*, a World War II veteran with advanced dementia and agitation, expressed that “music is life.” His care partner noted with surprise that Mike was uncharacteristically calm and gentle during our conversation about music.

Al*, a client with early onset Alzheimer’s disease, suddenly remembered a prank that he and his friends played in the school office at their high school as I played the Rolling Stones You Can’t Always Get What You Want. Then hearing Sinatra’s The Way You Look Tonight, I was touched to see him invite his teenage daughter to dance.

Steve, an attendee of our Memory Café with early onset Alzheimer’s disease used his iPod on a recent trip to help him acclimate to the unfamiliar surroundings upon waking. His wife noted that because of the music he had no need for anxiety medication throughout the trip. She shared that the music has provided Steve with “a place of his own that he can go to” and added that it has offered him something that he can offer to his friends and family. On Valentine’s Day, they had a date of listening to the music together by the fire. By using splitters, the music on the iPod can easily be shared with friends, family, and grandchildren as a way to connect at a time when traditional conversation is often challenging. Indeed, music is good for the soul!

To learn more about Music & Memory, I would encourage you to view the documentary, Alive Inside, available on Netflix. It is an inspiring video that brings to life the use of this program by its creator, Dan Cohen.

*Names changed to protect privacy.

A Whole Year of Firsts

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 15:20:23 GMT

Posted by Arlene Lewis

After my husband, Leon, died, I had to sort out my life.

My first social event; my first family holiday; my first trip to Costco where I realized I did not need anything jumbo ever again; wanting to take a trip and not having Leon ready to go; making pasta in that pot that is so heavy; going to my hairdresser’s house and hearing her two young daughters share how my husband helped them with science and math homework; the neighbor down the hall who told me my husband always carried her bundles for her; and my three-year-old great nephew who said every time I picked him up at daycare that I was driving Leon's car. My nephew missed Leon the most. It broke me up. But it also made me feel wonderful that the two favorite men in my life loved each other.

Then there was Thanksgiving, when, thank goodness, I had a sinus infection and could stay home. Then Chanukkah and New Year’s and Valentine’s Day and birthdays and Passover. Some of these big events were okay and some were just plain sad. I could not handle my mail, let alone being alone.

What kept me going during this year of firsts? My bereavement group, facilitated by Barbara Sternfield of JF&CS. She created a space for us to feel safe and understood and each of us thrived. We cried and laughed and shared our stories. There are no words to thank her. She taught us that some people do not know what to say about your loss so some say nothing. She encouraged us to talk about our spouses, enjoy the memories, and acknowledge the loneliness. I learned that grief is a process. I will never stop missing Leon. But with my group and my new friends, life seems like it will go on and may even be joyful again.

Arlene Lewis of Brookline has been a travel consultant for many years and is a motivational speaker for Weight Watchers. She has been facilitating Weight Watchers meetings in Greater Boston for many years and enjoys leading the meetings and the members in her groups. After her husband, Leon, died, Arlene joined JDate and met a wonderful man. They have been together for a year and love their new life.

Healthy Families Parenting Group a Success

Fri, 17 Mar 2017 10:45:35 GMT

Posted by Sara Yablon-Smith

Last fall, as the temperature began to get cooler and we celebrated Thanksgiving, there was a steady stream of cuteness arriving at the JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham on Tuesday afternoons. This was the annual return of the JF&CS Healthy Families parenting group. Healthy Families works with first-time parents under the age of 21, beginning during pregnancy and continuing through the child’s third birthday. Each Tuesday afternoon, these young parents and their children arrived at our office to spend time together, share their parenting challenges and successes, and have some fun.

Participating in a range of activities from pumpkin decorating to infant massage to cooking together and parent-child yoga, these young parents enjoyed making connections and relaxing in a welcoming, supportive environment. Each week, the controlled chaos of crying babies, crawling toddlers, and laughing parents brought the Healthy Families program participants out from the isolation they so often describe. For the final group in the series, we enjoyed a holiday celebration together and gave the parents an opportunity to share what the group had given them. They spoke of the support, warmth, and connection to other young parents like themselves as being particularly important.

This year’s group was extremely successful with excellent attendance, dynamic activities, and engaged program participants. As one young parent shared, the group series was “amazing.” The Healthy Families staff worked incredibly hard to put each week’s group together and we are so grateful for all of their efforts. We would also like to thank our wonderful volunteers Jill Bovarnick, Angela Gordon, Susan Lambrechts, and Heather Tausig who provided childcare each week for our young parents. We could not have done it without you.

Sara Yablon-Smith is a Healthy Families Program Supervisor. She joined JF&CS in March 2015. Sara has an MA in Child Development from Tufts University and has worked in early literacy, maternal/child health, early intervention, and parenting education in Greater Boston and in rural Guatemala. In her free time, her own three children keep her very busy.

Children's Behavioral Health Services: Success Through Setting Limits

Wed, 15 Mar 2017 15:06:04 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Emma* is a 12-year-old girl diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and anxiety who was referred to JF&CS Children's Behavioral Health Services by her outpatient therapist. Emma’s initial acting out behaviors were described by her mother, Judy*, as tantrums and outbursts where she would become upset and cry, pace around the apartment, and throw items. Emma was a solidly built 12-year-old and Judy was noticeably smaller. Judy was initially worried about the behaviors because she didn’t know what to do or how to calm Emma down, which frightened Emma’s younger sister. Judy reported that most of these behaviors were due to being denied something or changes in her schedule resulting in not being able to participate in a preferred activity.

After an assessment period, a behavioral therapist from JF&CS In-Home Behavioral Services put together an action plan that included having consequences for acting out, setting schedules, and enforcing limits. Judy was the primary caretaker of the family but due to her cultural background, she perceived her maternal role as a duty to keep her daughters happy and entertained. As a result, she found it difficult to follow through on the plan.

It soon became apparent that not only was Judy scheduling too many activities for Emma but she was also becoming overly accommodating, buying her too many things and allowing her to eat whatever she wanted for dinner so that Emma never had a chance to be bored or unhappy. By making these accommodations for the peace of the family, Judy was feeling emotionally exhausted. At one point, the clinician learned that Judy had mentioned that she wanted her daughter to have chicken for dinner but then made a separate dinner for her to avoid an outburst.

The therapist worked with Judy to implement the plan and empowered her to set limits, follow through on consequences, and stick to schedules. When the therapist talked about setting limits, Judy asked what that would look like. The therapist reinforced the concept that she, as the parent, should decide what dinner would be and that she should be firm in her expectations of her children. It seemed that Judy finally realized in that session what the clinician had meant by “setting limits” and in the next sessions appeared confident and reported that she was able to set and hold limits with Emma. Judy explained that it was as if a lightbulb had gone off for her.

After she had begun to set limits for Emma, there was about a two week period in which Emma acted out but Judy trusted the therapist’s recommendations and remained consistent in her limit-setting. The services the family received empowered Judy to create structure and change behavior. Their family reported that Emma’s unstable behaviors had decreased dramatically and that the therapy “made a huge impact on their family life.”

*Names changed to protect privacy.

The 2017 JF&CS Benefit

Mon, 06 Mar 2017 14:51:49 GMT

Posted by Wendy Wilsker

On Thursday night, more than 425 friends of JF&CS attended the 2017 Benefit at the Castle at Park Plaza for a memorable evening. Thanks to your support, JF&CS raised more than $750,000 as we celebrated the Power of Family and honored Ellie Svenson for her endless devotion, commitment, and contribution to the agency.

JF&CS is extremely grateful to event co-chairs Alison Wachtler Braunstein & Barry Braunstein and Jamie Grossman & Bob Kinder as well as the Benefit event committee for all their hard work. We would also like to thank Governor Charlie Baker and his wife, Lauren, for sharing such inspiring words of support for our agency.

Thank you for helping us make an impact.

Wendy Wilsker is the Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement. Throughout her life, her Jewish identity has been deeply entwined with tikkun olam and tzedekah. She began her career in development at Combined Jewish Philanthropies and has led development at the American Jewish Committee, the Rashi School, and Lahey Clinic. Prior to joining JF&CS, she served as a consultant and executive recruiter to local and national nonprofit organizations.

Homeless No More

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 15:45:56 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Bob* had been a member of a temple on the North Shore when, through a series of events, he found himself homeless this summer. Members of his congregation had been paying for Bob to stay at local hotels while other members had put him up in their own homes for a few nights. He also stayed with friends from time to time but none of these offered any long-term solution to the problem Bob was facing. The rabbi saw that Bob’s immediate needs were becoming too great for the temple community and suggested to Bob that he contact JF&CS.

Together, Bob and JF&CS care manager Mary worked on applications for low-income housing but the situation progressed slowly. Mary convinced Bob to stay in a local homeless shelter until they could find a more permanent solution but there were no beds available. The situation was becoming desperate. Bob hinted that he was staying at Kinko’s – a copy center that was open 24 hours. Mary contacted a former professor who was also Board President of the Lifebridge Shelter in Salem. The professor was able to arrange an immediate place for Bob at the shelter.

With his short-term housing needs met, Mary worked to find him a subsidized apartment. Although there was a good chance of finding a subsidized apartment in Hudson, nearly 60 miles away, she worried that he would be too far from the community that was so important to him. She had heard about a subsidized building in Peabody that was going through their waiting list quickly. Not only was it closer to where Bob wanted to be, it was a building with an older adult population that had a visiting nurse once a week, as well as programming for its elderly residents. Against all odds, the timing for a vacancy was just right and Bob was offered an apartment there. He moved in on November 1.

JF&CS connected Bob with our partner organizations such as Yad Chessed, which helps local Jewish individuals and families facing economic distress, and Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, which has a free furniture bank for formerly homeless people like Bob. Together, JF&CS and these organizations were able to not only provide free furniture for Bob but also pay for the expenses involved in moving those furnishings into Bob’s new home.

“The transition from homelessness can be difficult,” says Mary. “But Bob is doing well. He’s very grateful and happy to be where he is. He is right in the center of Peabody. He can get to stores, his doctors, his synagogue, and has access to public transportation.

“I work closely with many clients to find subsidized housing and it’s often a frustrating process given the long waiting lists. It was such a thrill to get Bob into housing so quickly, especially since he was homeless and moving daily between couches and shelters. I really believe that housing has to come first to stabilize clients and allow them to get needed supports to move forward with their lives.

“Bob is an example of good teamwork between programs at JF&CS and our partner organizations like CJP SeniorDirect and Yad Chessed, which all played a role in helping Bob overcome homelessness and remain grounded in his own familiar community.”

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Thank You for Your Service, Stacie Fredriksson

Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:15:30 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“I remember the first time I put on my uniform and how good it felt. Serving in the Air Force was very important to me,” says Stacie Fredriksson, JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder Program Manager. “23 years went by very quickly and, for me, retiring from the military is bittersweet. You grow a lot over 23 years.”

November 1, 2016 was Stacie’s last day of service in the Air Force Reserves. She started her military career in her college Air Force ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps). “I joined because I knew I wanted to do government service with a focus on international relations, thinking eventually I’d work at the State Department,” she explains. “I did not come from a military family so it was all new to me. The first couple years in ROTC were a little rough, learning new military standards, getting physically fit, and figuring it all out but I stuck it out.”

Commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in May 1993, Stacie served 14 years on active duty moving from training in Texas, to Nevada, Florida, California, and Colorado, including a deployment to Kuwait along the way. Having met her husband while they were both serving in active duty, they moved here when he was transferred to Hanscom Air Force Base. At that point, Stacie transferred to the Reserves. When her husband retired from active duty, they stayed on in Massachusetts.

For the last nine years, Stacie served in the Reserves part-time. Her unit was located at Fort Meade, Maryland, where she would spend two to three days per month plus a full two-week period each year. Admittedly, it was challenging after she had kids but with the support of her husband, they managed to make it work. As her kids got older and life became more complex, she considered retiring.

Moving to the Reserves allowed Stacie to also consider other career opportunities. “I made a conscious decision when I moved into the Reserves from active duty that I wanted to do something that was still service-related and that I wanted to give back,” says Stacie. Stacie spent her first six years working for an early literacy organization managing military programs at more than 70 military bases worldwide. Looking for a new opportunity, someone sent Stacie a job listing for the JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder program. “From the moment I met with JF&CS staff, I knew it would be a perfect fit.”

“The life experiences I’ve had allow me to have a compassion for our military and veterans and their families. It’s so much easier to talk to someone who has been through the same thing. I’m very blessed to have found a position where I can still work with this population. I’m grateful that I’m able to do the work that I do and that I can work here part-time so I can also focus on my own family.

“The word ‘family’ is part of the name of JF&CS and I’m thrilled that JF&CS is so committed to serving not only families but military families.”

Upon her retirement, Stacie received a letter of thanks from the Air Force, along with a flag framed in a shadow box with her service dates noted on it. Her husband had the flag flown in California, Colorado, and Maryland commemorating the last few locations she served. “I want my kids to know I served,” she says. “I think it’s an important part of who I have become over the last 23 years. I want them to come to know the importance of service (military or otherwise), honor, and sacrifice."

Please join JF&CS in congratulating Stacie on her military retirement and thanking her for her 23 years of service.

Partnering with Mark’s Moving & Storage

Wed, 22 Feb 2017 11:31:49 GMT

Posted by Christine Guarino

JF&CS is excited to announce a new corporate partnership that will benefit many of our clients. Mark’s Moving & Storage in Westborough, Massachusetts is generously donating moving services for low income JF&CS clients in 2017.

Through our Emergency Financial Assistance (EFA), JF&CS provides support to families in need. One of the most frequent needs among low income clients is help covering the cost of moving. In 2016, JF&CS provided moving assistance to 22 clients. Examples of this assistance include moving clients from a homeless shelter to permanent housing, helping a survivor of domestic abuse and her children move to a home away from the abuser, and assisting a family move into more affordable housing.

In 2017, thanks to the support we will receive from Mark’s Moving, we will be able to make the emergency financial assistance funds go even further. This support will make a huge difference to the families we serve and help us to achieve our goal of bringing our clients from crisis to stability.

“We are thankful for this incredible donation from Mark’s Moving & Storage Inc.,” shared our CEO Rimma Zelfand. “Moving costs can be a significant expense. With the help of Mark’s Moving we will be able to serve more clients in more profound ways."

We are so grateful to Mark’s Moving and Storage and we look forward to the vital assistance they will provide to JF&CS clients in the coming year.

Christine Guarino is the Director of Foundation & Corporate Relations at JF&CS. As part of her position, she works to expand corporate philanthropy and create opportunities for the agency to become engaged with local and national corporations. Prior to her work at JF&CS, Christine worked as an executive recruiter for development positions in nonprofit organizations and in corporate and foundation fundraising for The Guidance Center in Cambridge.

Message from our CEO Rimma Zelfand

Thu, 16 Feb 2017 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

As CEO of Jewish Family & Children’s Service, I have the privilege of meeting with lots of people. Often, I meet with someone who knows very little about our agency. Yet sometimes I spend time with people whose families have been connected to JF&CS for generations. No matter who I am with, people tell me that they are surprised that we do so much. As a relatively small human service agency, it is surprising to many people that we serve more than 17,000 individuals each year. It is surprising that we serve Jews and non-Jews. It is surprising that we serve people in low-income areas and that some of our clients live in Weston, Wellesley, and Worcester county. Many people are surprised that we serve military families and that we have a program that supports newborns exposed to substances and their moms, either in recovery or dealing with addiction. One board member recently told me, “This is not your father’s JF&CS.”

What I hear most often is “How do you do everything you do?” I am very proud that today JF&CS is a leading provider of comprehensive services that helps individuals literally from birth to death. We are able to do so much because our program areas do not work in isolation and instead work in constant collaboration. Let me illustrate this point:

When Kathy (name changed to protect privacy) came to us after suffering a debilitating stroke, she needed financial assistance and a safe place to live. A JF&CS case manager secured initial benefits for Kathy that included cash and food assistance as well as desperately-needed health insurance. With further help from JF&CS, she was approved for social security (SSDI) benefits, which provided her with a monthly income and triggered her eligibility for Medicare. JF&CS helped Kathy find a subsidized apartment in a building with on-site supports for her, including access to a social worker.

JF&CS staff came together to secure a personal care attendant to help Kathy with daily activities like grocery shopping, bathing, meal preparation, and housework. With her immediate needs met, Kathy and her caseworker met regularly to discuss financial literacy to ensure that she would not run out of money before the end of each month. They secured additional health support for Kathy, including a nurse care manager, an in-home therapist, a home health aide, and finally, a long-term support coordinator. Thanks to JF&CS, Kathy is now living comfortably and safely on her own. She reports to us that the agency has had a “profound impact” on her life and she is amazed that after entering through the front door of JF&CS, so many other doors were opened for her.

This client’s story is not unique. Almost every day I learn about the many ways our clinicians, social workers, and even our administrative team work in partnership to achieve the greatest impact for our clients to improve their lives. I like to think that for every client we serve, we do not just give them a hand-out; we give them a hand-up.

And we do not work in isolation. As one of the lead agencies in the Anti-Poverty Initiative, supported by Combined Jewish Philanthropies, we are able to easily connect clients to services outside our purview like Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters and JVS. We work closely with other agencies like the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, Boston Medical Center, and the Greater Boston Food Bank.

Perhaps you are not surprised by what I have shared, but if you are, I’d like to share more with you. I’d like to personally invite you to visit our website to learn more about JF&CS. I am certain that you will find something of interest to you – whether it’s a service that can provide support to you, a friend, or a family member. If you are interested in volunteering, we have many ways for you to join us in improving the lives of others. I hope that as the holiday season draws near you will also consider including JF&CS among the charities you support. I am proud that we have received a Gold Star rating from GuideStar, ensuring that your philanthropic support is providing direct assistance to our clients.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Jewish Family & Children’s Service.

A Loving Touch

Tue, 14 Feb 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Peggy Kaufman

On February 14, many of us are pondering: Flowers? Cards? Chocolate? Jewelry? How do I share my emotions on this day of expressing feelings?

Last month I read a piece in the New York Times weekend edition Modern Love about the power of touch and the central, fundamental aspect of touch to the human experience. When we think about it, many of us, even those in loving relationships and loving friendships, may feel deprived of the simplicity of touch: a warm hand on our face, our arm, our back, or holding a hand just to hold a hand. A gentle touch from someone close, a reassuring squeeze of the hand, or an ‘I see you’ message can strengthen connections, heal, communicate, influence, and soothe.

When it’s from the right person in the right context, we rarely have to guess the words – the words become irrelevant anyway. Instantly we can feel closer, calmer, and more understood. Less than one second of safe, interpersonal touch can influence health and behavior in remarkable ways.

Our science has taught us many things about the influence of touch, among them that newborns who are given nurturing touch grow faster and have more improved mental and motor skill development, children raised with more positive physical interaction tended to be less aggressive and violent, partners who cuddle have been shown to have lower stress and blood pressure levels and improved immune function. and older adults who receive the soothing, affirming experience of touch have been shown to better handle the process of aging.

So this Valentine’s Day whether you choose the card, the flowers, the chocolate, or the jewelry, you may want to add a loving touch. In fact, you may want to add a loving touch the other 364 days of the year as well.

Peggy H. Kaufman, MEd, LICSW is the founding director of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support. With a background in perinatal emotional health and the growth and development of parents, her interests include the earliest relationships. Ms. Kaufman is the recipient of multiple awards for her groundbreaking programs and her commitment to increase awareness of postpartum depression and maternal and infant mental health.

Serving Up Healthy Choices

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

How do you eat well?
This seemingly simple question can be a challenge for everyone, including people with developmental or intellectual disabilities, such as 30-year-old Rohan Das. Eight years ago, Rohan, who has Down syndrome, moved into JF&CS Supported Housing and has been living in his own apartment with a roommate, working at a job, and enjoying a fulfilling volunteer schedule. Yet Rohan’s parents, Sunitha Das and Das Narayandas of Newton, have had an ongoing concern that is shared by many parents of people with developmental and intellectual disabilities who live independently – how best to help him maintain healthy eating habits. “One of the biggest challenges when he moved is just planning everyday meals,” said Sunitha.

“Close to 150 people with a variety of developmental and intellectual disabilities are participants of the JF&CS Supported Housing program and meals are a constant challenge,” said Sara Freedman, Associate Division Director, Programs, Services for People with Disabilities.

A new joint venture between two JF&CS programs, Hunger and Nutrition and Supported Housing, will promote healthy households.

“Making meals easier for staff and exciting for residents will ultimately make a positive impact on health and well-being,” said Sara.

The program will be piloted in several residences this fall, providing intensive training for housing staff on a full slate of healthy eating touch points including grocery shopping, food preparation, menu planning, and easy recipes, all with the goal of helping to create and maintain a healthy communal food culture. “We will be working closely with residential staff members who support the clients so that the food environment promotes health,” said Alison Kaufman, Director of JF&CS Hunger and Nutrition and one of two registered dietitians on staff.

According to Alison, there are a number of health concerns that become exacerbated when living away from home for the first time and making one’s own food choices, all while there is easier access to fast food. In addition to the common struggle to refrain from consuming large quantities of food, people with developmental and intellectual disabilities often have high rates of diabetes and obesity and certain populations have specific food-related challenges. “With autism, there may be limited palettes, strong aversions to unfamiliar food, and food selectivity issues,” explained Alison. “Those with Down syndrome may have issues with low muscle tone and may have trouble maintaining a healthy weight because it is harder to be physically active.”

Research shows that leadership from registered dietitians can have a strong impact on the health of people who live in residences, although continuity can be a challenge. “What is special and exciting about this program is that it will be a permanent component of the housing program, and there will be a regular presence at the households,” said Alison. “While food prep is taking place, we can provide coaching and motivational activities for the residents. If they have never tried to chop broccoli, we will show them how and they will be more invested in trying if they are involved in making an actual dish. We will be building relationships with staff and residents to help keep them on track.”

The close involvement of staff will allow food to be individually tailored to residents and residences. Nursing staff will be able to track health outcomes such as cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure.

“One of the most exciting parts of this program is that we will be able to affect change across the whole program,” said Alison. “Everybody deserves the chance to be healthy.”

Sunitha and Das, whose generous donation is supporting these efforts, are thrilled that the program is attempting to make an important difference by helping Rohan and other residents plan for meals, learn to budget, and make good choices about food variety, quantities, and portion sizes in order to be healthy for the long run. Additional funding would allow us to bring this program to all of our residences.

“Our son is going to be a direct beneficiary but it is so much larger,” said Sunitha. “It will be a dream come true for all the residents.”

Tips for Healthy Eating

These tips for healthy eating from JF&CS Director of Hunger and Nutrition Alison Kaufman are among the strategies that will be incorporated in the new program:

Whole grain crackers and banana smeared with peanut butter, berries with plain yogurt and crushed pecans, or cut vegetables and whole wheat pita with hummus are snack ideas that are nutritious and satisfying. By pairing a fruit or vegetable with a whole grain and a lean protein, snacks will keep you fueled longer because fruit and vegetables fill you up, whole grains give your body the energy you need right now, and protein keeps you feeling satisfied longer.
Reducing food waste can help pad your food budget. Dedicating a visible space on a refrigerator shelf for items that need to be used keeps items that are near expiration within view, reminding you to use them as soon as possible in upcoming meals throughout the week. It can even help with meal planning, as you take stock of items you already have available and consider ways to use up food already in your refrigerator.

Find our recipes online.

Letter from Our Senior VP of Institutional Advancement

Tue, 07 Feb 2017 12:58:16 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

Posted by Wendy Wilsker

Have you seen “Improving Lives,” the newly named JF&CS Newsletter? When we considered an appropriate name for this publication, we wanted to highlight the essence of the JF&CS mission and the bottom line impact of philanthropic support. When it comes right down to it, every day, throughout every single one of our programs, we are improving the life of an individual and their family. You—our friends, our volunteers, our donors—are our partners in this work.

Often I am asked how we measure the impact of our programs and services. For social service agencies, understanding and reporting on outcomes are becoming increasingly important aspects of our work. More and more funders—including foundations; private donors; corporations; and national, state, and local governments— are requiring evaluation as part of funding agreements. So five years ago, JF&CS launched our Department of Evaluation and Learning (DEL). In collaboration with program staff and agency leadership, DEL supports performance measurement and monitoring of all JF&CS programs and engages in comprehensive program evaluations. These evaluation activities allow us to use a breadth of data to report on and improve our services.

JF&CS has led the way locally and nationally on methods for nonprofit measurement and evaluation. High-quality quantitative data is gathered via a customized cloud-based database, administered by DEL. However, quantitative analysis usually only tells part of the story. We also gather qualitative feedback from our clients so that we can better understand the increase in confidence a new mom feels as she creates a stronger emotional bond with her infant as a result of spending a year with her Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® volunteer. Music and dance ease the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and, after a qualitative interview project, we know that our clients feel both physically and emotionally uplifted after participating in our Tremble Clefs choral group and Parkinson’s dance class. Quite simply, whether we measure by numbers or words, we know that we are improving lives.

Not only do we improve the lives of our clients, but we also have evidence that we are improving the lives of our volunteers and philanthropists. Every time I meet a woman who has volunteered with the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program, I am told how she has become a better mom herself and how much she has grown from the experience of volunteering. Families often volunteer at Family Table to celebrate birthdays and other milestones. And it was with joy and tears in their eyes that Dale & Marilyn Okonow announced that they would make an additional philanthropic contribution to name the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program in memory of Dale’s beloved parents. Studies have shown that people who volunteer and give live longer and happier lives.

And so, it is with tremendous pride and gratitude for me to share that as a result of your generosity, we experienced a record fundraising year in fiscal year 2016! Thanks to you, we raised $6.6 million in cash and bequests and received an additional $1.2 million in new multi-year pledge commitments. On the pages that follow, you will learn how you have helped to improve the lives of our 17,000 clients and their families and how your support has made a significant difference.

Quite honestly, our work will never be done. Every month and each year, we learn of new communities in need, we adapt successful programs to support new demographics, and we develop new programs to help families in need. We rely on your generosity to support us in our goal of improving people’s lives. Thank you so much for your generosity.

They Would Represent Us

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 10:30:29 GMT

Posted by Elaine Aresty

In 1983, after many years of failed attempts at a pregnancy, we were eager to build our family through adoption. At that time, we were deemed ineligible for domestic adoptions and international adoptions were closed to us, either because of our different religious upbringings or our age (one of us was over 40).

After a short time of feeling defeated, we started pursuing other options. We heard of a program that helped birth mothers engage with potential adoptive families directly. This system of adoption became known as “identified adoption.” The amount of openness was determined by the adoptive parent(s) and the birth parents. Each adoption was unique.

Basically, we would provide the medical and financial support to the birth mother during the pregnancy. After the birth, the birth mother might allow us to adopt her baby. She was under no obligation to us and was free to change her mind at any time. Formal adoption papers were signed in compliance with the state the birth mother lived in, always after the birth.

To initiate this plan, a home study, legal oversight, and counseling needed to be done. The birth mother needed to understand all the options available to her. She needed to have counseling provided at our expense to be sure she was not being forced into giving up her baby and was aware of her options.

After much anxiety and time, we had the great fortune of locating a birth mother in a small town in Nebraska. Her goals were to find a stable and financially secure professional couple that lived out of state. She was adamant that her infant go directly into the arms of the adoptive couple. She did not want foster care for any amount of time. She was 16 and had denied being pregnant until her last trimester. Once we made contact with her, we had eight weeks until her due date.

Remember, this is 1983, in the earliest days of identified adoptions. At that time, traditional adoptions were done by an agency where a family completed a home study and the agency approved you to adopt a child. Then the agency “found” you a child and they made the match. Adoptive parents waited for an agency call that a baby had been born and would be placed with them.

With our identified adoption, we had made the match and had identified a birth mother ourselves. Now we needed an agency to come in at the end and approve us. We were turned away by every agency we applied to. Some agencies didn’t understand identified adoption and wouldn’t even talk to us.

The due date grew closer. At last, one phone call led us to JF&CS. The man we spoke with listened, asked questions, and called the Adoption Resources program attorney. As far as we knew they had not done this before.

The director called back. They would represent us and help us bring our long awaited child home.

Ten years of seeking, yearning, crying, and disappointment looked like it might be coming to a close. We began the JF&CS home study process. We hurriedly got legal background checks, fingerprints, and character references. We began rearranging our home, painting, and shopping for a car seat.

The social worker assigned to do our home study had a calm confidence and walked us through all the steps. The lawyers made sure we fulfilled all the legal requirements.

On November 30, 1983, our son David was born, healthy and beautiful. On December 5, 1983 we flew back to Boston with him and were greeted by friends and relatives carrying signs and balloons.

Four Actions in Four Weeks: Recognizing Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Wed, 01 Feb 2017 13:54:07 GMT

Posted by TeenSafe 2016-2017

February is often associated with hearts, flowers, and chocolate. But amidst all things Valentines, February is also Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, which serves as a reminder that relationships can be hard work. As members of TeenSafe, JF&CS Journey to Safety’s response to dating abuse in our community, we are committed to addressing and responding to this important issue. Here is a week by week guide suggesting ways you can join us this month and beyond.

Week 1: Get Informed

In order to effectively address the issue, it is important to have a strong understanding of what dating abuse is and how many people are affected by it.

Dating abuse is a repeated pattern of behavior that the abuser uses to gain and maintain control over a partner.
Categories of abuse:
- Physical
- Emotional/verbal
- Sexual
- Educational/financial
- Cultural/identity
One in three teens in the US is a victim of abuse from a dating partner with teen violence affecting one and a half million teens every year.

Week 2: Raise Awareness

Consider joining TeenSafe and becoming an ambassador in the community.
Bring a TeenSafe workshop to your community.
Wear orange on February 14 as part of the annual #Orange4Love campaign for Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
Watch and share videos to spread the message that love should be safe.
Use #teenDVmonth,#loveisrespect and #lovshouldbesafe to share what love and respect mean to you on social media.
Learn more through the Respect Week Guide.

Week 3: Learn to Respond

Prevention and intervention occur at the same time so we also need to focus on responding if we see abuse happening. If you are concerned about a friend who is experiencing controlling behaviors in their relationship, here are some ways to respond:

Believe your friend’s story. Actively listen to their concerns and experiences without judgement.
Make sure they are safe.
Let them know they don’t deserve to be abused.
Ask them questions to help them think about the problem. Don’t make assumptions.
- Why do you think they get so jealous?
- Do they make you feel good about yourself?
- Are you afraid of them?
Support them in thinking through their options. Acknowledge where they are in their process. Ask them what they feel comfortable with and how you can help. Stay? Leave? Talk to their partner? Get professional advice?
Do not make decisions for them. They’re the experts on their situation. Support them in their own decision.
Help them think of supportive adults to talk to and connect them to resources.
- National Teen Dating Abuse Hotline: 866-331- 9474
- Journey to Safety: 781-647- JFCS (5327)
- Love Is Respect
- TeenSafe

It’s also our responsibility to respond to the person who is controlling or abusing their partner. Make sure to first determine if this would be a safe conversation to have. If so, this can be done directly with the following steps:

Let them know their behavior is not okay. Use clear examples of their action(s).
Ask them questions to make them think about their actions.
- Why did the incident happen?
- What did you want to happen?
- How do you think your behavior makes your partner feels?
- Can you think of a respectful way to handle the situation?
Let them know that they have the ability to control their responses to anger, frustration, and pain. Help them think of ways they can react differently.
Help them see the impact of their actions.
Support them in getting help and trying to change.
Guide them to community resources.

Responding does not have to be direct. Another way to help is to talk to trusted adults about your concerns and have them reach out. Either way, be an upstander, not a bystander. Stand up against abuse.

Week 4: Establish Healthy Expectations in Relationships

Understand the aspects of healthy relationships and maintain them in your life:

Identify the healthy traits you want in your relationship.
Establish relationship expectations with your partner that you both agree on
Maintain ongoing communication with your partner to continue to nurture the healthy traits within the relationship. You can use these relationship check-up questions as a resource or come up with your own.

By following one action each week, you can join us in our efforts to prevent dating abuse and maintain healthy relationships among teens. Thank you!

JF&CS Business Advisory Committee

Thu, 26 Jan 2017 15:30:26 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

Day programs work to increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and to ensure that individuals with disabilities are prepared to achieve success in the workplace. This work is only possible with strong business partnerships and a shared vision within the community. The JF&CS Business Advisory Committee was created to offer a forum where local business leaders can come together to discuss the opportunities and challenges surrounding employment for individuals with disabilities. Our goal is to gather feedback and promote discussion with local businesses so that we can tailor our services to best meet the needs of prospective employers. Committee members serve as ambassadors for our work within the community. This is also an opportunity for the business community to learn more about JF&CS and opportunities for engagement with our agency.

“As a member of the JF&CS Business Advisory Committee, I have the opportunity to meet colleagues from a range of industries and discuss the best ways to promote employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. I am happy to be able to offer feedback and ideas to JF&CS staff members on how to increase connections with potential employers. I enjoy participating in this forum and helping advance a cause that I care about.” -Paul Gershkowitz, Berkshire Bank

The committee meets quarterly over breakfast at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham. We are always looking for new members. For more information or to get involved, please contact Christine Guarino, Director of Foundation and Corporate Relations, at cguarino@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-1366.

JF&CS Café Hakalah Comes to the North Shore

Tue, 24 Jan 2017 14:57:28 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

When Shari Cashman of Marblehead saw the success of Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS) Café Hakalah at Congregation Kehillath Israel in Brookline, she thought the North Shore would benefit from a Café for its own community of Holocaust survivors and victims of Nazi persecution. A co-chair of the JF&CS North Shore Advisory Committee, along with husband Robert Cashman, Shari had already been volunteering with friends at the monthly Café Hakalah in Brookline. She knew that the program could be vital to elderly survivors on the North Shore – survivors isolated from the community with few, if any, resources – so she and friend Maria Samiljan spearheaded an effort to bring the Café to the North Shore.

Café Hakalah began in Brookline in 2007 as a social gathering for Holocaust survivors and victims of Nazi persecution. Held once a month, the program offers survivors a reason to leave their homes, giving them an opportunity to talk and make meaningful connections with other survivors in an environment that fosters intellectual and cultural enrichment. The name “Hakalah” means “relief” or “the easing of a burden” in Hebrew.

The Café brings a variety of performers, from internationally-recognized Klezmer musicians to local harpist Ruth Maffa (a Senior Development Officer at JF&CS), who provide entertainment with a Jewish theme. Volunteers like Cashman provide snacks and even transportation. They eagerly and cheerfully greet attendees, offer coffee and snacks, talk with them, and help introduce them to other attendees.

In their mission to bring the café to the North Shore, Cashman, a Vice President of the board of the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore (JCC), and Samiljan met with Marsha Frankel, JF&CS Clinical Director of Services for Older Adults, to come up with a plan. Together, they set up meetings with Marty Schneer, the Executive Director of the JCC. The JCC community was thrilled to help out in any way they could, providing the Café with a beautiful meeting room with an ocean view free of charge, as well as a dedicated staff to set up and clean up.

“It’s a great partnership,” says Cashman. “I’m so excited about being able to bring both agencies together seamlessly under one roof. For years, my family and I have been attracted to JF&CS because of the breadth of work they do and how they touch so many people’s lives in such a pertinent way.”

A grant from the Jewish Federations of North America covers most of the costs of the North Shore café, with the remainder funded through philanthropic donations. At each Café, services are available to address any challenges the participants might be experiencing. By having a caseworker at every Café, survivors get to know her and feel comfortable reaching out to her for any assistance they might require, from applying for reparations, to dental care, to referrals to JF&CS Family Table (New England’s largest kosher food pantry), to community resources such as state-funded services, home care, emergency assistance, or assistance with a myriad of other unmet needs. The caseworker is also trained to spot any signs of medical or mental health issues that might be affecting a participant, who as a survivor might be prone to depression or post-traumatic stress issues. “They trust the JF&CS caseworker. Trust can be a huge issue for survivors and they adore the JF&CS staff members,” remarks Cashman.

In-Home Services for Children & Adolescents: A Work in Progress

Thu, 19 Jan 2017 13:52:58 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

All children misbehave. They hit, scream, and shout, even if they don’t have any diagnosable condition. But what happens when a child has also been identified as having autism spectrum disorder, behavioral diagnoses, substance use issues, depression, and/or other mood disorders? In these situations, where can families find the extra support they need?

JF&CS In-Home Services for Children & Adolescents addresses these issues by helping children and families learn new ways to communicate their needs, deescalate frustration or stress, and increase their knowledge of their child’s symptoms and diagnoses to understand healthy, safe, and acceptable behavior. We offer three programs to assist youth (ages three to 20) and their families with their behavioral needs. Employing an individualized, strengths-based, and person-centered approach, these unique programs are offered in the home or wherever the child and family would feel most comfortable, such as in a school or community center.

Gerald: A Work in Progress

Gerald is a 17-year-old who has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and an unspecified depressive disorder.

Gerald obsesses about his nose – specifically that it will grow bigger as a result of certain actions, such as smiling, eating chewy foods, wearing his eyeglasses, exercising, and deep breathing. He frequently checks the mirror to reassure himself that his nose has not become enlarged.

Gerald missed close to 30 days of school last year. When stressed, he would frequently call or text his mother to see if she could pick him up early from school. When he grew particularly fearful, he would spend time with the school speech language pathologist. His anxiety prevented him from participating in sports and other activities during the school year.

A JF&CS In-Home Therapist worked with Gerald in an exposure therapy program. They created a hierarchy of symptoms, thoughts, and fears, which they frequently revised. The goal was not only to decrease his anxiety but also to educate his family regarding his obsessive compulsive behaviors and rituals and make them a part of his long-term treatment plan. They set boundaries so that Gerald would have to limit the number of times he would call or text his mother and his therapist when he felt stressed, anxious, or wanted reassurance that his nose had not grown.

Soon, Gerald worked with the In-Home Therapist to create an exercise program. He started slowly walking around the house and gradually increased the duration and speed of the walking. During one session, Gerald’s 10-year-old sister watched from the family’s front porch, cheering him on and giving him a medal when he was finished. With encouragement from the JF&CS In-Home Therapist and his family, Gerald recently was able to jog half a mile in his neighborhood. This was quite an accomplishment for someone who just months before would not exercise at all.

Recently, on his doctor’s recommendation, Gerald was admitted to McLean Hospital’s OCD Children & Adolescent program. The JF&CS In-Home Therapy team thought that Gerald would benefit from the intensive therapeutic services offered by the program. After three months, Gerald will return home and resume services with JF&CS. Gerald’s family is grateful for the remarkable improvement they have witnessed in Gerald’s behavior and for all the resources that were brought to their attention by JF&CS In-Home Services.

In-Home Services for Children & Adolescents: We’ll Come to You

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 14:57:37 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

Ashton: Structure, Consistency, Connection, and Success

Ashton, a five-year-old boy diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, is non-verbal and was often physically aggressive before his first visit from a JF&CS In-Home Services therapist. He was living with his non-biological father, Donnie, who received disability payments and was mostly homebound. Donnie knew he needed to take action. Ashton had no rules, structure, or consistency in his life and it was not uncommon for Ashton to go without sleep for up to 20 hours. He rarely had consistent meal or bed times and he did not have a primary care physician.

JF&CS arranged for an In-Home Therapist to visit Ashton at home. Together with Donnie, they worked to build a trusting rapport. Soon, Ashton began to increase his eye contact and connect more during play-based therapy. At one session, Ashton’s therapist taught him how to sign for “more.” Donnie was overjoyed with the connection he felt when Ashton signed “more” to him. Over time, Ashton learned more signs and started to engage more frequently with both Donnie and the therapist.

In time, Ashton’s therapist referred him to JF&CS Autism Navigation, an integrated, coordinated approach to the care of children with autism spectrum disorder. During an intake home visit, it was discovered that Ashton, although five years old, was not enrolled in any school system for kindergarten, nor had he attended any preschool. An Autism Navigation staff member contacted the Special Education director of the local school system for evaluation, after which it was decided that Ashton would benefit most from an out-of-district placement into a program with a small class size better suited for his needs. He is currently on a waitlist for evaluation at Children’s Hospital and any decision on a school program will be made afterwards.

Donnie gave JF&CS his trust to help provide the most appropriate services for Ashton. He is thrilled with Ashton’s progress and credits the caring professionalism of his JF&CS team and the wide range of networks available at and through JF&CS for his success.

Adding Blessings at the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 10:00:14 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller, z"l*, knew what it was like to live with health challenges. Treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma during her teen years left her prone to chronic medical issues as an adult. Her experience deepened her compassion for others, eventually drawing her to JF&CS first as a client of Jewish Healing Connections’ spiritual support group for people living with serious illness and people caring for others, and then as a longtime supporter.

After Betty Ann passed in August 2015, her husband of 35 years, Daniel Miller of Weston, honored her meaningful relationship with JF&CS with a generous gift and the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing was named in her memory. The newly named center was formally dedicated before a crowd of 80 people on September 27, 2016, the 18th anniversary of Jewish Healing Connections.

According to Founder and Director Marjorie U. Sokoll, the mission of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing is to help people feel a sense of connection when facing the challenges of illness, loss, or isolation by offering spiritual and communal supports to foster hope, comfort, and wholeness guided by Jewish tradition. It is the only comprehensive program to address these needs in Greater Boston.

“Betty Ann saw firsthand the impact of isolation and vulnerability when she was being treated,” said Miller, adding that it shaped her early life and then again as an adult with a chronic illness. After her positive experience with a spiritual support group at Jewish Healing Connections, she joined the Advisory Council and became very involved, lending her voice as someone living with chronic illness.

The Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing answers a heartfelt plea from Betty Ann’s poem “My God! Our God!” found in the program’s “Jewish Prayers, Psalms, and Readings”:

“Would You continue to bless me with Community who
pray for me, care for me and celebrate life with me?
Could You please add to my blessings?”

“Her interest was very personal,” Miller said, adding that it was an easy decision to support the program that has been developed over the years. “It is something that Betty Ann would be very proud of. The fact that her name is associated with the program is meaningful and important but really the work that Marjie and the team do is the most important thing. And that’s why I was happy to support it.”

“In her memory, the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing will continue to serve those who might otherwise not be served,” said Sokoll. “Betty Ann taught me so much by graciously sharing her personal experience of living with illness and I am so pleased that this program will bear her name through the generosity of her husband, Dan. Because of his support, her essence of kindness and compassion and commitment for those who are isolated and alone will continue."

*of blessed memory

Gary and Marlene Perkins: “We Get Back as Much as We Give”

Tue, 10 Jan 2017 15:48:21 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

“We try to look each year where we can help in ways that are important and meaningful for us and for the community,” explained Gary Perkins. “When we could, we gave financially or when we couldn’t early on, we tried to give our time.”

Earlier this year, Gary and his wife Marlene demonstrated their commitment to JF&CS by making a multi-year philanthropic gift to the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS). “This was the perfect opportunity not only for them, but also for us,” he adds. “We realized how important the program was and how important it was to Marlene personally.”

Marlene’s devotion to CERS is unmistakable. “I was a Visiting Mom volunteer with JF&CS for ten years,” said Marlene enthusiastically. “I loved doing it and I think the program does so much good for new moms in our community. It also helped my own personal growth as a mother and a grandmother and as an active listener in life.”

Marlene originally became involved with JF&CS when her children had finished high school. She was done with PTO meetings, school volunteerism, and all the other activities she had done to support her children’s growth. One day, her daughter asked her what she was going to do now that she and her brother were out of the house. Marlene replied, “Anything I want!” and adds that she knew it was her “Aha moment.”

A friend who was volunteering with the program told her about Visiting Moms. Marlene was intrigued. “I love being a mom, I loved raising my kids and being home with them, and I thought I had done a pretty good job with them,” she quips.

She looked into the program and soon Marlene was participating in training to become a Visiting Mom. Unfortunately, during her training, both Marlene’s mother and son fell ill and she had to devote enormous time and energy to their needs. Her mother asked if perhaps the Visiting Moms training might be too much, in addition to taking care of her family at that time. “Out of everything I’m doing right now,” replied Marlene, “this is the only thing I’m doing for me” and she stuck with the program.

“In the beginning, I remember thinking ‘Is there really a need for this? I raised my kids without it.’ Then I was surprised by how great the need is for a myriad of reasons. Moms need support more today because there is more pressure and more information that they don’t know how to process. To have someone offer unconditional support and non-judgmental listening is key.”

After volunteering as a Visiting Mom for more than 10 years, circumstances in Marlene’s life had changed. Gary had retired as CEO of Perkins Paper, Inc., a family-owned business, and the couple found themselves traveling more, especially to Israel, where their son and his family had moved. Marlene felt that she could no longer give 100 percent to the program and felt she had to retire from it. “I hated to give it up,” she says wistfully. “But we’re lucky enough to be able to give to the program in a financial way.”

Gary explains that both he and Marlene inherited their devotion to philanthropy from their parents and how they were each brought up. “Philanthropy was very important to our families and it was instilled in us. We felt it was important to teach our kids to do the same,” he adds.

Sometimes a friendly face, adult conversation, and a chance to tell someone that you feel overwhelmed can make a world of difference. The Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program offers parents of newborns support and companionship during the challenging early months of life with a new baby. Trained volunteer Visiting Moms visit new moms at home to help them gain confidence in their new role as parents while providing non-judgmental listening and consistent support.

Survivor of Domestic Abuse Now Helping Other Victims

Thu, 05 Jan 2017 16:06:09 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

When Deborah*, a married mother of three young children, found a newsletter stuffed into her son’s backpack, she noticed an advertisement that read, “If you are a victim of domestic violence, there is help. Contact the Jewish Domestic Violence Coalition.” Stunned, but also empowered, she thought about contacting the organization. She thought she was the only person suffering in an abusive situation and didn’t realize that it happened to other Jewish women.

Deborah called the number and was connected with a Jewish and highly-trained therapist who eventually referred her to JF&CS Journey to Safety (JTS).

With the help and support she and her children received from JTS, Deborah was able to safely leave her husband and get a divorce. Eventually she met and married a loving and respectful man – and then went to law school to begin a new career with the intention of helping other women experiencing domestic abuse.

Deborah now has her own law practice focused on family law and representing victims of domestic abuse. Not only does she volunteer her time on the JF&CS Bet Tzedek pro bono legal panel but she also works closely with JTS and our new legal service funded through VOCA (see article below).

Through this program, Deborah is making an enormous difference in the lives of survivors of domestic abuse. “I am honored to be part of JF&CS Journey to Safety because it has very special meaning for me,” Deborah says. “I too was a victim of domestic abuse and JF&CS was there to help me and my children move forward with our lives. JF&CS also gave me the emotional and financial assistance I needed to deal with my husband’s abusive behavior during and after our divorce. I decided to help others going through this experience and I entered law school. The most gratifying part of my work now as a family law attorney is helping people become empowered by the legal system, not destroyed by it. I will always be grateful to JF&CS for the help they gave me and I appreciate the opportunity to give back to victims of domestic abuse through the Journey to Safety reduced-fee legal program.”

Did You Know?

Domestic abuse in the Jewish community happens at roughly the same rate as in the general population. It crosses demographic lines – geographic, denominational (Conservative, Reform, Orthodox, Reconstructionist, Humanist, etc.), cultural, and financial.

While the myth that domestic abuse doesn’t happen in the Jewish community might continue as an idealized cultural stereotype, the reality for some people in our community is quite different. Denial and silence allow abuse to continue and create barriers to survivors seeking help. Journey to Safety reaches out to the Jewish community with the goals of raising awareness and giving people the information they need to recognize abusive behavior and know how to respond if they see it.

VOCA renews funding of Journey to Safety

We are thrilled to announce that Journey to Safety, the JF&CS response to domestic abuse, has recently received a renewal of our VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) grant through the Office for Victims of Crime at the US Department of Justice.

Included in the renewal of the VOCA grant is a new project for survivors of domestic abuse to receive emergency civil legal services. This allows JTS to provide legal services to survivors who are not able to afford legal counsel but may earn too much to qualify for pro bono legal services. Participating attorneys have training or experience in domestic abuse cases and are paid an hourly fee of $55, funded directly through the VOCA grant. Under a limited representation model, victims of domestic abuse are now eligible for up to 20 hours of free legal services. Attorneys have access to a mentoring attorney if they need advice on legal issues. This type of legal work is highly specialized so offering a connection between the attorneys and JTS provides an opportunity to share resources and best practices.

"In our first year these funds have provided 22 survivors of domestic abuse with legal representation," Elizabeth Schön Vainer, JTS Director, notes. "Our VOCA-funded project engages passionate attorneys to equalize the legal landscape so that survivors of domestic abuse, who otherwise would not be able to afford an attorney, are effectively represented in what are potentially life altering emergency civil legal hearings."

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Bill and Ruth Weinstein: Leaving a Legacy

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 13:10:51 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

“We firmly believe in being prepared with an estate plan, especially as we get closer to the inevitability of our mortality,” says Bill Weinstein, JF&CS Board Treasurer. When he and wife Ruth were considering their estate plan, they knew they wanted the organizations they have helped during their lifetimes to continue to benefit after they were gone. “We knew there were a multitude of eventualities regarding our estate and we knew that it was important to address the future. Now, if the unthinkable happens, the charities that we support and care deeply about will still be covered.”

The Weinsteins recently made a generous legacy bequest to JF&CS and other charitable organizations. They are part of a growing trend in which younger families are crafting estate plans to include charities like JF&CS. “You can never be too young to address that,” remarks Ruth. “Obviously we hope it’s a long time before JF&CS and the other charities reap the benefit. It’s hard to think about, admittedly, but now we know that the institutions we love will be taken care of.”

“Our legacy of giving will still be felt after we’re gone. We now have great peace of mind,” adds Bill.

A founding partner and principal of the Ozer Group, which developed and specialized in a wide array of business units, including asset valuation, asset-based lending, and asset disposition, Bill has nearly 30 years in valuing, managing, acquiring, and selling businesses in challenging circumstances. His financial expertise and business acumen have taught him precisely what to look for in an investment.

“I can’t help but take a business approach as to how and where we spend our resources. I call it ‘venture philanthropy,’” Bill explains. “When it comes to our personal finances, I want to be able to get the best returns. We’ve made a conscious decision to employ our philanthropic resources similarly. That’s why we invest our time and our money in JF&CS.”

“What attracted me to getting involved with JF&CS?’ he asks. “It’s the wide breadth of services JF&CS offers. We very much like that JF&CS believes in the spirit of giving back to others rooted in Jewish tradition. We have a responsibility to serve the community at large and the agency’s efforts show that it is a leader in our community, without regard to ethnic, racial, or religious backgrounds. It’s a very open-minded organization.”

“I also get a very strong sense that the people who work at JF&CS go to bed thinking of more and better services to provide to people in need,” he adds. “As I became more involved here as a Board Member, I noticed the unwavering dedication that everyone has to the mission of JF&CS, from CEO Rimma Zelfand to the people who volunteer at JF&CS Family Table [New England’s largest kosher food pantry] with Ruth and our daughter, Emily. We feel comfortable spending our time here and know that the money we give is leveraged in the best possible way to make the most impact. It’s a recipe for success.”

“I love volunteering at Family Table,” Ruth remarks. “I get to actually see who is benefitting from the services. As a Jewish community, we have a responsibility to take a leadership role and support all members of the community, not just targeted recipients, and I see JF&CS doing just that.”

Bill and Ruth are also pleased to see how many departments at JF&CS are at the forefronts of their respective fields and also how many are involved in developing new and innovative programming. “JF&CS spots a need in the community and then it fulfills that need. It takes what it does best and then finds other populations that might benefit from the same type of service and expertise. It’s a forward and fast-moving way of thinking,” explains Ruth.

Bill notes, “What JF&CS does speaks to a good, smart approach to success and impact. It has the ability to look inward and recognize its own strengths and then play off those strengths to provide even more services that make lives better. This place ticks all the boxes for us.”

“I might not be here some day to help Family Table unload a delivery truck,” Ruth says and then smiles. “But maybe our bequest will continue to help those in need in some other way.”

Have you ever considered leaving a bequest to JF&CS through your estate plan? It’s never too soon to start thinking about the future and a philanthropic planned gift is the ultimate act of kindness and generosity.

In addition to helping others, a planned gift can benefit you in a number of ways, such as reducing estate and income taxes, providing additional income for you or your heirs, and helping you achieve your personal and charitable objectives. Once you have provided for loved ones in your will, you might consider a gift of money, property, or stock to JF&CS.

One of the simplest planned gift vehicles is a bequest through your will. If you have already prepared your will, you can add a simple codicil to include a gift to JF&CS while leaving the rest of the will unchanged. Your gift will be a lasting tribute to your support of our mission while helping to guarantee a strong, viable, and vibrant future for JF&CS.

For more information, please contact Wendy Wilsker, Senior VP of Institutional Advancement, at wwilsker@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5674.

Growing More Independent

Thu, 29 Dec 2016 10:15:15 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

Many of the clients we support have a goal to live independently. What this looks like for each individual varies, from the amount of support they receive to the number of housemates they have to where they prefer to live. JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities recognizes that living situations are not one size that fits all and, in response, we offer a variety of supported housing options. These options are available for potential new residents as well as for our current residents when they are ready to take the next step in their independent living.

Scott has lived independently for 18 years with support from JF&CS staff and his family. With diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder and depression, Scott needed general assistance managing a weekly schedule, the time he spent using technology, budgeting, and creating a full social schedule. He first moved out of his family home when he went to college at Westfield State where he earned a degree in liberal studies. After graduating, he moved into a two-bedroom JF&CS Supported Housing apartment in Brighton with a roommate. While living there, Scott learned many independent living skills with assistance from JF&CS staff and eventually moved out of supportive housing into his own apartment with help from his personal network.

After five years, Scott wanted to return to JF&CS supportive housing to continue working on independent living skills and to ensure his well-being and happiness. He moved back into the apartment complex where he had previously lived, this time with a new roommate. Although he benefited from and enjoyed the supports the apartment provided, after several years, he realized he wanted a change of pace and started looking at other JF&CS housing models.

Scott decided to move to Chase Street, a JF&CS supported house with thirteen other residents in Newton. “I really liked the community at Chase Street,” shared Scott. “A lot of the residents in my previous apartment complex did their own thing. But at Chase Street there are always people around interested in hanging out.” Scott has also found that he has a lot of common interests with his housemates, particularly about movies and video games. “I love to watch movies, go out to eat, bowl, and play cards with my housemates,” he said. Scott also enjoys the impromptu, casual social gatherings with his housemates and has kept in touch with a few of his friends from his apartment complex and spends time with them regularly.

Although living with thirteen housemates may seem like a lot, Scott says he feels like he’s part of a community at Chase Street: “I like that having my own room gives me privacy and the opportunity to do my own thing whenever I want but I enjoy helping plan the menu each week for our large group dinners and helping cook.” In addition to eating well, Scott likes the weekly group yoga classes and cooking group and feels like they help him lead a healthy lifestyle.

JF&CS staff also support Scott in working on self-identified goals. “I’m most proud of the skills I’ve gained in managing my money, sticking to a budget, and demonstrating impulse control.” Abby Newton, Director of Residential Services, has also noticed Scott’s growth: “In the five years I have been working with Scott, I have seen impressive growth in his ability to structure his free time, socialize with peers, manage his finances, and maintain vocational work. Scott’s tenacity and ability to reflect on his progress have helped him enhance his quality of life.”

Scott is just one example within our supportive housing models of the importance of choice and variety to support everyone’s unique needs. A fourteen bedroom house would not be the right fit for everyone but it has helped Scott continue to enhance his social life as he grows more independent.

JF&CS Supported Housing currently has openings in Scott’s house! Steps from Newton Centre, this beautiful home provides a variety of supports and amenities, including weekly professional house cleaning, daily group dinners, individualized resident support and training, a cooking club, and yoga classes. Many previous residents have transitioned from this home into a more independent setting with JF&CS follow-along supports, marking success for these folks and openings for others!

For those looking for supported housing in other communities, we also have residences with openings in Malden, Walpole, Norwood, and Brighton. These options include larger group settings (nine-fourteen individuals) such as Scott’s home as well as one- and two-bedroom apartments and smaller group settings (three-five individuals).

All Supported Housing clients are included in Jewish holiday celebrations and a monthly Shabbat dinner at JF&CS. Many residents also participate in Beyond B’nai Mitzvah, a warm and inclusive study group that has been meeting weekly for several years.

Visit the Supported Housing webpage for more information.

JF&CS Awarded $2 Million SAMHSA Grant

Tue, 27 Dec 2016 15:50:03 GMT

JF&CS News Winter 2016

We are proud to announce that Jewish Family & Children’s Service has been awarded a $2 million grant over five years from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) through their National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative in support of Early Connections/ Conexiones Tempranas (EC/CT), a project of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS). EC/CT is designed to address traumatic stress and build resilience in children birth to five, while reducing disparities in mental health access among marginalized populations, particularly Latino immigrant families living in Waltham, MA and nearby communities.

Very young children face disproportionate rates of trauma exposure; child welfare data identify infants and toddlers as the group at highest risk for serious maltreatment. For young children in immigrant families, the risks of trauma-exposure are compounded by high rates of poverty, discrimination, and the threat of immigration enforcement, placing them at high need for mental health treatment while facing barriers to seeking and obtaining appropriate services.

EC/CT is a multi-level project informed by scientific evidence that underscores the importance of intervening early in life to buffer and counter the effects of traumatic stress. At the direct-service level, EC/CT will treat 160 children over five years, offering Child-Parent Psychotherapy (an evidence-based practice designed for treating traumatic stress in very young children and their families), augmented by evidence-informed Circle of Security-Parenting groups to promote engagement and build interpersonal connections.

The work of EC/CT—both with clients and with the community—will be evaluated by researchers at Boston University School of Social Work. We are honored to be able to offer this service to those in need in our community thanks to this incredible grant.

Giving – An American Tradition

Thu, 22 Dec 2016 10:46:50 GMT

Posted by Wendy Wilsker

Earlier this month, I was in Washington, DC for a family event. Imagine my delight when I read about a new exhibit at the American History Museum about philanthropy! Giving in America is a permanent exhibit that looks at the historical role of philanthropy in shaping the United States. The exhibit showcases four major themes of American philanthropy centered on the questions of Who Gives? Why Do We Give? What Do We Give? and How Do We Give? and displays artifacts ranging from an alms box of the 1800s to a bucket used during the 2014-15 “ALS Ice Bucket Challenge,” which went viral on social media.

The exhibit featured copies of letters from individuals who have committed to participate in Warren Buffett’s Giving Pledge, as well as a fireman’s boot, which many people associate with tossing spare change into as a way of making a donation. The exhibit clearly demonstrates that no matter how much you give, where you give, or how you give – it matters and it is an American tradition.

According to a report released last June from Giving USA 2016: The Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2015, donations from America’s individuals, estates, foundations, and corporations reached an estimated $373.25 billion in 2015, setting a record for the second year in a row, up 4.1% from 2014. Clearly, Americans from coast to coast are seriously considering the difference they can make with their charitable dollars.

During this holiday season, I encourage you to have a conversation with your family – what bothers you, what inspires you, how you and your family make a difference. In my family, on one night of Chanukkah we make a donation to a favorite charity and on Christmas Day we deliver meals to homebound seniors in our town. These activities have become part of our holiday traditions. Consider some new traditions for your own family this holiday season.

With warm wishes for the holidays and a happy and healthy 2017!

IEP Clinic

Tue, 20 Dec 2016 11:20:37 GMT

Posted by Wendi Hutchinson

As mothers of children with autism, Joan Munnelly, Autism Navigator, and I know the importance of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and how to ensure that goals are measureable and that service delivery is appropriate. I can remember trying to find an advocate to help with my sons’ IEPs. It was not easy and it was very expensive.

This fall, Disability Lifespan Solutions (DLS) held an IEP clinic for families where we reviewed with parents their child’s most recent IEP, their most recent evaluations/reports, and specific concerns they have. Joan and I met with parents at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham for $25 per 50-minute session – much more affordable than the educational advocates we worked with when our children were younger!

As a parent, it is sometimes challenging to admit to your child’s school that you do not understand the content of the IEP. Our goal through this clinic was to clarify and explain what the IEPs actually say and let parents know what they can expect from the school in terms of service delivery and the set goals. Joan and I made suggestions on how to approach the school if the family had additional questions about their child’s IEP and we also let each family know how we can to help with any special education advocacy needs.

One family emailed me after our meeting to share, “Just wanted to thank you for the session on Thursday. It was interesting to get some additional suggestions from you both.”

I look forward to offering this clinic again in the spring and hope to be able to help more families.

Wendi Hutchinson has been in the field of developmental disabilities and mental health personally and professionally for ten years. Before coming to JF&CS, Wendi worked as a family partner through psychiatric emergency services. Prior to working in the human services field, Wendi attended Westfield State College where she graduated with a degree in early childhood education. Currently she works for JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities as the Director of Disability Lifespan Solutions and Autism Navigation. In Wendi’s free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and twins as well as friends and family.

Bringing Joy to Vulnerable Elders at Chanukkah

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 12:10:21 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“Just as Chanukkah candles are lighted one by one from a single flame, so the tale of the miracle is passed from one person to another, from one house to another, and to the whole House of Israel throughout the generations.” -- Rabbi Judah Leon Magnes

On December 11, 140 people, including JF&CS older adult clients, JF&CS staff, Advisory Council members, and volunteers, came together at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham for the 11th annual Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration. Guests were treated to a celebration that included potato latkes, chocolate Chanukkah gelt (coins), dreidels (spinning tops), traditional Chanukkah blessings, candle lighting, and a Yiddish musical performance. The event was planned and organized by Sue Spielman, Manager of the JF&CS Friendly Visitor Program. Seamlessly, Sue coordinated the rides for almost every single guest both to and from the celebration.

JF&CS CEO Rimma Zelfand started off the event with a warm welcome. Much to the delight of the Russian-speaking guests in the room, Rimma concluded her welcome remarks in her native Russian and the appreciation was striking and even audible. Guests ranged in age from a six-month-old baby who brought joy to the faces of the guests up to a 100-year-old guest who enjoyed a brief moment in the spotlight when the entire room sang “Happy Birthday” to her. It was heartwarming to see children, young families, and older adults all taking part in this intergenerational gathering. Volunteers from Temple Sinai in Brookline created beautiful Chanukkah-themed centerpieces and volunteer families from Temple Aliyah in Needham made gifts for each of the guests.

Among the guests was Claire Sherman, supporter of the holiday programs, who has attended the annual celebration for many years. This year, Claire brought her son Steve for the first time. We were also delighted to have Dan Miller join us for the first time since September’s “Evening of Dedication,” when Jewish Healing Connections was renamed the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing after his beloved late wife.

“For some of our guests, this Chanukkah Celebration, along with the Friendly Visitor Passover Seder, is the only opportunity they have to celebrate the Jewish holidays with others,” said Sue Spielman. “Many of our guests have no family or friends nearby. Many people who join us year after year have developed friendships with other guests and look forward all year to celebrating the Jewish holidays together with friends, both old and new.”

”It’s the only program we know of that brings vulnerable Jewish elders together in this way,” adds Marjie Sokoll, JF&CS Director of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing. “We started this program with just 25 people in attendance, half of whom were volunteers. Eleven years later, we have 140 people attending. Today, we even have an interpreter for our Russian-speaking Holocaust survivors. We are bringing friendship, celebration, and light through the generations to those in our community who might otherwise be alone for Chanukkah.”

The annual Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration is made possible through the generosity of the George and Beatrice Sherman Family Charitable Trust.

Coming Together to Help Others at Chanukkah

Wed, 14 Dec 2016 10:52:57 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Twenty adults with disabilities who live in JF&CS supported housing joined almost 50 Maimonides Lower School children and parents in Brookline on Sunday, December 4 for Maimonides’ fourth annual Yom Chesed, a community day of service. The event, which took place at the school, enabled the participants to work together to prepare more than 100 Chanukkah bags for clients who receive food from JF&CS Family Table, the largest kosher food pantry in New England.

Each bag contained Chanukkah candles, chocolate Chanukkah gelt, a blessing sheet for the holiday, and a colorful card handmade that day. The bags will be included in larger packages containing potato latke mix, applesauce, and frying oil especially for Chanukkah. Following the project, participants joined together for a delicious lunch.

Ten Maimonides families also went to work packing and delivering bags of non-perishables and perishables, including fresh produce, as part of the monthly Sunday Family Table distributions.

“It was heartwarming to see the two groups working in partnership together,” says Ava Harder, JF&CS Manager of Volunteer Services. “One of the children could not tie the ribbon on the top of the bag, so he handed it to one of the JF&CS residents for help. It was a nice opportunity for everyone to connect.”

“We are so pleased that the residents and Maimonides families came together to add a personalized festive touch to the Chanukkah bags our clients receive,” adds Lisa Katz, JF&CS Family Table Volunteer Coordinator. “These volunteers, including the Maimonides families that delivered groceries to our clients, fulfilled the Family Table mission to provide nutritious foods and spiritual sustenance. Their efforts and creativity will give our clients a personal miracle: the chance to enjoy the joy, light, and sweetness of Chanukkah.”

Ask the Expert: Andrea Siani and JF&CS Healthy Families

Thu, 08 Dec 2016 12:43:07 GMT

Shared by Andrea Siani

JF&CS Healthy Families is a voluntary and confidential home visiting program for first-time pregnant and/or parenting moms and dads age 20 and under. Home visits are provided weekly for the first six months of the baby’s life and then are adjusted to meet the family’s needs until the child turns three. Funded by a grant from the Children’s Trust, the program works with each young family to identify their strengths, set and achieve personal goals, explore child development topics and support positive parenting, and work towards becoming the parents they want to be.

What are the goals of the Healthy Families program?
The Healthy Families program has five main goals:

Prevent child abuse and neglect by supporting positive, effective parenting skills
Achieve optimal health, growth, and development in infancy and early childhood
Promote increased educational attainment, job, and life skills
Reduce repeat teen pregnancies, and
Promote optimal parental health and wellness.

Essentially, while building a trusting relationship, we help teen parents develop confidence and competence as young adults and young parents. We provide support groups, connections to resources in their communities, regular child development assessments, and information to support teen parents through the many challenges of parenting. We are able to provide services in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian to meet our families’ needs.

Who refers Healthy Families participants to you?
We make sure that our community partners know that we’re here and what services we offer so when they have a pregnant teen come to them, they are able to say, “I know of this supportive program that is specifically for young parents.” We receive our referrals from obstetricians, prenatal providers, pediatricians, high school guidance counselors, WIC (Women, Infants, & Children, a federally-funded nutrition program for families), hospital social workers, and sometimes through teens’ friends who have been pregnant and participated in the program. Healthy Families is a voluntary program and the young parents must agree to allow us to reach out to them once a referral is made. We understand that teens have more chance for success when they make the choice to accept help themselves.

What takes place in the first few meetings with a Healthy Families participant?
We are an intensive home visiting program. Ideally we meet wherever our young parent calls home but it could also be wherever they feel comfortable and safe, including shelters, friends’ homes, coffee shops, libraries, or at their high school. During the first meetings we get to know each other by explaining our program and the services we offer and learning about what support the young parent might need. Within the first few visits, our young parents and their advocates start to build a trusting relationship from which they can begin exploring the young parent’s goals and needs. These may include finding resources for housing, daycare, education, and jobs along with reading, playing, and getting outside with their baby. We create family goal plans that include manageable steps that can be taken to achieve those goals.

All of our young parents want to be good parents but some have no role models or guides. We can be there to explore what being a good parent might look like. We can help them sort through their questions: Why is it important to read to my baby? Why is it important to talk to my baby? How much does my baby need to eat?

Most importantly, we come to each home visit without judgement and ready to listen carefully and meet each teen parent where they are.

What makes JF&CS Healthy Families so unique?
We are located within the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS), which has always been at the forefront of understanding the needs of and supporting new parents. Healthy Families is a strength-based program, meaning when we work with families we don’t begin by looking for what’s wrong and how to fix it. Rather we look at what’s going right and how we can build on that. We provide child assessments at intervals throughout the three years that look at developmental milestones. We focus on what activities can be done to strengthen the child’s development both physically and emotionally, as well as the parent-child relationship. We emphasize the role of the parent as the child’s first teacher. We discuss ideas for addressing sleep issues, tantrums, feeding options and practices, potty training, discipline, and relationships. Often, we connect our young families to other JF&CS programs, including Family Table, New England’s largest kosher food pantry, Hunger and Nutrition, the Center for Basic Needs Assistance, and Journey to Safety, the JF&CS response to domestic abuse.

How did you get into this type of work?
I have worked supporting community health for my entire adult life. I started out as a high school science teacher focusing on health science and physiology. I’ve always loved working with adolescents and then I had three children of my own. While at home raising them I stayed involved in student health issues in my community. When my youngest child entered high school, this role came along that allowed me to work with adolescents, babies, and health. It was a perfect fit. We know that the first three years of a baby’s life are a crucial time of brain development and this is also true for the adolescent period. Our work allows us to provide support during both of these important stages of development. I feel lucky to have found this second career.

What is one of the most rewarding aspects of your job?
I have a wonderful and dedicated staff that inspires me daily with the compassion and thoughtfulness they bring to their work. Supporting them as the Director of Healthy Families is extremely rewarding. In addition, working with our young parents; it is an honor to be invited into their lives. The ability to provide support by just being present and offering the space for them to voice what they’re feeling and really listening is amazing in itself. Many of our young parents have not had their thoughts, hopes, and dreams ever validated. This support we provide can be so empowering and rewarding as it is often the first step towards change, growth, and the healthy nurturing of a new life.

Gratitude

Thu, 01 Dec 2016 14:11:03 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Imagine that you are a new immigrant, a recent arrival to this country, unfamiliar with its customs, ways, and language. You might feel unsure, overwhelmed, even vulnerable. Now imagine that you are also a new parent, maybe a first-time parent, struggling with a newborn in surroundings that are exceedingly unfamiliar to you.

Building on a 150-year-old history of helping new arrivals to this country, JF&CS offers new parents support groups conducted in both Spanish and Portuguese so that even more new moms can find the support they need. The groups provide a safe space in which they can express themselves, find their footing, share their experiences and challenges, and reflect on the obstacles they encounter as new moms.

On October 30, JF&CS partnered with Temple Beth Avodah in Newton to host a party for 26 of these new moms and their families, including children, spouses, siblings, parents, and even grandparents. With Temple Beth Avodah’s Becky Oliver and Francie Weinberg serving as “point people” along with JF&CS New Moms Support Group facilitator Jacqueline Caceres, 20 high school students from the Midrasha program of Temple Beth Avodah came together to create a magical afternoon for the families, with music, dancing, snacks, face-painting, bowling, games, and coloring.

One new mom expressed her overwhelming gratitude:

"Thank you for making our little ones very happy with the events that you have organized for them. [The organizers] were so warm and close, playing and having fun with the kids. But especially, I want to thank Jacqueline for being a big support in our lives, always with love and dedication, making our group a great family. She has been a really important part of my life since I came here [to live] in Waltham. She’s already a part of my family, we love her so much and all the moms of the group will be forever grateful to her for being an unconditional support for us."

Caceres was thrilled to receive such positive feedback. “I was glad to see so many of our mothers and children were having a great time and enjoying the party,” she remarked. “I’m also very thankful for us at JF&CS to be able to have such an amazing impact on the lives of these women and children. [It] pleases me to see [that they] can find a program that allows them to express in their own native language and reflect.”

Ava Harder, Manager of JF&CS Volunteer Services, observed first-hand the joy and happiness on the faces of all the moms and families at the event as well as the consideration Jaqueline showed each family. “Jacqueline even stood at the intersection of the driveway and the street waiting for one mom coming in from Boston who had gotten lost. She wanted to make sure she made it to the building. She knew her moms would be nervous and that they might not come in without a little encouragement,” said Harder. “Her dedication was unmistakable.”

Thank You!

Tue, 29 Nov 2016 09:59:25 GMT

On this #GivingTuesday, CEO Rimma Zelfand wants to thank you for all you have given to JF&CS.

Challenge Results

JF&CS supporters were challenged to raise $50,000, which would be matched dollar-for-dollar by the generous Weiner/Janfaza family.

The results are in and you outdid yourselves -- raising 150% of the goal and ensuring JF&CS received the full $50,000 match.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Learning Life’s Lessons

Tue, 22 Nov 2016 11:13:02 GMT

Posted by Nancy Lefkowitz

I have had the distinct pleasure of being a Friendly Visitor volunteer for the past several months and am so glad to have been introduced to the Friendly Visitor Program through my volunteer work with Schechter Holocaust Services. Max*, the gentleman I visit, is turning 100 years old in February, although I would guess he was not a day over 80. He is wrinkle free and has a warm and engaging smile. He has glistening blue eyes that twinkle and sparkle with life. Despite his harrowing time in six concentration camps he remains positive and optimistic about life.

Max’s mind is incredibly sharp and his memory far better than mine. He is blessed with very good hearing enabling easy verbal communication with him in person and by phone. He stays on top of local and world events by watching TV. He is not shy about offering his opinions even when he and I are clearly on opposite sides of an issue. I appreciate his respectful manner of disagreeing. Although Max’ vision is affected by macular degeneration, together with the help of the Easter Seals Lending Library of Assistive Devices, we were able to identify an over the counter pair of magnifying glasses that have helped him read the newspaper more easily.

Max stays in touch with his neighbors, friends, and family by phone. He spends winters in Florida and, during the recent hurricane, he actively checked in with people to be sure that they were safe. He has spoken openly and with deep respect and love for his wife, z’l, and “his boys,” grandchildren, and recently a great grandchild who he met for the first time when the infant was 11 days old. Max, Max’ first great grandson, brings Max great joy.

He talks freely of his fond memories of his life in America and knows that he was one of the fortunate to survive his horrible experiences during the Holocaust. He believes that his skill at winning over the concentration camp guards and those with power over him enabled him, at many times, to receive special treatment.

I was initially hesitant about becoming a Friendly Visitor because I was not sure if I could help someone who suffered such deep wounds, injustices, and pain in life. Max made me feel comfortable and welcomed me into his home. It became clear that my concerns were unfounded.

My visits to West Roxbury on Friday afternoons are truly a delight. My visits with Max are uplifting due in part to his warmth and ability to share his life openly. He remains positive about the future all the while recognizing that each day is a gift for him. I look forward to learning life’s lessons from Max. He is an inspiration to me and serves as a reminder of the resiliency of the spirit under even the most horrific circumstances. I owe Max my deep thanks.

*Named changed to protect privacy.

Learn more about becoming a volunteer in the Friendly Visitor Program.

How Many Diapers?

Thu, 17 Nov 2016 13:50:37 GMT

Posted by Katie Britton

How many diapers is 1,261 diapers? Enough to make up a large donation from Diaper Circle, a local nonprofit that collects open and full packs of diapers and passes them on to families in need through social service organizations. Since starting, Diaper Circle has distributed more than 82,000 diapers.

How many diapers is 1,261 diapers? Enough to fill the back of my station wagon and enough to fill almost every available storage spot in the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS).

How many diapers is 1,261 diapers? Enough to make a difference to many CERS clients! With support from Diaper Circle, as well as Viv’s Give, another local nonprofit that gives diapers to families in need, CERS has been able to provide diapers – which are not an allowed purchase with WIC (Women, Infants, and Children, a federal food and nutrition service) or SNAP benefits (food stamps) – to several clients, including:

A new mom who experienced a short-term crisis and was out of work for three months. She just returned to work but needed all of her income to pay her rent so that she could stay in her apartment and avoid eviction. The gift of diapers, along with some emergency groceries provided by JF&CS, helped her during this transitional time.
A client who has been unable to work because of her need to be home with her premature twins, leaving the family with significantly more expenses to cover on a much smaller income. Fortunately, the babies are thriving, so after receiving size 1 diapers initially, the client “traded in” the unused smaller diapers for a larger size. The unused smaller diapers were re-donated to another client in need.
A mother living in a homeless shelter motel room with her 10-year-old daughter and newborn. After a traumatic birth experience, this mother had significant medical issues, forcing her to take a leave of absence from her job as a medical assistant and leaving her on bed rest. Between her lack of income and ongoing health issues, buying diapers was impossible. The diapers and wipes provided by JF&CS from Diaper Circle, as well as other resources for her older daughter, have been a significant help for the family.
A single mom who was living in a shelter and on bed rest while pregnant with triplets. The triplets were born premature and are now a year old and doing well. Their mom is now working part-time and, with assistance from JF&CS, is on the road to getting a stable and permanent home for her family.

These partnerships provide one of the most basic things a baby needs – a clean, dry bottom. How many diapers does a baby go through in their first year? Roughly 2,788, which costs $500 at 18 cents per diaper. That is enough diapers that we still need more! We’re already gratefully working our way through our second donation of diapers from Diaper Circle and hope to be the lucky recipients of more in the future.

To donate diapers, check out Diaper Circle’s drop off locations around Greater Boston as well as Viv’s Give’s drop off locations or donate to CERS.

Katie Britton, MSW, is the Associate Director of Operations in the Center for Early Relationship Support. Prior to joining JF&CS, Katie worked on early childhood and family support programs for Thrive in 5 and The Home for Little Wanderers.

Adaptive Yoga at JF&CS and in the Community

Tue, 15 Nov 2016 13:07:08 GMT

Posted by Hannah Gould, MEd, E-RYT

For the past several years I have had the pleasure of teaching adaptive yoga to participants of the JF&CS day and residential programs for adults with disabilities. Participants tell me and show me that they look forward to our yoga time but honestly I think I might look forward to it even more. Teaching these adaptive classes is truly the highlight of my week! Here are just a few reasons why:

One young man shared with me that he got through a particularly busy and stressful day at work by reminding himself he would get to relax at yoga later that evening.
Another participant proudly proclaimed, while holding a challenging pose called one-leg downward dog, that he felt “really strong!”
Almost every time I lead a class through a series of balance poses, the palpably intense focus is followed by joyful exclamations of “I did it!”

These shared moments of triumph and self-exploration are at the heart of what makes yoga so powerful. Yoga can show us what we are capable of, can expand our sense of self, and helps us learn to support ourselves energetically and emotionally through the stresses of daily life. I am continually inspired by the resilient spirit and determination of my adaptive students; they are used to working very hard for their achievements and they are not afraid to fall down a few times along the way. We often laugh and joke together in class but my adaptive students definitely take their yoga practice seriously.

Yoga also serves as a powerful tool for social connection. Participants in my classes practice at their own level; some use a chair or a wall to support their poses, some spend part of the class resting, and some demonstrate boundless energy and impressive athletic skills. Participants in my classes also learn in many different ways; some tune in to the visual supports I provide, some learn best when I practice with them side-by-side, and others tend to sit back and observe until they are ready to show off what they can do. Despite these differences, there is always a meaningful sense of shared experience when we are all breathing together and relaxing together. In yoga and in life, we all show up with the bodies, minds, and abilities that we have in the moment. Yoga is a celebration of each moment, of all that we are, and all that we are evolving to be.

Hannah Gould, MEd, E-RYT is a special educator and yoga teacher with more than a decade of experience teaching yoga to children and adults with special needs. Hannah has taught in schools, clinical programs, and yoga studios throughout the MetroWest Boston area. Hannah specializes in teaching yoga to students with autism spectrum disorders and she developed the Yoga Connects visual yoga program to meet the specific needs of this population. She is excited to begin offering adaptive yoga classes for teens and adults with autism at local yoga studios throughout Greater Boston. Group classes, private sessions, workshops, and trainings are also available. Contact Hannah at hannah@yogaconnects.org or 617-640-0450 for more information.

Ways to Honor our Veterans on Veterans Day

Fri, 11 Nov 2016 09:42:36 GMT

Posted by Stacie Fredriksson

Veterans Day is a day to honor all of our American veterans and to pay tribute to all those who have chosen to serve our country. Our veterans walk among us but not always in uniform. Some are retired from service and some are only in uniform part-time as National Guard/Reserve members. The rest of the time they are our police officers, firefighters, teachers, and friends. Honoring these men and women is important every day of the year but certainly, on this day, set aside time to do so. Here are some ways you can honor our military:

Proudly display the American Flag
Contact a local VA hospital and ask when might be a good time to visit. Visiting a veteran is a great way to bring a bit of cheer to their day and you just might hear some amazing stories!
Read a book about veterans with your children. A few to consider:
- H is for HERO
- Hero Mom
- Hero Dad
- Veterans: Heroes in our Neighborhood
Consider volunteering with a program that serves veterans and/or their families like JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder or the USO
Attend a local ceremony or parade with your family
Wear a yellow ribbon as a sign of remembrance
If you know of a family who has a deployed service member, ask how you might be helpful to them. The absence of a parent for an extended period of time can be challenging for families.
Anonymously pick up the tab for a service member you see while traveling. This has been done for me more than once. I was touched and humbled by the simple kindness.
Express your gratitude year-round with a humble “thank you” to a veteran you know or a service member in uniform with whom you might cross paths.

While this day is all about honoring our military, also remember their families who support them as they train, deploy, and serve our country. These families and, most especially their children, endure absences, consistent changes, and often the unknown and are deserving of our honor as well.

Stacie Fredriksson is the Program Manager for JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder, serving military families in the Greater Boston. She has an extensive military background, serving 14 years in the Air Force on active duty before transferring to the Air Force Reserves where she has served the last eight years. Having experienced the rewards and challenges of military life, she has a passion for serving military families. Stacie is married to Brian and together they have two amazing children and one silly dog who keep them both busy and focused on the importance of living each day to the fullest.

2016 Holiday Gift Card Drive

Wed, 09 Nov 2016 13:21:53 GMT

Posted by Meredith Joy

After chronically couch-surfing for months, Natasha* came to the Center for Basic Needs Assistance at nine months pregnant, homeless, with two young children. With the support and advocacy of our programs, Natasha found a place to stay and give birth to a healthy baby. Over the next few months, Natasha’s case workers continued to help the family find stability by referring her to several programs within JF&CS as well as helping the family access other community resources.

This holiday season, Natasha and her three children will benefit from our annual Holiday Gift Card Drive. Natasha will be able to make this holiday season meaningful without putting herself in financial distress.

Our Holiday Gift Card Drive provides gift cards to families with children up to age 18. Providing parents with gift cards empowers them with the ability to choose the gift they feel is best suited for their children. Through the kindness and generosity of donors, the Holiday Gift Card Drive enables nearly 400 children in 100 different communities to receive gifts during the holiday season.

Help us continue to provide families like Natasha’s with joy this holiday season. Your tax-deductible donation will bring great relief and dignity to parents and immeasurable joy to children.

You can donate in two ways:

Donate gift cards in $25 increments from the following stores: Target, Toys “R” Us, Best Buy, TJ Maxx, or Marshall’s. Gift cards may be mailed to: The Center for Basic Needs Assistance, JF&CS, 1430 Main Street, Waltham, MA 02451
Let us do the shopping: Make an online donation

Our deadline for donations is Friday, November 30. Thank you in advance for your support.

Please contact us at giftcarddrive@jfcsboston.org if you have any questions.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Meredith Joy is the Director of the Center for Basic Needs Assistance. She received her MSW from Boston University and has 22 years of experience working in nonprofit organizations. She has been with JF&CS since 2005.

Care.com Afternoon of Service at JF&CS

Thu, 03 Nov 2016 14:48:55 GMT

Posted by Christine Guarino

On October 24, JF&CS welcomed 20 volunteers from Care.com to take part in two amazing volunteer projects at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham. Care.com is also headquartered in Waltham and came to JF&CS as part of a company-wide afternoon of service.

Half of the volunteers spent time with adults with disabilities who participate in our day and employment program, painting and decorating pumpkins in preparation for Halloween. This provided participants with a fun social opportunity and they definitely showed a lot of creativity! Each participant was also able to take home the pumpkin they had decorated.

The other group of volunteers worked in the Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS), creating “baby bundles” to be distributed to new moms served by our CERS programs. These beautiful bundles contained essential new baby items such as diapers, wipes, bath products, bibs, and board books. These supplies are sure to come in handy for new parents!

We are so grateful to our friends at Care.com who provided all supplies and made sure each project ran smoothly. We hope to welcome more volunteers from Care.com to JF&CS in the future.

The Family We Were Destined to Be

Tue, 01 Nov 2016 15:28:00 GMT

Posted by Steven Ralston

“I know this is a little unorthodox as you haven’t applied to our agency yet, but I think I have a baby for you.” These were words spoken by Betsy Hochberg, Director of JF&CS Adoption Resources, three months after I had met with her for an informational interview. She was right: I hadn’t applied to her agency yet, or any agency for that matter. I was still putting together my adoption book, figuring out my work’s parental leave policy, preparing for a home study: the myriad items on an adoptive parent’s checklist.

I met Betsy in September of 2007. I had been gingerly putting my toe in the unknown waters of domestic adoption and I was eager but pessimistic: I was 44 years old, male, soon-to-be single, and gay. It didn’t seem like an auspicious combination of traits. I can’t remember what fortuitous chain of events led me to Adoption Resources. Perhaps a serendipitous Google search or maybe a friend’s recommendation but somehow I was sitting in Betsy’s office, nervous as hell, and she said to me: “You’re going to be a great dad. A pregnant woman would be thrilled to choose you as an adoptive father.” It was one of those transformative moments I will never forget.

Three months later I was having dinner in Quincy Market with a pregnant teenager from New Hampshire, the teenager’s parents, and Betsy. It seemed a match made in heaven. But, it was not to be. The pregnant girl was ambivalent and changed her mind about adoption shortly after my would-be daughter’s birth. I was devastated. But, as Betsy taught me, the child that you are destined to have is the child you get. This was not my child.

Less than a year later, I came home from Texas with my son, Kofi, the child I was meant to have. It had been a long journey full of the typical roller coaster of emotions that is part and parcel to the adoption path, but he was in my arms, instantly loved, and somehow, miraculously mine. It was the happy ending we all wait for, the beginning of an adventure that is unpredictable, challenging, and exhausting but ineffably joyful. Within a few months I met my now husband, Rob, and soon after we adopted our second son, Gil.

I am ever grateful to Adoption Resources and, in particular, to Betsy who opened the door for me, beckoned me across the threshold, and stood beside me through the sometimes arduous process. The anticipation, the heartache, the exhilaration, the anxiety, the disbelief: we were spared none of the emotions adoptive parents routinely report. But we had amazing support from Betsy and her team. I had found the family I had always wanted, though, admittedly, the path to this end was never obvious to me and full of unexpected twists and turns. Yet, somehow, miraculously, we all arrived. We are, in fact, the family we were destined to be.

Learn more about JF&CS Adoption Resources.

Meet Our New Board Members

Thu, 27 Oct 2016 15:05:49 GMT

At our annual Board meeting in June, JF&CS welcomed seven new members to our Board. We are excited to have Jill Cohen, Danielle Darish, Penny M. Goodman, Fred Leif, Lewis J. Pearlson, Andrew Pearlstein, and Jay D. Rosenbaum join the JF&CS Board!

●

Lewis J. Pearlson lives in Newton with his wife, Heidi, and two sons. They are members of Temple Beth Avodah. He is a Managing Partner and Vice President of Investor Relations at LCB Senior Living LLC, a developer/operator and third party manager of quality senior housing communities since 1994. Lew’s areas of expertise are investments, finance, and senior housing. A graduate of Tufts University with a BA in economics, he earned his MBA at the Yale School of Management.

Lew serves on the Development Committee of the Rashi School and on the Board of Overseers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. He was also a participant in the Acharai Program at CJP. At JF&CS he is currently serving on the Services for Children & Adolescents Advisory Committee and chairs the Services for Children and & Adolescents Ambassador Committee.

Lew enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and golf.

“I am so honored to have been chosen to join the board of JF&CS and be a part of an organization that has such a long history of helping those in need.”

●

Andrew Pearlstein is a partner in Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s Boston office, concentrating his legal practice in the representation of banks, financial institutions, businesses, real estate owners, and developers. His areas of expertise are complex commercial real estate and finance and he is recommended by Chambers USA and the Legal 500. He is also AV rated in Martindale Hubbell.

Andrew and his wife, Barbara, have three daughters and live in Needham. Andrew graduated from the University of Pennsylvania magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa and received his JD degree from Temple University School of Law. He currently is Honorary Director of Men’s Associates at Hebrew SeniorLife and a member of the Development Committee at CJP. In addition, Andrew is a lecturer at the graduate program at the MIT Center for Real Estate. At JF&CS he is a member of the Real Estate Task Force.

Andrew is an avid sports fan and in his leisure time enjoys golf and spending time with his family.

“I am excited to be a part of a working board that makes a meaningful contribution to the direction and goals of JF&CS.”

Helping Heal Mind, Spirit, and Soul

Thu, 20 Oct 2016 10:16:00 GMT

Posted by Raquel Morales
Shared at the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing Evening of Dedication

About a year and a half ago my dad was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. He was told it would be an arduous road with intense chemotherapy and many blood transfusions. He was given less than two years to live.

From that moment on my life changed. I am no longer just a daughter, I am now a caregiver.

I have been by my mom’s side through this new journey but it takes the entire family to provide the care, companionship, and advocacy that a loved one needs during this time. My day-to-day routine and my social activities changed. My sole focus has become my father. My priority has now shifted to his care.

It was hard for me to make that adjustment. I had not been in that role before. I didn’t know how to balance everything. I didn’t know how to take care of all of his needs and at the same time pay any attention to mine.

A couple of months after his diagnosis, I received an email from Marjorie U. Sokoll, Director of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing, inviting staff to a Healing Circle. I wasn’t exactly sure what happened in a Healing Circle but it piqued my interest. I also wasn’t sure if it was a fit considering I am Catholic and I wasn’t sure if I would feel comfortable. But since I started working at JF&CS in March of 2015, I have learned so much from Marjie about Jewish culture, religion, and traditions, I figured, at the very least, I would go and learn something.

So I went and learned that this would be a time that would be just about me. I could leave all of my titles and labels at the door. I didn’t have to think about what time my dad had to be at chemo or what to do if he falls out of bed again or if he took his 14 medications this morning. It became a time I could clear my head, think about my breathing, and let the stress flow away - a moment for self-care. I was able to walk out of the circle and be a stronger daughter, a better caregiver, and a steadfast warrior for my dad.

Marjie began leading the monthly Staff Healing Circle shortly after the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing (formerly Jewish Healing Connections) was created. In thinking about bringing healing to clients of the agency, it became clear that as human beings, JF&CS staff also need healing. There was a profound recognition that the Healing Circle could be an opportunity for self-care that could strengthen us as we care for others.

This support is so unique. What other employer offers this type of support to their staff? Some companies promote exercise and eating healthy but nothing to do with the mental, spiritual, and emotional care one needs when going through a challenging time.

I have learned that no matter your faith one can find solace in Jewish healing.

Thank you, Marjie, for helping heal my mind, my spirit, and my soul.

Raquel Morales is the JF&CS Special Events Manager.

The 5th Annual Ride for Food

Thu, 13 Oct 2016 13:06:30 GMT

Posted by Bernice Behar

The 5th Annual Ride for Food was held on Sunday, September 25 and by all counts it was a great success. It was a glorious fall day and more than 300 people turned out to cycle 10, 25, or 50 miles in support of hunger relief. This year, the JF&CS Family Table team had 29 riders, all of whom raised critical funds to support Family Table. After each of us completed our courses, we gathered with the other riders and shared lunch and stories from our rides. It’s fair to say that everyone left feeling inspired and with a sense of great accomplishment. We hope even more people join us next year!

The Ride for Food is an amazing opportunity for Family Table to raise needed funds and gain critical awareness of our mission. Thanks to our riders and their many supporters, the Family Table team reached our goal of raising $25,000, all of which will help Family Table provide nutritious groceries to more than 600 families in the coming year. What’s more, the entire event surpassed its goal by raising $445,000, which will benefit hunger relief organizations like ours throughout Greater Boston.

Kudos to Three Squares New England, whose sole purpose is to raise funds to support hunger relief, for organizing this annual event.

It’s not too late to donate to the Family Table Ride for Food team! Donations are gratefully accepted until Friday, October 14.

Bernice Behar is the Director of Family Table, the largest kosher food pantry serving Greater Boston and the North Shore. She joined JF&CS in 2010 having spent many years working in the financial industry as a chartered financial analyst and investment manager. Bernice brings to Family Table a passion for helping people access nutritious food and a dedication to working in the Jewish community. She is an active board member at her synagogue and holds a BA from the University of California Berkeley.

Meet Our New Board Members

Mon, 10 Oct 2016 13:17:07 GMT

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Penny M. Goodman and her husband, Larry, live in Newton. They have two sons, Jeffrey and Jonathan. Penny is a graduate of George Washington University where she earned a bachelor of business administration degree. Her areas of expertise are fundraising events and nonprofit engagement.

In 2016, Penny was the recipient of the Kipness Wilson Frieland Award from the Jewish Federation of North America and in 2015 was given the Maxwell Burstein Volunteer Award from Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters. She was also a CJP Circle of Excellence Award winner in 2014. Penny currently is a member of CJP’s Caring and Social Justice Committee, and Past President and campaign chair of CJP’s Women’s Philanthropy. At JF&CS she has been a Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Mom^® for the past 12 years and a chair of the 2015 Women’s Breakfast.

Penny pursues golf, exercise, reading, and travel in her spare time.

“I am excited and proud to be a part of this amazing organization whose work touches the lives of so many in our community.”

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Fred Leif grew up in Paramus, New Jersey and is a graduate of SUNY Binghamton. Fred is the Chief Financial Officer at Abrams Capital Management LP, a privately owned hedge fund sponsor that provides its services to institutions and invests in the public equity and fixed income markets of the United States.

Fred and his wife, Lori, live in Chestnut Hill with their three children who attend the Solomon Schechter School. Fred and Lori have been supporters of Dana-Farber, Pan Mass Challenge, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

At JF&CS they were co-chairs of the 2016 Benefit. Fred is a current member of the JF&CS Finance Committee and is also a participant in the Acharai Program at CJP.

The Tapestry of Our Lives: Connection and Compassion

Wed, 05 Oct 2016 11:10:25 GMT

Posted by Marjorie U. Sokoll

On Tuesday, September 27, JF&CS hosted an Evening of Dedication celebrating the 18th anniversary of Jewish Healing Connections and the dedication of the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing. Betty Ann, of blessed memory, was a founding member of the Jewish Healing Connections Advisory Council; she cared deeply about the program because, as a teenager, she survived Hodgkins lymphoma, which left her weakened and prone to chronic medical issues. Sadly, Betty Ann passed away last August. In her memory, her husband, Dan, made a very generous gift to Jewish Healing Connections and we are proud to rename the Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing in her honor.

Betty Ann understood the importance of connecting with and supporting others throughout one's life. How auspicious, then, that this dedication was held on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Elul, the birthday of the world. Several days later, during Rosh Hashanah, we celebrate the birthday of the first human beings, Adam and Eve. In Genesis, after creating Adam, God realized that human beings need connection and support, saying, "It is not good for people to be alone" (2:18). So God created Eve. Creation of the world and the creation of human beings is all about the interconnectedness of all life. Betty Ann understood that.

During a difficult surgical procedure many years ago, Dan shared that Betty Ann experienced a powerful vision of life and community as a tapestry or prayer shawl of the intertwined threads of our lives. The result - her beautiful poem,Tapestry.

The Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing will continue to help people feel a sense of connection when facing the challenges of illness, loss, or isolation by offering spiritual and communal supports to foster hope, comfort, and wholeness guided by Jewish tradition. Last week’s evening of dedication on the 25th of Elul recognized Betty Ann's legacy, ensuring the program's mission into the future.

Marjorie U. Sokoll, MEd, Director of Spirituality and Aging, is the founder and director of the JF&CS Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller Center for Jewish Healing. Marjie also provides oversight for the JF&CS Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program, spiritual support for the JF&CS Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support Program, and is a founding partner at the Kalsman Institute for Judaism and Health. Marjie earned degrees in sociology and social work from Boston University and Tel Aviv University respectively, a graduate degree in counseling from Northeastern University, and holds a certificate of thanatology from the National Center for Death Education.

The Power of Myth

Fri, 30 Sep 2016 10:27:00 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and this year all of the Jewish high holidays occur throughout the month as well. This time for me is one of reflection and thought. I am using this month to explore the power of the myth that domestic abuse doesn’t happen in the Jewish community. This statement is something we often hear in our meetings with congregations, lay leaders, clergy, social workers, and mental health providers.

It doesn’t take deep thinking to imagine the shame and fear that might keep survivors (Jewish or otherwise) from speaking publicly about their personal experience, especially if the abusive partner is still parenting their shared children. We can’t put the responsibility on survivors to help society debunk the myth.

From my first day as director of Journey to Safety, I understood that in order to prevent domestic abuse in the Jewish community and help those currently experiencing abuse, we would need to challenge the myth that it didn’t happen in our own homes. And it is not easy. Our lives are filled with news of horrific acts internationally and nationally. People are exposed to countless heartbreaking stories of violence. And it is easier to think that these acts are “out there” and not here in our homes and in our communities that appear protected and immune to these kinds of issues.

When listening to a friend, loved one, colleague, or congregant talk about issues in their marriage or relationship, it is common for others to reassure them with statements like “Marriage is hard work,” “It takes two to tango,” “Maybe you just don’t understand what he/she really wants,” “I can’t imagine him/her doing that,” or “Divorce is an ugly process and it brings out the worst behaviors.”

I know because there was a time when I, too, tried to support someone I knew well with statements like that, not recognizing the imbalance of power between this person and her abusive partner. I missed the signs of abuse because I was so busy trying to make suggestions to fix the relationship.

Then, one day, I took a step back and shifted my view on the situation. Instead of comforting this woman with false reassurances, I began to listen to her. When I really listened, I was able to think about what she was telling me and could share that her partner’s behaviors sounded controlling and like a bully and that I didn’t like the way he was treating her. I also began to regularly ask, “How can I be helpful right now?” and “What do you need?” Eventually this amazing woman began to realize that her partner’s behaviors were not her fault.

While I did listen to her, I never said “You are the victim of domestic abuse.” The label isn’t necessary to provide support.

Her partner never physically harmed her but his voice, his demeanor, and his actions conveyed that he was in control. Over time she shared many stories about his verbally demeaning remarks and his cold calculating threats of taking the children and it became clear to me that this emotional abuse was as scary as if he physically hit her.I was unnerved by the unhealthy behaviors, manipulation, lack of concern for what was best for the children, and the pattern of coercive, controlling behaviors.

I worried about what my responsibilities were to help and protect this woman.

But I was also profoundly energized by my newfound ability to provide support and encouragement. And it was received with enormous relief and appreciation.

We can pivot the conversation about domestic abuse away from myth and see the power in acknowledging that no religion, ethnic group, socioeconomic class, gender, sexual orientation, or belief is immune. I can assure you that there will be sighs of relief among those who hear this conversation. By changing the conversation, we can validate all those who feel silenced, isolated, and hopeless; and you are recognizing that domestic abuse is real and that there is help in the Jewish community and beyond.

Now, that is power.

Elizabeth Schön Vainer has been the program director of Journey to Safety, the domestic abuse program of JF&CS, since March 2010. Elizabeth is passionate about Journey to Safety’s commitment to prevent domestic abuse. She believes that we must work at the individual, community, and legislative levels to shift our societal view that allows abusive behavior to remain so prevalent and damaging. When we focus on speaking up, listening to, and collaborating with others we can have a real impact. Prior to working at JF&CS, Elizabeth worked for 25 years in victim services at both the Middlesex and Suffolk County District Attorney’s offices. Elizabeth holds a BSW from the University of Tel Aviv and a MS in organization and management from Antioch University.

Helping Line Up Support

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 11:47:49 GMT

Posted by Elysse Nava

Kathy* became a JF&CS Stabilization and Recovery Services client after suffering a stroke that left her with a traumatic brain injury and mobility issues, as well as depression in addition to other medical issues. At the time she was assigned her first JF&CS case manager, Kathy needed financial assistance, benefits assistance, and a safe place to live.

Working with her case manager, Kathy secured initial benefits including cash assistance, food assistance, and health insurance. In the time after these initial benefits were secured, Kathy, with the assistance of her case manager, applied and was approved for social security (SSDI) benefits, which afforded her a monthly income as she was unable to return to work following her stroke. With her SSDI benefits, Kathy became eligible for Medicare as her primary health insurance and MassHealth became her secondary insurance.

Kathy and her case manager also worked together to apply for affordable housing and she was granted a subsidized apartment in a building with on-site supports, including a social worker. After her stroke, Kathy also needed extra help with some daily activities, including grocery shopping, bathing, meal preparation, and housework. So with a safe and affordable place to live, Kathy and her case manager applied for the PCA program through MassHealth to secure a personal care attendant (PCA) who could help Kathy live an optimal life in her new apartment. Once approved, Kathy’s case manager assisted her with the PCA hiring process and helped her learn how to manage her PCA. Now with many of her immediate needs met, Kathy and her case manager discussed financial literacy to ensure she did not run out of money before the end of each month.

Kathy’s case manager continued to help connect Kathy with new resources as they became available to her, including the new OneCare program for Massachusetts residents who are eligible for both MassHealth and Medicare. Once enrolled, Kathy had access to a great amount of additional mental health and medical supports, including a nurse care manager/health outreach worker, an in-home therapist, a home health aide, and a long-term supports coordinator.

Thanks to the help of the JF&CS case manager, Kathy felt comfortable living on her own with her supported housing situation, benefits, and OneCare: “JF&CS had such a profound impact on my life and helped line up so many supports, I wanted to close my case so that the agency can assist additional clients who might be in the position I was in once.” We are so proud of Kathy and were sure to let her know that should she ever feel that she needs assistance in the future, our door is always open.

*Named changed to protect privacy.

Elysse Nava, LICSW joined Jewish Family & Children’s Service in April 2012 as a Clinical Case Manager in Stabilization and Recovery Services. In this capacity, she has assisted individuals living with mental illness in attaining their self-identified goals. Prior to JF&CS, her roles in the mental health field included providing community-based outpatient therapy as a staff therapist for South Bay Mental Health Center and as a guardianship social worker in New York City. Elysse graduated from New York University in 2009 with her MSW and from Skidmore College with her BSW.

Meet Our New Board Members

Fri, 23 Sep 2016 09:52:47 GMT

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Jill Cohen lives in Newton with her two children and her husband, Michael Savit, and his three children. Jill earned her bachelors of science degree in economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Her area of expertise is insurance.

She is a board member of the Boston Jewish Film Festival and a member of the board of the National Women’s Philanthropy at UJF. A longtime supporter of JF&CS, Jill sits on the Development Committee.

Jill’s interests include reading, swimming, yoga, and films.

“I am excited to join the Board because I would like to be a small part of the amazing energy and immeasurable impact that JF&CS has on so many peoples' lives.”

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Danielle Darish lives in Needham with her husband, Gregg, and their three children. After graduating from Brown University in 1998, Danielle received her master’s degree in social work from Boston University. She has been a licensed social worker since 2005. Her areas of expertise are children with emotional and behavioral issues and mental health problems. She also works with families with trauma and abuse histories as well as with low-income families and people with disabilities.

At JF&CS, Danielle has served on the CERS Advisory Committee since 2014 and has been a member of the 2014 and 2015 Benefit Committees. Danielle also served on the Women’s Breakfast Committee in 2015 and co-chaired the event in 2016.

In addition to her contributions to JF&CS, Danielle co-chaired the Auction Committee in 2013 for Temple Beth Shalom’s largest annual fundraiser and currently co-chairs the Children’s Center's Caring Committee for Temple Beth Shalom. She also participated in CJP’s Leadership Development Series, 2014-2015, and has been a CJP Camp Scholarship Committee member and a member of CJP’s Jaffa and Women’s Philanthropy since 2010.

Her leisure pursuits include fitness, running, yoga, skiing, piano, and reading.

“JF&CS is such an amazing organization that helps so many people. I am honored to be a member of the Board and contribute my time to helping this wonderful organization!”

Cooking Up Healthy Recipes

Thu, 15 Sep 2016 12:46:54 GMT

By Jennifer Heinen

As a food lover and registered dietitian, my passion is creating delicious and healthy meals to share with my friends and family. I have fun finding ways to make nutritious meals without skimping on flavor. This is why recipe development is one of my favorite – and most rewarding – parts of my job, especially when clients tell me they have made my recipes and include them regularly at their table.

It can take time to find a recipe that is tasty, simple, quick, and healthy. If you have searched the internet for recipes lately you will quickly find there are a plethora of options to choose from (a recent search on Google for “chicken recipes” returned 68 million results!).

This is how our recipes work. All of our recipes follow the recommendations from the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the American Heart Association for reducing saturated fat, added sugar, and sodium. We also include nutritious ingredients such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins.

To determine if a potential recipe is simple enough to become one of our everyday favorites, we have a recipe writing checklist with a number of criteria. Some examples include:

Must contain less than 9 ingredients.
Recipes cost less than $2.50 per serving.
Ingredients are flexible and allow for fresh, frozen, or canned fruits or vegetables to be used.
List the most efficient order of work to avoid extra dishes, extra beating, etc.
Recipes must be tasty!

As registered dietitians we understand the importance of making the healthy choice the easy choice and aim to motivate families to make nutritious meals more often. Our program volunteers feel the same way and recently formed a recipe development team. Together they are expanding our database of recipes, so there is always something new and interesting to share.

Want to learn more? Check out our cookbook, sign up to receive our Recipe of the Month, or email nutrition@jfcsboston.org to get involved.

Jennifer Heinen, MS, RD, LDN, is a licensed, registered dietitian for the JF&CS Hunger and Nutrition program. Jennifer began her work at JF&CS as a Boston University intern during the early production stages of the Home Cooking without a Kitchen cookbook. She has a passion for educating and empowering others to make healthy choices easy and delicious. Previously she worked as an inpatient and outpatient dietitian and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Dietetic Association. Her favorite food is avocado smashed on whole wheat toast.

So Moved, She Had to Jump In: Judy Rosenberg

Mon, 12 Sep 2016 09:17:08 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

As an attorney and guardian ad litem specializing in public sector child custody and Department of Children & Families (DCF), formerly DSS, cases, Judy Rosenberg’s passion for child advocacy and care is unmistakable. Already a member of the JF&CS Central MA Advisory Committee, she attended the JF&CS Annual Benefit in 2014. “It was so incredibly inspiring and moving to hear about what the agency does and how many programs JF&CS has and how they help so many people in need,” she shared enthusiastically.

Just a couple of months later, Judy attended the JF&CS Women’s Breakfast. There, she learned more about Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^®. “I was blown away by what a great program it is. It really spoke to me. Despite my background and education in child development and developmental psychology, I truly would have benefited from this program myself had I known about it. When I became a mother, I didn’t have any family in the area,” Judy explains.

“Then I said to myself, why can’t we have this [program] in Central MA? It is run by volunteers and it doesn’t have that much overhead,” she adds. The next day, Judy contacted Deb Shrier, Director of Community & Program Development, Central MA, telling her that she wanted to bring the Visiting Moms program to Central MA. As the idea began to percolate, Judy and her husband, Ken, made a sizable gift to fund the program and also held a fundraiser for the program in her home. “It was an informational evening about the Visiting Moms program. Its purpose was to explain the program and excite the community about this wonderful service. We were looking for various ways to get others involved – as volunteers, referrals sources, and donors to help raise enough money to launch this program,” explains Judy.

When JF&CS CEO Rimma Zelfand saw just how well attended the event had been and how much excitement there was about the program, she gave the go-ahead. “Although we didn’t have more than a handful of donors, Rimma had such faith that she allowed us to move forward. It was an unbelievable act of leadership and faith and inclusion for Central MA,” says Judy.

“Working with Judy on a project is amazing – she puts her heart into what she does and is able to gather people who can help to get things started,” says Deb. “From her own experience as a mother as well as her legal work with at-risk families, Judy understands the importance of healthy parenting and the need for early support.”

With a recent $20,000 gift from an anonymous donor, Visiting Moms in Central MA is off to a great start. Under the guidance of Visiting Moms Director Debbie Whitehill, a program coordinator has been hired and several volunteers have been recruited and trained. The focus is now on building awareness of the program throughout Central MA and connecting with possible sources of referral, such as doctors and social workers.

“JF&CS is a wonderful agency and it serves an unbelievable array of people in need,” adds Judy. “We look forward in Central MA to being a true satellite of – and a representative of – what the agency has to offer.”

Intentionally Choosing Joy

Fri, 09 Sep 2016 10:24:57 GMT

Posted by Zhaomin Jasmine Chin

As a masters student at the Harvard Graduate School of Education in a hectic one-year program, I was neglecting my musical practice as a singer-songwriter. I stopped playing the piano, only sang in the shower, and focused most of my time on reading educational theories and writing endless papers. So when I found out that I would be involved in a musical community partnership as part of my Music & Disability course - “Don’t just observe, be part of the community!” we were told - my heart leapt at this divine intervention. My partnership was with the JF&CS Tremble Clefs, a choral group for people with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners. During six rehearsals, I not only re-connected with music creation but truly experienced (what music educator Alice Parker calls) art-for-human’s-sake more than any point in my life.

I was a little nervous in the beginning, wondering, “Just who am I to come into this space that is so supportive for a distinct group of people that share a special bond?” I knew very little about Parkinson’s and I didn’t want to be invasive but I still wanted to contribute something. I very quickly learned from the first rehearsal that I could start contributing to the Tremble Clefs culture by simply listening deeply: to the intentionality behind building the program from program Director Nancy Mazonson; to the intentionality behind conductor Marilyn Okonow’s warm-up and song choices, rehearsal structuring, and encouraging guidance that bring out the joyful voices of the members; to the intentionality behind each member joining the Tremble Clefs, behind their presence and their singing, behind their honest expressions … Intention was everything. The intention to be inclusive, to empower, to be present, to be active co-creators of a shared culture, and, above all, to have joy. This intention resonated strongly with me every Monday morning that I shared with the Tremble Clefs and demonstrated what art-for-human’s-sake truly looks and sounds like.

And how can I forget the music: uncanonical, unpretentious, and unapologetic? From the resolute “Parkin’ Song” to start the singing, to the joyous “From Monday On” to conclude the rehearsal, with an undeniable sense of Tremble Clefs ownership; From “Camelot” and “Oklahoma,” to Carole King and Manfred Mann, and everything in between that brought cheers and excited murmurs to the choir. With each song, I felt a powerful affinity with the Tremble Clefs, as I was transported back in time to moments I shared with my parents while listening to 60’s hits; to moments of experiencing college productions of classic musicals... I had never felt more welcome.

Although I have finished my six rehearsals with the Tremble Clefs, I know that I want to continue making music with communities with intention and inclusiveness. I am ready to leave my days of isolated music-making behind.

Thank you, Tremble Clefs. Not for making me a better musician but for making me a better person as a musician.

Behind the Scenes of Development

Tue, 06 Sep 2016 12:46:41 GMT

Posted by Christina Horvath

I didn’t choose JF&CS, JF&CS chose me! After my first job in development at a different agency, I mulled over going to medical or law school or staying in development. Two years ago I decided to continue working in development because I believe when working at a nonprofit there is rarely the need to question whether you did the right or wrong thing at night. The impact of working for a nonprofit is always positive and far-reaching. It involves challenging and fast-paced work, more so than people anticipate, because the development team needs to keep programs funded, donors content, and be an upstanding pillar of the agency’s reputation.

My role on the JF&CS Development team is data-driven and includes processing donations, generating financial reports, and conducting prospect research so that the frontline fundraisers can connect with donors in a personalized way. When we were interviewing a candidate for a position in our department, she asked me a poignant question: “How do you stay connected to the mission when you’re dealing with data all day?” I responded easily: “It’s a nonissue! I get excited to tell a Senior Development Officer or Program Director when a major gift comes in that I know they have been a part of cultivating. Even though I am not a frontline fundraiser, I am on the frontline of confirming donor intent and recognition. I also volunteer at the fundraising and cultivation events where I get focused opportunities to feel the pulse of the mission.”

JF&CS is way of life and it’s a joy to be part of a team of varied talents excitedly working towards the same goals: more awareness, more volunteerism, and, yes, more financial support to carry out the agency’s vital work. A contribution is meaningful whether you have the capacity to donate $10, $10,000, or several hours of your time. In my role here I’ve observed that being philanthropic can be influenced by personal interests or come in moments of deep contemplation about the greater good. It also arises when a person is at a fundraiser with loved ones and fellow community leaders and is inspired by how collective influence can improve lives. However the feeling strikes, when a person donates, they are sure to experience warm feelings about their gift.

Christina Horvath joined JF&CS in January 2014 as the Database Administrator for the Development team of Institutional Advancement. She has a bachelor of science in health science from the University of Connecticut and studied Hungarian language and literature at the Corvinus University of Budapest. Christina previously worked in development at the Carroll Center for the Blind in Newton and the UConn Foundation. In her spare time she enjoys tennis, ballet, skiing, and reading.

Helping Future Generations Remember

Thu, 01 Sep 2016 14:02:14 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Legacies: High School Visits is the only program of its kind in New England. A cohort of 9th-12th graders learn about the Holocaust by meeting with a survivor four times over the course of the year to talk about life before, during, and after the war. An important component of the year is the group project where all three group members conceive of and create a meaningful tribute to their time spent together.

It is always interesting to learn what survivors tell their family members. Some talk about their experiences at length and others never mention it. Aron, a Holocaust survivor who has talked to hundreds of students, wants his future great grandchildren to know about what he went through and how he survived during the Holocaust. Aron, who was born in Poland, was subjected to gross injustices, beatings, and imprisonment in a ghetto and nine concentration camps including Auschwitz. He shared with high schoolers Josh and Jacob that he is afraid he will not be able to personally tell his story to his great grandchildren. As their final project, Josh and Jacob wrote a letter to this future generation explaining what the Nazis did, how Aron survived, and how he rebuilt his life after the war.

After the war, Ludwik received a medical degree, developed and directed the clinical and training program in Psychiatry of Developmental Disabilities at Boston Children’s Hospital, and is currently an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medial School. He has dedicated his life to teaching and saw the visits from Grace and Emily as educational opportunities. He even gave the two girls homework! Ludwik believes, “You do not forget, you do not deny but what you do is refuse to spend your life in survivor mode." They loved the advice Ludwik gave them whenever they spoke, so Grace and Emily created a video of advice that other students could watch and learn from. This culminating project was a beautiful combination of Ludwik’s skills, dreams, and goals.

Fred, a German Holocaust survivor who survived as a young child by hiding in an orphanage, a convent, and a farm, was perfectly matched with Abby and Jordyn because they all love to cook and food holds special meaning for all three. In fact, during their visits, Fred cooked for Abby and Jordyn and then they talked while enjoying his creations. As was fitting, the three created a cookbook together that they gifted to everyone at graduation. The cookbook featured family recipes from all three of their families as well as stories about each recipe.

The goal of Legacies: High School Visits is not just to remember the past but to embrace and guide the future. We feel that all these students accomplished—and surpassed—this goal and we could not be more proud!

If you are a high school student who would like to participate in the program for the 2016-2017 school year, please apply online. All high school students regardless of religion are invited to apply. For more information, please contact me at erast@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-1201.

Elyse Rast is the Manager of Outreach and Education for Schechter Holocaust Services. For the past 20 years Elyse has taught children ranging in ages from 3-18 and specializes in Holocaust education. Currently, Elyse runs Jewish teenage empowerment classes at Prozdor Hebrew High School and is working on her PhD in Education at Lesley University. Elyse has two kids and two cats and lives in Westwood.

JF&CS Field Day Thanks to Commonwealth Financial Group

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 14:42:09 GMT

Posted by Christine Guarino

An obstacle course, kickball, and egg races were just a few of the activities on the schedule at the Field Day sponsored by Commonwealth Financial Group for JF&CS CHAI Works participants in August. Commonwealth Financial Group maintains a commitment to supporting organizations that serve individuals with disabilities and JF&CS has been fortunate to partner with the company on a number of events and activities. I think we all agreed that the field day was the most fun yet!

Commonwealth Financial Group employees and CHAI Works participants partnered up to take part in a number of outdoor games and activities that kept everyone moving and having fun. The competition was very friendly and the games were challenging – there were a few broken eggs on the ground after the egg races! Participants rotated through different activities, including an arts and crafts project that allowed people to take a break from running around. The group also enjoyed a picnic lunch and the day culminated with a game of kickball.

This was a terrific summertime celebration, all made possible by Commonwealth Financial Group who provided volunteers, food, and supplies. We are so appreciative of this partnership and we give kudos to Commonwealth Financial Group for making it a priority to support individuals with disabilities and for giving their employees time off on a Wednesday to play games!

Thriving after Trauma

Thu, 25 Aug 2016 10:05:11 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Leon, a Holocaust survivor, told high schoolers Zak and Zach how accomplished his life was after the war and how nobody believed that a young boy who witnessed so much tragedy, largely by himself, would grow up to be an inventor with numerous patents. Leon was hidden in a hole in a farm for 2½ years after his mother and siblings were transported to a death camp. Zak and Zach were blown away by his story, his perseverance, and his professional contributions so they created a video highlighting each item that Leon created. They even shared a picture of Leon’s Cape house, which he designed and built entirely by himself.

Shira and Leslie loved meeting Aggie, a Holocaust survivor, who was also very accomplished but in an entirely different way. She was one of the few survivors of Auschwitz and she shared details about this, her family, and her childhood before and after the war with Shira and Leslie. Aggie is from Florida but moved to Framingham to be close to her large family. Aggie loved participating in Legacies: High School Visits and cherished each visit in the same way she cherishes each and every one of her family members. She shared how grateful she feels that her family has brought goodness and compassion into the world and believes Shira and Leslie are honorary grandchildren who she lovingly welcomed into her joyous family. In order to help Aggie have a visual tribute of what she loves most, Shira and Lesley created a stunning photo collage of Aggie’s family, her greatest accomplishment.

The goal of Legacies: High School Visits is to enhance historical lessons by helping students and survivors connect in meaningful ways. Many people have had the opportunity to hear about what happened to people during the war but few have received intimate details about life before and after. We appreciate that Leon and Aggie were able to share their stories and show this cohort of students some of the ways it means to thrive after trauma.

Expanding Geographies

Mon, 22 Aug 2016 10:46:06 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2016

I am tremendously excited to share with you our Annual Donor Listing and Financial Report. I am so pleased to see that after more than a century and a half, we are still being true to our mission of improving people’s lives and helping vulnerable populations.

This year, we took a giant leap forward by expanding our programs into new geographies. We brought Family Table, New England’s largest kosher food pantry, into Canton, along with CHAI Works, our community-based day program for adults with disabilities. We also brought our award winning Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® program into the North Shore and Central MA communities. Expanding into new geographies will offer opportunities for participants as well as volunteers, who now have the chance to give their time to these wonderful programs closer to home.

Members of these new JF&CS communities are thrilled about the expanded programs. Congregants at Temple Beth Abraham in Canton, for example, are incredibly enthusiastic about having Family Table right in their own community. They say it gives them the opportunity to engage meaningfully in work that they want to support.

Our goal each year is to help more people in more profound and long-lasting ways. We are constantly surveying the community to discover what individuals and families need most and identifying where there are gaps or unmet needs. We are truly interested in what makes lives better and we listen to our clients to determine where we can make the greatest impact. After speaking with families of children on the autism spectrum, we discovered that having social activities for their kids was of paramount importance. So we secured funding and created a program for kids on the spectrum that will offer optional concurrent programming for parents or caregivers. We have hired a program coordinator and expect the program to be up and running this fall.

As we continue to expand into areas like the North Shore and Central MA, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our supporters, donors, volunteers, and partners who have allowed us to do this and have helped us so generously along the way. With your help, we hope to continue to expand our borders, bringing more exciting and innovative ideas and programming to improve even more lives.

The Importance of Teaching About the Past

Thu, 18 Aug 2016 13:56:09 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Janet, a Holocaust survivor, is a gifted speaker who spends a great deal of time traveling to schools and talking with students to help them understand the importance of the past. She has a PowerPoint presentation of pictures, which is always a highlight for the students. Part of her detailed story includes a description of the path she took through Poland but she did not have a map to help students understand her travels. Miriam and Jonah created a beautiful drawing showing pictures of Janet as a child and the country borders that existed in the 1940s and today. Janet was overjoyed to include this educational piece into her presentations and believes it will further enhance students’ understanding and knowledge.

When Izzy was separated from his parents at Auschwitz, his father, before being led to his death, told his son to always remember their family and religious heritage. Isaac and Tovya felt this message was important to everyone and created a Facebook page asking people to commit to remembering their own heritage by signing a pledge. The group hopes to use the social media platform to teach others about Izzy’s story and its relevancy today.

Sarah and Lilli felt such joy when they met with Judy, a Holocaust survivor, that they wanted to make sure they all remembered their positive moments together. Additionally, they wanted to help each other learn about empathy and gratitude so the trio created gratitude journals. They each wrote a heartfelt message to the other members of the group and each committed to writing down five good things that happened each day. The group believed that no matter how trying a day might seem, there are always small things that should be recollected.

Three Simple Words

Tue, 16 Aug 2016 09:48:58 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2016
Posted by Wendy Wilsker

On Wednesday, June 1, 475 women joined JF&CS at the Westin Waltham Hotel for the annual Women’s Breakfast benefiting the Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS). We were inspired that morning to hear remarks from Anne Geddes, world-renowned photographer and global health advocate for women and children. The theme of Ms. Geddes’ work is “protect, nurture, love.” Those three simple words certainly resonate with the work that we do in CERS and at JF&CS – helping mothers create strong parental bonds, families maintain safe and healthy homes, and adults with disabilities increase their feelings of self-worth and confidence.

The words protect, nurture, and love are, in fact, repeated to me by so many of our donors. Every day I meet someone who tells me they “love” JF&CS. Maybe it’s a donor, who, through volunteerism and philanthropy shares that she gets back so much more than she gives. Recently, a donor shared that he gives to JF&CS with confidence that we are going to “do something” that will make an immediate impact on our clients’ lives. Donors share that they give to ensure that families can stay in their homes, pay their bills, feed their families. Funders invest in programs that help us take care of clients with disabilities and chronic diseases.

Through your philanthropic generosity, we are able to literally protect, nurture, and love the 17,000 clients we serve every year.

This past winter, we mourned the loss of a dedicated friend and supporter, Ms. Elizabeth des Cognets. Ms. des Cognets understood that the work we do in CERS truly lasts for a child’s entire lifetime. In that spirit, Ms. des Cognets made JF&CS one of the major beneficiaries of her estate. She shared that she “believes in the work of CERS and a gift that keeps on giving.” We are truly thankful to Ms. des Cognets and to the many other generous friends who have included JF&CS in their estate plans.

We are profoundly grateful to every single contributor and pay tribute to our donors in the Annual Donor Listing and Financial Report. Without your support, we cannot provide the financial resources needed to make available immediate service and support to our clients in need.

Our thanks to you are truly beyond measure.

The Importance of the Past Today

Thu, 11 Aug 2016 14:08:03 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Reagan and Shayna met with Gabrielle, a child Holocaust survivor. Decades later Gabrielle was sent a letter by her mother in German, a language Gabrielle no longer knew how to speak and was unable to read. Her mother has since passed away and even though Gabrielle cherished this memory, she was always curious what the missive said. When Reagan and Shayna heard this, they were very inspired to help her and were also curious to know what the letter said. Coincidentally, Shayna’s family had invited a German exchange student into their home for the year. They worked with the German exchange student to translate the letter and then framed it for Gabrielle so she could always remember her mother’s last words as well as the experience Reagan, Shayna, and Gabrielle shared together.

Nathan and Alex also found a meaningful way to remember the past with Tania, a Holocaust survivor who fondly remembered a wool blanket that a local farmer gave her before leading her back to a hiding place in the nearby forest. The blanket was not only a source of heat during the freezing Polish winters but gave her a sense of comfort during such a traumatic time. Nathan and Alex were so moved when they heard this story that they felt compelled to create a special blanket for Tania to have today. They created a work of art Tania said was “beautiful, meaningful, special, and will always be a much cherished reminder of Nathan, Alex, and my wonderful time together.”

Jonah, Dan, and Max, a survivor from Latvia, designed a project that will never be forgotten by the attendees. Max had one suitcase that he took with him to America after the war. Everything he owned was found in this small trunk and Jonah and Dan not only commemorated Max’s experience of coming to America but modernized it into a lasting tribute by filling a suitcase with modern versions of the items Max carried. For instance, an MBTA pass symbolized Max’s train ticket to freedom, a piece of plywood to represent his family plywood factory, and a beach toy reminded Max of the beach house he went to as a child. All three participants found this experience of bringing the past into the present to be cathartic and significant.

One of the goals of Legacies: High School Visits is to help students understand the importance and relevancy of remembering the past. The six students who successfully accomplished this goal far surpassed our expectations and created important memorials that will be cherished by the Holocaust survivors they worked with for many years to come.

Teaming Up to Provide Support

Thu, 04 Aug 2016 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Robin Krawczyk, LICSW and Marsha Frankel, LICSW

Marsha Frankel and I have been on the road, from Roxbury to Holyoke, to provide mental health training for staff in independent senior housing. Staff often come to our trainings with serious dilemmas, hoping to gain some insight. They are the front line contact with residents who struggle daily with complex mental health issues. I often hear that staff members feel ill-equipped to handle troubling behaviors and mood changes that can adversely impact quality of life for residents and ultimately the entire community. Our practical approach of combining education with interactive learning is welcomed and met with enthusiasm.

At a recent workshop we were presented with a fairly common scenario in senior housing. Residents were complaining about an 81-year-old woman who had lived peacefully in the building for years but had begun disturbing other residents by pounding on doors in the middle of the night. She was often found in the mornings asleep on the sofa in the lobby wearing soiled pajamas. Staff members were frustrated as they were met with resistance by the family who seemed to be in denial about their mother’s advancing dementia. We were able to suggest strategies to engage the family in a non-threatening way and encourage staff to use the fact that the resident’s behavior is a lease violation as a tool to motivate the family to accept community resources. This would allow their mother to remain living safely and independently while they researched alternate living arrangements for the future.

The topics we cover range from suicide prevention to substance use disorder, dementia, and social bullying. Though these are tough issues to discuss openly, we have been heartened and inspired by the willingness of these groups to engage in difficult conversations and by their sincere dedication to figuring out how to best help their residents. It becomes clear when we meet that they feel overwhelmed by these issues and exhausted by negotiating a complex mental health system. They love our Tips and Techniques for Supporting Residents with Mental Illness: A Guide for Staff in Housing for Older Adults; a user-friendly guide that offers them some practical advice. While we are not trying to turn housing staff into mental health professionals, we recognize their value, identify resources, and empower them to advocate for their residents. And when the questions are more obvious than the answers, sometimes it helps for us to simply acknowledge and validate their day to day struggles.

As geriatric social workers, our mission is to make it possible for older adults to remain living in an independent setting for as long as it remains safe and beneficial.We are working hard to make this happen. We broaden the reach of JF&CS by providing education, support, and consultation to staff at these diverse housing communities and offer them the tools they need to respond to their residents with care and concern.

Robin Krawczyk, LICSW, is the Community Education and Training Specialist for Services for Older Adults. She is a Mental Health and Housing team member providing training and consultation for staff and residents in independent senior housing. Robin has worked with older adults in hospital, hospice, and residential settings. Previously, she was a Case Manager in JF&CS Guardianship for elders at risk of abuse and neglect.

Marsha Frankel, LICSW, is the Clinical Director of JF&CS Senior Services and the Director of Mental Health. She is a frequent presenter to lay and professional groups on topics ranging from social bullying to mental health issues.

Spirited Aging in Central MA

Tue, 02 Aug 2016 09:00:00 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2016

How do we live our later years with resilience and hope despite the challenges we may face?

When Marjorie U. Sokoll, JF&CS Director of Spirituality and Aging, turned 59 in 2013, she began thinking about her upcoming 60th birthday. She had worked with older adults at JF&CS for 20 years but felt a deep personal yearning to focus more of her attention on the topic of spirituality and aging as she approached this milestone birthday.

“Turning 60 was truly a transitional moment in my life. Most of my professional life had been devoted to working with older adults. Now it had become personal.”

For the first time in history, many of us who reach 60 may have 20, 30, or more additional years of life. There is a growing body of research linking spirituality and religion to the possibility of improved health and well-being as we age. These benefits include but are not limited to a better ability to cope with stress as well as the changes and transitions that come with aging.

With this information and this personal desire, Marjie developed the JF&CS Spirited Aging program, which aims to support people of all ages in their search to find meaning, joy, and spirituality in their lives as they grow older. She used the same JF&CS model as the synagogue Caring Communities Resource Network and the Memory Café Percolator, where experts in their field train others.

Now, with help from JF&CS colleagues Sue Spielman and Barbara Sternfield, Spirited Aging offers programs and groups for clients, JF&CS staff and other professionals, and the larger community. And thanks to a generous bequest from William A. and Judith S. Yoffie, Marjie and her team were able to bring Spirited Aging to Central MA at two different events hosted at the Worcester JCC.

In May, more than 60 people attended a community-wide Spirited Aging event exploring how we understand and find meaning and purpose in the experience of growing older. The number of people in attendance spoke to the clear interest for this type of programming in Central MA.

Marjie shared, “There was a man in attendance in his early 90s and it was clear that, in this setting, he felt a real sense of honor in having lived longer than others in the room. In our youth oriented culture, I’m thrilled that the Spirited Aging program created a space where there is pride in being the oldest in the room.”

In June, 15 people met for a workshop to learn about creating their own Spirited Aging groups. Ages ranged from 27 to 81 with participants coming from community agencies, synagogues, and churches, learning from one another, supporting each other, and sharing resources and ideas.

“Offering this workshop to learn about Spirited Aging empowers participants to feel confident in running their own discussion groups - for people in this new chapter of life,” said Marjie. “We are all pioneers, as so many people have never lived this long before. This longevity begins with the Baby Boomers and will continue with Generation X and the Millennials and people want both guidance and inspiration.”

Because of the success of this workshop, a Spirited Aging Learning Community in Central MA will be developed soon.

“The reality is that no one person has to be the expert.” Marjie shared. “Spirited Aging helps us appreciate and understand that as human beings we are on this journey together.”

This program was made possible through the generous bequest of William A. and Judith S. Yoffie. Many thanks to the Worcester JCC for co-sponsoring the event and to our promotional partners, Central Mass Chabad, Congregation Beth Israel, Congregation Shaarai Torah West, Hadassah Greater Boroughs, Jewish Federation of Central MA, Jewish Healthcare Center, and Temple Emanuel-Sinai.

Day of Kindness on the North Shore

Thu, 28 Jul 2016 13:30:00 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2016

Jake loved climbing the mulberry tree in his yard to eat and pick the berries. One day, he realized his older neighbor might not be able to climb trees like he could and, therefore, could not enjoy the delicious mulberries like he did. He decided to pick some for her. When he brought the overflowing bowl of mulberries to his neighbor, she had so many she was able to make not one but two mulberry pies. Can you guess what happened next?

And so begins the PJ Library book One Good Deed by Terri Fields. The tale illustrates how one good deed, no matter how big or how small, from just one person can spark something incredible throughout a community. This value of g'melut chasadim (acts of kindness towards others) is exactly what Laura Shulman Brochstein, JF&CS North Shore Outreach Manager, and Rabbi Jillian Cameron, InterfaithFamily/Boston, wanted families to experience in June at the North Shore Day of Kindness, hosted by JF&CS and InterfaithFamily/Boston with support from Combined Jewish Philanthropies.

While JF&CS helps people of all faiths, InterfaithFamily/Boston supports interfaith couples exploring Jewish life and inclusive Jewish communities.

"I knew of InterfaithFamily/Boston and had met Rabbi Jillian before. I knew she was a strong educator and spiritual leader," shared Laura. "I thought a partnership between JF&CS and InterfaithFamily/Boston seemed like an obvious match given all the volunteer opportunities available through our agency.”

So together, Rabbi Jillian and Laura created an educational afternoon to introduce North Shore families to both of their organizations and teach about g’melut chasadim.

“Kids learn when parents model actions and values for them,” said Rabbi Jillian. “So we wanted the North Shore Day of Kindness to offer activities for families to participate in together. I was excited about giving people an afternoon to give back to the community in a Jewish setting and in a way that could include the whole family,” Rabbi Jillian said.

Families gathered together in June at the House of Seven Gables in Salem. After reading One Good Deed, attendees designed and colored cards for new parents, decorated picture frames that will be gifted to older adults, and painted ceramic flower pots for Holocaust survivors.

“The children worked very hard on the activities. One little girl reminded me of myself. She was serious about the projects and focused on her work. When she finished, I could see on her face that she was conflicted – she wanted to take her crafts home even though she knew they had been created to be given to others,” shared Rabbi Jillian. “It was a wonderful opportunity for this young girl’s mother to talk with her about what an amazing gift the projects would be for the recipients, especially because she had put so much effort into making them thoughtfully.”

All in attendance were reminded throughout the afternoon that one good deed – whether picking mulberries for a neighbor or creating a card for a new mom – can make a big difference. We know what joy these families’ projects will bring to those in the JF&CS community and look forward to collaborating with InterfaithFamily/Boston in the future.

Leaving Her Legacy

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 12:17:40 GMT

JF&CS News Summer 2016

Elizabeth des Cognets signed many of her emails to JF&CS Center for Early Relationship^® (CERS) staff with a simple “Bon voyage!” A CERS supporter since 2002, Elizabeth met with CERS staff twice a year – once in her hometown of Washington, DC and once in New England on her summer visits to see family and friends – to hear about the current work of the division. Although she always made time to meet, these bi-annual discussions would often happen between other appointments or on her way to somewhere else.

“Often, Elizabeth would come to JF&CS Headquarters and observe a CERS supervision group. Other times, staff would meet her wherever she was visiting in New England. In the tightest of times, we would meet in hotel lobbies without even getting a cup of tea,” shared Peggy Kaufman, Director of CERS. “We joked that our meetings were more about quality than quantity!”

Born in Lexington, Kentucky, Elizabeth moved to Worcester as a child, attending the Bancroft School and graduating from Concord Academy. She earned degrees from Boston University and Simmons College before moving to Washington, DC where she worked as a child advocate and researched strengthening families at risk. A volunteer throughout her life, Elizabeth worked with international student exchange programs, as a tutor for elementary school children, and as a docent at the National Gallery of Art.

At age 76, Elizabeth, described as someone who appeared ageless, heard of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support when she read an article about our Early Connections program in Zero to Three written by CERS Clinical Director, Eda Spielman. Elizabeth, familiar with the field of infant mental health and with Healthy Families America, was interested in learning more. After a phone call to Eda, the two women met for breakfast in Marblehead, Massachusetts and spoke in detail about the work of the CERS Early Connections program.

“Elizabeth loved that our programs were reaching families before they were in intractable troubles with their children. She understood the value of working with young parents when pregnant and right after the birth of their child,” said Peggy. “She was also impressed that we were focused on the parent-child relationship for all clients in CERS programs and not just on meeting the needs of the parent or the child.”

In a 2013 conversation with Peggy, Elizabeth shared, “I truly understand the importance of the work of CERS: nurturing relationships are at the center of the infant’s life and form the basis for healthy development and learning. Infancy is a sensitive and critical period in child development and the work of CERS can make a difference that lasts a lifetime.”

Inspired, Elizabeth began making a gift each year as well as donating her stock dividends. In 2006, she made CERS a beneficiary of her estate. Last year, when Elizabeth’s health began to decline rapidly due to cancer, she called Peggy. It was then that Peggy learned the details of Elizabeth’s beneficiary gift.

“Once she knew that her health was declining and that she had a very short time to live, she would call me every few weeks to hear updates about CERS,” Peggy fondly recalled. “She would say, very humbly, ‘I want you to know that I’m gifting you more than a million dollars for CERS. I want you to keep doing what you’re doing.’”

Like Ms. des Cognets, you too can make a gift that last a lifetime. When you include JF&CS in your estate plan or name JF&CS as a beneficiary of your retirement or life insurance plan, you invest in improving the lives of individuals and families for generations to come. In fact, if you are 70.5 or older, you can also make a tax-free gift to JF&CS directly from your Individual Requirement Account (IRA) that qualifies for the required minimum distribution each year. If you would like to learn more, please contact James Cohen, Chief Philanthropy Officer, at 781-693-5674.

“I was so grateful whenever Elizabeth called,” said Peggy. “I used it as an opportunity to thank her and to remind her how this bequest was her legacy, a gift to both the agency and also to the parents and babies we serve.”

Teaching Our Children the Importance of Giving Back

Fri, 22 Jul 2016 09:47:49 GMT

Posted by Aimee Stashak-Moore

We are always looking for opportunities to teach our children the importance of giving back, not only giving back to friends and family, but giving back to others in our community, especially to those in need. This sounds easy but, in fact, it's quite difficult to find the right environment to bring them to, especially at ages five and six. Fortunately, our boys have been exposed to concept of tzedakah, acts of charity, since they were young, starting in preschool at the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore (JCCNS) and now at Cohen Hillel Academy.

After hearing about JF&CS Family Table through another family at my sons’ school, I eagerly signed myself and the two boys up to volunteer to help stock the pantry. The boys sorted food and stocked the tables. Not only did this give them an unbelievable sense of accomplishment, it was a chance for my eldest to help his brother with his counting skills, a win-win for all!

We gradually added onto our responsibilities by volunteering to not only set-up and pack bags full of groceries but to also help with the delivery of the food items. Our first day of delivery will forever resonate with me.

It started out just like every food distribution day. We got to Temple Sinai in Marblehead early enough to stock the shelves. We were responsible for sorting two particular food tables into "Kosher" and "non-Kosher certified" items. My eldest took his job very seriously and meticulously went through each item to make sure he put them in the right spot. My youngest was given the job of bagging Shabbat candles, which again helped him with his counting skills!

After the pantry was set up, we grabbed our shopping lists and zigzagged our way through the room, making sure to adhere to the dietary wants/needs of each person’s shopping list as best we could. We got the bags in the car and off we went. I felt a little bit of apprehension from my oldest during the drive as he wasn't quite sure how this was all going to go down. We got to our first stop, and together we carried the bags to the front door. He rang the bell and, again, I could sense his apprehension. Once the door opened, my son proudly announced that he "…was here to make your delivery." After the typical pleasantries, we left to make our second and final delivery.

It was here that a proud parent moment totally rocked my world. We made our way to the second home with bags in hand. This time, I could feel a noticeable change in my son and the apprehension was all but gone. He rang the bell and again confidently stated he "was here to make your delivery." The door opened and we were graciously invited in. We stepped into the kitchen, placed the bags onto the table, and spoke with this client about our mutual love of hamantashen. We eventually made our way back to the front door to say our goodbyes and when we turned around the client was in tears and started profusely thanking my son for the kind work he was doing. I could see he was taken back by this but didn't really react at that very moment. After making our way back to the car, I looked at him and he was teary-eyed. I asked him what was wrong and he said, "Thank you, Mom, for allowing me to do good things for people who are not as lucky as we are."

**Mic Drop - SILENCE**

I have never felt prouder of anything in my life. This was my six year old, MY six year old! It is because of this experience that we will continue to support our community through JF&CS Family Table.

With a passion for all things old, vintage, and eclectic, Aimee Stashak-Moore is the Director of Operations for a boutique auction house in Boston, MA. She lives in Lynn with her husband, her two sons, and an endlessly shedding pug, Jack Tar.

The Most Comprehensive Place for PD

Wed, 20 Jul 2016 10:24:50 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

When Paula’s* father, who has Parkinson’s disease (PD), first came to JF&CS, he participated in the Tremble Clefs choral group, a therapeutic drumming group, and the Parkinson’s dance group. As the disease progressed, Paula’s family decided that both her mom and her dad would benefit from a local day program. But Paula’s father skips the day program on Wednesdays – that’s the day he sets aside to come to the Parkinson’s dance program at Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS).

Paula’s mom and dad never miss a Wednesday at Parkinson’s dance because of the emotional support they receive there. “It’s a community and my mom is part of that community, too,” says Paula. “She feels included – she’s made friends with the other participants and she joins in the dancing. I think even if my father couldn’t make it, she would still go.”

In addition to the dance program, Paula’s mother attends the monthly Parkinson’s Resource, Networking, and Support group. “These meetings are great. They’re another form of support and she never misses them. That’s how confident she feels there and how good the lectures are,” says Paula. Geared towards awareness, discussion topics range from new aids to make life easier for people with PD, new devices to help with mobility, and how to deal with stress as a caregiver. “She is with people who have the same issues and stresses. They benefit from each other. She knows she’s not alone and she leaves feeling hopeful.”

“As a daughter, I’ve been involved with my father’s condition, handling his diagnosis and treatment, support groups, and his activities for more than ten years,” Paula remarks. “I can honestly say there is no other program in Greater Boston that supports not only the person with [PD] but also the caregiver and the family. JF&CS is the place to go. It’s really helped us the most consistently over the years and it is by far the most comprehensive place for PD.”

“The program has even had an impact on my children, who have attended the Celebrating the Art of Resilience event for the past two years,” she adds. “They have learned about compassion and to be patient with people and how to accept things they have no control over. As a family, although there are days when it might not be so easy, we are here for each other.”

“As an adult child [of someone with PD], we are entering a whole new phase,” Paula explains. “It is amazing how quickly the disease progresses. There is strain on my mom and it’s stressful on the whole family. It’s sad to see a strong person who was once the life of the party unable to do certain things. As a child, it’s extremely difficult to watch this happen before your eyes. I’m extremely grateful for what JF&CS has done for both my parents.”

*Last names have been omitted for privacy.

Inspired by Elie Wiesel

Thu, 14 Jul 2016 09:54:32 GMT

Posted by Carol Laibson

“I swore to never be silent whenever and wherever human beings endure suffering and humiliation.” –Elie Wiesel, Nobel Peace Prize speech, 1986

The world mourns the loss of Elie Wiesel, a great scholar and humanitarian. We have the honor of knowing and working with Holocaust survivors and we believe that remembering living Holocaust survivors is a wonderful way to pay homage to this noble man who was revered for having transcended horrors to become “the voice first of its survivors and then the conscience of humankind.”

While people may know about what happened during the Holocaust, we often are told by friends, neighbors, and colleagues that they are surprised to learn that so many survivors are still alive and that many live below the poverty line. A Holocaust survivor who has endured the worst humanity has to offer may keep their history, as well as their current struggle of limited resources, a secret.

Elie Wiesel’s lifelong work and legacy is a source of inspiration as to how important it is to promote tolerance and acceptance of those who are different from us, help survivors feel remembered, and enable them to live their remaining years with dignity and compassion.

Navigation Personally and Professionally

Tue, 12 Jul 2016 10:27:15 GMT

Posted by Wendi Hutchinson

My twin sons were born six weeks premature with torticollis, a condition in which the neck is twisted and the head is inclined to one side. Due to this diagnosis, Early Intervention came to my house to do neck exercises with them on a regular basis. They told me they thought my boys had autism, so I immediately called my pediatrician. At 18 months old, my boys were officially diagnosed. I got the diagnosis in writing so services could start as soon as possible but my world, as well as my ideas for their future, were shattered. I did not know what autism was nor did I know what to do to help my sons. I was lost and didn’t know where to turn.

I started receiving Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services (a data-driven intervention used with children with autism) in my house several days a week until my sons’ third birthdays. At three years old they transitioned to the town preschool that had special classes for children with autism. Even though they were receiving some helpful services, I quickly learned that I needed to advocate strongly for my sons. I realized they were not going to automatically get what they needed and they were unable to advocate for themselves.

The next few years were hard on me, my marriage, and my family. I hired an advocate but I felt hopeless at times and other times just wanted to give up. But I knew I wanted the best education for my sons. So I dedicated my time to learning about autism and all that went with it; special education, state and federal laws, and the services available.

After I took a course on how to become an educational advocate, I found myself giving advice, tips, and recommendations to others. I would explain to people that they needed to make sure all communication with schools was put in writing since schools need to adhere to specific timelines that start with the receipt of written requests. I encouraged families to apply for MassHealth as secondary insurance for their child(ren) with autism since there are great benefits of having MassHealth, including not paying for copays at doctors’ offices or for prescriptions and getting a prescription for diapers or pull-ups if the child is not toilet-trained in a reasonable time. I felt empowered and enjoyed helping other families. I thought: why should everyone have to struggle the way I did when I can help them?!

That’s why I am so excited to lead the Disability Lifespan Solutions and Autism Navigation teams. The work that these programs do is what I have spent the past ten years of my life learning! I look forward to the opportunity to help others apply for public benefits, help them with referrals, and help them create a future plan for their child(ren) with disabilities. I am glad I can relate to families on both a personal and professional level. If Disability Lifespan Solutions and Autism Navigation had been available to me when my children were younger, my life would have been easier. I look forward to helping many families and caregivers make sure their loved ones have the futures they deserve!

She is a Survivor

Fri, 08 Jul 2016 09:11:17 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

Rachel* contacted us one year ago about her housing situation. After the initial call, a Journey to Safety (JTS) advocate met her in an emergency shelter to find out more about what kind of help she was seeking.

Rachel soon started to talk about who she was before her abusive partner robbed her of her self-esteem, confidence, and any financial security she had established. She remembered being a happy, optimistic person with job skills and a plan for her and her children’s future. By the time she found the strength and the courage to reach out to us, she no longer recognized herself. Like many people who have experienced trauma and related economic hardship, she found herself moving from crisis to crisis without any opportunity to think about or plan for anything beyond her immediate situation.

In addressing the housing issue, Rachel explained that when she fled her abusive partner, she had to leave her housing voucher behind. Without a rental voucher and with some medical issues that temporarily prevented her from working, she could not pay rent. When she first inquired about regaining the voucher, she was told that if her attempt to get the voucher back failed, she could lose both the voucher and her emergency housing.

With Rachel’s permission, JTS staff reached out to JF&CS Bet Tzedek Legal Services for assistance with the legal questions. Bet Tzedek staff clarified that Rachel had not “lost” her voucher but rather was forced to abandon it because of domestic violence. JTS and Bet Tzedek staff helped Rachel request an appeal and prepare for that hearing. JTS also spoke in support of her at that hearing. Two weeks later, Rachel called to let us know that the voucher had been reinstated!

Rachel also told us about her beloved dog, who had been a support and protector for her while she was living with her abusive partner. We helped her gain permission to bring the dog into shelter and make arrangements to retrieve the dog from family members several hours away. Then, when she was facing in-patient surgery, we connected Rachel with a wonderful program called Phinney’s Friends. They arranged for temporary foster care for the dog and later some emergency dog food during an unexpected interruption in Rachel’s disability income.

Along the way, JTS also provided gas and Target gift cards, as well as a referral for emergency food from JF&CS Family Table.

Today, Rachel is optimistic about her future. Voucher in hand, she is looking for a new apartment for herself and her children. She can finally begin to think about a future that extends beyond the end of the week and includes a job with reliable income and her family safely and permanently housed.

Rachel is a survivor and we are inspired by people like her every day.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Hunger and Nutrition Recipe

Wed, 06 Jul 2016 11:56:00 GMT

Posted by Jennifer Heinen

Looking for a healthy side for your summer barbecue? Look no further! While store-bought salsa can be overloaded with sodium, this homemade Summer Salsa recipe contains less than half the sodium of leading salsa brands. The combination of fresh, delicious ingredients creates the perfect dip for some whole wheat pita chips. We recommend using leftovers as a topping to your favorite fish!

Hunger and Nutrition provides recipes for clients, community partners, and the general public. Recipes cost $2.50 or less per serving and meet nutrition guidelines consistent with the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Visit the Hunger and Nutrition Recipes page or sign up to receive the recipe of the month in your inbox.

You Will Succeed

Thu, 30 Jun 2016 10:30:01 GMT

Posted by Lee Fuoco

When 11-year-old Jessie* was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), her grandparents – who have had custody of her since birth – were crestfallen. On the one hand, at least there was finally a name for it all – the seemingly endless obstinateness, the rigidity with transitions, the struggles to interact with peers, and all those birthday parties where the other kids looked like they were having a ball while Jessie seemed about as comfortable and in her element as a goldfish at the beach. On the other hand, here was the long and utterly unknowable road of supporting this child towards… what? Inclusion? Education? College? Maybe simply more fun at birthday parties? Jessie lacked so many of the milestones of a typically functioning child, that her grandparents were truly fumbling in the dark.

ASD is such a varying and mysterious diagnosis. There is no one way to present, function, or struggle as a child on the autism spectrum and there is no one way to help a child with ASD interact with and thrive in their world – so instead there are in-home behavioral clinicians like Jennifer Pottle of JF&CS.

Jennifer is the walking embodiment of what she practices: she is calm, consistent, patient, and deeply empathic. When a parent or guardian feels exhausted and past their limit by a child who is refusing to comply with a request, Jennifer continues to sit calmly at the table, confident that the next unruffled, measured request for cooperation will be the one that elicits the success she knows the child is capable of. She meets kids where they’re at and follows what motivates them, creating (with the ongoing collaboration of dedicated bachelors-level behavior monitors) interactive, child-specific visual tools aimed at optimizing clients’ already-existing strengths. She coaches discouraged, exhausted parents and guardians to set and hold firm, simple limits and to rebuild their behavior management approaches from reactively reinforcing the negative to proactively searching for the positive.

Over the course of a year, Jennifer worked with Jessie and her grandparents to address goals of reducing aggressive incidents and noncompliance and enhancing independence around activities of daily living, including tooth brushing and hand washing. During that year Jessie struggled with abusive language, hurling objects, screaming, and the silent treatment. Her grandparents were sometimes filled with despair. But after a year of working closely together, Jennifer was able to tell Jessie that she had met her goals and would be graduating from our program. Jessie exclaimed, “Freedom at last!” before expressing genuine concern about Jennifer not coming back. Jennifer met this as she had met all the other dichotomies, inconsistencies, and challenges in a year of working with a child with autism: with the simple, persistent belief that Jessie not only could succeed but that she would.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Lee Fuoco, MSW, LICSW is the Clinical Director of JF&CS In-Home Services, which provides home-based clinical services to kids and families under the Children’s Behavioral Health Initiative (CBHI). Lee graduated from Salem State University’s MSW program in 2010 with a Child and Family concentration. She is a family therapist who has worked exclusively with systemically-involved, high-risk kids and families utilizing systems-focused and social justice perspectives. She also has a specialty in clinical work with LGBTQI clients. Lee also teaches as adjunct faculty at Salem State University’s MSW program and sits on the planning committee of the Youth at Risk Conference.

The World’s Greatest Ideas

Tue, 28 Jun 2016 11:26:45 GMT

Posted by Rimma Zelfand

While listening to the radio in my car, I heard a CBS News segment on merging minds and the power of multiple brains. The narrator theorized that each of us has different ideas and that perhaps there are ways in which we can connect multiple brains to channel our ideas and achieve a common goal. The proponent of this theory was a doctor who had conducted experiments on monkeys, inserting painless filaments into their brains, which were then connected to a computer. Together, the monkeys were able to achieve tasks that would not have been possible under the power of just one brain (or just one monkey). After talking about monkey experiments, the narrator went on to discuss the power of collective thinking and the Coffee House scene in 17th century London.

Coffee houses were centers of thought and debate, where great ideas were generated – ideas that resulted in the establishment of institutions that quickly spread around the world and are still with us today. For just a penny, anyone from any social class could gain admission into a coffee house. Once inside, patrons would have access to news pamphlets and other publications, conversation, gossip, fashion, the scandals of the day, and of course, coffee with unlimited refills. Unlike the Starbucks of today, where so many people isolate themselves with headphones, laptops, and lattes, people were encouraged to come together.

Coffee houses attracted the great thinkers and philosophers of the day. In Lloyd’s, a London coffee house frequented by local merchants and sailors, shipping deals were often conducted. The participants eventually formed what went on to become the famous insurer “Lloyd’s of London.” In another coffee house, stock brokers came together to publish a list of stock and commodity prices. This served as the basis for the renowned London Stock Exchange. Most coffee houses published their own news pamphlets and publications. Some of these grew into newspapers that still exist today. World-famous Sotheby’s and Christie’s auction houses originated from 17th-century coffee houses, as did many scientific and medical breakthroughs.

Some of the best ideas, it seems, come from informal brainstorming. At present day JF&CS, informal discussion or brainstorming can still generate great ideas and help us to achieve a common goal. Expertise in visiting new mothers at home, for example, could easily translate into a great idea for someone who visits older adults or military families. Many of the ideas that work so well in one department might be invaluable to another department. I encourage all JF&CS staff, volunteers, and supporters to informally brainstorm, share ideas, and “merge minds” with one another wherever it is that you feel comfortable. Some of the world’s greatest ideas and institutions were formed in just that way. And today, we even have decaf.

Rimma Zelfand is the CEO of Jewish Family & Children’s Service. Her first involvement with JF&CS began with her joining the JF&CS Board of Directors and the Strategic Planning Committee in 2003. In 2004 Rimma joined JF&CS as Director of Senior Services. She came to her role with 15 years of a very successful track record in leading and managing home care, home health, disease management, and elder care programs. Under Rimma’s leadership Senior Services grew and gained recognition. Her accomplishments included: launching the first NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities) project in Massachusetts, creating the Parkinson’s Family Support Program, and establishing the Geriatric Institute. From 2008 – 2011, Rimma served as the Senior Vice President for Programs.

Legacies: High School Visits Graduation

Thu, 23 Jun 2016 11:15:54 GMT

Posted by Abby Mohr

On a sunny Sunday afternoon in May, the event space at JF&CS Headquarters was almost empty. My mother and I drifted from table to table to table trying to save a full table for our group as other high schoolers, their families, and older adults trickled in. Finally, we caught sight of my interviewing partner, Jordyn, and her family. Jordyn had a box in her arms — a box full of copies of the project we had been working on while conducting our interviews.

Soon, Jordyn spotted Fred Manasse, the man we had been speaking to about his experience surviving the Holocaust, and his wife, Annette, walking through the door. As we brought the two to our table, we caught up with them about bar and bat mitzvahs in our families and the Manasses’ recent trip to Europe. We had just finished showing Fred and Annette our final project for the first time when Elyse, Schechter Holocaust Services Manager of Outreach and Education, came up to the podium. The Legacies: High School Visits graduation had begun.

Legacies: High School Visits in the only program of its kind in New England, bringing together a cohort of 9th-12th graders to learn about the Holocaust by meeting with a survivor three times over the course of the year and creating a meaningful project together. Jordyn, Fred, and I were the first group to speak about our meetings and project. Like the rest of the groups in the program, the interviewee and one of the high schoolers spoke about the interviewing experience while the other high schooler talked about the final project. I started out by speaking briefly about how much it meant to Jordyn and me to interview Fred and get to know him and Annette. I also shared a bit about his journey through Europe to evade the Holocaust as a child. Jordyn described our final project: a cookbook with personal recipes from each of us and stories about our lives that went along with each recipe. She also explained how we had bonded over cooking while interviewing Fred and decided to build our project around that. Finally, Fred wrapped up our presentation, talking about how he thought Jordyn and I really understood him after only six hours of interviewing and how unique our project was.

As the rest of the program participants gave their presentations, I noticed a few common themes in each of the speeches: how important it was to pass on the memory of the Holocaust to the next generation, how inspiring the survivors were to the teenage interviewers, and how well the interviewers and interviewees got to know each other, forming bonds of friendship beyond just reporter and subject. But the most wonderful part of the program was how different the projects were from one another.

Two boys made a beautiful quilt for the survivor they visited after she told them about a blanket she had been given during the Holocaust. Another pair made a slideshow about their interviewee’s many inventions. One group made a time capsule; another made a video. One pair even made a Facebook page where people who followed it could “pledge to their heritage” in order to propagate the survivor’s story. Not a single project was a repeat in format and certainly not in content. It was clear that each group of three had been dedicated to the Legacies: High School Visits program, their project, and each other.

Before my mom and I left the graduation, we said goodbye to the Manasses and told them we hoped to keep in touch. I was so happy we had gotten to meet them and hear their unique story. Legacies: High School Visits is more than just a chance to learn history from a primary source; it builds friendships. I hope that in the future, other survivors and teens get a chance to take part in this too.

If you are a high school student who would like to participate in the program for the 2016-2017 school year, please contact Elyse Rast at erast@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-1201 or apply online today.

Advancing the Mission

Tue, 21 Jun 2016 10:10:22 GMT

Posted by Liz Cohen

At a recent gathering of the Tremble Clefs, our choral group for people with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners, I made a joke that the name Institutional Advancement is one of those colloquialisms like sanitation engineer. Words like “gift officer” or “fundraising” often get a bad rap but that is not what is being reflected in our Institutional Advancement department. We are sincerely committed to thinking of ways to advance the mission and vision of Jewish Family & Children’s Service. Our goal is to find ways to engage friends and supporters in meaningful volunteer work, leadership roles, and (of course) philanthropy.

My background is in public health and I have mostly been a program manager or Executive Director but embedded in all of those positions has always been the responsibility of raising money. You can have the best organization in the world but without sustaining funds, leaders and volunteers nothing can get done. I was thrilled to find a position at an organization that I have long admired and a department filled with people led by the best practices in the field of fundraising, marketing, and volunteerism.

So, all that being said – here was my challenge. How could I get a sense of the more than 40 programs within Jewish Family & Children’s Service so that I could speak intelligently about our work? There is only one way for me to learn: I jumped right in and asked to go to as many events as I possibly could.

In my first six weeks, here is but a short list of everything I saw at JF&CS:

The pure joy of people with Parkinson’s disease as they sang and danced with their peers and loved ones.
The dignity given to families as they selected food for Passover from our kosher food pantry, the largest available in New England.
The dedication of our Journey to Safety advocates as they work tirelessly to find resources for survivors of domestic abuse.
The nods of understanding from older adults having a candid conversation about what it means to age at a Spirited Aging program in Central MA.
The tears in the eyes of our guests as they said the Mourner’s Kaddish together at a lunch on Yom Hashoah, which honored Holocaust survivors.
The sweet gurgles of an infant coming with her mom to visit one of our sleep consultants in the Center for Early Relationship Support^®.
The pride of a participant in Pathways to Employment as he told me how he developed skills to help when he applies for jobs with support from our amazing Services for People with Disabilities staff.
The kindness of our volunteers as they participated in our Friendly Visitor Seder.

I am honestly blown away by the thoughtfulness and quality of our work and the dedication to really meet people where they are and help them get where they want to go. I am proud of all that we have accomplished and all that we will continue to accomplish together.

Liz Cohen is a Senior Development Officer at JF&CS. Prior to coming to JF&CS, she was the Executive Director of Families First, a parenting support organization serving low-income families. She has also held education-focused positions at Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts and WGBH Educational Foundation. The beginning of her career was dedicated to helping survivors of sexual violence, including leading the Rape Crisis Services of Greater Lowell (now the Center for Hope and Healing). Liz has a master’s in public health from Boston University and a bachelor’s from Tufts University. Her greatest joy and accomplishment is being a single mom to an amazing 6 and ¾ year old daughter.

Asking Fathers “What Has it Been Like for You?”

Fri, 17 Jun 2016 14:15:22 GMT

Posted by Kathleen J. Savage Mills, PhD, LICSW

There’s a belief in our society that men are unable or unwilling to talk about their feelings. Last fall, I had the opportunity to sit with a group of men in a discussion group for fathers of babies who had been born prematurely. As we gathered together, I felt this cultural myth begin to impact my thinking: Would we be able to fill the time set aside for the discussion? If so, how much of their true feelings would they really be willing to share?

Over the course of the next 90 minutes, these 12 men shared their experiences of becoming fathers of premature babies, what it was like to have a partner go through a frightening birth, and how the experience shaped them as a man and their first days of being a father.

Feelings of helplessness were recalled. One father said he received a phone call from his partner’s doctor’s office, a daunting voice on the other line telling him, “You need to come to the hospital immediately.” Others nodded in agreement. Together, they remembered standing in hospital hallways, waiting to be with their partners and not knowing what to do. They talked about seeing their babies for the first time and feeling afraid to touch them. They all wanted to make things better for their partners and babies but felt completely powerless to do so. Several dads felt unseen. After the premature birth of their children, the focus was almost without exception on the babies and their mothers. Fathers became the point people to keep family and friends informed about the well-being of the moms and babies. Their own well-being was not part of the discussion. Those few who were asked how they were feeling delivered a quick, “Oh, I’m fine,” not wanting to divert attention from their partners and children. They spoke of taking on the role of the strong one – “the rock” – and that they did not feel deserving of saying how they were really doing.

Going back to work presented conflicts, including how to save their leave time for when the baby came home from the NICU. One man talked about having to completely separate himself from the emotional strain of leaving his baby in the hospital and returning to work as though nothing was different. A rich discussion emerged about the challenges and pressure of having to perform job duties when their focus was on the health and wellbeing of their partners and children.

The group cried together, supported each other, and validated one another’s experiences. And yes – they talked about their feelings. They expressed gratitude that the Center for Early Relationship Support^® offered this group that focused on the father’s experience: it recognized, in some cases for the first time, that a father is a key player in a family’s premature birth experience.

What kinds of assumptions do we make about men? And what type of impact do those assumptions have on their experience of becoming new fathers? What would happen if we asked fathers about their feelings? How would their experience be different? How could we create an environment where fathers’ feelings are valued and validated? How can we recognize and make space for their fears and vulnerabilities as well as their strengths and capabilities?

On this Father’s Day, the Center for Early Relationship Support and JF&CS acknowledge the full range of new fathers’ experiences. We encourage all of you to ask new fathers, “What has this experience been like for you?” And if you receive the knee-jerk response of “Oh, I’m fine!” then ask again.

Kathy Mills, PhD, LICSW is the Associate Director of Programs at the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support®, a center of excellence for direct services, training, supervision, and consultation that focuses on the earliest infant-parent relationship. Her clinical and teaching background has focused on children and trauma, in particular children exposed to domestic violence. A proud mother of twins, Kathy is passionate about empowerment and establishing safety within families. Kathy earned her PhD from the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University and her MSW from Simmons College School of Social Work.

Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award: Carolyn Rosen

Wed, 15 Jun 2016 10:07:23 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

The Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award is presented annually to a JF&CS volunteer whose service has made a significant contribution towards tikkun olam.

Carolyn Rosen is an extremely devoted volunteer for JF&CS Family Table. She plays a vital role in creating driver assignments for the Family Table distribution, essentially matching around 100 volunteers with around 200 clients – a complicated task that requires great accuracy. Always available to tackle the most labor-intensive tasks in the program, Carolyn also volunteers at both our Marketplace and Sunday distributions in Waltham. She even volunteers at special events such as the annual Three Squares New England Ride for Food.

A retired nurse, Carolyn assists her husband Bob in their family business, Belmont Medical Supply Co. They also volunteer at Temple Beth Elohim, preparing and serving food for various shelters. Carolyn and Bob live in Waltham, where they helped start an Enhancement Committee to improve public spaces. A trustee at her condominium association, Carolyn also serves as a member of the Waltham High School Health Advisory Committee.

Carolyn and Bob have two sons, Joel, who lives in Natick with wife Stacey and children Sage and Sam, and Richard, who lives in Medfield with wife Claudia and children Madison and Tyler. Carolyn enjoys traveling, reading, and taking walks.

JF&CS is fortunate to have Carolyn’s heartfelt support. Her commitment to our mission is truly inspirational.

Jon Federman is the JF&CS Staff Writer. A practicing attorney for more than 15 years, he is thrilled to bring his legal and persuasive writing skills to the JF&CS Marketing Communications team. Jon has a BA from Tufts University and a JD from Boston College Law School. In his spare time he is an exhibiting photographer and an award-winning cartoonist. Jon lived in London, England for five years before returning to Boston in 2011.

Betsy Gross President’s Award: Alan Lipkind

Thu, 09 Jun 2016 09:26:10 GMT

Posted by David Schechter

Alan Lipkind has served the agency as a Board member since 2009 and chairs the Board’s Compliance and Risk Management Committee, dealing with many of the most sensitive and least glamorous issues that come up continuously for a big agency like ours. Alan lives in Marblehead with his wife, Liz Durstine-Lipkind. They are the parents of Eric, Jess, and Talia. A graduate of Tufts University (1981) and Boston University School of Law (1986), Alan is a partner in the law firm of Burns & Levinson LLP, where his areas of expertise are real estate and business litigation. In 2015 he was named a B.T.I. Client Service All-Star, one of 354 attorneys nationwide designated as a providers of superior client service based upon independent interviews with legal decisions makers. He is a member of the Marblehead Zoning Board of Appeals where he serves as board secretary.

This past year Alan took on the chairmanship of the newly formed Real Estate Task Force. He recruited a new group composed of existing and new Board and Board committee members with expertise in real estate ownership and transactions. Meetings were held on short timeframes with many hours of preparation required before and after. His personal leadership, his familiarity with both the agency and the law, and his tireless attention to detail were required for the effort’s success.

Alan, you bring the perfect combination of attributes in a Board member. You give selflessly of your time and wisdom, you inspire others to do the same, and you work harmoniously with the agency’s leadership and within the Board, thereby making all of us more successful. You are most deserving of this year’s Betsy Gross President’s Award.

David Schechter is the JF&CS Board president. The recipient of the President's Award in 2008, he also served on the 2008 JF&CS Strategic Planning Committee, was a Sponsor Chair for the 140th Celebration, and co-chaired the Auction for the 2007 Benefit. David and his wife, Gail, co-chaired the 2008 JF&CS Benefit. David's campaign for JF&CS donations in support of Holocaust Services led to its renaming. With a Chemical Engineering degree from University of Delaware and an MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, David has held professional and entrepreneurial positions in corporate planning, stockbrokerage, and engineering. David is founder and manager of Perspective Capital Management LLC and the Schechter Foundation. David currently serves on the Board of Directors of MAB Community Services. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and the New England Board of Facing History and Ourselves.

Investing for a Resilient Commonwealth

Tue, 07 Jun 2016 13:57:11 GMT

Posted by Amy Sommer

I have never been prouder to be a Massachusetts citizen than I was on Tuesday, May 17. I had the privilege to join the press conference that Senator Karen Spilka (D - Ashland) held in her role as Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means to announce the Senate’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2017. Senator Spilka is a social worker by training and I believe that her background shaped the title, tone, and priorities contained in the proposed budget.

Titled “Investing for a Resilient Commonwealth,” the Senate’s budget proposal explicitly highlighted that people do best when they are given the tools and supports needed to overcome adversities. Spilka defined resilience as “the ability to achieve a good outcome in the face of adversity” and noted the importance of giving all our Commonwealth’s citizens what they need to overcome challenges and move past difficult life events. As a clinician myself, I was thrilled to hear a Senator use a press conference to explain to the public that policies can be designed to support and strengthen citizens.

As an infant mental health practitioner, I was near to tears as Senator Spilka emphasized her belief that resilience is best built from the start -- with infants and their families and caregivers, in the context of relationships. Her budget priorities support expanding care for newborns, early education and care for young children, and economic and housing supports for families so they can begin the journey of parent and infant in an environment of safety and stability. The Committee’s language emphasized, “Resilience isn't about self-reliance… Resilience is generated through the development of strong relationships.” Quoting the research of Dr. Jack Shonkoff from the Harvard Center for the Developing Child, the budget committee emphasized the state of current research on promoting child development: “Supportive relationships and skill building opportunities [are] key factors for developing resilience in children.”

And as a practitioner who pays special attention to the support of parents and infants impacted by substance use, I was glad to see that the Senate’s budget prioritized passing additional funding for treatment programs and treatment beds for people with substance use disorders. In Project NESST^®, we have adopted a model of care informed by a disease model of addiction. It emphasizes the possibility for recovery with adequate treatment and supports to fight a chronic disease that, without treatment, can involve repeated relapse and myriad health and behavioral consequences. Senator Spilka mentioned numerous times places where her budget increases funding for mental health treatment, recognizing it as essential to building resilience in families impacted by trauma and addiction. Knowing that our elected officials are interested in providing treatment to those impacted by this cruel illness gives me a lot of hope.

I should acknowledge that my positive feelings about the state budget and the senate’s priorities were influenced by the recognition by the Senate of the funding requests of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS). Because we too recognize the importance of supporting infants from their earliest moments and of providing families with the tools they need to overcome difficult life experiences, we asked for funds to support our programs for families impacted by the use of substances and families whose babies are born early or with medical complications. These programs provide one-of-a-kind, tailored, free services to vulnerable families who are fostering the development of a newborn baby. With funding from the state budget, our program will offer more direct services as well as more consultation, education, and training to other professionals who also support these families. Whatever the outcome of budgeting, my optimism in our state’s future is immensely buoyed because our Senate has rightly emphasized the importance of nurturing earliest relationships for each new member of our Commonwealth.

Amy Sommer, LICSW is the Clinical Coordinator for Project NESST^® and Project Bright and co-author of the 2015 Zero to Three article, "Building a model program for substance-exposed newborns and their families: From needs assessment to intervention, evaluation, and consultation."

Protect, Nurture, Love: The Women's Breakfast

Fri, 03 Jun 2016 13:45:51 GMT

Posted by the JF&CS Events Team

On Wednesday morning, more than 470 guests gathered at the Westin Waltham Hotel to celebrate the important work of the Center for Early Relationship Support® (CERS) at the JF&CS Women’s Breakfast. The morning’s featured guest speaker was Anne Geddes, world renowned photographer and global children's advocate.

Anne Geddes shares our deep commitment to the health and well-being of infants, young children, and families. At the Women’s Breakfast, she shared her own personal story about being a mother with two children, as well as a global children's advocate, and how her mantra of "Protect, Nurture, Love" epitomizes the values that are found throughout her body of work. Her beloved and award-winning imagery -- along with her humanitarian commitment to the lives of families -- motivates others to ensure that children all around the world have a voice.

Attendees also heard from Anabela, a CERS Healthy Families participant, who movingly shared her experience with JF&CS and how much our programs impacted her life. As she spoke about her journey into motherhood and her years of involvement with the agency, Anabela concluded saying, "I couldn't be the mother to three wonderful children I am today without the support of JF&CS."

We raised $225,000 at the Breakfast to help CERS continue to empower parents to develop healthy, responsive relationships with their babies -- the essential foundation for lifelong resilience and well-being.

Thank you to all those who helped make the Women’s Breakfast a huge success - event chairs Laurie Brownstein and Danielle Darish, honorary co-chair Penny Goodman, guest speaker Anne Geddes, the Women’s Breakfast event committee, the Westin Waltham Hotel, Grossman Marketing, sponsors, ticket buyers, table hosts, Board members, old friends and new. Your generosity continues to make CERS a unique and invaluable program in our community.

Beyond the College Tour

Tue, 31 May 2016 13:43:24 GMT

Posted by Sara Berkowitz

Do you remember what it felt like to be finishing high school? The excitement of moving on coupled with the anxiety of leaving the familiar make spring of senior year a challenging time for students and parents alike. On Sunday, May 15 JF&CS TeenSafe joined that conversation, leading "Beyond the College Tour: Recognizing and Responding to Dating Abuse and Sexual Assault on Campus,” a workshop for high school seniors, parents, and other supportive adults.

In response to the increased concern over sexual assault and relationship violence on college campuses, this event was geared towards preparing students (and their parents) to navigate relationships after high school. TeenSafe High School Peer Leaders highlighted the fact that while dating violence is much more common than people realize, not every abusive relationship includes violence. They talked about other controlling tactics that abusive partners use to pressure or force their partner to stop spending time with friends, withdraw from extracurricular activities, and make certain choices about classes and majors. They also asked the audience to consider challenges teens face in breaking up and offered supportive ways to help friends when they are experiencing a controlling relationship.

TeenSafe alumnae spoke about their campus experiences, addressing the differences between relationships in high school and those in college. They shared that not only is there more freedom to make your own choices but also more responsibility to set up boundaries in relationships as life on campus is so interconnected. The alumnae mentioned support systems on campus (counseling services, student groups, RAs, etc.) while also addressing the need to take time to build trusting friendships. They offered guidance on balancing relationships with time for yourself and strategies they’ve developed with their friends to make sure everyone is safe. These included checking in with friends before going out at night, making sure people go out in groups, and building supportive friendships for when situations are challenging.

Ruth Abelmann, Associate Director of Residential Life at University of New Hampshire, also shared her insights about the reality of sexual and intimate partner abuse in college and preventive measures students can take on campus. She reviewed the challenges universities face when managing and responding to sexual assault and relationship abuse and what parents and students can expect from a university when looking to them for assistance. She facilitated a conversation around how parents can engage with their students before they go to college, cues to listen for when their students are in college, as well as available resources.

Though we cannot single handedly ensure safety for our students as they leave for college, TeenSafe was excited to provide a forum to acknowledge that these issues exist and to encourage a conversation as a first step towards increasing safety on campus.

TeenSafe is JF&CS Journey to Safety’s response to dating abuse in our community. TeenSafe offers a peer leadership group for high school students as well as community workshops. Learn more or apply to be a Peer Leader today.

TeenSafe is funded by a generous grant from the Miriam Fund.

Sara Berkowitz is the Youth Educator of Journey to Safety’s TeenSafe Program, where she runs groups designed to teach teenage girls to identify healthy and unhealthy relationships and help them become mentors for their peers. Sara has years of experience working with teens in school, youth group, and camp settings and is passionate about empowering youth to make change in their community. She also works for Wayside Youth & Family Support Network as an In-Home Therapist and Peer Leadership Advisor. Sara has a BA from Ithaca College and an MSW from Boston College.

Sheryl Sandberg's Speech: Generation Gap or Media Gap?

Thu, 26 May 2016 10:20:34 GMT

Posted by Marjorie U. Sokoll

I love working with my colleague, Jocelyn Gordon, Marketing Communications Manager, who oversees the agency blogs. In addition to her excellent editing skills, she also has terrific insights and provides thoughtful feedback. So when I received an email from her with the subject line “Blog Idea,” I was intrigued.

I walked to her desk where she excitedly shared her idea of my writing a blog in response to Sheryl Sandberg’s 2016 commencement speech at U.C. Berkeley.

Sheryl is the COO of Facebook and the author of Lean In. Before Jocelyn emailed me, I had already read an excerpt from her inspiring speech in the Boston Globe and shared it with friends on Facebook, with my colleagues in Services for Older Adults, and with members of our staff Spirited Aging group. I have to admit, I was confused as to what Jocelyn found so meaningful. The speech I read focused on the death of Sheryl’s beloved husband and what she had learned in death as to how to cope with adversity.

It was what Jocelyn said next that surprised me: “What about the fourth P?”

“The fourth P,” I replied, “I don’t remember reading about that!”

“Yes, pizza from Cheese Board!” Jocelyn exclaimed. “Or going to Kip’s,” she continued.

“Kip’s?” I said. “I didn’t read about Kip’s either, what’s that?”

Because Jocelyn is 27 years old and I am 61 years old, I wondered whether the fourth P and Kip’s were the proverbial “generation gap.” In my heart, I knew it was not; so then what was it?

Kip’s, Jocelyn explained, was a local U.C. Berkeley bar, referenced by Sheryl when she spoke about how gratitude and appreciation are essential for increasing a person’s resilience to cope with the inevitable challenges in our lives. So essential, Sheryl shared in her speech, that she made a New Year’s resolution to write down three moments of joy before going to bed each night. She encouraged the graduates to try this practice: “Start tonight when you have so many fun moments to list – although maybe do it before you hit Kip’s and can still remember what they are.”

I realized that Jocelyn and I had been reading two very different versions of the same speech, each targeted for an age demographic. The version I read I assume was targeted for an older readership, whereas the version Jocelyn read was targeted for a younger readership. It turns out that Jocelyn initially saw posts about the commencement speech on social media. Her friends were sharing the video from a variety of sources and quoting different parts in their reposts.

“A commencement address is meant to be a dance between youth and wisdom,” Sheryl said. However, in the excerpted version I read, many of the references to youth overcoming adversity were not included. Here are just a few examples: someone writing on you with a Sharpie when you fall asleep at a party, struggles with grades, achieving a Facebook or Google internship, death of a mother, a grandmother’s struggles, difficulty at a first job, boyfriend breakups, Sheryl’s divorce in her 20s, and swiping someone to the left (I Googled that one… it means to break up with someone!).

In the address, Sheryl told the class of 2016 what she did to overcome the adversity she faced after the death of her husband and the wisdom she gained from the experience. She turned to the work of psychologist Martin Seligman that shared how to build resilience by challenging the three Ps:

Personalization – challenging the belief that when something tough happens to us we are at fault
Pervasiveness – challenging the belief that this terrible thing will affect all aspects of our life
Permanence – challenging the belief that we will be sad forever; that we will always feel this way
And the fourth P (added by Sheryl) – when all else fails and you just need comfort, eat pizza from Cheese Board!

Just as surely as Jocelyn related to the references above, so do I, because to quote Annie Lamott in This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism by Ashton Applewhite, “We contain all the ages we have ever been.”

Ageism, based on a person’s age, is typically associated with older people but can also be directed toward young people. Our society is becoming ever more segregated by age. I feel profoundly grateful that here at JF&CS, I come into regular contact with younger colleagues like Jocelyn and enjoy meaningful and heartfelt conversations with colleagues in our Spirited Aging group who range in age from 21-78 years old.

It was wonderful to have this rich conversation with Jocelyn, enabling us to share our common humanity. And that transcends age.

Marjorie U. Sokoll, MEd, Director of Spirituality and Aging, is the founder and director of JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections. Marjie also provides oversight for the JF&CS Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program, spiritual support for the JF&CS Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support Program, and is a founding partner at the Kalsman Institute for Judaism and Health. Marjie earned degrees in sociology and social work from Boston University and Tel Aviv University respectively, a graduate degree in counseling from Northeastern University, and holds a certificate of thanatology from the National Center for Death Education.

Creating Healthy Food Pantries

Tue, 24 May 2016 11:02:40 GMT

By Alison Kaufman

Whenever I think about the foods that food pantries provide, I have a question that bubbles up in the back of my mind – would I use this food to feed my family? As a mom and a registered dietitian, this question holds double meaning and requires me to think about both the food quality and also nutritional value. I consider whether my family would enjoy eating this and whether I would use our dollars to purchase this myself.

Last week, Jennifer Heinen and I presented at the Association of Jewish Family and Children's Agencies annual conference in San Diego, California about creating healthy food pantries. As registered dietitians, this work is so meaningful because we are able to promote health on a large scale among the people who rely on food pantries each month. As we shared with the 30 session attendees, here are a few reasons why creating healthy food pantries matters:

1 in 7 American households is food insecure
54% of food pantry clients visit food pantries for more than half of the year
People who are food insecure are at higher risk for certain chronic diseases

We also shared our five favorite tools available to food pantries when making nutritional improvements:

As more food pantries use these tools to improve the foods available, maybe we will all be able to say that yes, we would feed our families from our favorite food pantry.

We were pleased to present about creating healthy food pantries along with three colleagues from other JFS organizations: Lara Wellerstein from Mercer County in New Jersey discussed promoting wellness, Beth Levine from Boca Raton in Florida discussed promoting dignity, and Kathleen Poth from Pittsburg in Pennsylvania discussed promoting volunteerism.

Alison Kaufman, MS, RD, LDN is passionate about making the choice to eat healthy foods easier for all. As the JF&CS Director of Hunger and Nutrition, she oversees the Hunger and Nutrition program, established the Greater Boston Hunger Network, and created Home Cooking without a Kitchen cookbook. Really good tomatoes are her favorite food.

Mitzvahs All Around at Passover

Thu, 19 May 2016 15:08:07 GMT

Posted by Deena Blau

I am fortunate to be affiliated with two wonderful organizations that give meaning to my life. One is Temple Sinai of Brookline where my husband and I have been members for more than 37 years. The other is the JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections Advisory Council led by Marjorie Sokoll.

At Passover, these two organizations joined forces to provide Jewish older adults with beautifully decorated centerpieces at each holiday table for the annual Friendly Visitor Passover Seder. Temple Sinai's Mitzvah Day offers numerous opportunities for the congregation to come together to serve others and to bring joy to those who face life's challenges. When Temple Sinai School Director, Heidi Smith Hyde, was searching for potential projects, she went to the JF&CS website to explore available opportunities. According to Heidi, Temple Sinai already had a relationship with them as congregants regularly volunteer at Family Table. Heidi saw a request for Passover centerpieces and contacted Sue Spielman, Friendly Visitor Program Manager, who was organizing the event.

Heidi and Sue came up with the idea of a decorative Seder plate for each table of guests. As Heidi describes, "All that was needed was felt, scissors, pie plates, craft glue, and a little bit of love." I was among the volunteers along with my husband and seven-year-old twin grandsons to work on this project. We had a marvelous time assembling the Seder plates that were used.

I had the joyful experience of participating in the Passover Seder with more than 140 older adults and volunteers. David, one of the fourth grade students in the Temple Sinai religious school, recited the four questions beautifully at the event. His mother, Alyssa, was an intern at JF&CS and delivered the finished plates. According to Sue, many of the adults who attend are matched with volunteer Friendly Visitors. Others, including Holocaust survivors or victims of Nazi persecution, are served by other JF&CS programs. Since many are Russian speaking, this year the Haggadah was translated into Russian as well as English and Hebrew.

This lovely intergenerational project served to remind these older adults that they are not forgotten by the Jewish community and have the opportunity to feel connected to the greater Jewish population. For many, if this event did not happen, there would not be a Passover Seder to celebrate.

I was fortunate to participate both in the making of the centerpieces and to enjoy them with the other participants at the Seder. I will remember the smiles on the faces of the guests and the appreciation they expressed when they sat down at the beautifully set and decorated tables. I'm already looking forward to next year's Passover celebration! Thank you to Marjie, Sue, Heidi, and the many volunteers that made this day happen. We know "It is not good to be alone," especially at the holidays.

The 11th annual Friendly Visitor Passover Seder is made possible through the generosity of the George and Beatrice Sherman Family Charitable Trust.

Deena has been a dedicated member of the Jewish Healing Connections Advisory Council since its inception in 2002. She also created the Caring Community at her synagogue, Temple Sinai in Brookline, and has been co-leading a healing service in conjunction with Am Tikva and Temple Sinai since 2000. Deena founded the Soviet Jewry Committee at Temple Sinai in 1985 and worked on freeing and resettling Soviet Jews through 1992.

Our Journey of Love and Family

Tue, 17 May 2016 14:12:21 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Last summer, Sandra and Gary* were gathering together paperwork in order to adopt their second child. They also had to create an autobiographical book to tell their family’s story to any prospective birth parents. Their book was titled, “To a Brave, Young Couple: Our Journey of Love and Family.”

Their efforts were rewarded when they received a phone call in November from an adoption agency they had been connected to by JF&CS Adoption Resources. Sandra and Gary had been chosen to adopt a baby girl born in Kentucky. “I was in Dunkin Donuts when I got the call,” Sandra shared enthusiastically. “I just started crying because I was so excited. Strangers were hugging and congratulating me.” Just 24 hours later, Sandra, Gary, and three-year-old Jacob, also adopted, were in a hospital in Kentucky, meeting their new daughter’s birth parents and holding baby Emily for the first time.

Three years prior to meeting Emily, Sandra and Gary adopted newborn Jacob. When the couple first decided that they wanted to adopt, they attended an adoption conference in Bellingham. There, they participated in adoption workshops and learned more about other adoption-related resources. They met Betsy Hochberg, Director of JF&CS Adoption Resources, and instantly felt a connection to her. “I don’t know what it was. We felt relaxed when we spoke with Betsy and that it was right. We just exhaled and said that’s what we’re going to do. With Adoption Resources, it wasn’t about the business, it was about the baby,” Sandra remarks.

Shortly after, Sandra and Gary got the process started. They were introduced to out of state agencies that had a quicker adoption process than what was available in Massachusetts. Betsy put them in touch with A Chosen Child, an adoption agency in Florida. Then the wait began. Almost a year had passed when Sandra got a phone call from Florida. “They told us they had a baby for us! It was one of the best days of our lives,” she marvels. Jacob joined their family in December 2012 and the adoption was finalized the following March.

Currently, the family is awaiting Emily’s adoption finalization, something that usually occurs six to eight months after placement of a child. Although they do not yet have a date, they recently received the paperwork necessary to begin the finalization process. Brother Jacob has been nothing less than excited since Emily came into the picture. “We included him in everything so he wouldn’t feel left out and he’s been wonderful. He holds her, he kisses her, and he calls her ‘his’ baby,” adds Sandra.

“I’ve recommended Adoption Resources at JF&CS to at least three different [couples] who want to adopt. I tell them, ‘This is where you need to go. You will not find a better place,’” Sandra emphasizes. “Betsy changed our lives. If not for her and JF&CS,” adds Sandra, “we wouldn’t have our family.”

*Last names omitted for privacy.

Jon Federman is the JF&CS Staff Writer.
A practicing attorney for more than 15 years, he is thrilled to bring his legal and persuasive writing skills to the JF&CS Marketing Communications department. Jon has a BA from Tufts University and a JD from Boston College Law School. In his spare time he is an exhibiting photographer and an award-winning cartoonist. Jon lived in London, England for five years before returning to Boston in 2011.

A Journey Through Stabilization and Recovery

Thu, 12 May 2016 09:05:51 GMT

Posted by Elysse Nava

Sabrina*, an adult living with mental illness, and her family were referred to JF&CS by the hospital she was being discharged from following a psychotic episode in the community. Sabrina was coping with feelings of depression and guilt about her psychotic episode, not being able to work, and being faced with needing assistance with public benefits in addition to the symptoms of her major mental illness. Her personal goals seemed like insurmountable obstacles. Before her psychotic episode, she had held a full-time job in a professional setting. Now, Sabrina was at square one, unable to return to work and to the place where she was living; she felt stuck.

I worked with Sabrina to create a plan that detailed the goals that she wished to achieve. This service plan is fluid and when one goal was achieved, if Sabrina had a new goal, we would add it. Initially, I assisted Sabrina with her basic needs: helping her find a place to live and apply for public benefits, including MassHealth, Social Security Disability, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). During the two years we worked together, I helped Sabrina maintain and navigate these benefits.

Sabrina was anxious to return to work, however her mental health providers thought that returning to work prematurely could negatively impact her recovery process. I provided supportive counseling to Sabrina to help her reach her goal of returning to work by emphasizing her strengths and all of the progress she had made up until that point. When the time came that Sabrina was able to return to work part time, we practiced interviewing, prepared her resume, and came up with a plan for applying to jobs.

Recently, Sabrina re-entered the workforce on a full-time basis in the same professional setting that she had left when we first met. As she accomplished her goals, she needed my support less and less. Before we closed her case, I made sure Sabrina understood that our phone line was always open to her.

We rely on the client’s desire to change their own situation. As case managers, we equip our clients with the tools to succeed on their own. Sabrina is just one of many clients who benefited from our program, and I’m grateful she chose JF&CS to begin her journey of stabilization and recovery with regards to her mental illness.

*Named changed to protect privacy.

Elysse Nava, LICSW joined Jewish Family & Children’s Service in April 2012 as a Clinical Case Manager in Stabilization and Recovery Services. In this capacity, she has assisted individuals living with mental illness in attaining their self-identified goals. Prior to JF&CS, her roles in the mental health field included providing community-based outpatient therapy as a staff therapist for South Bay Mental Health Center and as a guardianship social worker in New York City. Elysse graduated from New York University in 2009 with her MSW and from Skidmore College with her BSW.

A Gift That We Will Never Forget

Tue, 10 May 2016 10:22:56 GMT

Posted by Carolyn Burrell

I walked in from February break and immediately heard the news. One of my former students had been killed, an all too often experience at our school. As the rumors started flying, I knew that I had to address my class. My supervisor came down with the guidance counselor, and we let the children know that their former classmate was killed the day before. We talked for a while about how, as a community, we had to “do better.”

In the back of my mind, I kept thinking about the special guest who was visiting the following week. A Holocaust survivor who had been through so many traumas was going to tell his story. I thought “Should I cancel?” So many people had cancelled on visitors like him over the years, and I really didn’t want to do that again. I talked it over with my team and we decided to just leave it as is.

The day came, and the students were super excited because they had done major research on the Holocaust. To be able to meet someone who had experienced it first hand was unheard of to them. I met Sam, an 80-something year old Holocaust survivor, and Elyse Rast, a JF&CS staff member, outside and walked them into the auditorium, hoping the students would show this man the respect he deserves.

As the students started to enter the auditorium, one by one they came up front. Sam started to share his story, and he talked for an hour. You could hear a pin drop in the auditorium. Sam’s tragic and heroic story captivated the students. He told them about losing his entire family, going to jail, and eventually going to Auschwitz. I could see tears in the eyes of students and adults alike during this talk. When Sam told us about meeting his wife and how they recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary, the whole auditorium cheered.

In my 13 years of teaching at McKinley, I have been to many presentations with our students; I have never seen anything like this. They respected Sam and his amazing journey and they also identified with some of his losses. Many of our McKinley students have experienced violence, loss, and trauma. For them to hear about someone running from a death march, surviving, and still going on to have a successful life to having a family that he clearly loved very much was something all of their young ears needed to hear.

But it didn’t end there. The students stood up and asked questions. They asked important, thought-provoking questions. Sam’s most profound answer was to share that he has to have hope and he doesn’t have time for hatred. What an incredible way to end a tension-filled week.

Afterward, a 16-year-old young man, wearing a RIP shirt for his friend, said to me, “Burrell, I can’t believe I met this guy. I can’t believe everything he went through, and he still has hope. That means I need to be able to go on too. I can’t wait to tell my grandfather that I met Sam.” Another young lady came up to me and said, “I just can’t believe Sam went through all of that and is able to talk about it.” Many of the students in my class said his story was heroic and that Sam gave them hope.

When Sam left, he grabbed my hands and said, “Your students are amazing. They are wonderful.” And that was something I needed to hear and it gave me hope. When I walked back into the school, it was charged with a respect for Sam and his story. Every student and staff member who attended thanked me. The whole school couldn’t stop talking about it. It was the path to healing that we all needed at that time.

I can’t thank Elyse Rast and Sam Weinreb enough for providing us with this amazing experience. It was a teaching highlight for me and a life highlight as well as a gift that our students and staff will never forget.

Carolyn Burrell is a Special Education teacher at McKinley South End Academy in Boston. She holds a master's in special education, and has been a part of the McKinley community for 13 years. She is currently an English language arts teacher for 9-12th grade. Ms. Burrell enjoys exploring different topics that involve the human spirit that brings out the best in her students.

Mothers Are People Too

Fri, 06 May 2016 10:36:24 GMT

Posted by Anna Cable

When Mother’s Day comes to my neighborhood in Jamaica Plain, it brings pandemonium. That’s because of the Lilac Festival at the local arboretum. In addition to purple blossoms it brings a host of Mother’s Day Hallmark card scenarios: families with picnic baskets; babies in strollers; kids clutching food truck goodies; mamas posing for pictures. My mother loved lilacs, and if she were here, it would be the perfect way to celebrate. Instead, for the last few years of living here, I’ve looked to the day with a resigned, semi-ironic apprehension.

Since my mother’s death when I was 19, Mother’s Day has always felt like a hurdle. The coincident Lilac Festival just throws that into sharper relief. I’ve tried a variety of strategies to get through the day. A year after my mother died, two of my best friends threw me a “Mother’s Day Brunch,” with the traditional cake-for-breakfast brunch and the less conventional – but more nourishing – crying and cuddling on the sofa. Some years, I’ve made a point of calling or visiting the other mothers in my life: my mother’s closest friends; my stepmother and grandmother. Other years, I’ve made lots of off-color jokes, kept the radio off, and just tried to grin (or grimace) and bear it.

This year will in some ways be different. This year, I will for the first time be a mother, one with a baby out and crawling about the world instead of wrapped tight in the pregnant belly I had last year. I imagine us together, out among the families with their strollers and photos and picnic lunches. Even though, for the first time in a long time, all the proper ingredients are there – mother, child, family – I still can’t quite make it fit. It’s just a little more complicated than that.

This message of complication and poignancy has been echoed in my work time and time again. In my work with postpartum women and families with young children, it’s never that simple. Mothers are mothers, to be sure, but we’re also people. We carry our own wounded parts – lost loves, missed opportunities, moments where we needed one thing and life handed us something else. We bring strengths, for sure, but not always the ones celebrated in idyllic pictures of a mother holding her baby close before a tenderly blossoming lilac tree.

So what will I do this Mother’s Day? Probably what I do most other days: mother. Be a person in this world. Try to hold in mind the mother who is missing, while holding in mind the baby who is here. Like all other mothers I meet, whether through my work or otherwise, I’m doing it one day at a time – even when it’s Mother’s Day.

Anna Cable is a clinical social worker with a special interest in attachment, trauma recovery, and infant-parent work. She is the Clinical Coordinator of Early Connections, a program of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support®. Anna lives in Jamaica Plain with her husband, her daughter, and her pit bull, Barko.

No Longer Silent

Wed, 04 May 2016 11:31:22 GMT

Posted by Carol Laibson

“Have you ever met or known a Holocaust survivor?” This is the question I asked a class of 25 students of diverse backgrounds, each majoring in criminal justice, social work, or psychology at Bridgewater State University. Marsha Frankel, Clinical Director of JF&CS Services for Older Adults, and I were guest lecturers. I asked the group this question after showing the last slide of our presentation, one about remembrance, resilience, and hope, and right before Sam, a Holocaust survivor, walked in. When I introduced Sam to the class, a hush immediately came over the room. Sam shared his experience during the Holocaust, starting with the evening he came home from a Bar Mitzvah lesson to discover his parents and siblings had been taken away by the Nazis. He brought us along as he talked about his journey of hiding with relatives in another country to living on the streets wearing the same clothes for eight months to going to the police thinking they would help him. The entire class listened intently as he shared that, instead of receiving help from the police, he was thrown in jail for two years with hardened criminals. Sam told us that even after he was released to his grandparents, he was forced to report twice each week to the police where he was beaten and told not to tell anyone. If he had, he told the group, the police threatened to deport him and his grandparents.

Sam’s story takes a dramatic turn when he was forcibly transported by cattle car to the Auschwitz concentration camp. After surviving starvation and inhumane conditions, he ran away from a death march under the cover of darkness. Miraculously he was found unconscious by Russian soldiers and brought to the hospital weighing only 80 pounds. When Sam finally came to the US, he told the class, it was with encouragement from letters he had received from a young girl who had been his neighbor and childhood friend. Before the war, this young girl and he had shared a pact that one day they would marry. After both surviving the Holocaust, Sam and his neighbor reconnected in the US and have been married now for almost 70 years.

The juxtaposition of Sam’s soft spoken manner and the description of the hardships he endured was striking to me, to Marsha, to the students, and to the professor. The professor was so inspired by Sam’s story she made a closing request to her students: She asked each student to commit to telling one other person about Sam and his experience, to pay tribute to Sam and all Holocaust survivors and help preserve their legacy. I am glad I live in a time when Sam no longer has to be silent.

As I looked around the room at the spellbound students, I couldn’t help but think how inspiring it is to know that we can still be caring human beings despite hardship and cruelties endured.

JF&CS Benefit: The Power of One

Wed, 27 Apr 2016 15:21:11 GMT

Shared by Rimma Zelfand at the JF&CS Benefit

“Community” is one of the words that our Parkinson’s clients use to describe our program. It’s an interesting word choice from people whose physical disease has often isolated them and their caregivers. I remember a conversation I had nine years ago with Dale and Marilyn Okonow. Dale came to JF&CS to share his parents’ experience with Parkinson’s disease. Dale’s father, who later succumbed to Parkinson’s, had no opportunity to connect with others in his situation. Although they had each other and their friends, they felt isolated. As an adult child, Dale felt alone as well. Dale came to JF&CS with the idea of offering a support program.

Along with a friend whose father had also recently passed from the disease, Dale and Marilyn contributed the funds to launch our Parkinson’s Family Support program. The program started with a support group and grew to include Parkinson’s dance and a chorus, the Tremble Clefs. When we needed a director of the chorus, Marilyn stepped forward and has been leading our chorus –as a volunteer – for the past five years. Two years ago, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center approached us to see if we would host a drumming class. Today, our Parkinson’s Family Support programs serve hundreds of people. With a grant from the National Parkinson’s Foundation, we are launching dance demonstration classes and partnering with a dance studio in the South End, responding to the lack of programming in the inner city for Parkinson’s patients. All of this because one person, one family stepped forward – the power of one! Dale and Marilyn have stepped forward again with an extraordinary philanthropic commitment to name the Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program of JF&CS.

We are also proud to celebrate Jon and Margot Davis. Jon and Margot have given so much to our community – they have shared their volunteer time, their professional wisdom and expertise, and they have invested generously in so many nonprofits, including JF&CS.

Last year, I shared how JF&CS is a 150 year old “startup.” I am proud that we are still creating new programs, discovering new ways to help people in crisis, and leveraging our unique integrated model of care to make an even bigger difference in people’s lives. I like to call this the power of one agency.

Together with our partner agencies in the Jewish community, we are helping more people in crisis in more impactful and meaningful ways. I am so grateful to our friends at CJP, Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters, JVS, Yad Chessed, JCHE, and Brandeis University for our increased collaboration. The power of community extends beyond the walls of JF&CS and together we make such a difference. JF&CS also has collaborations with dozens of other organizations across Eastern and Central MA. From Greater Boston Food Bank to Horizons for Homeless Children to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, we are leveraging our agency’s expertise with the strength of other organizations.

I invite you to think about the difference you can make, the role you can play, the ideas you have, the time you can volunteer, and the impact your philanthropic dollars can have. Please join us in our work and share your power – the power of your time and volunteerism will improve the lives of so many people in need.

Ask the Expert: Marjie Sokoll

Tue, 26 Apr 2016 14:05:36 GMT

Shared by Marjie Sokoll

Tell us about bringing Wise Aging to Boston. How did you get the idea? What did it involve?
In the summer of 2013, I turned 59 years old and began thinking about my upcoming 60th birthday. Having worked with older adults at JF&CS for 20 years, I felt a deep yearning to focus more of my attention on the topic of spirituality and aging. I have always been interested in this topic, even as a young social worker. But as I approached my 60th birthday, I felt excited about exploring this subject in more depth because now it was personal. I imagined immersing myself in literature and sharing my research with my colleagues working with older adults. Serendipitously, I learned that Rabbi Rachel Cowan, someone I had known professionally for many years, was seeking locations to train people as group facilitators in her pioneering Wise Aging curriculum. One year later, I was excited to bring her to JF&CS and we became one of the first communities in the country to train Wise Aging community leaders. Since that time, I have been privileged to gather the trained facilitators at JF&CS to continue our learning.

How did Spirited Aging develop from Wise Aging?
For the first time in history, many of us may have as many as 20 or 30 additional years of life. This new longevity will impact the current generation of Baby Boomers and, as demographics continue to change, Millennials and Generation X. In Composing a Further Life, cultural anthropologist, Mary Catherine Bateson, daughter of Margaret Mead, writes, “We have inserted a new developmental stage into the life cycle, a second stage of adulthood, not an extension tacked on to old age” (p.13). She uses the compelling metaphor of building an addition to your home. This new wing is not stuck on the end of your home – instead, it is like an atrium, inserted in the middle. This image teaches us the importance of creating time and space to examine and appreciate what this longevity bonus means to us.

With this image in mind along with conversations, shared experiences, inspirational readings, and the many rich resources available, we developed the Spirited Aging program. Spirited Aging supports people of all ages and backgrounds in their search to find meaning, joy, and spirituality in their lives as they grow older. With my colleagues, Sue Spielman and Barbara Sternfield, we began offering a variety of programs and groups for clients, JF&CS staff, and the larger community.

Why is spirituality important?
The Swiss psychiatrist and psychotherapist Carl Jung wrote, “A human being would certainly not grow to be seventy or eighty years old if this longevity had no meaning for the species to which he belongs. The afternoon of human life must also have a significance of its own and cannot be merely a pitiful appendage to life's morning” (Modern Man in Search of a Soul, p. 109). Spirituality, or feeling connected with something greater than ourselves, is an avenue to seek this meaning and purpose. For some people this feeling of connection comes from religion. For others, the connection may come from nature, music, art, animals, relationships, etc. There is a growing body of research linking spirituality and religion to the possibility of improved health and well-being. These benefits include, but are not limited to, a better ability to cope with stress as well as the changes and transitions that come with aging, as we now know that isolation has a detrimental impact on health. This research underscores Jung’s profound observations.

What are some topics involved in the work of Spirited Aging?
We have a unique opportunity to focus on the many possibilities for growth while also acknowledging the challenges. This is in contrast to the declinist model that is perpetuated in the American media through the negative portrayal of older adults. Some of the topics that may be discussed include:

Meaning and purpose
Resilience
Forgiveness
Spirituality and religion
Health and wellness
Illness and disability
Social activism
Mindfulness and meditation
Contemplative practices
Self-care
Family dynamics
Friendship
Finances
Ageism
Community and social supports
Legacy and telling our stories
End of life and loss

Why is this work important?
No matter what your chronological age, the reality is that we are aging every day as we breathe in and out! This work is important because it brings meaningful resources to older adult clients at JF&CS and to the community, especially those who are living with chronic illness, struggling with caregiving, and who are bereaved. Spirited Aging offers a sense of hope and asks, “How do we live our later years with resilience and spirit despite the challenges we face?”

Interested in learning more? Join us for a Spirited Aging Community-Wide event on May 1 to explore our increased longevity and a Spirited Aging Workshop on June 1 to learn how to start your own Spirited Aging discussion group.

Image by Martin Liebermann

Guardianship: The Start of a Transformative Process

Thu, 21 Apr 2016 11:41:40 GMT

Posted by Jamie Brelsford

I knew I wanted to take a case manager position in Guardianship at JF&CS. When I asked my mentor about it, she replied, “Guardianship? Ah. Fascinating work with significantly challenging ethical dilemmas. Be prepared to develop a thicker skin.” She was right: not only is my skin thicker but my heart has expanded. Working with older adults with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, chronic mental illness, brain injury, and developmental disability at risk for neglect, self-neglect, physical and mental abuse or financial exploitation will undoubtedly invite personal growth.

Guardianship is the next stop after exhaustive intervention from Elder Protective Services. When an at-risk elder is evaluated as no longer having cognitive capacity, Elder Protective Services may petition with the Probate Court for a guardian. Taking on a guardianship case requires astute problem solving and a leap of faith into the unknown. Family dysfunction, loss, and crisis are at the forefront of a guardianship referral.

Gallows humor, chocolate, and a commitment to self-care provide the groundwork for guardianship case managers to remain calm and carry on. Our unwavering frame of reference reminds us that dysfunction and loss are, in fact, transformable. The privilege of working in guardianship is found in our opportunity to create space for change, diligently collaborating within complex institutional and familial systems as to ensure safety and foster self-determination to the fullest extent possible in our most vulnerable citizens.

Recently, Edith*, an 86-year-old woman with Alzheimer’s, psychosis, and hoarding behavior was reported by Protective Services as living alone in a run-down home. I was the case manager authorized on behalf of JF&CS to manage the health, medical, and financial decisions for the client.

A colleague and I went to meet with Edith, who was reported carrying a knife with her, paranoid of anyone who crossed her path. When we arrived, she was sitting on her porch and shouting at the family with two small children across the street, “I know you come into my house at night! I wish your house would burn to the ground!” We watched as pedestrians passing by averted their eyes.

What these pedestrians didn’t know is that Edith’s spouse had recently died followed by her only son’s death a few months later from a drug overdose. On top of that, JF&CS, an agency unknown to her prior to the Protective Services hearing, was now managing all aspects of her life. Understandably, Edith was extremely suspicious and feared loss of independence.

With the help of Guardianship, Edith was able to remain in her own home but is no longer living alone in fear. Our role calls for substituted judgement, in which we are ethically bound to make decisions that Edith herself may have wanted before loss of cognitive capacity. Guardianship case managers approach clients in a reassuring, supportive, and collaborative manner.

Since our initial appointment, Edith has shown significant improvements in health. She attends medical appointments regularly and receives 24 hour home care services with medication management. She now has a working telephone, television, and weekly grocery delivery—basic needs that were absent at our first meeting. Now that her physical and psychological needs are met, she will soon start attending an Adult Day Health program, helping to reduce Edith’s isolation.

An initial guardianship appointment is the start of the transformation process. Guardianship case managers often find themselves unwelcomed, stepping directly into deeply-rooted family dynamics. Every day we make challenging ethical decisions to ensure the safety and well-being of our clients, providing substituted judgment, advocacy, crisis intervention, case management, and collateral work within complex institutions. It may have required a thicker skin, but I am privileged to make a difference in the lives of at-risk older adults every day.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Jamie joined JF&CS Guardianship in May 2015. She has an MSW from Simmons College with a concentration in trauma and interpersonal violence. Before joining JF&CS, Jamie worked with children, teens, adults, and older adults in both clinical and case management roles, always approaching the work from a trauma-informed perspective. Jamie enjoys the arts and being in nature.

99-Year-Old Comes Full Circle at JF&CS

Tue, 19 Apr 2016 12:42:10 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“The Torah begins and ends with acts of caring, loving kindness.” -- Talmud (Sotah 14a)

With her wide smile, polished appearance, and upbeat personality, you would never imagine that Berta Danzig recently celebrated her 99th birthday. Berta’s journey from Tallinn, Estonia to Brookline is a fascinating story as is her connection with Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS) throughout the years. First, she received assistance from JF&CS as a new American when she arrived in the US. Then, she volunteered for the Friendly Visitor program, spending time with older adults in need of companionship. Now, Berta has come full-circle with JF&CS - as a visitee in the Friendly Visitor program.

Berta, along with her husband Abram, came to the United States from Estonia in 1991, at the age of 74 with only $109. Her daughter, Gila, had arrived in the US four years earlier in 1987, and her son, Josef, had arrived in 1989. Being Jewish in Estonia, Berta explains, was dangerous. “We weren’t persecuted, but you still want to go where it’s better,” she explains. “We had things, but not a lot of choice. There was censorship.”

Berta’s husband had chosen Boston as the city to which they would relocate because he had heard it was the most culturally rich place in the US and it would be easier to get a job there.

When they first arrived in Boston, they were helped by JF&CS, which, according to Berta, “had a lot of aid for us. People were so kindly to us, they helped us so much. There were doctors who gave us free medicine, and [they gave us] addresses of apartments and English classes. JF&CS blessed us with our lives.”

After they found a place to live and settled in, Berta contacted JF&CS. “You do so much for us. I have to thank you. What can I do?” she asked. “So they sent me to see old people!” she exclaims with a wide grin.

At the age of 75, Berta became a volunteer for the JF&CS Friendly Visitor program, visiting older adults in need of companionship. Her first visitee was a tailor from Poland who spoke only Polish and Yiddish. Fortunately, Berta had been fluent in Estonian, German, Russian, Polish, Yiddish, Hebrew, and French and was able to communicate with the man with ease. Next, she was a Friendly Visitor to a Russian woman in a nursing home, and then another Russian woman “who couldn’t walk.” When her husband became ill, Berta directed her attention towards his care and stopped being a Friendly Visitor. Abram passed away in 1995.

In 2007, a case manager at Berta’s building contacted the JF&CS Friendly Visitor program, and Berta started to receive her first visits from JF&CS volunteers. For the past 16 months, she has been visited by JF&CS volunteer Deborah Levine.

“I looked into volunteering in the Friendly Visitor program after my grandmother died at age 100,” explains Deborah. “I missed the presence of an elderly person in my life and thought it might be good to visit someone else’s grandmother. Berta is a wonderful person – she has been through so much, and she remains the most optimistic person I know. She is always cheerful, funny, and up for conversation. Over a cup of tea, she gives me the wisdom of the ages.”

“I go to the big holidays – celebrations – Chanukah and Passover [through the JF&CS Friendly Visitor program] with Deborah,” says Berta.

For her 99th birthday in, Berta celebrated with 20 people, all family members. “I never believed that I would be so old. It’s unimaginable” She remarks. “My wish is to be ok to 11 months [when she will celebrate her 100th birthday]. It will be a good time for a young girl like me.”

The 2016 JF&CS Benefit

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 15:00:27 GMT

Posted by the JF&CS Events Team

On Wednesday night, more than 400 friends of JF&CS attended the 2016 Benefit at the Castle at Park Plaza for a memorable evening. Thanks to your support, JF&CS raised more than $800,000 as we celebrated the Power of One and honored Margot & Jon Davis for their endless devotion, commitment, and contribution to the agency.

"When we come together in organizations like JF&CS our impact is multiplied geometrically." -Jon Davis

JF&CS is extremely grateful to event co-chairs Melissa Weiner Janfaza & Andrew Janfaza and Lori & Fred Leif and the Benefit event committee for all their hard work. We would also like to thank Lauri Meizler for sharing her inspirational story of hope.

Watch the video that premiered at the event, showcasing the power of some of our incredible volunteers. As you heard in the video, it's easy to get involved at JF&CS and make a meaningful difference in someone's life. If you're interested in joining the more than 2,000 individuals who volunteer with JF&CS, we invite you to attend one of the following volunteer information sessions at JF&CS Headquarters, 1430 Main Street, Waltham:

Monday, May 16 | 8:00 - 9:00 a.m.
Thursday, May 19 | noon - 1:00 p.m.
Monday, May 23 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Please RSVP to Lauren Schleicher, Manager of Volunteer Services, at lschleicher@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5576.

Thank you for helping us make an impact.

Autism in Love

Tue, 12 Apr 2016 14:28:35 GMT

Posted by Kate Leon

Last week, JF&CS co-sponsored the screening of the film Autism in Love as part of the ReelAbilities Film Festival in Boston. The ReelAbilites Film Festival is a national event that shows films by and about people with disabilities. The Autism in Love showing took place at the Leventhal-Sidman JCC in Newton and included a prescreening reception and a panel discussion with a couple on the autism spectrum and a professional that works with individuals with autism (me!).

As a social worker that provides outpatient therapy to individuals on the autism spectrum, I was struck by how the individual stories chronicled in this film captured the experiences of so many people I have worked with as well as the universality of the difficulties associated with dating and cultivating long-lasting relationships. For those without disabilities and those on the spectrum alike, dating is fraught with risks and uncertainty. These uncertainties combined with the hallmarks of autism, difficulty with social interactions, reading nonverbal communication, and restricted interests and behavioral rigidity can make the prospect of finding a partner feel hopeless.

I often encounter individuals who want a romantic partner but do not know how to pursue this type of relationship. We spend time identifying exactly what they are looking for in a relationship and in a partner and reviewing what is reasonable to expect of another person. Often, quite a bit of time is spent explicitly teaching skills around social communication including reading (and monitoring their own) nonverbal communication, understanding the perspective of others, practicing the exchange of pleasantries, and asking questions of the other person. I have seen individuals gain experience, insight, and confidence in their pursuit of a romantic relationship as well as make meaningful connections with other people.

If you are interested in the ReelAbilities Film Festival and in another film that explores dating and autism, the screening of How to Dance in Ohio is Thursday, April 14, at 7:00 p.m. at the Somerville Theatre in Davis Square.

Kate Leon, LCSW is the Director of Clinical Services for People with Disabilities at Jewish Family & Children’s Service. In this role she oversees two case management programs, Autism Care Coordination and Coaching and Stabilization and Recovery Services. The Autism Care Coordination and Coaching program is designed to support adults on the autism spectrum in accessing public benefits and increasing independent living and social skills and Stabilization and Recovery Services provides case management to adults with mental illness. Kate also provides outpatient therapy to adults on the autism spectrum and individuals with complex presentations including developmental and intellectual disabilities with co-occurring or mental health needs.

“Let My People Go” – A JF&CS Haggadah

Fri, 08 Apr 2016 12:32:02 GMT

Posted by Marjorie U. Sokoll

In 1971, I was 16 years old. Like many American Jewish families, my family included a symbolic ritual during our Passover Seder - the addition of a fourth piece of matzah. This fragile piece of matzah served as a connection to the three million Jewish people living in the Soviet Union unable to practice their faith.

The 1960s American Soviet Jewry movement, with the rallying cry from the Passover story of “Let my people go!” had raised the consciousness of many in the American Jewish community, including me, to the struggles facing the Jewish community living behind the iron curtain.

So how does this connect to our work at JF&CS?

The Haggadah, which means “telling” in Hebrew, is the indispensable guidebook that tells the story of the Jewish people on their journey from slavery to freedom. At our annual Friendly Visitor Passover Seder, now in its 11th year, many in attendance immigrated to America as older adults from the former Soviet Union. Now in their 80s and 90s, these individuals had been unable to practice their faith in freedom for many years and many had been victims of Nazi persecution.

We want everyone at our Seder, including these immigrants from the former Soviet Union whose primary language is Russian, to participate. We searched for a Hebrew/English/Russian Haggadah without luck. I decided we needed to create this resource ourselves.

JewishBoston.com created a wonderful Hebrew/English Haggadah several years ago. The Jewish Women’s Archive used this resource to later create a Haggadah that included women’s voices. Following their path, I worked with an amazing team of dedicated JF&CS Russian-speaking staff to translate the JewishBoston.com Haggadah into Russian. We are excited to use this Hebrew/English/Russian Haggadah at this year’s Friendly Visitor Passover Seder on Sunday, April 17. We are honored to include guests from the Friendly Visitor Program, Schechter Holocaust Services, and many other JF&CS programs in this important Jewish ritual.

Working with my colleagues to create this resource was a profoundly spiritual experience that connected us to each other, our ancestors, and memories of our own family stories. My great-grandparents, Manya and Dov-Ber, left tsarist Russia in the late 19th century. It is because of them that I was born in America and have the privilege -- in freedom, in Hebrew, in English, and in Russian -- to tell the unique story about the creation of this Haggadah.

The 11th annual Friendly Visitor Passover Seder is made possible through the generosity of the George and Beatrice Sherman Family Charitable Trust.

You are welcome to use our Hebrew/English/Russian Haggadah at your Passover Seder this year and share it with others.

Marjorie U. Sokoll, MEd, is the Director of Spirituality and Aging. She is also the founder and Director of JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections (JHC), which began in 1998 to help people feel a sense of connection when facing the challenges of illness, loss, or isolation by offering spiritual and communal supports to foster hope, comfort, and wholeness guided by Jewish tradition. Marjie also provides spiritual support for Parkinson’s Family Support and oversight for Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support. She received degrees from Boston University, Tel Aviv University School of Social Work, Northeastern University, holds a certificate of thanatology from the National Center for Death Education, is a partner at the Kalsman Institute for Judaism and Health, and integrates music into her work.

You Never Know Who is Watching

Tue, 05 Apr 2016 11:46:56 GMT

Posted by Heidi Isler

One night last month when I was teaching yoga at the Easton YMCA, I spotted a woman who had been taking my class for the past few months. She always came to the class late and left early. I am often surprised when I see her return to the class because I am never sure she is enjoying the experience. But this evening was different.

As I was about to start class, she approached me. She took my hand and shared that she had noticed me in the building working with young adults with disabilities. I am a Senior Program Coordinator for JF&CS Pathways to Employment, a program helping people with disabilities gain the skills needed to be independent and successful at work. I am often at the Easton YMCA providing coaching for the Pathways to Employment participants who volunteer there. She told me, “I see you come in with your group and I think that they are amazing. I think you are amazing. I have a son with special needs that is in a home.” The woman started to cry. “I feel so guilty that I cannot care for him by myself, even though I want to. I hope that the staff at his house cares as much as you do. I hope that the staff encourages my son like you encourage your group. I watch you, and you are tough on the participants: I heard the gentleman you work with who cannot see tell you ‘This is hard.’ And I remember you said, ‘Yes, life can be tough but you are tougher.’” She continued, sharing, “I feel people are too easy on my son or too hard or just do not care. I watch how you work and how your participants work when they’re volunteering and hope for that for my son.”

I was so touched and grateful she took the time to share this with me. It was an incredible reminder that it is important to remember that you do not know, at any given time, who is watching you. You do not always know the impact you are having on your participants and on the community at large. Tasks are never mundane or repetitive. They are important because they are teaching tools for everyone who is watching.

Heidi joined the Pathways for Employment team in August 2015. She graduated from Eastern Nazarene College in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in social work. She has worked with children, teens, adults, and seniors with mental illness at Riverside Community Care, Community Counseling of Bristol County, and DOVE Battered Women’s Shelter. She also has extensive experience working with people with substance abuse issues. Heidi has also started programs in middle and high schools to help build better body awareness and positive body image. She is a Reiki master and has taught yoga and wellness programs for more than 25 years in schools, private organizations, and companies. In her spare time she loves cooking, hiking, and biking.

Strengthening Ourselves as we Care for Others

Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:46:58 GMT

Posted by Susan Keays

JF&CS In-Home Services staff work with youth and their families, typically expending copious amounts of energy coaching, teaching, sitting on the floor, running around houses, driving long distances, and mediating complex situations with many providers. The work is definitely rewarding but one major challenge for staff is finding the time for self-care. While obtaining bachelors and masters level degrees in human services we are taught that we cannot be a resource for others if we are exhausted. This is a particularly poignant topic for our In-Home Services team.

As a result, I invited Marjie Sokoll, Director of Spirituality and Aging, to lead a Healing Circle tailored for our team. Marjie has been leading monthly staff Healing Circles for more than 16 years.These Healing Circles follow a simple format that creates space for self-reflection and contemplation utilizing various types of mindful meditation, soothing music, contemplative readings, and prayers for healing. It’s an opportunity for self-care that can strengthen our staff as we care for others.

For our Healing Circle, Marjie arrived equipped with excellent and resourceful packets of information specifically connected to the work of the In-Home Services team and brought her colleague, Sue Spielman, Manager, Friendly Visitor Program and Caring Communities Resource Network. They were both gracious enough to share their time, reinforce what we know about meditation and breathing, and teach us about new resources, books, and websites for self-care. As staff we learned new tools for ourselves but also how those tools and practices can be brought into our work with children and their families.

I found that our time together helped me reflect on the important work we are doing and the need to take a moment to process the amazing impact our team has on our clients. To have this type of resource within our agency is a wonderful gift.

Susan Keays, LICSW is the Division Director for Services for Children & Adolescents. She has a passion for and expertise in program development, personnel management, and clinical oversight. Susan’s expertise is in child and adolescent mental health and social work, having trained at Children’s Hospital. Susan received her undergraduate degree in psychology and Latin American studies from Boston College. She returned to her alma mater for her MSW with concentration in health and mental health. Susan has held child program management positions at South Shore Mental Health and Riverside Community Care. Before arriving to JF&CS, Susan was at Tenet Healthcare as the Director of Evaluation and Referral for their three Massachusetts hospitals and Clinical Director for outpatient services. She is also an adjunct faculty at Boston College School of Social Work.

Celebrating the Art of Resilience

Tue, 29 Mar 2016 13:55:39 GMT

Posted by Nancy Mazonson

On Sunday, March 20 more than 140 people came together at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham for a community celebration with the JF&CS Parkinson's Dancers and the Tremble Clefs choral singers in recognition of nine years of building the JF&CS Parkinson's community. The event was attended by program participants, caregivers, family, community members, and supporters.

In addition to a moving program, attendees were asked to write down what music and dance meant to them on a large poster affixed to the wall. They shared some familiar and profound themes:

“Sharing music and dance with such wonderful people is the highlight of my week.”
“This is a great outlet to share and overcome – together -- in a fun community.”
“Music connects us at the heart.”
“We are all in this together.”
“Music lifts me up!”
“It makes me feel happy and alive.”
“Music and dance put me in touch with my body.”

It was also a wonderful opportunity for family members of people with Parkinson’s to see their loved one in a uniquely uplifting and positive setting. One participant, whose millennial daughters accompanied her to the program, shared that her daughters’ favorite part of the event was seeing how happy she was when she performed.

Thank you to all who made this program possible and to those who came from near and far to attend. The event was an inspiring afternoon that truly celebrated the resilience of the Parkinson’s Family Support program participants.

Memory Cafés for All

Thu, 24 Mar 2016 11:52:41 GMT

Posted by Beth Soltzberg

The Memory Café Percolator Network helps memory cafés spread across Greater Boston and other parts of Massachusetts. As the coordinator of the Percolator, I know that it takes more than opening the doors to truly invite others inside. Memory cafés are social gatherings for people living with dementia and their care partners and while each café is run independently, one of the guiding principles is that they strive to respond to the needs, interests, and cultural backgrounds of the wide range of people who attend them. Alzheimer’s and related disorders are conditions that affect people from all walks of life. The heart of the memory café is the social connection that it offers to people who may have become isolated due to dementia. So through refreshments, music, caring staff and volunteers, and a safe, comfortable atmosphere, the cafés create a sense of home.

One growing population of people living with dementia is those who also have a developmental disability. People with developmental disabilities are living longer than ever before so many are now developing dementia and people with Down syndrome and traumatic brain injury have a particularly high risk of developing a condition that causes dementia as they age. We applaud the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) for being the first in the nation to support the launch of memory cafés that are designed to include people with dementia who also have developmental disabilities. DDS is offering seed funding to new cafés working toward this goal.

In response, I have been leading trainings on starting a memory café around Massachusetts in collaboration with DDS. DDS leaders recognize that truly including those who have dementia plus a developmental disability requires more than just saying that the café is open to all; it requires collaboration between aging and disabilities service providers as well as listening to the true experts – those living with dementia. There are barriers: professionals from these two service systems have different funding sources and ways of serving clients, and quite simply, often don’t know each other. While memory cafés have always worked to end stigma towards those living with dementia, they now must grapple with the stigma that exists toward those with developmental disabilities as well. This is hard work. There is no one more capable of doing it, though, than people who have spent their careers advocating for full inclusion of people with disabilities and older adults.

In addition to striving to make all memory cafés truly accessible and responsive to the wide variety of people with dementia, it is exciting to see the seeds of new cafés that are embedded in particular cultural communities. For example, we hope to see the launch of the first Spanish-speaking memory cafés this year.

While people living with Alzheimer’s or related disorders may share a diagnosis that shapes their life and the life of the people who are close to them in many similar ways, they remain unique individuals with their own culture, personality, and developmental needs. These aspects of who they are don’t go away with a diagnosis; in fact, they may become more important than ever. Memory cafés in Massachusetts are working to respond. Because for all of us, there’s no place like home.

Beth Soltzberg, MSW, MBA, designs and leads activities integrating support, education, and the arts for the Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support program of JF&CS. Beth’s work includes facilitating the JF&CS Memory Café, the Balancing Act group for adults whose parent has dementia, and education programs. Beth coordinates the Memory Café Percolator Network, a statewide resource for those starting and sustaining memory cafés, and is a regional leader in dementia friendly community initiatives. Beth earned her MSW and MBA from the University of Chicago and a certificate in end-of-life care from the Smith College School of Social Work. She holds an advanced credential in hospice and palliative care social work (AHPC-SW).

Relapse, Risk, and Recovery Master Class

Tue, 22 Mar 2016 11:54:51 GMT

Posted by Jennifer Meyerhardt, MEd, JD

This month, Caroline Phillips, Amy Sommer, and I, all clinicians from Project NESST® (Newborns Exposed to Substances: Support and Therapy), presented at the Infant-Parent Training Institute’s Master Class regarding themes and challenges we have encountered working with mothers who are struggling with the dual tasks of substance-use recovery and early parenting. Some of the thoughts and lessons we shared regarding our work with these vulnerable families included:

Clinical case management, which involves building a collaborative relationship around obtaining concrete needs such as housing, food, income, is an intervention that can successfully create a feeling of safety and trust with clients who have experienced complex trauma. It can also be an entry point into working therapeutically with clients who are unable or unwilling to explore their emotional lives.
Assistance with concrete needs allows a client to identify herself and her baby as having needs, both physical and psychological, that can be described and met.
Mothers with substance use disorders often struggle to hold their children in mind, to be responsive to their children’s needs, and to stay emotionally connected to their children. Mothers in recovery often have multiple vulnerabilities that impact their capacity to be reflective and to regulate their emotions.
Working with mothers with substance use disorders and in recovery can be challenging for clinicians who must determine the most effective way to support the growth of a mother’s ability to understand herself and the needs of her baby and to enhance the mother baby bond.
As part of therapy, mothers can be supported to integrate the different parts of themselves, such as “addict” and “mother,” and shifting identities and truths can be welcomed by a therapist. When the client’s reality of self is made room for in therapy, the client’s complex realities that she herself navigates can be explored and understood.

It was inspiring to be part of IPTI’s Master Class and see how many providers are interested in learning about working with mothers who are struggling with the dual tasks of substance-use recovery and early parenting. While our work in Project NESST® is complex, a mother’s progress towards emotional healing and a healthy parent-child relationship is often palpable.

Project NESST® and the Infant-Parent Training Institute are programs of JF&CS.

Jennifer Meyerhardt has been a staff member at the Center for Early Relationship Support® of JF&CS since 2000. Prior to becoming part of the Project NESST® team she supervised the JF&CS Vulnerable Families Team, coordinated the CERS Needham Visiting Moms volunteer group, and was a mental health consultant at Horizons for Homeless Children. She is currently the Mentoring Mom Supervisor and a Clinician with Project NESST®.

JF&CS Family Mitzvah Moments

Fri, 18 Mar 2016 11:45:06 GMT

Posted by Jill Brass Kramer

Ella, Jill's daughter, at JF&CS Family Mitzvah Moments.

We have a saying in my house that Sunday is Family Fun Day! Those words were never truer than this past Sunday. I packed up the kids along with my husband and mom and we headed over to JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham.

I had the privilege of chairing the first ever JF&CS Family Mitzvah Moments event with Danielle Darish and Rachel Glazer. We reached out to the community, friends, and family and invited everyone to join us with their families for an afternoon of tikkun olam - repairing the world through acts of charity and kindness. Everyone created kiddish cups, afikomen bags, and cards that will be given to older adults at the annual JF&CS Friendly Visitor Passover Seder in April.

It was so nice to look around the room and see so many kids creating these special gifts and all the parents chatting with old friends and meeting and making new ones. Just feeling the mood in the room and knowing that my family made this Sunday Family Fun Day one for the books. It was truly awe inspiring and fulfilling.

Thank you to all who joined us and who helped make this event an amazing success!

Jill Brass Kramer lives in Weston with her husband, Stephen, and their two children, Ella, age 6, and Evan, age 4. The whole family has volunteered with JF&CS Family Table and Jill serves on the JF&CS Center for Basic Needs Assistance advisory committee.

The JF&CS Soul Sisters

Tue, 15 Mar 2016 14:41:35 GMT

Posted by Ruth Maffa

It is rare that one works at a place where worlds collide. I am fortunate that JF&CS has provided me an opportunity to share both my passion outside of work and my love for what I do day to day.

My “other life” outside of being a Senior Development Officer for JF&CS is that I am a harpist. As a professional musician, I have played with the Boston Pops, at Tanglewood (where I met my violinist husband), and with local groups for the last many decades. Simultaneously I have always felt the need to have a place in the traditional workforce but I also did not want to lose this very important part of my life.

Last year I met with Beth Soltzberg, Program Manager of Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support, and offered to play for the JF&CS Memory Café. I learned that other JF&CS staff members were interested in performing as well. Marjie Sokoll of JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections, played guitar, Diane Gardner of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support played the flute, and I played the harp. We dubbed our musical trio the JF&CS Soul Sisters and played and sang for people with Alzheimer’s and their care partners. We selected songs including Danny Boy, Take Me Out to the Ball Game, Hello Dolly, and several other familiar tunes so we could all sing and play as one. Participants played additional instruments provided by Marjie, and when we weren’t playing, we talked, shared stories, and had a lot of laughs!

I was honored to engage with Memory Café participants and interact with them outside of my traditional role at JF&CS. The experience was so wonderful that I am excited to perform again for JF&CS with Diane this month. We’ll also be joined by JF&CS supporters and volunteers Barbara Newman on cello and Sara Wolfensohn on piano. Together, we’ll perform at Schechter Holocaust Service’s Café Hakalah, a monthly social gathering for Holocaust survivors in Brookline and are looking forward to it!

Ruth Emanuel Maffa has been a Senior Development Officer at JF&CS since August 2014. As a professional harpist she has performed with her two sisters in the Emanuel Harp Trio, with the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, at Tanglewood as a Fellowship student, and in freelance orchestras in Greater Boston. She has three children ages 15, 17, and 20 - all musical - with her husband, Phil, a violinist.

Sue Stellick Awarded ADDP Marty Martini Leadership Award

Thu, 10 Mar 2016 10:08:19 GMT

Posted by Sara Freedman

Two of the best parts about working at JF&CS are being able to have a positive impact on our clients and witness their growth and being surrounded by passionate, smart, and amazing colleagues! Recently, I nominated my colleague, Sue Stellick, Associate Division Director of Day and Employment Supports, for the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers (ADDP) Marty Martini Leadership Award and shared how great she is with the Massachusetts disability community. Her achievements and accomplishments are undeniable and last week, she was announced as the winner of the award out of 43 nominations from 24 organizations. The award will be presented to Sue at a luncheon in April.

Sue started at JF&CS in 2006 as the Program Director of CHAI Works, a new community-based day support program. Over the past ten years, Sue grew CHAI Works from a small program of ten participants to a lively, well-respected program with more than 80 participants. In December 2015, Sue opened a second CHAI Works location in Canton in response to the high demand for her amazing program south of Boston. In addition to expanding CHAI Works, Sue has started several other day and employment support offerings at JF&CS, including Pathways to Employment and Meaningful Days Employment Services.

I first met Sue in July 2006 when I was an intern in CHAI Works. Although Sue was also new to the program, I knew from the beginning that she was someone with whom I was fortunate to work. Her passion for ensuring that individuals with disabilities have fulfilling and meaningful lives was apparent. When she entered the program area each day, Sue would greet each client individually, ask how he or she was doing, and inquire about activities or family, often referring back to prior conversations. This personal approach is so important to the participants because it provides them with reassurance that they are listened to and valued. Although CHAI Works has grown tremendously since then, her personal connection with each participant remains. She continues to engage each participant independently, even if it means working longer hours to complete her administrative tasks.

I am fortunate to be just one of the many staff Sue has mentored and taught. She encourages her staff to be curious, ask questions, and never hesitate to ask for help. Sue’s training, support, and modelling has resulted in many staff, myself included, pursuing careers in the field of disabilities. She is a great leader in the field and I’m thrilled that her personal dedication to working with individuals with disabilities and her strong work ethic has been recognized by ADDP! Congratulations, Sue!

Sara Freedman joined the Services for People with Disabilities team in 2006 as an intern in the CHAI Works day program. She has held a variety of roles within the department and is currently the Associate Division Director of Programs, overseeing program development and external partnerships. She has a degree in human development and psychological services as well as psychology from Northwestern University and is currently pursuing her MSW at Boston College. Sara enjoys hiking, baking, travelling, and spending time with her friends, family, and dog!

White Ribbon Day 2016

Mon, 07 Mar 2016 14:08:11 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

This year’s White Ribbon Campaign in Massachusetts is #ReimagineManhood: What Will Your Legacy Be? This campaign began last week and will continue throughout the month. This year, I am inspired by the actions of former New England Patriots linebacker and NFL Hall of Famer Andre Tippett, who is an honorary chair of the campaign. Andre’s current role as Executive Director of Community Affairs with the Patriots raises the visibility of his public stance against violence against women. While JF&CS Journey to Safety celebrates all men who stand with us, as a program whose mission centers on preventing domestic abuse in the Jewish community we are especially moved by Andre doing so as a Jewish man.

Every day we meet with survivors who desperately want to feel safe in their homes and with their partners, often the fathers of their children. They want these men to change and stop the controlling behavior and abuse of themselves and their children. They want these men to be partners in raising a loving and healthy family. And yet, time after time, we hear that meaningful behavior change does not happen and the abuse continues.

What is the role of men in our society when it comes to this kind of change? While I am not suggesting that each man be responsible for changing an abusive man’s behavior, I am suggesting that every man can become an informed bystander. We often hear after the fact from neighbors, friends, and family members that they saw the signs of abuse but didn’t know how to account for it or what to do. I believe that, like learning how to recognize stroke signs, learning how to recognize abusive behaviors can be lifesaving to a friend, loved one, or even a stranger.

Men of all ages have the capacity to be an informed bystander. A survivor told me of the importance of not only female friends but also several male friends who supported her during her darkest days of despair. They helped her see that her husband’s behavior wasn’t just inappropriate but rather controlling, manipulative, abusive, and not healthy or safe for her or their children. She said that by having the support of both women and men in her life, she found the strength to safely leave her husband.

White Ribbon Day honors men acting to end gender based violence and, in Massachusetts, challenges men to #ReimagineManhood by challenging societal norms and views that further violence against women. Here at JF&CS we continued our tradition of gathering on the first Thursday of March to commemorate the White Ribbon Campaign and Massachusetts’ official White Ribbon Day. David Schechter, JF&CS Board president spoke about domestic violence as a personal issue from his childhood neighborhood and ended his comments with “I am proud to be a supporter of JF&CS and Journey to Safety as a member of the JF&CS Board and as a man. I am proud to wear a White Ribbon.”

Later that day we attended the 9th annual White Ribbon Day event at the State House. In addition to Andre Tippett, we were inspired by Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian who shared, "A man's strength is shown through his character and moral judgement, never through the use of violence."

Men and women need to make ending violence against women their concern. Jackson Katz calls violence against women a men's issue. An educator, author, and co-founder of the 20-year-old organization Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP), Katz redirects the dialogue away from abuse being a woman's issue in his highly acclaimed TED Talk in 2013. He states "We need more men with the guts, with the courage, with the strength, with the moral integrity to break our complicit silence and challenge each other and stand with women and not against them."

Let’s all be inspired by Jackson Katz’s powerful call to action and share this blog, have a conversation with boys and men in our lives, and help make violence against women everyone’s issue.

Elizabeth Schön Vainer has been the program director of Journey to Safety, the domestic abuse program of JF&CS, since March 2010. Elizabeth is passionate about Journey to Safety’s commitment to prevent domestic abuse. She believes that we must work at the individual, community, and legislative levels to shift our societal view that allows abusive behavior to remain so prevalent and damaging. When we focus on speaking up, listening to, and collaborating with others we can have a real impact. Prior to working at JF&CS, Elizabeth worked for 25 years in victim services at both the Middlesex and Suffolk County District Attorney’s offices. Elizabeth holds a BSW from the University of Tel Aviv and a MS in organization and management from Antioch University.

The Best Success Stories

Fri, 04 Mar 2016 14:21:48 GMT

Posted by Debbie Whitehill

At the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support® (CERS), we offer free weekly support groups for parents of babies in a variety of communities throughout Greater Boston. Our hope is that parents find our groups to be safe spaces to talk openly and honestly about the challenges and richness of parenting a newborn. Our best success stories are those in which people make connections and form supportive communities that last long beyond their attendance at our group.

Last week, we received a letter of appreciation from one such group member:

“Thank you so much … for providing a refuge for me …when the days felt very long, dark, and cold. The group became an anchor for my week, something I could use to push myself out the door and into the world. I am friends with many of the moms I met in the group and it has been a joy to watch as their babes have become little people and to have the continued support of a community. I was so pleased I could visit one more time to thank you in person and to see all the little ones and to feel sadness and relief that that stage is over!"

We also recently heard from a “graduate” of This Isn’t What I Expected, our weekly group for moms who are struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety:

“I was glad that I could stop in on Tuesday for the moms' group. Listening to the other moms, it was so interesting for me to see how far I've come. I didn't know at the time I started coming when I'd ever feel better or even what "better" would look like. But I can say that I'm happy to be where I am now. Just wanted to say that I'm very thankful for you and for JF&CS being there when I needed help the most!”

We know that postpartum mood disorders affect at least 15-20% of new parents (and yes, dads can get it, too). There are very few places that women feel comfortable sharing their true feelings when they do not enjoy and are actually suffering during the first year after a baby’s birth. Having those feelings often adds shame and guilt to the mom’s experience. Providing a safe space to acknowledge the pain and to realize that you are not alone in this situation is one part of the healing process for these women that we are honored to support.

Debbie Whitehill, LICSW has been with the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support for 24 years, leading both the Lauren and Mark Rubin Visiting Moms and Support Group programs. Debbie has completed a comprehensive program manual to facilitate replication of Visiting Moms, which has already been replicated nationally and internationally.

Nutrition Services Recipe

Wed, 02 Mar 2016 11:01:41 GMT

Posted by Jennifer Heinen

Let's brunch! Invite the family to a spring brunch and enjoy our Baked Eggs in Hashbrown Cups. Pair the petite cups with a side of fruit salad to make your brunch satisfying and sweet!

Nutrition Services provides recipes for clients, community partners, and the general public. Recipes cost $2.50 or less per serving and meet nutrition guidelines consistent with the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Visit the Nutrition Services recipe page or sign up to receive the recipe of the month in your inbox.

Jennifer Heinen, MS, RD, LDN, is a licensed, registered dietitian for the JF&CS Nutrition Services program. Jennifer began her work at JF&CS as a Boston University intern during the early production stages of the Home Cooking without a Kitchen cookbook. She has a passion for educating and empowering others to make healthy choices easy and delicious. Previously she worked as an inpatient and outpatient dietitian and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Dietetic Association. Her favorite food is avocado smashed on whole wheat toast.

You are Not Alone: Support for Those Who Have Lost a Loved One

Thu, 25 Feb 2016 08:37:28 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“Bruchim haba’im. . . It means a blessing on those who have come to the group,” explains Barbara Sternfield, JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections (JHC) bereavement group facilitator and program specialist. “I start each session with these words. Even though we are non-sectarian, people who are consumed with grieving and suffering do not typically take time for themselves and this ritual acknowledges that they are not alone.”

With more than 30 years experience in bereavement support, Barbara started the first JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections group in 2000 at the Leventhal-Sidman Jewish Community Center in Newton. “We began the bereavement group because there were no Jewish culturally sensitive bereavement groups in the area. Although our group is welcoming and open to the entire community, it is a place where participants can also feel comfortable using words like ‘shiva’ or ‘unveiling’ and address issues that arise around the Jewish holidays,” says JF&CS Director of Spirituality and Aging, Marjie Sokoll. “There is a great need [for these groups] because we live in a culture that does not always affirm that death is a part of life and many bereaved people can feel very isolated. By being with others in a group, their feelings are validated and normalized.”

When Susan* lost her twin sister, she called several bereavement groups but all were geared towards people dealing with spousal losses. She found the JHC group and fit right in. “I do not know what I would do without this group,” she says. “It is so helpful, so kind, so structured in a seemingly non-structured way. It is so soothing – the fact that there is a sameness between the members. I loved it from the first minute I was there.”

When Marilyn’s* husband died, a friend suggested a bereavement group and she contacted JF&CS. “My group had and still has a very strong connection,” explains Marilyn, “and we kept our group running longer than scheduled. Barbara made it a safe place for us.”

“All of us feel blessed to be in this group,” Marilyn adds. “It has been life-changing. We learned that when you are in a funk it’s okay – it will pass, maybe in five minutes, or maybe it will take a whole day. But then you can move on.”

“Our groups empower people who are in pain and suffering,” says group leader Barbara. “They come together randomly into a safe and confidential place where everyone gets it and they do not have to explain.

“People are concerned that if they move forward, it may mean they are forgetting the person who died. In our groups, people receive permission to hold both joy and grief at the same time,” she adds. “For me, it is a gift and a privilege to accompany these people on their journeys through grief and to let them know that their emotions are normal and that their experiences are real. The group experience enables people to support one another and find healing in community.”

JF&CS Bereavement Services are made possible through the generosity of the George and Beatrice Sherman Family Charitable Trust, offering support groups and individual spiritual support for people dealing with loss. Bi-monthly daytime drop-in groups are held at the Leventhal-Sidman JCC in Newton and 8-week long night groups are held at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham. For more information, call 781-647-JFCS (5327) or email your questions via our contact us page.

*Names changed to protect privacy.

Connecting with JF&CS on the North Shore

Tue, 23 Feb 2016 10:33:41 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Originally published in the Jewish Journal.

“The mission of JF&CS to improving people’s lives resonates with me because I have known personally what it is to be in need in a variety of ways. Everyone has moments when they need the support of others,” says Laura Shulman Brochstein, new JF&CS North Shore Outreach Manager. “JF&CS provides so many resources that let people know that they’re not alone in the world, whether they’re caring for a spouse with Parkinson’s or feeling isolated and anxious as a new mother. It’s an agency with a vast number of programs that work together, supporting them through challenging times while encouraging independence and the dignity of the individual.”

“Working with others - helping others - is a big part of who I am,” Laura explains. Previously the Associate Director of the Families with Young Children Initiative at Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP), she also brings to JF&CS her experience as Director of Women’s Philanthropy and Leadership Development at the Jewish Federation of the North Shore, and as Assistant Director of CJP’s Boston-Haifa Connection. Laura is excited about the many facets of her new role at JF&CS. She will be responsible for expanding agency and program awareness in the North Shore community through building relationships, organizing JF&CS speaking events, donor identification, and volunteer engagement. Also on her agenda is increasing agency visibility and working to bring specific JF&CS programs to the North Shore. “I want to raise people’s awareness and participation in our exceptional programs. My role is to get the message out and connect people to programs and volunteers to the right opportunity, as well,” she adds. “My roots are planted in both the North Shore and in the Jewish community here. This is where I choose to raise my family.”

Laura, who lives in Marblehead with her wife Rebecca and their two children, Noa (age 7) and Eitan (age 5), is passionate about working to help others. With a BA in Women’s Studies from Bates College and a Master’s degree in Jewish Communal Leadership from Brandeis University, Laura is currently finishing her last semester pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work at Salem State University.

“I am very much involved with the North Shore, both personally and professionally,” Laura adds. “I want to see the role of JF&CS on the North Shore grow so that even more people can participate in or volunteer for our wonderful programs. I am proud to be a member of the JF&CS family and I am excited about helping to bring its message to more people and families in new communities. It gives me the privilege of assisting others in need; it’s a perfect fit for me.”

Jon Federman is the JF&CS Staff Writer. A practicing attorney for more than 15 years, he is thrilled to bring his legal and persuasive writing skills to the JF&CS Marketing Communications department. Jon has a BA from Tufts University and a JD from Boston College Law School. In his spare time he is an exhibiting photographer and an award-winning cartoonist. Jon lived in London, England for five years before returning to Boston in 2011.

Bowling with the Commonwealth Financial Group

Fri, 19 Feb 2016 11:03:11 GMT

Posted by Christine Guarino

This month a group of employees from Commonwealth Financial Group in Boston participated in a volunteer bowling event with JF&CS CHAI Works participants. Every quarter, Commonwealth Financial Group employees participate in volunteer events or projects. The company maintains a focus on organizations that serve individuals with disabilities, and we were so excited to be part of this quarter’s event! CHAI Works participants and Commonwealth Financial Group volunteers spent an afternoon together bowling, eating pizza, and getting to know one another. The event was a huge success: more than 40 CHAI Works participants and 12 volunteers participated, using more than ten lanes at Boston Bowl. The competition was friendly but got fierce at times!

We are so grateful to our friends at Commonwealth Financial Group for taking time out of their schedules to participate in this event. We plan on hosting more joint events with Commonwealth Financial Group in the future and hope to hold similar events with other corporate partners as well. After all, what’s better than taking a few hours out of a Wednesday afternoon to go bowling and make friends?

Preparing Victor to Go Home

Tue, 16 Feb 2016 13:43:46 GMT

Posted by Lee Fuoco

Everyone at JF&CS In-Home Services who has had contact with *Victor agrees he’s an old soul, and not in a fun way. “He’s seen things,” an In-Home Behavioral Therapist told me recently. And he has, including abandonment as a toddler by his substance-addicted mother to his substance-addicted grandmother, removal from that grandmother after being taken to the ER with a backside full of open sores the size of moon craters because she left him in soiled diapers for days on end, placement in the child welfare system, and placement in multiple foster homes. While in foster care, his Department of Children and Families (DCF) social worker took him to visit his mother, who told him that she was terminating her parental rights because she could not give him the home he needed. She also shared that he deserved to live with a family who could give him the necessities and security she could not provide. All this before he was six years old.

Nothing about Victor’s story is unique to me or the clinicians I supervise, who are providing services under the Massachusetts Children’s Behavioral Health Initiative. We are mandated by MassHealth to provide rigorous, intensive clinical and behavioral therapy to children and families whose needs are not met by a traditional outpatient model. Several times a week, we are in families’ homes triaging crises, processing trauma, and assessing, reassessing, and re-reassessing risk. We are mandated to keep close contact with kids, bringing services to them rather than removing them (often repeatedly) for stabilization and treatment in a hospital setting. This means we spend mornings at individualized education plan (IEP) meetings or school observations and the afternoons and evenings driving from home to home to provide in-home services. Any time we have in the car between meetings is spent on the phone with a child’s prescriber, teacher, or DCF worker spearheading efforts to establish a cohesive treatment team addressing thoughtful goals. This work is not for the faint of heart, the easily deterred, or the disorganized. So much is required every day of the clinicians I supervise, and they are bearing witness to so much sadness, loss, and defeat, that my own head is often left spinning.

So while Victor’s story seems almost pedestrian to someone who has been doing this work for as long as I have, there is something about this child that feels different. That old-soul-ness – a stoicism and downright refusal to engage in joyfulness or optimism that is surely his spirit’s stonewall against a world that has proven itself, thus far, to be nothing but emotionally harrowing. He seemed virtually unreachable at first – difficult, guarded, obstinate, and more motivated by creating stress for those caring for him than taking the emotional risk of being loveable. The literature and research are clear: trauma, especially trauma at an early age, changes a body’s physiology and cellular structure. It breaks brains as well as spirits, leaving gaping wide holes in some places and in others, layer upon layer of defenses that a hundred sticks of dynamite couldn’t break open. A seemingly simple request to clear breakfast dishes or brush teeth are fighting words for kids who spend all day in hypervigilance mode. But, utilizing the team approach that has come to be the clinical hallmark of JF&CS In-Home Services, we are making progress.

JF&CS In-Home Therapists work with Victor on accepting limits and direction, and expressing frustration appropriately. Staff also utilize trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, a progressive, component-based, trauma-informed treatment model. Victor has been able to identify feelings and physical symptoms related to early life trauma and now practices relaxation skills to reduce anxiety. He is in the process of developing a feelings survival kit and writing his trauma narrative. A JF&CS Therapeutic Mentor is working with him in the community to enhance his self-esteem and positive, effective communication of wants and needs. When Victor’s Therapeutic Mentor told me that, following an incident of Victor stealing money from his teacher’s desk, JF&CS staff supported him to confess the theft to the teacher and apologize to her, my heart was in my throat for the boy who used to behave badly to get confirmation that he exists.

DCF is in the final stages of firming up Victor’s adoption. Soon, he will start home visits with what we all hope will become his new family. I feel proud of JF&CS In-Home Services and these clinicians who have made him a little more prepared for this next chapter, who have filled up the holes, broken through the defenses, and added a few years to his old soul.

*Name changed for privacy

Lee Fuoco, MSW, LICSW is the Clinical Director of JF&CS In-Home Services, which provides home-based clinical services to kids and families under the Children’s Behavioral Health Initiative (CBHI). Lee graduated from Salem State University’s MSW program in 2010 with a Child and Family concentration. She is a family therapist who has worked exclusively with systemically-involved, high-risk kids and families utilizing systems-focused and social justice perspectives. She also has a specialty in clinical work with LGBTQI clients. Lee also teaches as adjunct faculty at Salem State University’s MSW program and sits on the planning committee of the Youth at Risk Conference.

A Letter to Future Daters

Fri, 12 Feb 2016 12:38:31 GMT

Posted by 2015 – 2016 TeenSafe Peer Leaders Devin, Yael, Olivia, and Rachel
‪
JF&CS Journey to Safety’s TeenSafe‬ is raising awareness about teen dating abuse during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month this February. Check out our campaign on Twitter and become part of the conversation by using ‪#‎teenDVmonth‬ and ‪#‎LoveShouldBeSafe‬.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

Dear Future Daters,

When you first think about the month of February, chocolate boxes and roses probably fill your imagination; but did you know that February is also Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month? What does that mean? Well, love does not only have ups like Valentine’s Day makes it seem. There are many complicated sides to love and relationships. How do we know this? We are TeenSafe, a group of peer leaders that works to prevent dating abuse in the Jewish community and beyond. We focus on many aspects of dating, including healthy and unhealthy behaviors, expectations, and how to help those experiencing dating abuse.

So, why are we writing to you? Well, we are sure that if you ask a survivor of dating abuse they would say that they wished they knew more about this topic before beginning to date. In reaching out to you, we hope to eliminate the likelihood of dating abuse in our generation.

We won’t overwhelm you with facts and figures, but it is important that you remember these few things.

If you think about your relationships with your friends and family members, you have certain expectations for how they should treat you, right? You expect them to be honest with you, respectful of you, and supportive. Romantic relationships are really not much different in that sense! For example, if your friend said or did something that hurt your feelings, you would have a conversation with them about how you’re feeling (hopefully). If you don’t feel your dating partner will listen to how you’re feeling, that may be a problem. If they do listen then that will help both of you to adjust your behavior and have a healthier relationship.
If you talk to your partner about the things that are bothering you and nothing changes, consider rethinking the relationship. You might still really care about this person, but accepting something annoying or hurtful that your partner is doing and letting it become a “new norm” in your relationship can pave the way for you to have less control.
When first meeting a possible partner, take note of how they handle frustration and/or anger. Say you went out to dinner for a date and the waiter forgot to bring the check. If he/she shows signs of aggression because of the waiter’s simple mistake, it is good to keep that in the back of your mind for the future.
When in a relationship, you may spend the majority of your free time with your partner and likely there is a constant stream of talking and texting when not together. This intense communication can be taken too far. If your partner constantly wants to know your whereabouts and is always calling or texting you when you aren’t together, it is important to discuss this and find a balance between him/her and others in your life. Listen to your friends or family members if they are worried about this.
Abuse is not limited to physical or verbal actions. A pattern of controlling behavior in a relationship is considered abuse. If your partner is limiting you or making you uncomfortable in any way, you have to assess the situation and ask yourself if you are changing who you are to be with him/her.

Hopefully, these tips were helpful and don’t scare you away from dating. Relationships are great to have, but it is important to be prepared before taking this big step in your life! Next time you meet someone that you hit it off with, think back to when you read this letter and recognize possible red flags that will help guide you.

(Safe) Love always,

Devin, Yael, Olivia, and Rachel
2015 – 2016 TeenSafe Peer Leaders

Teaching Students to Work with Holocaust Survivors

Tue, 09 Feb 2016 14:08:20 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

“Not being Jewish I wasn’t sure what my place was. I wanted to learn more about the Holocaust and talk to a survivor but, as someone who went to Catholic school, I wasn’t sure how I would be received.”

When Danielle Forte, a social work intern at JF&CS, expressed these thoughts during a meeting, I realized she was the ideal person to help train the 2015-2016 cohort of the Legacies: High School Visits program. This group of diverse 9th-12th graders learn about the Holocaust by meeting with a survivor three times over the course of the year and by creating a meaningful project together. Not only was Danielle getting her Master’s degree in social work but she was expressing similar feelings to many of the students.

The 22 students in this year’s cohort come from all over Massachusetts with varied backgrounds and interests. At our first session of the year, we already had plans to warm up with ice-breakers, discuss emergency preparedness, learn interviewing skills, and practice interactions with Holocaust survivors through role plays. What we did not have on the agenda was someone to help the teens understand what it is like to age and the specific issues related to a Holocaust survivor. I asked Danielle if she would research the topic, attend the training, and take on this subject.

“When planning my talk I thought about what I knew in high school about the topic and, even though I had interest, I had very little knowledge. I knew I wanted to use humor and eliminate any pressure the high schoolers may have been feeling during this first training. In addition, I wanted to give them information on trauma but I didn’t want it to be a lecture.”

Danielle interspersed discussion and YouTube videos in her presentation. She had every student raising his or her hand, shouting out answers, and laughing.

“I wanted to get the teens talking more than anything else…it’s better than talking at them. The kids started out a bit quiet and awkward but by the end of training they seemed transformed. I think we got rid of a lot of their anxieties.”

Danielle was impressed by everyone in the room, especially Dan who talked about his grandfather, a Holocaust survivor who doesn’t share his traumatic past. “It’s such a gift that Dan is giving his grandfather and the survivor with whom he’ll be matched. He’ll learn about ways to talk to his grandfather and to let him know that he’s being supported.” Dan wanted to participate in the program to learn more about what his grandfather had gone through in order to be more empathetic.

Danielle wished she had had an opportunity to participate in a program like Legacies: High School Visits when she was younger. “This is such an incredible program. I didn’t know something like this could exist. I would have loved to do it in high school.”

For more information about the Legacies: High School Visits program, please contact Elyse Rast at erast@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-1201.

Elyse Rast is the Manager of Outreach and Education for Schechter Holocaust Services. For the past 20 years Elyse has taught children ranging in ages from 3-18 and specializes in Holocaust education. Currently, Elyse runs Jewish teenage empowerment classes at Prozdor Hebrew High School and is working on her PhD in Education at Lesley University. Elyse has two kids and two cats and lives in Westwood.

Home Cooking without a Kitchen

Thu, 04 Feb 2016 13:02:55 GMT

By Jennifer Heinen

Homelessness remains a major issue among low-income families. An average of 1,258 families with children reside in motel rooms as shelter across Massachusetts[1]. Most of these families have limited access to food and little more than a mini-fridge, microwave, and bathroom sink to prepare a meal. With no real cooking facilities, preparing healthy meals is extremely difficult. Many rely on frozen meals and convenience foods, which can be high in sodium and saturated fats, and may not provide adequate nutrition.

Earlier this year Jewish Family & Children’s Service, in partnership with Project Bread, responded to this concern by publishing Home Cooking without a Kitchen, a cookbook that provides twenty-one tasty and nutritious recipes that are budget-friendly, simple to prepare, and can be made without a full kitchen. This has been a welcome resource for families living in shelters.

We have been distributing cookbooks to homeless families at motels in many communities in Massachusetts. So far this year we have touched nearly 200 families at 15 cookbook distributions where parents and children can sample a recipe from the cookbook and see how easy it can be to prepare a healthy meal. So far the response has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic with many parents sharing that they were hoping for a resource like this.

At these cookbook distributions, we also have the opportunity to talk with families about the struggles they face trying to feed healthful meals to their children. Many parents are not aware they can prepare fresh produce, like potatoes or broccoli, in the microwave. Home Cooking without a Kitchen provides a resource for cooking almost any fresh food in a microwave, along with tips for making packaged meals and soups more nutritious. Children love the recipes, too. One child who tasted the apple chicken salad pocket declared, “I love this! I want to learn how to make this. I could eat it all day!”

With the support of private donors, we plan to continue this work and return to the hotel shelters throughout the year. As new families move in while they search for permanent housing, they will also be searching for ways to feed their family healthy meals. Learn more and download your free copy in English or Spanish. You can also contact nutritionservices@jfcsboston.org with any questions.

[1] Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development. Emergency Assistance Monthly Report, Statewide Summary August 2015.

Message from our CEO Rimma Zelfand

Tue, 02 Feb 2016 11:41:00 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

We improve people’s lives. That’s been our mission for more than 150 years. Of course our programs and services have changed dramatically over a century and a half, but our mission always remains the same, even as we respond to the ever-changing needs of the community.

Through our network of more than 40 programs, we strengthen families, enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities and seniors, and provide a proverbial safety net for people in need. We carefully listen and respond to the needs of the community and then we respond quickly, innovatively, and compassionately.

We discovered that although there were programs available to address the medical needs of infants exposed to opioids and other substances, there were no programs that focused on the emotional and psychological challenges of being the parent of a substance-exposed newborn. With the generous support of JF&CS Board member Ellie Svenson, we responded by developing Project NESST (Newborns Exposed to Substances: Support and Therapy) to fill this void in our community.

When it came to our attention that there was an unmet need for the families of military members in Massachusetts, we launched Shoulder to Shoulder, an innovative peer-to-peer support program for the families of veterans and service members. The program, initiated by JF&CS Board member Jamie Grossman, pairs trained volunteers with military families for weekly, one-hour home visits to provide support while addressing the unique challenges faced by veterans and their families.

When we learned that one in three teenage girls in the US is a victim of physical, emotional, or verbal abuse from a dating partner, we developed TeenSafe with support from the Miriam Fund. Designed to give teens the language and tools they need to recognize abuse in an intimate relationship and the ability to respond if they see, hear about, or experience it, the program brings together experienced educators and trained high school students to engage teens in workshops that examine healthy and abusive dating relationships.

Last year, we provided direct service to more than 17,000 parents and children, people with disabilities, seniors, and those in need of food, housing, and financial assistance. While most clients come to us with one specific need, many clients wind up benefitting from multiple programs as we come to understand their particular needs and challenges. And although it might just be only one member of a family coming through our doors, the impact of our programs can be felt throughout the entire family and ultimately throughout the entire community. Aren’t we all better off when the parents of a substance-exposed newborn get the support they need? When the family of a returning veteran feels supported and has the resources needed to adjust to the return of a military spouse/parent? When teens can recognize and call out patterns of dating abuse? We improve people’s lives by strengthening individuals and families and then building upon their resilience.

Of course we can only respond to the needs of the community if you respond in kind. We need people like you to become part of the JF&CS family now more than ever. You can respond by becoming one of our more than 2,100 volunteers – people who are a vital part of our organization and who have an incredible and profound impact on the communities we serve. You can also make an enormous impact by making a donation to JF&CS to ensure that we can respond to the ever-changing needs of the community with essential services and innovative programming, now and for the next 150 years. We look forward to your response.

Helping Students Succeed in Central MA

Thu, 28 Jan 2016 12:43:20 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

School isn’t always easy for kids. There are a lot of rules and expectations. Even snack time can be a challenge. In one Central MA classroom, a teacher left snacks out for students to enjoy later. One little boy, a recent arrival from another country, helped himself to snacks all day. His teacher thought he was hogging the food.

Kids who are stressed or having trouble sitting still can show it in all kinds of ways – from talking during class to fighting on the playground – or even eating snack at the wrong time. If you Google “behavior problems in school” you’ll get almost fifty-five million results.

But helping students thrive is not just a matter of reading opinions online. Making sure that each child gets the support he or she needs requires a hands-on approach that carefully takes each student, family, teacher, and classroom into consideration. That’s where the JF&CS School-Based Consultation program comes in.

“The goal is to support public school teachers who have kids who are exhibiting challenging behaviors that are interfering with academic success,” said Gail Epstein, JF&CS School-Based Consultant. “We also look at the whole classroom to design strategies that help behavior management.”

Research shows that students with developed social, emotional, and behavioral skills demonstrate higher levels of academic achievement. And yet many school-based interventions focus exclusively on academics or already existing mental health concerns.

In contrast, JF&CS School-Based Consultation offers a collaborative approach to help kids succeed in school that focuses on social and emotional competency. The first step is an observation of the child’s classroom by Gail to get an impression of his or her behavior and interaction with teachers and other students. This helps develop an understanding of some of the obstacles the child may face in learning in that environment. Gail then carefully tailors her recommendations to the specific needs and concerns of the student, classroom, and school.

The program provides services to two public schools in Worcester as well as Jewish preschools and religious education programs in Central MA.

“Teachers have incredible academic demands on them and, in the two Worcester public schools I am working with, they’re also presented with challenging behaviors, large class sizes, and cultural differences. The teachers are responsible for the health and well-being of the classroom,” said Gail. “I support teachers by offering a large toolbox of strategies.”

And teachers are enthusiastic about the program. “The services were wonderful and very helpful. My class has made desired improvement. It has helped my teaching instruction,” said one public school teacher. “Gail has provided our staff and families great support,” added another. At the JCC preschool, one administrator noted, “Classroom teachers have used the suggested tools and advice from Gail to manage and be more effective in the classroom.”

“We try to relay information to teachers in an approachable and non-threatening way. Teachers respond to that,” said Deb Shrier, Director of Community and Program Development in Central MA. “The goal is that the child will learn by the new skills introduced and that they will carry what they learned on to the next grade,” said Deb. “Teachers and children will benefit long after our program was involved.”

The School-Based Consultant is currently collaborating with Rabbi Aviva Fellman at Congregation Beth Israel in Worcester to create a Jewish parenting program. The program will help parents use Judaism to guide them by integrating the program’s strategies with Jewish texts. Gail’s focus is on helping parents learn child development and techniques for guiding behaviors.

“Expanding School-Based Consultation to the religious schools and preschools has been great for the agency because it gives us another way of supporting our local Jewish organizations in the community,” said Deb. “Without these resources, some children wouldn’t be able to remain in the classroom and experience Jewish learning.”

Staying Positive as We Age

Tue, 26 Jan 2016 10:22:56 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

“You have to keep moving,” said Pearl, 83. Despite two knee replacement surgeries and chronic back issues, Pearl does all she can to stay positive and to encourage others. One of the keys to her sunny attitude is JF&CS Aging Well at Home.

From wellness to nutrition to painting classes, trips to museums, concerts, speakers, and luncheons, the program offers a wide range of activities and classes to promote healthy aging and ultimately allow older adults to live at home for as long as possible.

“When this program was introduced it was like life came here,” said Pearl. “You need all the help you can get to stay positive and that’s what this program does.”

Pearl is a long-time resident of an apartment community in Brookline, one of several locations served by Aging Well at Home. Last year, more than 600 older adults registered for activities offered through the program.

Pearl has become an unofficial ambassador for Aging Well at Home. “She has made it possible through her intuitive understanding to make the program meaningful for other people,” said Kathy Burnes, Division Director, JF&CS Services for Older Adults. “She’s a great resource for understanding the community.”

Aging Well at Home’s services meet the needs of the seniors who live in each specific community. Each one is designed to help seniors stay living in their homes by preventing isolation and depression, poor management of chronic conditions, and inadequate nutrition. The program also supports seniors by connecting them with the extensive continuum of services that JF&CS offers, including home-based mental health services, Friendly Visitors, free expert advice through CJP SeniorDirect, and geriatric care management services.

“People want to avoid having to move to a more institutional setting. They want to stay at home because it’s what they know and it’s a great comfort to them,” said Hilary Tolan, Program Coordinator, Aging Well at Home.

“Some people are quite comfortable asking for assistance and some are more shy. Pearl keeps me updated on the other residents and will point out someone who needs help,” said Hilary. “And she gives them information about what we have available. Pearl is the kind of person that others gravitate to and she encourages people to participate.”

Pearl and her friends “hold court” in the sitting room of the apartment building, gently teasing and checking in with the other residents and encouraging them to join her at an upcoming activity. She understands that even though it’s a big complex, people can still become isolated and that they tend to seclude themselves as aches and physical challenges grow.

“I like to make people laugh and I can still laugh at myself,” Pearl said. “You have to make it a happy time. I tell them that once you get your feet wet you’ll like [the program]. It’s really a benefit we didn’t have before.”

Thanks to the program’s efforts, strong and supportive resident communities are fostered at each Aging Well at Home site. And with Pearl’s help, the seniors in her apartment complex will continue to be active and connected with each other and their community.

“Aging is often associated with vulnerability but there’s a lot of resilience and that’s what we try to capitalize on,” said Kathy. “Pearl exemplifies that and makes the connection so much better.”

Funding for this program comes from CJP, the MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs, and generous individual donors.

Q&A With Donors Barbara and Ed Shapiro

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 08:41:27 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

Ed and Barbara Shapiro are hands-on philanthropists who launched a foundation fifteen years ago to make a difference in the community. They wanted to pass these values on to their two children, Samantha (13) and Joshua (15), but when they looked for a volunteer opportunity they could all do together, there were few options. Then, at a family event at the Rashi School, the Needham couple learned about JF&CS Family Table, New England’s largest kosher food pantry.

As they learned more about Family Table and JF&CS, Ed and Barbara found out that the food pantry was seeking to expand to the South Area in order to serve more families and volunteers. They decided that supporting that expansion was a wonderful opportunity. The Shapiro’s generous donation enabled a new site to be opened in Temple Beth Abraham in Canton. Family Table will now serve families and volunteers in 45 cities and towns in addition to its locations in Waltham and on the North Shore.

How did you get involved with JF&CS Family Table?
Ed: “I have known Bernice Behar, Family Table Director, for twenty years but had lost touch. At an event at our children’s school, we heard her present about Family Table. She told us about her journey and how she was inspired. The idea of finding an opportunity to involve our kids and do something jointly was really exciting. When we heard about the plans for the South Area, we decided to get involved.”

What do you find most meaningful about volunteering?
Barbara: “What is really meaningful for me in instilling values in our kids is hands-on philanthropy. To take our children to where they’re actively packing groceries and then delivering to people who otherwise wouldn’t have food on their table.”

How do you teach your children about philanthropy?
Barbara: “We talk about philanthropy a lot. Our kids are getting more involved and engaged in causes we support. From a very young age we encouraged them to find ways to give and make an impact in the community. When they were younger in lieu of birthday gifts they would ask for donations for a cause. But donating a check is not tangible and they don’t see where it’s going.”

Ed: “Now we watch their reaction when we walk into people’s homes. We take it for granted that we can go to the grocery store whenever we want. It’s abstract when you’re loading up groceries. It’s concrete when you walk into someone’s home and see how valuable it is to them. Family Table is unique.”

What has been the most memorable experience at Family Table?
Barbara: “The most memorable time was the first delivery. It was new to all of us. Our children don’t always realize how good they have it. We packed our bags and took them to a woman’s small studio apartment. She asked us to put the groceries in her kitchen. When my children walked into her single room the light bulb went on.”

Why is expanding to the South Area so important?
Ed: “Our primary concern is serving the needs of the community but the opportunity to engage the volunteers is as important. Families in towns in that area that are beyond the realistic driving range to Waltham can now get involved. It’s opening up Family Table to a network of families and synagogues. They’re having an amazing impact on the community.”

What would you say to other donors?
Barbara: “I was blown away by the range of services JF&CS provides. There are so many people with so many different needs. It’s truly invaluable, how broadly and deeply they provide services to the community. I can’t imagine Greater Boston without JF&CS.”

JF&CS is grateful for the generosity of the Shapiro family to Family Table, one of the many ways the agency meets the needs of more than 17,000 people in 250 communities each year.

TeenSafe

Tue, 19 Jan 2016 12:56:38 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

TeenSafe is JF&CS Journey to Safety’s response to dating abuse in our community. The program is designed to give teens the language and tools they need to recognize abuse in an intimate relationship and know how to respond if they see, hear about, or experience it. TeenSafe brings together experienced educators and trained high school students to engage teens in workshops that examine healthy and abusive dating relationships. TeenSafe is entering its fifth year thanks to generous donors and a grant from the Miriam Fund.

Hear about the program’s impact from third year TeenSafe participants, a parent, and the TeenSafe Program Coordinator, Sara Berkowitz:

“TeenSafe taught me about the different types of abuse that exist and how to teach about them to others. Through the community project that my group completed during my first year in TeenSafe, we got many people to think about what healthy and unhealthy relationships look like and spread awareness about teen dating abuse."
— Aly

“Through TeenSafe, I have had the opportunity to lead seminars and activities for different groups of people, encouraging them to find ways to address dating abuse. TeenSafe has not only helped me make an impact in the community, but it has helped improve my leadership and communication skills, which will continue to benefit me throughout my life.”
— Olivia

“I believe very strongly in what TeenSafe promotes, which is education about healthy relationships and awareness of teen dating abuse. People should learn how to conduct themselves in relationships early in their lives and know that there should be no fear in asking for help.”
— Yael

“I came into the program expecting that I was only going to review information I already knew, but in reality I learned more than I ever could have imagined. Now, I am more confident in identifying abuse and helping those that might be in danger.”
— Devin

“I have seen my daughter grow exponentially the last two years. Since she started TeenSafe, the confidence she has gained in herself in relationships is palpable and we have had many important conversations. She is a great role model for her little sister as she enters her preteen years, and I believe she has also become a more empathic friend who is ready to help a friend advocate for him/herself. When my daughter leaves for college next fall, I am confident that she will be able to navigate the very complicated life of relationships that young people face on campus and help others do the same.”
— Jennifer Slifka Vidal, Parent of a TeenSafe Participant

“Though dating abuse is not an issue unique to the Jewish community, Jewish teens are not immune from it. TeenSafe provides an opportunity for teens to meet within a Jewish setting to talk about healthy relationships and preventing teen dating abuse. By discussing this topic and training teens to run workshops, we send a message that we can respond to the issue of teen dating abuse as a community and encourage safety and equality in relationships.”

— Sara Berkowitz, TeenSafe Youth Educator

Saying Goodbye: In Memoriam of Dr. Robert Berger, of blessed memory

Thu, 14 Jan 2016 11:30:30 GMT

Posted by Carol Laibson

While we meet many people in our life, few make a lasting mark on our hearts and lives. Dr. Robert Berger, of blessed memory, was such a person. A Holocaust survivor from Hungary, Bob came to the US as a young boy with the help of JF&CS, a journey he shared in his story A Dose of Chutzpah. After settling in the US, his intellect, drive, and commitment to helping others led him to become a highly regarded cardiac surgeon.

Bob was also an active member of the Schechter Holocaust Services advisory and allocation committees since the program’s inception. In addition to donating his time and expertise, he was generous in donating much needed funds to help other survivors receive lifesaving homecare and basic necessities.

Bob was a strong voice and advocate for the survivor community. He shared his understanding of the sensitive needs of Holocaust survivors at a recent JF&CS event. He unexpectedly closed the meeting with a succinct and powerful message about the many survivors in our community who, after having experienced the tragedy of the Holocaust, are now struggling to live on less than $12,000 a year. Bob stressed our community’s obligation to see that Holocaust survivors’ needs are met with care and respect.

Bob had a gift for making people feel special and inspired. He not only cared but put his caring into action, helping those he had known for 60 years and those he didn't know at all.

As a staff person of Schechter Holocaust Services and as a friend, I will miss Bob, his knowledge, insights, and warmth. He will continue to be in our hearts and will always be remembered.

Managing Life’s Twists and Turns

Tue, 12 Jan 2016 10:02:39 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

Tom and Ruth* are loving parents who raised two daughters and were looking forward to a quiet retirement from their jobs as researcher and intensive care unit nurse, respectively. But when one of their adult daughters’ lives fell apart, it had a ripple effect that plunged the whole family into crisis. The couple unexpectedly found themselves seeking guardianship of their young grandchildren “in their golden years.” Happily, after a year of turmoil, their lives have begun to stabilize with help from JF&CS.

“It’s been a very stressful year,” said Ruth. “What we have experienced from JF&CS is wonderful kindness and it has made us feel not so alone.”

Last year, when the couple discovered the extent of their daughter’s issues, they were distraught. “Sadly, our daughter is unable to care for our grandchildren. This is a great loss and great disappointment,” said Tom. “In the middle of mourning that loss we tried to put together some stability for our grandchildren. We’re working hard to provide a safe, nurturing environment for them.”

When the children’s father disappeared and their daughter began living on the streets, Tom and Ruth realized they needed to take extraordinary steps to protect their grandchildren, ages two and seven. Not knowing if either parent would challenge them, they turned to JF&CS Bet Tzedek Legal Services, a program that provides pro bono legal assistance. Bet Tzedek connected Tom and Ruth to an attorney to represent them in guardianship proceedings and they were successful in obtaining permanent legal custody of their grandchildren. In addition to the legal assistance, the JF&CS Center for Basic Needs Assistance provided financial assistance, food, and help applying for other benefits, as well as ongoing emotional support.

“The family is moving out of a year-long crisis,” said Amy Willinsky, Center for Basic Needs Assistance Supervisor and Inter-Agency Liaison. “We worked with them at a time of great chaos and worry. They’ve put great effort into supporting their grandchildren, even under difficult circumstances. They figured out what’s in the best interests of the kids.”

Throughout the year, JF&CS staff coordinated care among many programs within the agency as well as with community organizations, including Early Intervention and Yachad.

“The biggest challenge is that there were many urgent needs on many levels – legal, financial, housing, medical, and emotional,” said Meredith Joy, Director, Center for Basic Needs Assistance. “Our focus has been to assist the grandparents in prioritizing all the things that needed to happen and to support them in every way that we can.”

Tom and Ruth are an example of how easily stability can turn into a crisis for families who are living week to week on a fixed income. “You can be educated, professional, and self-sustaining but there are certain circumstances that can shake that up,” said Amy.

Center for Basic Needs Assistance Advisory Committee Chair and JF&CS Board member Steven Weil knows JF&CS provided the best possible service to this family: “There are very few agencies in Greater Boston, if any, that I know of where an individual or family can find the range of services provided by JF&CS. I support the work of the Center for Basic Needs Assistance because it lies at the heart of the agency. It helps families like Tom and Ruth’s find a way out of their crisis and then searches for ways to help them sustain themselves or regain what they’ve lost. They do it with compassion. JF&CS goes about their work in a thoughtful way, and they have the experience to be successful.”

JF&CS continues to work with this family as stability becomes the norm. Their crisis is fading and Tom and Ruth have settled into a new routine. Last month the children started preschool and second grade.

“We’ve lived a life so full of twists and turns,” said Tom. “Amy has been incredibly supportive and helpful. She’s provided us a kind and sensitive interaction and that’s been enormously helpful. JF&CS has made an immeasurable difference.”

“The new normal is being parents to our grandchildren. All the support has made it more possible for us,” said Ruth. “JF&CS has been there for us. I don’t see how we could make it without them.”

*Names changed to protect privacy.

A Week in the Life

Thu, 07 Jan 2016 13:34:55 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

Michael joined CHAI Works in March 2011. He learned vital social, safety, coping, time management, and independent living skills. By the summer of 2014, he had gained the confidence necessary to move out of his parents’ house into a JF&CS Collaborative Living Support House in Malden. He accesses his neighborhood independently, uses the RIDE to get to and from his daily activities, enjoys weekends with his peers at the house, and loves learning, reading, and taking photographs.

JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities reflect the values of individual autonomy, inclusion in the community, and continuity of care. We believe that personal identity is enhanced through achievement and we strive to empower individuals with disabilities through education and skill-building programs. JF&CS works to create meaningful and fulfilling opportunities that allow our participants to lead productive and integrated lives while boosting feelings of self-worth and confidence.

Did you know?
JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities completed the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) licensing and certification audit in the summer of 2015. The Disabilities Human Rights Committee commends the division, staff, and all involved who worked diligently during preparation and scored 100% in day and employment programming and 99% in residential services.

A Better Beginning for Substance-Exposed Newborns and their Families

Tue, 05 Jan 2016 12:05:58 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

“Having a baby as a single parent is hard enough as it is. Adding a layer of substance use is an added stress, something most other parents don’t have. Project NESST® (Newborns Exposed to Substances: Support and Therapy) has helped me be the mother I always knew I could be,” says Leah, a Project NESST client and mother of a 16-month-old baby girl.

Project NESST offers flexible support for substance-exposed newborns and their families. While some programs focus on the medical needs of infants exposed to opioids, prescription medications, or substances, this pioneering program addresses the emotional and psychological challenges of being the parent of a substance-exposed newborn, supporting the mother in her ability to meet her baby’s needs in an attuned way.

Divided into two components, the program offers both clinical services and peer mentoring, free of charge, to families throughout Greater Boston. Support is available in clients’ homes or community settings throughout pregnancy, during the baby’s hospital stay, through the transition from hospital to home, and up until the baby’s third birthday. The therapeutic aspect of the program also offers infant-parent therapy sessions and consultation to address the baby’s unique development, sleep, and feeding needs. Therapy sessions are conducted by experienced clinicians who focus on the psychological issues and struggles that impact recovery and parenting. Support and case management services are also available through Mentoring Moms: peer mentors who have successfully navigated the challenges of recovery themselves and who can offer connections to community resources and services aimed at recovery.

Leah, a single mom, found out about Project NESST through a parenting class she was taking. Her daughter was living with relatives due to Leah’s relapse to alcohol dependence. At the parenting class, Leah asked if there were any resources available specifically for someone who was sustaining recovery and trying to be the best parent she could be. After contacting JF&CS, Leah was paired with a Project NESST clinician who visits her once a week. “It’s a great program,” says Leah. “If I have any questions, [my clinician] is always available by phone or by text. It’s nice to be able to reach out – even if she’s just confirming that I’m doing the right thing.”

“Project NESST provides compassionate support to moms in recovery so that they and their children can thrive,” adds Jennifer Meyerhardt, Project NESST Mentoring Mom Coordinator and Clinician.

Ellie Svenson, a JF&CS Board member, provided the philanthropic support for the program through her family foundation. She shared a similar sentiment: “Project NESST is important to me because we are addressing the needs of a most vulnerable population. I am thrilled that through Project NESST Leah was able to find the support that she needed. As moms we all share concerns about our parenting. NESST’s focus on the emotional and psychological needs of the relationship provides an opportunity for vulnerable moms like Leah to shamelessly bring their parenting struggles and challenges to a supportive clinician.”

“When you’re in recovery, people can be very judgmental. There is a sense of shame in asking certain questions regarding parenting,” Leah affirms. “People in recovery get answers like, ‘You would know this if you hadn’t relapsed’ or ‘If you didn’t drink, then you would have known this.’ Project NESST makes me feel less ashamed. I can ask questions I otherwise wouldn’t ask anyone else out of fear that my words could be used against me.”

Leah is now a confident mom. “I know my daughter and I will have a better life because of this program.”

Joining Together with the Back Bay Chorale

Wed, 30 Dec 2015 11:04:07 GMT

Shared by Nancy Mazonson

Music can unify people across many boundaries and cultures. This holiday season, Parkinson’s Family Support Tremble Clefs partnered with the Bridges outreach program of the Back Bay Chorale to perform two songs in their A Boston Christmas concert at the Old South Church in Copley Square!

Before performing, the Tremble Clefs, a chorus made up of people with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners, and the Back Bay Chorale rehearsed together. These rehearsals were inspiring and full of laughter, music making, joy, mutual support, and friendship. These feelings and the connection between the two choral groups was clear to everyone in the Old South Church: the audience was moved and the Tremble Clefs received a standing ovation!

Singing in such a magnificent setting with our new friends and the 900 person audience validated our belief – which is also confirmed by the research – that arts engagement and connection with a community can build resilience for people with Parkinson’s disease. Through their involvement in singing, the Tremble Clefs are helping redefine what it means to live with a chronic disease.

On Christmas morning, we were excited to see that the Boston Globe featured the partnership between the Tremble Clefs and the Back Bay Chorale on their front page!

Scott Allen Jarrett, the Back Bay Chorale’s Conductor, shared his feelings about the partnership this holiday season: “Yes, it’s a season of giving but it’s also a season of finding our common humanity, making those deeper connections with others.” We couldn’t agree more and are so happy to have joined together to connect the members of the Tremble Clefs with the members of the Back Bay Chorale.

Nancy Mazonson, MS, OTR/L, has directed the Parkinson's Family Support program of JF&CS since its inception in September 2006. The program is a leading resource in Greater Boston with its unique programs, including Parkinson’s Dance, adult child and care partner support groups, a women’s group, and the Tremble Clefs chorus. Prior to her work at JF&CS, Nancy worked extensively as an occupational therapist in inpatient and community-based rehabilitation settings, specializing in helping people with degenerative neurological conditions. She speaks frequently in Greater Boston about the ways in which quality of life with Parkinson’s disease can be improved.

Responding to the Needs of Military Families

Mon, 28 Dec 2015 12:26:57 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder is a family-centered, peer-to-peer program supporting families faced with the unique challenges that accompany military service. Through private conversations that provide support and encouragement, volunteers help identify a family’s strengths and improve their resiliency. Trained by Shoulder to Shoulder staff, volunteers are veterans, spouses, parents, and other military-connected community members who understand the pressures and hardships of military family life. This program is free of charge, completely confidential, and available to Active Duty, National Guard, Reserve, and Veteran service members, regardless of income, economic circumstances, religion, age, or discharge status.

The Challenges of Military Life
Shared by Amy Bonneau

In Massachusetts, most military service members are Guard and Reservists who also have full-time civilian jobs in their communities. We serve away from home one weekend per month, as well as for two weeks of annual training in the summer. Although one weekend per month might not sound like a lot of time, it translates into 12 consecutive “work days” per month, when most civilians have weekends in which to catch up on errands, rest, and spend quality time with friends and family. The two weeks of annual training also usually eats up vacation time, so we lose another opportunity to rest, recharge, and spend time with family or significant others. It can be even more difficult for single soldiers who have no one to pick up the slack when they’re away. They might find themselves asking, “Who can dog sit for a weekend?”

Military members may also face challenges in being unemployed or under-employed, especially those who have just returned from active duty. In addition, they face hurdles in translating their military skill sets into civilian employment situations.

Military Life for Families
Shared by Stacie Fredriksson

When a military member deploys, families face separations lasting anywhere from three to 18 months, with 12 months being the average deployment. The remaining spouse is left in the position of a single parent, with everything falling on his or her shoulders. Family routines are uprooted. Bills, household chores, meals, transportation, and more can overburden a spouse who may also be working full-time. Children respond differently to both the remaining parent and the military parent. If the military parent is in harm’s way, then the stress on the family is amplified. When the remaining parent is struggling and has no support mechanisms, the children will almost certainly show more signs of stress.

Returning home from deployment can also bring new challenges. For the military member, returning to a new routine that doesn’t include you can be an adjustment in itself and quite stressful. It’s a challenge to bring the deployed parent back into the loop. It takes time to normalize the relationships between spouses and children. Injuries, both visible and invisible, such as PTSD or traumatic brain injury, add yet another layer of extreme stress.

How Shoulder to Shoulder was Born
Shared by Jamie Grossman

Early on in life, I learned about the value of reaching out into the community to offer support to individuals and families in need of financial, spiritual, or emotional guidance. Fifteen years ago, when I was asked to join the JF&CS Board of Directors, I jumped at the chance.

When I met my partner, Bob Kinder, five years ago, I had never known anyone who had served in the military. Bob served in the military for 24 years, including several deployments in Afghanistan. As we got to know each other, I learned about life as a military family and the toll it can take on relationships within the family unit. With Bob, I became involved with some local military support programs. The more exposure I had to the military community, the more I thought about JF&CS and the services we provide.

After speaking with local Veterans’ Service Officers; directors at Home Base, a joint enterprise between Massachusetts General Hospital and the Boston Red Sox Foundation; and generals at Hanscom Air Force Base, I worked with JF&CS to create Shoulder to Shoulder, a program that would serve military families based on the successful JF&CS Lauren and Mark Rubin Visiting Moms® concept.

Now the program has two part-time employees (both service members themselves) and 11 trained volunteers, positioned to go out into the community and help families. Volunteers also benefit from the program by developing relationships with each other over their own military life experiences. It’s a win-win situation for both the families and the volunteers.

JF&CS Expands South

Tue, 22 Dec 2015 09:49:10 GMT

JF&CS News December 2015

JF&CS is happy to announce that we now offer two of our critical programs in the South Area of Massachusetts. This fall, CHAI Works South, a community-based day program for adults with disabilities, and Family Table South, an extension of our kosher food pantry, both opened in Canton.

Family Table South: Serving Families Better
As New England’s largest kosher food pantry, Family Table depends on a dedicated network of volunteers to gather, pack, and deliver groceries to almost 400 families in Greater Boston, on the North Shore, and in the South Area. In October, a new location was opened at Temple Beth Abraham in Canton, helping serve families and volunteers in 45 cities and towns.

When JF&CS reached out to the Jewish community in the South Area for ideas for expanding Family Table, Rabbi Navah Levine of Temple Beth Abraham in Canton responded immediately.

“I picked up the phone right away. The congregants are incredibly enthusiastic about hosting Family Table,” said Rabbi Levine. “It gives us an opportunity to engage meaningfully in work that we all want to be supporting.”

CHAI Works South: Meeting Needs in the Community
Until now, CHAI Works has operated out of JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham. CHAI Works participants and staff volunteer in groups and contribute more than 600 hours of service per week at more than 27 community partner organizations. In addition to volunteering at various sites throughout the area, participants attend lifelong learning groups, adaptive recreation programs, and social activities. Since many CHAI Works participants live in the South Area and depend on the Ride for transportation, this has meant a long commute with transfers between Ride zones to come to Waltham.

The newly renovated program space in Cobb’s Corner in Canton allows JF&CS to offer more programming and more opportunities for participants and volunteers. In addition, the Canton location allows CHAI Works to draw on other towns of the Ride’s service area for referrals.

"Our programming in the South Area will mirror what we do in Waltham and will grow based on the needs and interests of our participants and the community,” said Sue Stellick, Associate Division Director, JF&CS Day and Employment Services for People with Disabilities.

Impactful Giving this Holiday Season

Thu, 17 Dec 2015 13:46:09 GMT

Posted by Wendy Wilsker

I think a lot about charitable giving– much more than the average person. After spending more than two decades working in the nonprofit sector, I have had the privilege of getting to know dozens of major philanthropists – understanding why and how they give and seeing firsthand the impact that philanthropic support has on the beneficiaries of those organizations as well as on the donors themselves. Speak to any philanthropist and they will tell you that they get much more back than they give. And so I was delighted to read Marjorie Ringrose’s article in this week’s Boston Sunday Globe magazine.

Ms. Ringrose challenges her readers not to ask how much a nonprofit spends on overhead but to ask instead about their social impact. At Jewish Family & Children’s Service, our mission is simple: We improve people’s lives. With 42 different programs and more than 90 services, our comprehensive and collaborative model of care gives our clients the opportunity to walk in our door with one question, one need and leave with many problems addressed and sometimes solved. Recently, our Department of Evaluation and Learning completed a comprehensive project examining our clients’ participation in our programs, primarily using social networking analysis techniques.

The results of this project show that approximately 25% of our active clients utilize more than one JF&CS service, demonstrating a significant level of integration. Furthermore, active collaboration and consultation among staff in support of clients, while not part of this analysis, also add tangible value to our multi-service approach. One of the main results of this project, in the form of a visualization, also demonstrates that our Center for Basic Needs Assistance acts as a connecting hub within the agency. Individuals and families struggling with poverty face many complex challenges. Our data shows that we are helping them in precisely the way that experts consider “best practice” – referring clients seamlessly to and from services that will meet their basic needs so that they can achieve the stability they need to move from crisis to self-sufficiency.

As one of our donors recently shared with me, “At JF&CS you get the biggest bang for your buck”.

I also learned a new term in this article: “charitable buying.” Ms. Ringrose proposes that we “stop thinking of a charitable donation as giving and start thinking of it as buying. Buying is different from giving – when you buy a product, what matters most is how well it works, not the overhead of the company that makes it. Charitable buying also encourages a sense of ownership. You bought it, it’s yours, and so you should take care of it. One key is to stick around after the Giving Season is over.”

I love this premise. Truly, our nonprofits need the long-term care and support of their friends and loyal supporters. At JF&CS, we believe that giving is not enough. We need volunteers to lend their hands to supporting our clients and to providing professional expertise on our committees. There are literally hundreds of ways to become meaningfully involved with JF&CS. During this season of giving, I invite you to consider “buying in” to JF&CS. Your charitable support and volunteer time will increase the impact that our clients experience every day. You will truly improve someone’s life.

Wendy Wilsker is the Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement. Throughout her life, her Jewish identity has been deeply entwined with tikkun olam and tzedekah. She began her career in development at Combined Jewish Philanthropies and has led development at the American Jewish Committee, the Rashi School, and Lahey Clinic. Prior to joining JF&CS, she served as a consultant and executive recruiter to local and national nonprofit organizations.

A Feeling of Connection at Chanukkah

Mon, 14 Dec 2015 12:09:01 GMT

Posted by Sue Spielman

This year, Jewish Healing Connections celebrated our 10th anniversary of the Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration. For the past decade, we have invited vulnerable JF&CS elder clients to gather together with JF&CS staff and volunteers to light the Chanukkah candles, enjoy festive entertainment, and eat delicious latkes and gelt (potato pancakes and chocolate coins!). What began ten years ago as a small gathering of 20 older adults has blossomed into a celebration with more than 120 participants!

Each year I ask myself why this celebration grows bigger every year. I think about the older adults who sit together with agency staff and volunteers and realize that each table is truly a gathering of friends, both new and old. As I watch people singing Chanukkah songs together, exclaiming over the delicious latkes, or getting up to join a line-dance around the room to the music of Klezmer performers, I witness a gathering of people who feel a sense of connection - a feeling that they are not alone and that they are a part of a greater Jewish community.

Jewish tradition teaches that a little bit of light dispels a lot of darkness. Just like the miracle of the oil at Chanukkah dispelled a time of darkness for the Jewish people, a few hours of friendship and celebration clearly brings a great deal of light into the lives of our guests.

This year we lost one of the most enthusiastic members of our Friendly Visitor community, Norton Sherman, of blessed memory. Norton, along with his wife, Claire, provided the support to bring us all together over the last 10 years. His interest and concern was done out of a feeling of connection, passion, and empathy for vulnerable elders in the Jewish community. He was a light for all of us as he understood the importance of being part of a caring community. Though we will greatly miss Norton’s presence at our holiday gatherings, as his wife Claire said at this year’s gathering, “Norton would have loved being here, but he is truly here in spirit!” I will personally treasure the sense of connection his generosity has brought to our community over all of these years.

The Friendly Visitor Chanukkah Celebration is made possible through the generosity of the George and Beatrice Sherman Family Charitable Trust.

Sue Spielman, MPA, has worked with JF&CS for more than 13 years managing the Friendly Visitor Program and the Caring Communities Resource Network, both programs of JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections (JHC), and more recently, Cafe Hakalah of JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services. in her work with people of all ages, Sue has developed a deep appreciation for the positive impact a feeling of connection can make on one's quality of life, and she is honored to be able to help create those connections. Prior to her work with JF&CS, Sue worked for 20 years in the world of parenting education and support as an educator and community organizer. Sue received degrees from Harvard University, Wheelock College, and the University of Massachusetts.

25 Years at JF&CS

Thu, 10 Dec 2015 11:43:53 GMT

Posted by Ira Schor

As I approach my 25th anniversary with JF&CS, I am moved to write a few words about my experience.

I cannot number, much less name the thousands of professionals who have worked here over this quarter century. Nor do I choose to single out from among the countless good works any special moments to mention. What I can say is this: that I am proud beyond measure of my colleagues, that I am inspired by their dedication to their clients and to their work; that I am privileged to be in their company. These are remarkable individuals; remarkable in that they show up every day and express, by their words and deeds, that compassion, concern, competence, and connection can make a tremendous difference.

In a world in which suffering abounds and life’s challenges persist, I have had the great good fortune to be surrounded by colleagues whose determination and heart create hope and possibility.

Ira Schor, LICSW, has been on the staff of JF&CS for 25 years. As the Senior VP of Operations, Ira is responsible for the agency’s compliance and risk management, emergency preparedness, staff development, and facilities management. A licensed clinical social worker, Ira earned his MSW from Syracuse University. Prior to JF&CS, he was the director of out-patient and emergency services at a community mental health center in central Massachusetts. When not at work, Ira enjoys reading history and non-fiction, travel, and outdoor activities.

Ask the Expert: Beth Soltzberg

Tue, 08 Dec 2015 14:30:52 GMT

Shared by Beth Soltzberg

The number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders is growing rapidly. JF&CS supports individuals and families who are directly affected by dementia, including a support group for adult children whose parents have Alzheimer’s or dementia. Beth Soltzberg, LCSW, MBA, runs these programs. Her work includes facilitating caregiver support and education groups and designing new offerings for families. We asked Beth to share information she often discusses with adult children whose parent has dementia.

What is the emotional impact of a parent’s dementia?
Often there is both a direct impact and a subtle impact. The direct impact is stress. It comes from many new decisions to make, family conflict about “who decides,” financial strain due to missed work and care expenses, frustration about perplexing symptoms, and worry about the parent’s well-being.

The subtle impact is just as important. A person living with dementia is very much alive and needs the same things that we all do – human interaction, meaningful pursuits, comfort, and fun. However, their relationship with family members has changed. And it will continue to change as their cognition changes. For an adult child, this may mean losing a witness to their childhood and their adult development. It may mean losing a parent’s help, support, and encouragement. Even when the parent is in a good environment and enjoying life, this does not eliminate the adult child’s need to grieve these losses.

What is it like for those who were never close to their parent?
The reality is that some parent-child relationships were warm and positive and some were conflicted. Some were neglectful or abusive, in which case the adult child may need to set limits on their current involvement. No matter the starting point, dementia changes a relationship. Sometimes a parent with dementia forgets long-term judgments they’d made of their child and the relationship gets easier. The important thing is to acknowledge that we aren’t the Brady Bunch, and we can be honest about emotions and expectations.

Do siblings tend to work together when a parent develops dementia?
A recent study found that in 43% of families one sibling does most of the care. Most Balancing Act participants are their family’s designated caregiver. Many feel resentment, especially when less involved siblings “backseat drive” by offering critiques but not meaningful help. Over time many designated caregivers rise to the difficult and critical challenge of defining what they are willing and not willing to do and asking siblings for specific meaningful help. They may decide to bring in professional assistance, such as a day program, home health aide, and/or a care manager, because it is simply not possible to provide all of the care alone. Truly, this does take a village.

Balancing Act, a group for adults whose parent or parents are living with dementia, is one of the core offerings of Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support at JF&CS. Tell us about the group’s name.
My co-facilitator, Joanne Peskowitz, and I named it to reflect our participants’ reality. Most are balancing support for their parent or parents, care for children or other family members, a job, and all of the other responsibilities of “sandwich generation” life. And somewhere in the mix, they need to find a way to keep themselves healthy. No easy task!

You mentioned that adults caring for a parent need to find a way to keep themselves healthy. What are some tips?
Coming to a group like Balancing Act can help. Going to a Memory Café, a welcoming place for people with dementia and for their family and friends, or another fun activity with a parent can help the relationship continue beyond health care and dealing with problems. It’s also important to recognize that stepping up and responding to a parent’s needs is an act of valor and integrity. This valor is not diminished by the inevitable ways that things will go wrong or the healthy limits that a person must set based on their relationship with their parent and their own human limitations. Psychologists Christopher Germer and Kristen Neff have found that most people are more forgiving and compassionate to others than to themselves. This is the time to notice this tendency, and begin to alter it. It’s critical if caregiving will be sustainable. At every session of Balancing Act, we encourage participants to include themselves in the list of people in their life whose well-being matters and needs attention.

For more information about Balancing Act, contact Beth Soltzberg at bsoltzberg@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5628.

Beth Soltzberg, LCSW, MBA, manages the Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support program and works as a coordinator with the Parkinson’s Family Support Program. These programs of Jewish Family & Children’s Service encompass support, education, and the arts.Beth’s work includes facilitating caregiver support and education groups, and designing new offerings for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Beth earned her MSW and MBA from the University of Chicago and a certificate in end-of-life care from the Smith College School of Social Work. She holds an advanced credential in hospice and palliative care social work.

The Healing Power of Movement and Music

Thu, 03 Dec 2015 09:28:27 GMT

Posted by Carol Laibson

Recently I heard music coming from one of the meeting rooms at JF&CS. As I peeked inside, Marjie Sokoll, Director of Spirituality and Aging, invited me in. Feeling welcomed, I walked in to see what the program was about. It was the Parkinson’s dance group. I was intrigued enough to not only watch, but to take a chair and “dance.”

We listened to and watched Art Sullivan, a gifted dance teacher. It was magical. Arms and legs moved in time with the music and I became part of the community. I noticed that I was smiling as were the people around me. I felt this time together was a gift. We were given a chance to forget our stresses and frustrations for a moment, and relish in a sense of joy and power.

What amazed me was the sense of community that existed among those in various stages of the disease, with symptoms ranging from very mild to those who use a wheelchair as well as friends or family members of individuals with Parkinson’s who attend with their loved ones.

I thought of some of the Holocaust survivors I work with who have Parkinson's but are unable to travel to Waltham to participate in this dance group. Wouldn’t it be great if they could benefit in some way from this experience? As soon as that idea unfolded, I spoke with Nancy Mazonson, Director of JF&CS Parkinson’s Family Support. We talked about ways that I could teach people who care for these survivors to incorporate some of the dance moves and music into their activities at home. Together, we came up with a plan that I now look forward to sharing with Holocaust survivors who are isolated at home to enable them to benefit from what the Parkinson’s dance group offers.

Thank you to Nancy, Art, and Marjie for the opportunity to experience first-hand the healing power of movement and music with a group of people that move beyond their physical limitations.

Carol Laibson is a licensed clinical social worker with more than 20 years of experience in the field of helping older people age well with dignity. She is a case manager for JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services.

Homebound but Not Forgotten

Mon, 30 Nov 2015 15:15:13 GMT

Posted by Kelley Annese

Over the past year I have been working in Salem to support making Salem an age-friendly city. I spend many hours speaking to older residents, learning about what makes Salem a great place to grow older, and what would make it even better. This Thanksgiving, I was excited to bring older and younger residents of Salem together.

Over the summer, children in the YMCA’s summer camp program met with older residents in senior housing to complete a community art project together. I was overjoyed that the older adults and the children were engaged and excited about the program and both generations were eager to collaborate again in the future.

This month, the YMCA’s after school program created holiday cards for homebound seniors, inspired by the collaboration over the summer. The cards, along with a bag of groceries, were delivered by the North Shore Moving Market to older adults and younger adults with disabilities who will be spending Thanksgiving at home by themselves. The cards expressed the children’s joy for the holidays and included a note to the recipient that he/she is remembered this Thanksgiving.

It is tangible projects like these that inspire me. They illustrate the type of intergenerational connections that are important in bringing a community together and understanding the value of all residents.

Kelley Annese is the Program Coordinator for Aging Well at Home in Salem, MA. During the past year, she has immersed herself in the Salem community getting to know all that Salem has to offer adults as they grow older. She has spent time interviewing older adults and organizations, offering various programs to educate and motivate residents, and assisting in the creation of the age-friendly Salem action plan for AARP. Kelley has a background in Marketing and is a certified yoga and meditation teacher with many years working with all ages in hospitals, senior centers, and schools.

Creating a Dementia-Inclusive Community

Wed, 25 Nov 2015 11:58:39 GMT

Posted by Beth Soltzberg

On November 12, 150 people gathered at JF&CS Headquarters to talk about dementia. Not an easy topic; several studies have shown that Alzheimer’s and other conditions causing dementia are among the most feared medical conditions often surpassing cancer. Yet the atmosphere at this symposium was one of hope and even joy.

Our focus was communities. How can we work together in towns, in religious congregations, in businesses, and among health and social service providers to better support and include people living with dementia and their care partners? This change is critical, since one in eight people age 65 and older currently lives with dementia, and this is one of the fastest growing segments of our population. Factor in spouses, children, grandchildren, coworkers, neighbors, and most of us are, or will be, directly touched by dementia.

Speakers John and Susan McFadden from northeastern Wisconsin spotlighted communities around the globe that have made it possible for people with dementia to continue to live safely in their neighborhoods much longer, and that offer care partners a level of support only dreamed of in most parts of the US. Poet Gary Glazner from New York City showed how the creative arts capitalize on brain functions often spared by dementia and spark communication and emotional connection. Secretary of Elder Affairs Alice Bonner encouraged us to strive for a dementia-inclusive Massachusetts, and Mike Belleville, who is living with younger onset Alzheimer’s, inspired us with his own story of loss, personal reinvention, and resilience. The resounding message through all of these talks is that people with dementia can live well and make enormous contributions to others. The keys are to end the stigma and to increase support and inclusion.

This goal may sound lofty, but it turns out that many necessary resources already exist, such as sector-specific training materials from Dementia Friendly America. And many in our state have begun the process. Attendees at the symposium included individuals living with dementia, family members, health and social service providers, clergy, police officers, and state and city government leaders. The communities of Hudson, Marlborough, Northborough, and Westfield have already begun community-wide initiatives and the City of Boston recently announced that it would become “dementia-friendly.”

Hope is in the air, and the time is now.

“Toward a Dementia-Inclusive Community: Tools and Inspiration from National Innovators” was co-sponsored by JF&CS and the Alzheimer’s Association Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter. Supporters included HouseWorks, Boston Center for Memory, Sunrise Senior Living of Arlington and Weston, the Boston Alzheimer’s Initiative, the Multicultural Coalition on Aging, the Hearthstone I’m Still Here Foundation and It Takes a Village Program, and the RoseMary B. Fuss Center for Research on Aging and Intergenerational Studies.

This event was made possible by generous support from the Lebovitz Family Charitable Trust.

This event was recorded, and video links will be available to the public soon. For more information, contact Beth Soltzberg at bsoltzberg@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5628.

A Very Happy Transition

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 12:03:58 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“Sarah is happy as a clam. She got happy way sooner than anyone predicted. It was instant. Thanks for helping to make our girl so happy.” – Ellen McGill, mother of Sarah, a new resident of the JF&CS Yellow House

July 5 was a momentous occasion for a JF&CS client and her family. Sarah, a 43-year-old woman with Down syndrome, moved out of her parents’ house and into the JF&CS Yellow House, a collaborative residential living support program for adults with disabilities, which allows clients to live independently and integrate successfully into the community. With seven private bedrooms plus large common areas and a kitchen for socializing, the Yellow House also had staff available every day, including overnight supervision by live-in JF&CS staff. Housing and services are funded by each resident’s social security benefits as well as MassHealth funding for some staffing. Each resident has a case manager and an agency nurse also visits regularly.

Sarah’s mom, Ellen, never imagined that Sarah would ever move out, but she eventually called JF&CS to learn more. “They gave me lots of information about the group home and I knew it would be perfect for Sarah. Once I visited a couple of the houses, I had no reservations. I saw that they know exactly what they’re doing and I’m completely confident they would know how to handle any issue,” says Ellen.

Since moving in, Sarah has flourished. Her only complaint is that she misses her cat, although she gets to visit when she returns home most weekends to see her family. “Of course she says ‘I miss my cat’ but nothing about missing her parents,” jokes Ellen. “I cannot say enough about how wonderful [her staff and supervisors] have been. They love her and support her,” she adds.

Colleen Bellew, program coordinator at the Yellow House, is enthusiastic about Sarah’s progress. “Sarah has had a very positive and smooth transition. She [tells] staff that she loves all of her housemates and misses them when she is at her parents’ house on the weekends. She thanks us every night after dinner and even said that we are great cooks! She has been fitting in wonderfully and is a great addition to the Yellow House,” she notes.

Associate Division Director of Homes and Family Support Doreen Cummings says she will “never forget” her first conversation with Ellen. “I convinced her to come see the program in Norwood, although Ellen’s first instinct was that it was too far from Sarah’s job and current life set up in Boston. We had lots of work to do and steps to take to make [it] a reality for Sarah. Together we were able to systematically check off each task to make this life-changing opportunity happen. After several visits, the client assessment, the MassHealth intake process, connection with the Norwood Housing Authority, the RIDE interview, dinners with the current residents, travel training from Norwood, and Sarah and her parents getting used to this huge life change we made it happen! Sarah is adjusting beautifully to this new, more social and independent lifestyle.”

The Healing Power of Music

Fri, 20 Nov 2015 11:46:24 GMT

Posted by Nancy Mazonson

It was indeed an honor to be the charity partner of the Masterworks Chorale’s Awareness Through Music outreach program at the fall concert at Sanders Theater in Cambridge last week. JF&CS Parkinson’s Family Support was highlighted in the event’s program book, featured at an information table in the lobby, and received an eloquent shout out by maestro Steven Karidoyanes as he welcomed the audience.

Parkinson’s Family Support uses the power of music to heal on a weekly basis through our arts-based choral and dance programs. Our participants, who include people with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners, value the opportunities these programs offer them to create a supportive community and a connection to others who understand.

The audience at the Sanders Theater was given the opportunity to experience what our participants experience each week. In the wake of the number of devastating tragedies the world has faced in recent days, Maestro Karidoyanes shared that he hoped to create a healing community within the theater that evening. With great emotion, he told the audience that the evening’s program included a requiem by French composer Gabriel Faure and he felt it was an appropriate offering to help the audience reflect on and heal from the news of all the world’s losses.

And I would agree. Spending the evening immersed in the glorious music of the orchestra and chorus in the presence of others was a transformative opportunity to be healed.

In Memoriam: Norton Sherman of blessed memory

Mon, 16 Nov 2015 12:20:00 GMT

Posted by Barbara Sternfield

It is with a heavy heart that I share the sad news of the death of Norton Sherman, z”l.

Norton, along with his wife, Claire, were long-time supporters of JF&CS with a strong desire to support Jewish elders. They met with Marjorie Sokoll years ago and decided to bring clients of the JF&CS Friendly Visitor Program, which matches isolated elders with weekly visitors, together at two communal gatherings – a Passover Seder and a Chanukkah celebration. Without their generosity, these important events would not have been possible. Over the past decade, Sue Spielman, who organizes these gatherings, expanded them to include all JF&CS Jewish elder clients who are isolated and appreciate being with others for holiday celebrations.

I was personally privileged to have the opportunity to visit Norton and Claire Sherman, the first Friday of every month, to celebrate the beginning of Shabbat. We would sit around their dining room table with his caregivers and sing, chant, and talk. Sometimes Norton would be very tired and just sit in his wheelchair, eyes closed, and other times he would bellow out the melodies of the prayers.

It was very special to share the Shabbat experience with Norton’s dedicated caregivers. He had invited them to join us and a sacred moment was created when we prayed for shalom, wholeness, and peace.

As part of the celebration, I would share thoughts on the weekly Torah portion and we would engage in thoughtful dialogue from our different religious traditions. These moments of sharing created a magical feeling at the table that emerged spontaneously. Once, when one of his caregivers spoke about the recent death of his nephew, it opened up a discussion about the subject of loss.

At the Sherman’s table, Shabbat connected us to each other in a deeply spiritual way. May Norton’s memory serve as a blessing to Claire and her family. He will be sorely missed.

Barbara Sternfield, MA has worked with older adults in the Jewish community for more than 30 years. For the past 18 years, she has been a program specialist for Jewish Healing Connections (JHC). She has been leading Shabbat and holiday celebrations since the inception of the award-winning Nursing Home/Assisted Living Shabbat and Holiday Program that received its initial funding from the Lenny Zakim Fund. She also facilitates the JHC bereavement support groups.

Remembering Veterans

Wed, 11 Nov 2015 11:32:18 GMT

Posted by Stacie Fredriksson

Veterans Day is a day for honoring and remembering all of those who have served in the military, both living and dead. Originally this day was called Armistice Day to recognize the end of World War I on November 11, 1918 at 11:00 a.m., which was expected to be the “war to end all wars.” Despite the many heartbreaking wars that followed WWI, America continued to honor veterans every year and in 1952, President Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11 Veterans Day.

Each year on Veterans Day, the President (or his representative) lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as part of an emotional ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery to honor America’s war dead. Nationwide, communities honor Veterans Day with a variety of parades, activities, and ceremonies recognizing those in their communities who have served. One of the best ways to honor this day is by simply thanking aa veteran, whether it’s someone you know, visiting a veterans hospital or home in your community, or sending a card. Thanking a veteran for his/her dedicated service to our nation is what this day is all about.

As we remember veterans today, let’s also consider the families behind those veterans: moms, dads, spouses, siblings, and children who provide the critical support back home that allows our soldiers to do their jobs defending our nation.
JF&CS and Shoulder to Shoulder thanks all our JF&CS military veterans and their families who have supported their service.

Stacie Fredriksson is the Program Manager for JF&CS Shoulder to Shoulder, serving military families in the Greater Boston. She has an extensive military background, serving 14 years in the Air Force on active duty before transferring to the Air Force Reserves where she has served the last eight years. Having experienced the rewards and challenges of military life, she has a passion for serving military families. Stacie is married to Brian and together they have two amazing children and one silly dog who keep them both busy and focused on the importance of living each day to the fullest.

Nutrition Services Recipe

Mon, 09 Nov 2015 14:02:07 GMT

Posted by Jennifer Heinen

Add our Healthier Apple Crisp to your traditional Thanksgiving spread. It uses white whole wheat flour, a whole grain made from white wheat berries. Lower in saturated fat and filled with fall-fresh apples, this delicious dessert might be a favorite for all winter long. Keep it warm in the oven at 250°F while you are enjoying dinner for a toasty treat.

A Hopeful Future

Thu, 05 Nov 2015 11:35:52 GMT

Shared by Sunitha Das, Event Co-Chair at the 2015 CHAI Celebration

The CHAI Celebration is a biennial event supporting JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities. This year’s event, held on Wednesday, October 21 at Congregation Mishkan Tefila, celebrated 10 years of the CHAI Works program. The event was co-chaired by Judith & Douglass Krupp, Sunitha Das & Das Narayandas, and Jackie & Alan Weinstein. Co-chair Sunitha Das shared her family’s experience with JF&CS and CHAI Works:

No matter where you come from or how hard you have worked through your child’s years at school, there comes that moment when your loved one with a disability turns 22 - and you KNOW that everything that has been familiar so far is going to stop. It is terrifying.

We heard about JF&CS when we were planning our son Rohan’s transition from high school into the wide unknown. I interviewed a few agencies and got to JF&CS at the very end. I was immediately struck by the huge difference in CHAI Works. No crowded dark basement where the clients sat all day long from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. doing make-believe “work” as I saw in other places. This was a big, bright, busy room with a complicated schedule of all the things to do and places to go and young, fun, professional staff chatting and high-fiving the clients – I could see Rohan taking to this cheerful, purposeful environment like a duck to water!

And he did. Everyone should have the opportunity to be a volunteer and to help someone else in need, the way Rohan and his friends do at senior centers, food pantries, hospitals, and soup kitchens. There is no better way for them and us to feel better about ourselves.

Thus began our nine-year journey with CHAI Works, a program that has given our son community, a feeling of truly belonging, and a tremendous sense of achievement. It is not just the day program onsite that makes such a difference to Rohan’s life. It is the direct support he receives from JF&CS staff members who go into his workplace at Harvard and help him excel at his job every single day.

In Rohan’s case, he was also fortunate enough to be offered an independent living situation in an apartment soon after he turned 22. We had always hoped that he would someday be able to live on his own, but we assumed that would come down the road. It didn’t. Everything – turning 22, stopping school, joining CHAI Works, starting a job, living by himself – everything came together in one massive upheaval of his life (and ours!).

JF&CS rode in to the rescue once again - I truly don’t know what we would have done without them. CHAI Works staff helped Rohan and his roommate, Emma, figure out all the hundreds of details it takes to start living independently. I didn’t sleep for the first sixth months worrying as we parents always do but now, seven years down the road, I can tell you it was the best thing to ever happen to Ro. His sense of self-worth and self-confidence as a result of living on his own, just like every other young man his age, is a miracle for Das [my husband] and me to witness. When we left India 26 years ago in search of a better life for him, we never in our wildest dreams hoped for such a varied, rich, busy, and independent adult life. And in utter honesty, none of this would be possible without the rock-solid support of JF&CS and CHAI Works. The future for Rohan feels hopeful and we are eternally grateful.

People with Different Abilities

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 14:40:58 GMT

Shared by Rimma Zelfand at the 2015 CHAI Celebration

The CHAI Celebration is a biennial event supporting JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities. This year’s event, held on Wednesday, October 21 at Congregation Mishkan Tefila, celebrated 10 years of the CHAI Works program. JF&CS CEO Rimma Zelfand welcomed the crowd of 250 people to the event, sharing the following:

There are many strong, powerful words in the room this evening. They represent people with different abilities, which is how I prefer to think about the participants in our Services for People with Disabilities program. When I think of CHAI Works, three words jump to my mind: dignity, community, and independence.

Dignity: Every success at JF&CS starts with dignity and self-respect. We help our clients to develop self-esteem and self-respect by empowering them and encouraging them in setting and achieving their individual goals. We make sure that people with different abilities have opportunities to reach their potential and achieve their goals.
Community: In all of our programs we bring people from isolation to community. One of the great blessings of the Jewish tradition is that it mandates our interactions with a community in joy and in sorrow. Challenges are easier to address when you are not doing it alone but with the help of a supportive and understanding community. Celebrations are more joyful when you celebrate with friends. Stop by at any of the community homes or the second floor of JF&CS Headquarters and you will see the community CHAI Works has created.
Independence: Imagine that you were told where you will live, what you will eat, with whom to socialize, and how to spend your leisure hours. I doubt you would like that. People with disabilities possess no fewer rights around making their own decisions, about choice, and about control than do any other members of our communities. JF&CS provides opportunities for our clients to have a meaningful, connected, and independent life.

Helping Serve Clients Better

Thu, 29 Oct 2015 13:53:03 GMT

Posted by Lindsey Daley

Last spring, I learned that my client, Eva*, a domestic abuse survivor who had fled her husband, was having trouble accessing services to help her and her young children while their family was in crisis. Eva shared that she had reached out to the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) to apply for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps) benefits but was having challenges getting approved. She was hoping that with help, she could stabilize her family’s situation while she tried to ensure their safety and get back on her feet.

DTA requires applicants to provide documentation to prove they are eligible for benefits but Eva’s circumstances made it difficult for her to provide the information DTA needed. DTA recognizes that this is often the case for domestic abuse survivors and has a team of specially trained domestic violence specialists to help clients navigate the process in a manner that doesn’t jeopardize their safety.

Eva was unaware of this resource and had not been referred to such a specialist. When I tried to reach out on her behalf, I was unable to reach a specialist directly. I found this disconcerting. The support and assistance from a domestic violence specialist is only beneficial if clients are aware of it and can access it.

Fortunately, because I am a long standing member of the Boston SNAP Coalition and the Boston DTA Advisory Board, outlets for government agencies and community stakeholders to work together to improve services, I was able to bring awareness to the barriers victims of domestic violence faced.

Working with a team of advocates from Massachusetts Law Reform Institute, Greater Boston Legal Services, and others, we contacted DTA officials, including the new DTA Commissioner, to suggest ways that DTA could improve access for domestic abuse clients. In response, DTA quickly implemented short-term changes to address some of the immediate concerns. In September, a new protocol for clients to reach their domestic violence specialists was announced. Ongoing discussions between DTA and advocates continue to identify additional policy transformations needed to ensure clients who are victims of domestic violence can access the assistance they need.

*Name changed to protect privacy.

Lindsey Daley is the Senior SNAP/Benefits Advocate in Bet Tzedek Legal Services. Lindsey is dedicated to helping low-income individuals and families achieve stability through accessing and maximizing safety net benefits and community resources. Lindsey serves on the Boston SNAP Coalition, an anti-hunger advocacy group, and is a member of the Boston Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) Advisory Board where she helps improve services for the vulnerable population DTA serves. Prior to joining JF&CS, Lindsey graduated from UMass Lowell and worked in human services.

JF&CS Holiday Gift Card Drive

Tue, 27 Oct 2015 10:22:13 GMT

Posted by Mikki Freedman-Weiss

Jane*, a new immigrant, found herself in a pivotal moment. She was faced with the challenge of living with continuous abuse at home or making the difficult choice to remove herself and her 6-year-old son and face the financial hardship that would result. In a new country with no support system, she bravely came to JF&CS seeking help and guidance. While JF&CS helped her navigate the challenges she faced as a survivor of abuse, she was also connected to the Center for Basic Needs Assistance to address financial challenges. Jane and her son received a camp scholarship so he could spend time this summer making positive memories and enhancing his sense of self. While her son was at camp Jane found employment and began to piece their new life together.

This holiday season Jane and her son will benefit from the Holiday Gift Card Drive. Jane will be able to make this holiday meaningful and special without putting herself in greater financial distress.

Our Gift Card Drive provides gift cards to families with children up to age 18. Providing parents with gift cards empowers them with the ability to choose the gift they feel is best suited for their children. Through the kindness and generosity of donors, the Gift Card Drive enables nearly 400 children in 100 different communities to receive gifts during the holiday season that might otherwise not.

Help us continue to provide families, like Jane’s, with joy this holiday season. Your tax-deductible donation will bring great relief and dignity to parents and immeasurable joy to children.

You can donate in two ways:

Donate Gift cards in $25 increments from the following stores: Target, Toys “R” Us, Best Buy, T.J. Maxx, or Marshall’s. Gift cards may be mailed to: Holiday Gift Card Drive, JF&CS, 1430 Main Street, Waltham, MA 02451
Let us do the shopping: Make an online donation.

Our deadline for donations is November 12. Thank you in advance for your support. Please contact us at giftcarddrive@jfcsboston.org if you have any questions.

*Name has been changed

Mikki Freedman-Weiss joined JF&CS as the Administrative Assistant for the Center Basic Needs Assistance in May. Previously, she lived and worked in Buffalo, New York where she taught preschool at the local JCC. Mikki earned a BA in psychology from Buffalo State College in 2012. Outside of work, Mikki volunteers for Girls on the Run, as a Big Sister with Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters, and TeenSafe.

Living the CHAI Life

Fri, 23 Oct 2015 10:50:30 GMT

Shared by Sue Stellick at the 2015 CHAI Celebration

The CHAI Celebration is a biennial event supporting JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities. This year’s event, held on Wednesday, October 21 at Congregation Mishkan Tefila, celebrated 10 years of the CHAI Works program. Associate Division Director of Day and Employment Services Sue Stellick shared with the crowd of 250 people what ”Living the CHAI Life” means:

JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities has always been on the move and growing to meet the community’s needs. We provide assistance in many different ways from one phone call to help connect a parent to needed services in their area to facilitating fun group activities for children who have siblings with disabilities to our new Disability Lifespan Solutions service, which provides intense support, walking parents through each step of the way. We also work directly with individuals with disabilities.

It doesn’t seem like that long ago that JF&CS added Day Programming and Employment Services to the comprehensive offerings of Services for People with Disabilities. I have been at the agency for nine of the past ten years of CHAI Works and am unbelievably proud to have watched the program develop from a small handful of our residential clients volunteering at JF&CS Headquarters to a continuum of community-based services impacting more than 130 individuals and their families annually.

The three core day and employment programs include:

Our holistic CHAI Works community-based day program where we help participants lead meaningful, productive, and integrated lives in their communities through volunteering, health and wellness, recreation, and life-long learning.
The Pathways to Employment training program focuses on developing the social skills and professionalism needed to be successful in the “real world” of work.
Meaningful Days supported employment services where we work 1:1 with people, helping them find and maintain independent community employment.

So what does living the CHAI life look like? Well, it will look a little different for everyone. Each person we work with has a different version of what they want their life to look like and what success means to them. It may mean expanding communication skills so that they can have more meaningful friendships, learning how to use coping techniques more independently, or learning how to complete a job task all on their own. We strive to meet people where they are and individualize our supports to help them make progress towards achieving their goals, and our families see this growth across all aspects of the participants’ lives.

2015 Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award

Tue, 20 Oct 2015 14:34:06 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

This year at the JF&CS Annual Board Meeting, the Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award was presented to Bruce Bell. The award was created in 2001 by Sandy Lottor and his family in memory of Simone Lottor, who was for many years a dedicated volunteer for JF&CS. Each year, the award is presented to a JF&CS volunteer who exemplifies the values of chessed (loving kindness) and service to the community and whose efforts have made a significant contribution towards tikkun olam (repairing our world).

Bruce started volunteering for the JF&CS Friendly Visitor Program of Jewish Healing Connections 14 years ago and has visited five elderly clients, some whom are Holocaust survivors, regularly. A devoted and caring volunteer to each of his clients, Bruce has quickly developed meaningful and lasting relationships with them.

Making weekly visits, he shares family photos and stories. He is an advocate and voice for his clients’ needs. Bruce’s first match in the Friendly Visitor Program was with Marvin*, a gentleman in his mid 90’s who had recently moved to an assisted living facility in Waltham. He had been widowed for many years and was depressed, isolated, and lonely.

Marvin loved baseball, but could not find any other men with whom he could talk about sports. Bruce, with no real interest in sports, was committed to forging a bond with Marvin. Each week, he would read the sports pages so that he could have meaningful conversation with Marvin. Bruce’s efforts worked. On the eve of Martin’s 100th birthday, Bruce brought him to the JF&CS annual Friendly Visitor Chanukkah celebration where Marvin was honored by the entire crowd singing “Happy Birthday” and was presented with a Red Sox baseball cap. When Marvin died, Bruce was even asked to speak at Marvin’s memorial service about their special and profound relationship.

A retired customs house broker involved in import-export compliance, Bruce’s enthusiasm for helping others is demonstrated in his commitment to Project Bread, where he has been involved for more than 30 years as a walker and as a fundraiser. He also volunteers with Boston Area Gleaners, an organization that brings in surplus crops from local farms and distributes them to Boston-area food banks including JF&CS Family Table. In 2014, Bruce was recognized as “gleaner of the year.” “Bruce has been one of our longest serving and most dedicated volunteers,” says Sue Spielman, Friendly Visitor Program Manager. “He has a great sense of the unique needs of each of the clients with whom he has visited and creativity to meet those needs. With each person Bruce has visited, he has exemplified the goal of the Friendly Visitor Program –to create meaningful friendships between generations. He has helped each older adult understand they are valued and cared for.”

A Joyful Morning at the Memory Café

Thu, 15 Oct 2015 15:29:22 GMT

Posted by Donna Magnasco

As Neil Diamond sang, “It’s a beautiful noise.”

I have been with JF&CS for 24 years, so I am no stranger to the wonderful things that this agency does. Recently, however, I experienced the JF&CS Memory Café for adults with Alzheimer’s/dementia and their care partners for the first time. Hosted at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham, the very first feeling I had when I walked into the event was an overwhelming sense of joy, not necessarily emanating from me but from the participants. I soon was swept up by the exhilarating feelings that were generating throughout the room.

My mother was stricken with early onset Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 47 and suffered a rapid decline but survived until she died of complications of the disease at the age of 67. I wish there had been a Memory Café for her, for me, for my siblings, for her own siblings, and for her very own cognizant mother. We ceased feeling any sense of joy after her diagnosis, and we didn’t know how to tap into the inner being of my mother. It was a very sad time for all of us. What I witnessed at the JF&CS Memory Café was not what I was used to when interacting with people with Alzheimer’s. It was not sad and depressing: it was joyful, not just for those suffering from memory loss but also for their caregivers. There was joyful noise and joyful movement. Participants sang and danced, some standing, some sitting, and all feeling safe and happy. What an amazing feeling.

I work for a truly wonderful agency.

Donna Magnasco is the Senior Vice President of Human Resources. She has worked at JF&CS for twenty four years and still feels incredibly fortunate to work at a place that is focused on improving lives. Prior to joining JF&CS, she worked in human resources for an electronics company and attended business school in the Boston area.

Surrounded by Peers at Sibshops

Tue, 13 Oct 2015 13:50:37 GMT

Posted by Alyssa Laser and Kate Leon

JF&CS and Wayland Youth and Family Services hosted our second Sibshops series this past year. These monthly sessions allow siblings (ages 8-12) of kids with disabilities to meet other kids who have similar experiences. The group consisted of seven participants and met eight times on Sunday afternoons at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham. Sibshops recognizes that the sibling relationship will likely be the longest lasting relationship for the individual with a disability and that siblings and their concerns cannot be ignored.

The Sibshops model encourages high energy, action-packed sessions that recognize and celebrate the contributions and experiences of the siblings of children with special needs. Sibshops sessions consist of a mix of lively games, crafts, field trips (Launch Trampoline Park, Kimball Farms, and mini golf to name a few!), and discussion-based activities. Peer support and discussion are common themes woven throughout the Sibshops model. Often that support is unspoken, with participants taking comfort in knowing that they are among others who have had similar experiences.

During one session this year, we encouraged sibs to talk about various times in their lives by selecting “time capsules” (colorful plastic eggs) that contained pieces of paper with prompts such as “A time when my sib made me laugh.” When one participant chose “A time when I was embarrassed by my brother or sister,” another participant told the group in an unsure voice that her sibling always makes loud noises when they are in public and sometimes people stare. Before she could even finish her sentence, several other sibs were nodding their heads in agreement and offered words of empathy and encouragement. One participant said, “I know how you feel, my brother does that all the time,” while another shouted, “That happens to me, too!” The child’s face changed as they recognized that they were surrounded by peers who understood the unique joys and challenges of having a sibling with a disability.

This year’s Sibshops series is starting this month! Would it be a good fit for someone you know? Contact alaser@jfcsboston.org to learn more and sign up.

Alyssa Laser is the Senior Residential Compliance Manager, responsible for the oversight and management of the operations and compliance of all JF&CS Supported Housing programs. JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities residences are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our residents who have a diverse range of cognitive and psychiatric disabilities.

Kate Leon, LCSW is the Clinical Specialist for JF&CS Supported Housing programs. Within this role, Kate develops support plans for residents supported in the residential programs, facilitates weekly groups for adults with special needs, and provides staff training and development.

Reaction to the Refugee Crisis in Europe

Fri, 09 Oct 2015 09:48:01 GMT

Posted by Marsha Frankel

The recent refugee crisis in Europe has caused a range of reactions based, at least in part, on our own life stories. Because of my work with Schechter Holocaust Services and as a grandchild of immigrants who fled Russian pogroms, I immediately thought of the impact of these events on our Holocaust survivors. I simultaneously imagined the short- and long-term impact on the current wave of refugees. Not surprisingly I have started to hear from some Holocaust survivors that they are experiencing an increase in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms including nightmares and anxiety as a result of seeing and hearing about this humanitarian crisis.

The Boston Globe published an editorial September 23, 2015 in which Niall Ferguson, a Harvard history professor, wrote about Henry Kissinger arriving in the US in September 1938 with his parents and brother at a time when the US was increasingly reluctant to accept Europe’s refugees. Two-thirds of the US public wanted to limit the number of refugees allowed in and the existing quotas made sure that was the case. In June 1939 the St. Louis, a ship carrying 900 Jewish refugees, was turned away by US authorities and sent back to Europe. More than a quarter of the passengers later died in the Holocaust. Our reaction when we think of all those needlessly lost lives is similar to learning of the people lost in their passage out of Syria. On WBUR this week I heard interviews with Hungarian citizens speaking of their fears of the refugees because they are “different,” “less socialized,” and “Muslims” who might spread disease and social disorder. How different is this than what was said about the Jews in the 1930s?

I have been heartened to hear of Germany’s receptiveness and generally welcoming attitude toward the refugees. It is great that they have learned from the past and reminds us all that history does not have to repeat itself if we open our hearts and minds to those that are different from us.

Q&A with David Schechter

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 09:00:00 GMT

Shared by David Schechter, JF&CS Board President

How did you first get involved with JF&CS?
My longtime neighbor and friend, former JF&CS Board President Alan Dana, brought Gail, my wife, and me to our first Benefit. I was moved by the video shown that night relating how the agency had helped a newly-settled, rather elderly Jewish man make friends in the community and create a new life here for himself.

What are you most looking forward to in your time as JF&CS Board President?
Working with the management staff and the members of the Board to expand the agency's connections to other organizations in our community. We will enhance and celebrate our existing collaborations and create new ones as well.

Share with us your favorite JF&CS memory.
Attending the tenth anniversary dinner of Hakalah, a program begun by JF&CS and Holocaust survivors to help other Holocaust survivors. Dr. Bob Berger shared the parable of the spoons, a story that explains the difference between heaven and hell by the way the people in each eat with a long spoon. In hell, people are unable to eat because they cannot bring the long spoons to reach their own mouth. In heaven, people feed one another from each other’s long spoons. I think this parable perfectly captures the philosophy behind the endeavor of Hakalah: take care of and be kind to one another.

What is the best advice you've ever been given?
The only meaning in life is the one we create ourselves. Doing for others is, in the end, the only way to create that meaningfulness.

Recommend a book.
I would recommend Atul Gawande's book, Being Mortal.

Fourth Annual Ride for Food

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 10:12:29 GMT

Posted by Bernice Behar

On a beautiful September morning, JF&CS Family Table participated in the fourth annual Ride for Food, a cycling fundraiser sponsored by Three Squares New England. Our team of 20 cyclists joined riders representing 25 other food pantries and food assistance organizations to support food pantries in our area and raise awareness of hunger in our communities. The Ride is also a great excuse to enjoy a fun day of cycling and connect with other people who are committed to the fight against hunger.

This year, each rider chose one of three routes -- 10, 25, or 50 miles in length. Each also committed to supporting our fundraising effort by raising money, making their own contribution, or recruiting other riders. This was the second year that Family Table participated in the Ride for Food. Last year’s 12 riders raised $13,000, and this year our team has raised $18,000 so far. These gifts will help provide much needed food for the more than 400 households Family Table serves each month. Donations will be gratefully accepted until October 20.

Many thanks to everyone who participated – whether by riding, volunteering, or donating. We look forward to participating again next year and hope that even more riders will join us. Details on next year’s ride will be available in the spring. Please be in touch with us if you’re curious to learn more.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Thu, 01 Oct 2015 10:35:39 GMT

Posted by Elizabeth Schön Vainer

As many of us enjoy Sukkot, a time when families and friends gather under temporary shelters, we also arrive at the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I find this intersection quite powerful. Sukkot is associated with warmth, love, and for many omarf us, the knowledge that even though our sukkah is fragile, our homes are safe. Yet, for so many people – including many Jews in our community – the fragility, vulnerability, uncertainty, and instability of the sukkah reflects the ongoing reality of their lives.

As we circulate our domestic violence awareness posters and video this month, you might ask, “What does Love Should Be Safe mean anyway? Isn’t it obvious?” But then again, what does “safe” mean?

Several years ago Journey to Safety intentionally changed the term we use from domestic violence to domestic abuse when describing our program. Why? Because so often the kinds of controlling behavior that make a dating, live-in, or marital partner feel unsafe are not explicitly violent. Punching walls, making threats, throwing objects (as a warning), controlling finances, and regularly interrupting sleep are all examples of abusive behaviors, even though they don’t result in a physical injury. And there are many other behaviors that make abuse survivors feel unsafe, exhausted, and overwhelmed.

We often hear from survivors that they didn’t know that the pain and hurt they suffered is considered domestic abuse. They didn’t feel safe, but without a black eye or other injury, they didn’t know that they could ask for help. And then there is the shame that goes with talking about these experiences. The stigma of abuse runs so deeply that people live years suffering in silence and isolation.

Pondering the question “how can we hasten the process that leads to survivors reaching out for help?” I recently ran into a woman I have known for many years who was suffering in silence. She frequents a building where a Jewish Domestic Violence Coalition poster hangs inside the bathroom stall doors. “Those questions on the bathroom poster helped me to realize my partner was abusive and gave me strength to leave him.” I asked how she is today and she said, “Stronger and safe, but it hasn’t been easy.”

Humbled by this woman’s courage and bravery, I remain more convinced than ever that we must find ways to get the word out that love should be safe. Abuse survivors will often tell us that they have seen the poster or heard a similar message as a public service announcement. And then one day – for as many reasons as there are survivors – someone decides to reach out and get help. Therefore we must work to create a community where people have many chances to recognize themselves, a loved one, friend, neighbor, congregant, colleague, or employee and reach out to ask for or offer help and support.

The Jewish Domestic Violence Coalition’s newly updated restroom poster asks:

Does your partner/spouse:

Make it difficult for you to see family and friends?
Make decisions for you?
Frighten you?
Hurt you?

Do you:

Feel like you are walking on eggshells?
Feel disrespected?
Feel like things are getting worse?

As a friend, colleague, neighbor, clergy person, relative, or employer, think about people in your community or under your sukkah. Might there be someone in your life who could use your help and support? If you can do it safely, share this blog, our powerful Love Should Be Safe video, and our phone number. And if you yourself would like to speak with someone about your relationship, please reach out for confidential help and support.

Why, you ask?

Because Love Should Be Safe.

Thank You, Parkinson’s Dance

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 12:37:46 GMT

Posted by Kathryn Nielsen

At my last Parkinson’s dance class, Marjie Sokoll, Director of Spirituality and Aging, tapped me lightly on the shoulder. "At the end of class today, would you want to say anything about what the program has meant to you? I know people would love to hear it." I reflexively winced; I’m not naturally inclined to public speaking. I must have winced more visibly than I had intended to, because Marjie immediately clarified, "Of course, you don't have to if you don't want." I did end up saying something at the end of that class but, to be honest, I can't remember what I said. When I speak in public my head rings and I essentially switch to autopilot. The following is, I hope, a more eloquent version of the sentiments that I wanted to share.

First of all, thank you. I have enjoyed every last minute of my time at JF&CS and will miss it immensely when I am back at school. One of my first and most lasting impressions of the Parkinson’s dance class was how incredibly open and welcoming everyone was. Although my position could be more lightheartedly described as ‘temporary, glorified snack-and-drink-girl,’ even on my first day I was treated like any other member of the group. As time went on, I slowly learned people’s names and began to look forward to my Wednesday morning with the program participants and Parkinson’s Family Support Director Nancy Mazonson and her staff.

A large source of the success of Parkinson’s dance is its fearless leader, Art Sullivan. While he carefully choreographs each dance step to help battle specific symptoms of Parkinson’s, the exciting music and playful atmosphere of every class allows participants to relax and enjoy themselves. Each week the room is all smiles as we plié, mambo, and do the Charleston together. As Art always says, "There are three rules to this class: One, we’re here to have fun. Two, try your best to follow me. Three, if rule number two isn’t working out so well, refer back to rule number one.” I think this captures the personality of his class perfectly.

Even after the last notes of the final song ring out (usually a sing-a-long to Que Sera Sera or Somewhere Over the Rainbow - two of my all-time favorites) people linger in their seats. We speak about newly publicized treatments for Parkinson’s, watch inspiring YouTube videos of other dancers with Parkinson’s, and discuss each other’s creative pursuits, such as music composition and painting. This fosters a sense of closeness and community among the class regulars. Many of them are also members of the popular Tremble Clefs choral group, another program I had the pleasure of working with this summer. With multiple activities to partake in during the week and a large overlap in participants, real friendships are formed.

During one particular class, the Parkinson’s dance program was presented with a grant from the National Parkinson’s Foundation. During that day’s group discussion period, everyone was asked to speak about his or her personal relationship to the program. One person raised her hand and said that the sing-a-long at the end of each class was “the most spiritual part of [her] week.” The verity of this particular comment struck me to my core. How amazing it was that this group of people had found such a deep connection and support system in each other. And how amazing it was that I, for however short a time, got to be a part of it.

Kathryn Nielsen is a rising junior at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland where she majors in neuroscience. Although she goes to school abroad, she is originally from Greater Boston and spent her summer volunteering at JF&CS and working as a a research assistant at Brandeis University.

JF&CS Launches Business Advisory Committee

Thu, 17 Sep 2015 13:20:26 GMT

Posted by Christine Guarino

JF&CS recently launched a committee dedicated to the discussion of opportunities and challenges surrounding employment for individuals with disabilities. The Business Advisory Committee is made up of representatives from local businesses, some that currently employ JF&CS program participants and some who have an interest in doing so in the future.

This initial breakfast meeting included JF&CS staff from our Day and Employment Services for adults with disabilities and representatives from a diverse mix of businesses including banks, small business, and higher education. During the meeting we discussed services provided by JF&CS as well as larger issues surrounding employment for individuals with disabilities and the unique experiences of each attendee. Current employers of JF&CS clients shared successes and asked questions related to managing and employing a person with a disability. For individuals at businesses that are not currently employing individuals with disabilities, this was an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about how they might successfully do so.

In reflecting on her experience with JF&CS, Paula Doherty, HR Administrator at Babson College shared:

Babson College is committed to diversity of all kinds, including employing individuals with disabilities. The post-employment support we receive from JF&CS is the key factor in our positive outcomes. Through our association with JF&CS, we all win – our employees with disabilities, their families, our students, our community as a whole, and JF&CS. As a result of our success, Babson College has chosen to work exclusively with JF&CS in employing individuals with disabilities.

As we at JF&CS continue to seek opportunities for further engagement with the local business community, I am thrilled to spearheading this new initiative. The Business Advisory Committee will meet quarterly on an ongoing basis and the second meeting has been scheduled for January 2016. We are looking for additional members! Contact me at cguarino@jfcsboston.org or Sue Stellick at sstellick@jfcsboston.org if you are interested in joining this committee.

Christine Guarino is the Director of Foundation & Corporate Relations at JF&CS. As part of her newly created position, she is working to expand corporate philanthropy and create opportunities for the agency to become engaged with local and national corporations. Prior to her work at JF&CS, Christine worked as an executive recruiter for development positions in nonprofit organizations and in corporate and foundation fundraising for The Guidance Center in Cambridge.

Intertwining Lives and Legacies

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 13:24:11 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Legacies: High School Visits is the only program of its kind in New England. A cohort of 9th-12th graders learn about the Holocaust by meeting with a survivor three times over the course of the year and creating a meaningful project together.

Yvette, a Holocaust survivor, speaks a great deal about her past because she feels it is important to do so even though it is always difficult. Talking to large groups of people without the opportunity to receive feedback or follow-up makes it even more challenging. It’s also tough for her to know whether or not sharing her story has made an impact on her audience. When she met Shira and Olivia, Yvette remarked that it was “instant love at first sight.” She was impressed with their questions, their depth of knowledge, and “how much they wanted to learn.” Yvette also shared that she felt confident Shira and Olivia would help ensure people remember the Holocaust so that it “won’t happen again.”

For their project, Yvette, Shira, and Olivia made a shadow box together. Yvette found the experience outstanding and felt the end result was “fabulous.” When asked to talk about the project, Olivia stated, “Our shadow box incorporates collaged images of our favorite quotations, our personal lives, and pictures that deeply resonate with our identities. Yvette, Shira, and I collaborated on this project with the intention to show how the seemingly different lives of three women can still connect and intertwine through this artwork. After our hours spent together, the three of us discovered that we are not so different from each other after all! This project carries a special place in my heart because it is a physical representation of all the memories the three of us shared during the Legacies: High School Visits program.”

If you are a high school student who would like to participate in the program for the 2015-2016 school year, please contact me at erast@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-1201. Applications are due by October 12, 2015.

JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services is made possible by the generous support of the Claims Conference and the Dorot Foundation.

Taking Inventory at the High Holy Days

Tue, 08 Sep 2015 09:24:04 GMT

Posted by Marjie Sokoll

“There is nothing so wise as a circle” - Rainer Maria Rilke

We are now in the Jewish month of Elul, a special time in Jewish tradition for taking an inventory of our lives over the past year; a time for cheshbon hanefesh, or literally “an accounting of our soul.”

Coincidentally, I was delighted to read in the July issue of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) News a column written by CEO Angelo McClain who also emphasized the importance of taking an inventory of our personal and professional wellness to reduce the likelihood of burnout and compassion fatigue.

McClain reminds us to “refuel, recharge, and replenish.” He writes, “focusing on social worker wellness is a win-win-win situation, because social workers with lower levels of stress are more productive in their work with clients and more committed to the organization.”

Similarly, The Boston Globe reported this summer in “Mindfulness enters corporate mainstream” that “as employers look for ways to ease the anxieties of overworked employees, workplace mindfulness is spreading from Silicon Valley campuses to old-school corporate America, with Fortune 500 companies like Target, Nike, and General Mills joining tech giants such as Google, Apple, and Intel in offering meditation and yoga classes.” Pausing for self-reflection and introspection is clearly an important value for enhancing our sense of well-being.

More than 16 years ago, JF&CS also recognized the need to promote employee wellness. At that time, I was privileged to begin offering a healing circle for JF&CS staff to create space for self-reflection and contemplation using mindfulness meditation, soothing music, contemplative readings, and prayers for healing. The healing circle became an opportunity for self-care to support us as we care for others. And it is not only for social workers! As I wrote in The Healing Circle: A New Model for Nurturing Spirituality in Jewish Family Service Agencies, “Having participants from all departments within the agency helps foster a sense of connection across departments and disciplines and can have a positive impact on relationships within the agency. The healing circle reinforces the role that all staff, regardless of their job description, play in fulfilling the agency’s mission.” JF&CS has other healthy offerings including yoga classes and a Wellness Room!

More than 2,000 years ago, Hillel the Elder echoed a similar sentiment when he posed three famous questions. “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, who am I? If not now, when?" Questions two and three stress the importance of reaching out to others, beginning right now - in the present moment. But first we must begin with question one, with ourselves, with our own self-care.

Every day in the month of Elul offers us this opportunity to take a spiritual inventory in preparation for the Jewish New Year of Rosh Hashanah, which begins at sundown on September 13. May the coming year bring you many blessings of healing and joy as we reach inward to take care of ourselves, and reach out to truly help others.

Marjorie U. Sokoll, MEd, JF&CS Director of Spirituality and Aging, is the founder and director of JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections, which helps people feel a sense of connection when facing the challenges of illness, loss, or isolation by offering spiritual and communal supports to foster hope, comfort, and wholeness guided by Jewish tradition. “It is not good for people to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18). Marjie also provides spiritual support for the JF&CS Parkinson’s Family Support Program, is a founding partner at the Kalsman Institute for Judaism and Health, and holds a certificate of thanatology from the National Center for Death Education.

An Artistic Legacy

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 13:17:46 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Legacies: High School Visits is the only program of its kind in New England. A cohort of 9th-12th graders learn about the Holocaust by meeting with a survivor three times over the course of the year and creating a meaningful project together.

Max speaks a great deal about his experiences during the Holocaust as he feels it is an obligation to participate and tell his story. Both Aviva and Shoshana have heard survivors speak and have found them meaningful. However, all three concurred that this program elevated the experience to a new level by allowing the participants to engage in intimate dialogues.

Shoshana, who drew a beautiful portrait of Max, felt that she could always ask questions and could in turn see which parts of his story were the most important to him. Shoshana “would love to continue knowing [Max]. This was a very rewarding experience … that I will remember forever.”

Aviva told the audience that she didn’t know what to expect when they first met. She wasn’t sure if this experience would be different than the other times she heard survivors, but “it totally was, in an amazing way … what really struck me was that you learn both about the story, which was incredibly inspiring, and you learn about the person and that was even more inspiring.”

Max agreed and shared, “This program was a pleasure, but it was really more than a pleasure. It was the satisfaction of seeing the continuing of Jewish life. The intimate discussion was most important to me and it was a very nice learning experience.”

JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services is made possible by the generous support of the Claims Conference and the Dorot Foundation.

In Memoriam: Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller of blessed memory

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 09:19:54 GMT

Posted by Marjie Sokoll

It is with a heavy heart that I share the sad news of the death of Betty Ann Greenbaum Miller, z”l.

Betty Ann was one of the earliest supporters of JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections, something she cared about deeply. And even when she wasn’t feeling well and unable to attend meetings or events, she always showed great interest in the work of helping those facing the challenges of illness and loss.

On a personal note, Betty Ann was a great inspiration to me; I learned so much from her. As a person living with serious illness, she was very generous in sharing her thoughts and insights about the lived experience. I always appreciated her deep spirituality and her love of Jewish tradition. I will miss her greatly. She became a dear friend.

I leave you with her beautiful prayer written for our Jewish Healing Connections Prayer Booklet.

MY GOD! OUR GOD!

MY GOD! OUR GOD! Could You please add to my blessings?

Would You bless me with days and weeks and months in my life
when I don’t have to pick and choose between the normal daily activities
because the resources for energy are running too low for all of them?

Would You bless me with the strength of an immune system and body
so that if I want to smother a runny nose baby or coughing hacking adult
with my affections I can do it without concern of compromising my own health?

Would You bless me with blood test reports that
confound medical science and put the numbers
in the realm of a miracle?

And while You are assessing what is possible and how
everything actually fits together….given the free will of
our human realm and the complexities of Your creation….

Would You continue to bless me with the Courage to wake up, get dressed, and get going…..?

Would You continue to bless me with the Will to fight, argue and act on behalf of myself and my health?

Would You continue to bless me with the Grace I strive to carry in my life
and into all of my relationships every time I give of myself and try and share
my lessons about faith, friendship and love.

Would You continue to bless me with Community who pray for me, care for me and celebrate life with me?

O MY GOD! O OUR GOD! I AM GRATEFUL FOR THE BLESSINGS THAT CONTINUE….AND FOR THE ONES THAT ARE YET POSSIBLE.
Could You please add to my blessings?

-Betty Ann G. Miller

Hear about Betty Ann’s connection to Jewish Healing Connections in her story Moved by the Mission.

Marjorie U. Sokoll, MEd, JF&CS Director of Spirituality and Aging, is the founder and director of JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections, which helps people feel a sense of connection when facing the challenges of illness, loss, or isolation by offering spiritual and communal supports to foster hope, comfort, and wholeness guided by Jewish tradition. “It is not good for people to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18). Marjie also provides spiritual support for the JF&CS Parkinson’s Family Support Program, is a founding partner at the Kalsman Institute for Judaism and Health, and holds a certificate of thanatology from the National Center for Death Education.

A Poetic Legacy

Thu, 27 Aug 2015 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Lisa and Nicole had the privilege of meeting with Fred, who was very appreciative of this opportunity and felt the students became his “adopted granddaughters.” Fred speaks about his life at schools to large numbers of students and appreciated how different the Legacies: High School Visits experience was for him. At a school, he hopes he makes an impact and his story connects with someone, but after meeting with Lisa and Nicole three times, he shared that he felt confident he made a difference and that they will remember him and his story.

During her comments at graduation, Lisa said, “Getting involved, having a voice, giving a voice to other people, embracing community, and always remembering our past” are takeaways she will never forget.

Lisa and Nicole wrote a poem about their meetings with Fred for their graduation project. Fred, an artist, felt it was very significant that the girls honored him by writing a poem. He shared that, even though this was an art form that he was not familiar with, he felt it was very appropriate and that the students may have told his story better than he does!

The Art of Remembrance
Forget. Don’t look back. Don’t remember.
Only three years old. Hardly a survivor, they said.
With only a brother to protect him, forced to grow up too fast.
A childhood void of a true home, an education, and a family.
A childhood plagued by uncertainty, change, and loss
Easier to repress the memories than to feel the pain.
Outsiders denied it because they didn’t understand.
Insiders denied it because they did.
Surrounded by intolerance and ignorance because
“Nobody in the world gave a damn.”
Remember. Look back. Don’t forget.
With knowledge comes the desire to change, to protest, to teach.
We cannot ignore the past. We must remember in order to prevent.
We must recognize that child survivors are real survivors.
Different stories can share the same pain.
Art is remembrance, an expression of suffering, and an expression of hope.
Art reflects the truth. Art has a voice.
It allows us to speak out and get involved.
We must resolve to make a difference, to fight injustice, and
“Make the world better than the one that was inherited.”
“We are responsible for our own future.”

JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services is made possible by the generous support of the Claims Conference and the Dorot Foundation.

Volunteering is Her Passion

Tue, 25 Aug 2015 09:00:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

JF&CS relies on volunteers to serve 17,000 people each year. Many of our programs like Lauren and Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^®, Welcome Baby!, Friendly Visitor, and Family Table are successful in part because of volunteer involvement.

Many of our volunteers have been generously donating their skills, talents, and abilities for years, even decades. Amy Hearne is one of those devoted volunteers who started out here some 21 years ago. Now, after more than two decades, Amy is still a volunteer as well as part-time JF&CS employee.

Amy originally heard about JF&CS Family Table through CJP Young Leadership, which promoted Family Table as a great volunteer opportunity. "I remember bringing my daughter as a baby on my back - and she's 24 now," says Amy, proudly. "I got my family to go and then got other families with children to help out," she adds. "I told people about it and they got hooked."

By the time Amy's daughter was 12, she was a Family Table regular at the Sunday distributions. "Many clients were Russian and my daughter couldn't communicate with them, but it worked," she explains. All three of Amy’s children, now 16, 21, and 24, have volunteered at Family Table in various capacities for many years. They started by simply helping Amy make deliveries and have gone on to volunteer on a monthly basis at the pantry. "Volunteering is important," remarks Amy, "because it acts as the touch point for service and social justice."

Through Family Table, Amy got involved with the Center for Family Assistance. In the past few years, Amy began volunteering with the JF&CS Welcome Baby! program, helping welcome Jewish and interfaith families to the Jewish community with a home visit, gift package, and resource guides to programs and events in Greater Boston.

"I am very familiar with the Jewish community and its resources. I can make a welcome introduction to the community. I love being a mom, so it really clicked with me," she remarks excitedly.

A few months ago, Laura Gerson, coordinator of the Welcome Baby! program, asked Amy if she would work for the program on a part-time basis. "She needed someone to help with tasks, do outreach and development with volunteers, review resource materials, improve how we connect with the Jewish community, and promote the Welcome Baby! program. I'm a big fan [of the program], so of course I said yes!'"

Even though Amy now works part-time at JF&CS, she still finds the time to volunteer as a visitor for Welcome Baby! When not involved with JF&CS, Amy does private tutoring and volunteers as a tutor for homeless children in Brockton. "Volunteering is a passion and I'm very good at finding volunteer positions," she says. In 2008, Amy received the Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award for her tireless work on behalf of JF&CS. “[Volunteering] is a happy part of my life!”

Learning Through Legacies: High School Visits

Wed, 19 Aug 2015 15:32:52 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Max and Ben were inspired to write an essay after meeting with Aron, an Auschwitz survivor. The following is an excerpt from their thought-provoking and empathetic piece.

This is the story of an amazing man whose perseverance willed him to survive tougher times than anyone could imagine. Aron was born in July of 1926 in the country of Poland. Aron, who was born in Dukla, lived with his parents and was one of nine children. When he was two and a half years old, he and his family moved to Szczakowa. Growing up he enjoyed school as he lived walking distance from a Polish public school. Due to the fact that he was Jewish, Aron wore payas, which made him a victim of bullying. One time when he wore his yamaka to school, his peers took notice and picked on Aron, just because of what he was wearing on his head. However, he also attended Hebrew school, where he and other people in the Jewish community were able to learn without having to be worried about others making fun of them because of their faith. Walking to and from his long and hard hours of school each day, Aron practically had no free time. However, Aron had the distinct privilege of becoming a Bar Mitzvah at the age of 13 in July of 1939. But, shortly after, the war began.

Download and read more of Max and Ben’s essay.

JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services is made possible by the generous support of the Claims Conference and the Dorot Foundation.

Recipe of the Month

Mon, 17 Aug 2015 14:03:09 GMT

Posted by Deena Abramson

The summer is here and vegetables are in season! Try this Tabbouleh Salad with Chicken and Red Pepper for a quick, easy, and flavorful salad to keep you cool. Fresh parsley, mint, and lemon provide a refreshing boost of flavor alongside colorful, crisp vegetables. The chicken and bulgur make this tabbouleh a main meal.

This dish is easy to change up to make a whole different meal. Try using brown rice instead of bulgur or try turkey, tuna fish, hummus, or beans instead of chicken. This salad stores well in the refrigerator, so make it ahead of time and you’ll have a grab-n-go lunch already prepared for the week.

This recipe is also nutritious! Some healthy facts about this recipe:

Chicken is a great source of lean protein
Bulgur is a whole grain rich in fiber and nutrients to energize your day
The colorful vegetables are a fantastic source of Vitamins A and C
This recipe is low in sodium yet full of flavor from fresh ingredients and herbs

Deena Abramson is a summer volunteer at JF&CS in the Nutrition Services department. She is going into her senior year at Binghamton University where she is pursuing a degree in psychology and health and wellness studies. She is passionate about healthy eating and fitness and is currently training for her first half marathon. She has been volunteering at JF&CS Family Table since she was in preschool and is committed to helping end hunger in the local community.

Lucky to be a Part of Legacies

Thu, 13 Aug 2015 14:19:56 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Hannah and Aviva instantly connected with Leon Rubinstein, a Holocaust survivor who at age 12 was forced to live in a ghetto after his older brother and younger sister were killed. While in the ghetto, he had to dig mass graves. Leon’s father found a Christian family who would hide him but conditions were so scary he had to live underground. When his eldest sister found him after the war, he learned that his parents and their other five siblings had perished. In 1951, Leon immigrated to Israel and served in the army. During the Legacies: High School Visits graduation, Leon said, “It’s hard to describe what it was like at the age of 85 to have contact with these two beautiful girls, but it makes me feel good at the end of my life to see children like this, so giving, so kind.”

Hannah and Aviva were inspired to capture Leon’s memories in a time capsule that included several of the inventions Leon created after the war (along with the patents and instructions), photos, a flash drive of the audio of their first meeting, and a book Leon wrote about his experiences during the war.

Aviva shared the following remarks at the graduation ceremony:

“Working with Leon on our time capsule is an experience Hannah and I will never forget. Throughout these few months we have really gotten to know Leon and were fortunate enough to have him let us into his life. Every meeting we had with Leon was amazing. He would always captivate us with all of the amazingly inspiring stories he had to tell.

“This experience is so important to Hannah and me. We were able to find out so much more about the Holocaust we did not know before. We got to hear stories right from a survivor about his own experiences. During meetings Leon would show us photos, tell us about his own experience, his family, and all of his thoughts and feelings. Hannah and I feel so lucky to have Leon as the survivor we got to work with. He really let us into his home and was so kind. Leon was one of the most amazing guys we have ever met. He showed us all his inventions and was nice enough to let us put some in the time capsule.

“These meetings were something Hannah and I always looked forward to; we know that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and feel so lucky to be a part of it!”

JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services is made possible by the generous support of the Claims Conference and the Dorot Foundation.

Q&A with Tamar Jacobson

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 15:43:31 GMT

Shared by Tamar Jacobson

How did you get involved with JF&CS Family Table?
I worked as the Volunteer and Food Coordinator a couple of years ago at JF&CS Family Table. I enjoyed working there so much because it feels so good to watch your efforts directly benefiting other people. It was also a pleasure to meet hundreds of volunteers who care about their community and became part of the JF&CS family through their regular volunteer work.

Why did you decide to participate in the Ride for Food?
I decided to participate in the Ride for Food because it's another way that I can support JF&CS Family Table even if I am not able to help at a food distribution or donate food. I think participating in this event will help me spread the word about this important cause. It's also a great excuse for me to visit friends, be active, and get outside.

What's your favorite JF&CS Family Table memory?
I have many great memories from my time working at JF&CS Family Table. I especially loved helping recipients through their first time shopping at the Family Table Marketplace food distribution. When recipients realized that they could actually choose what they'd like and that they could bring home fresh produce, dairy products, and more, they were sometimes overcome with emotion. In those moments I realized how much I take for granted and helping at JF&CS Family Table helped me appreciate what I have. Also, every time a truck from a farm or a bakery would pull up with boxes and boxes of fresh donated fruits and vegetables or whole grain breads, I was overjoyed knowing that I could bring these nourishing foods to the people who need it most.

What are you doing now?
Since working at JF&CS Family Table, I worked for two years as the Director of Volunteers at Westchester Jewish Community Services. I was recently married and moved to the Syracuse area. I am currently volunteering at Meals on Wheels, Syracuse Jewish Family Services, and job searching. I am enjoying all the festivals and outdoor activities central New York has to offer before it snows!

What else do you do for exercise?
I love to walk almost every day by Onondaga Lake. I also kayak, Israeli dance, and do zumba classes.

To learn more about Family Table and the Ride for Food, contact Bernice Behar at bbehar@jfcsboston.org or 781-643-5649.

High School Visits with Holocaust Survivors

Thu, 06 Aug 2015 14:36:36 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Many wonderful things can happen when middle and high school students meet Holocaust survivors. This engagement can help the past become more compelling, remind teens to be thoughtful in their personal choices, and ensure this tragedy is not forgotten. The importance of engaging with a survivor and hearing about his or her experiences are impactful and can be life-changing.

After a survivor spoke in a Boston public school last year, one student told me that he would “use [the survivor’s] story and inspiring words for good and try to better myself.” Another said that hearing about the past “taught me that you should always be kind and help others.” At Schechter Holocaust Services, we wondered what might happen if students had the opportunity to meet a survivor three times at his or her house and create a meaningful project together. What might happen if students could absorb more than the survivor’s experiences during the war by learning about his or her life beforehand as well as methods for coping in the decades afterwards?

In response, this past year we piloted Legacies: High School Visits, a program that matches high school students with Holocaust survivors. Students attended a training session where they learned about interviewing and public speaking skills, emergency preparedness, triggers and emotional trauma, and professionalism. After being put in pairs, students were matched with a survivor and subsequently met with them three times during the school year with a program culmination event that included presenting their projects.

The first year of this program was a resounding success! At the graduation ceremony, you would have been hard pressed to find a dry eye in the house. When I spoke to some of the survivor participants at graduation, they all had wonderful experiences to share. Leon, who survived in a ghetto, remarked, “I’m the luckiest guy in the world. There have been a lot of good things that have happened to me in this country, I’ve been fortunate, but this [program] is the most fortunate thing that ever happened.” Another survivor, Yvette, commented that doing the project was “fabulous,” the program was “wonderful,” and she hopes to participate in it next year.

We look forward to sharing some of these graduation projects with you on our blog in the coming weeks. For more information or to get involved in the 2015-2016 Legacies: High School Visits program, please contact me at erast@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-1201.

JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services is made possible by the generous support of the Claims Conference and the Dorot Foundation.

Meet our New Board Members

Tue, 04 Aug 2015 14:40:02 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

At our annual Board meeting on June 2, JF&CS welcomed two new members to our Board, Joseph F. Mazzella and Wayne Ushman. We are excited to have Joe and Wayne join the JF&CS Board!

●

Joseph F. Mazzella and his wife Lauren live in Weston. They have two children, Rachel and Jason, who live and work in Boston. Joe is a Managing Director and General Counsel of Highfields Capital Management LP, an investment firm in Boston. Prior to joining Highfields, Joe was a partner at Nutter, McClennen & Fish LLP in Boston. Before going into private practice, Joe worked at the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A graduate of City College of New York, Joe received his JD from Rutgers University School of Law. Currently on the Board of Directors of Pennymac Financial Services, Inc., he previously served as a director of Orbital ATK Inc. and was Chairman of the Board of Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc.

Summer often finds Joe in Truro, fishing, or golfing in Weston. He and Lauren enjoy traveling, having recently been to Machu Picchu in Peru, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Japan.

“My wife, Lauren, has served as a Visiting Mom for many years, so I've seen how JF&CS can enhance the lives of people in need, whatever their religion and social status. I can think of no other organization that practices tikkun olam in a more inclusive and personal way, and I hope to contribute to that effort.”

●

Wayne Ushman lives in Northborough with his wife Suzan (Shapiro), their two sons, Benjamin and Dov, and their goldendoodle, Ted Williams. Wayne has more than 35 years of experience in the investment management arena. He founded Assabet Advisors LLC, a registered investment advisor that develops customized investment solutions for individuals, families, businesses, and foundations. Previously, Wayne was the Vice President in charge of the Portfolio Management Department of State Mutual Life Assurance Company of America where he developed the investment strategies for the company's $9 billion portfolio and subsequently formed a private investment management firm for the purpose of managing a significant portfolio.

A graduate of Franklin and Marshall College, Wayne received his MBA from the Amos Tuck School at Dartmouth College and is a CFA charter holder. He has held various leadership positions in the Worcester community, including president of the Worcester Jewish Community Center, chairman of the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts Endowment Committee, board member of the Jewish Health Center, and corporator of the Greater Worcester Community Foundation. In 2012, Wayne and Suzan were honored by Israel Bonds and received the Israel Unity Award.

Wayne enjoys spending quality time with his family, skiing, and traveling. The Ushmans are members of Congregation Beth Israel in Worcester.

“As an active member in the greater Worcester Jewish community, I am excited about the increased involvement of JF&CS in Central Massachusetts. I look forward to helping my local community learn more about the strong programs which JF&CS has to offer and in turn, to facilitating Central Massachusetts’s increased participation and support of JF&CS.”

Day of Service: Planting a Pumpkin Patch

Thu, 30 Jul 2015 13:26:23 GMT

Posted by Jacob Blitstein

It was on a warm, sunny Friday morning with Shabbat peaking just around the corner that the JVS/CJP Emerging Jewish Leaders interns held a day of service. We volunteered to plant a pumpkin patch at a JF&CS Supported Housing residence in Brighton, one of many JF&CS Supported Housing residences in Greater Boston.

The JVS/CJP Emerging Jewish Leaders internship provides college juniors and seniors opportunities to work in their fields of interest and develop their professional skills by interning at Jewish nonprofits in the area and participating in various development workshops.

I had been participating in the leadership program and interning in the Development and Fiscal departments at Jewish Family & Children’s Service for several weeks prior to the Day of Service. It was nice to get out of the office and enjoy the beautiful weather while volunteering to do something so rewarding.

The JF&CS residence we volunteered at provides 24/7 care for adults with disabilities. These houses help with the residents’ wide range of needs while giving them the opportunity to live independently and feel the freedom of living on their own.

Upon arriving, the first thing I noticed was that there was no indication that the house I arrived at was a Supported Housing residence. It was an ordinary looking home that blended in seamlessly with the rest of the houses on the street. I think that this was an especially important part of the home, because it made the house look and feel “homey.”

We were welcomed and introduced to one of the people on-staff. After hearing a brief description of how the house works and about the people living there, we set to work. We were told we would be planting pumpkins because the people living in the house love pumpkins, and the timing was fitting with Halloween just around the corner. Having no prior experience planting, it was cool to learn about the process from fellow interns. I found the gardening itself to be remarkably soothing. After planting the seeds, we painted the raised beds we planted the pumpkin patch in.

After we finished the project, all the interns kept talking about the morning. Everyone had an amazing time and it felt so good knowing what we did would make other people happy.

Jacob Blitstein is a rising senior at Binghamton University majoring in accounting. Jacob is an intern at the CJP/JVS Emerging Jewish Leaders internship. When Jacob is not following the news and studying American history, he enjoys playing with his dog, Lucky.

A Successful Community Partnership

Tue, 28 Jul 2015 11:30:12 GMT

Posted by Kathy Burnes

Academic community based partnerships are a vital tool in bridging theory and practice and keeping the work real!

Social isolation is a central theme addressed throughout all of the 40 programs provided by Jewish Family & Children’s Service. We are a social impact organization serving more than 17,000 people of all ages each year in 250 Massachusetts communities. Our work focuses on the importance of building and maintaining connections that foster the health and well-being of individuals and families.

We have been delighted to partner with the Boston College Hartford Center of Excellence in spotlighting the issue of social isolation. Through collaborative conversations that focus on translating research into practice, JF&CS and Boston College Hartford Center of Excellence have explored the ways in which JF&CS addresses social isolation, particularly among older adults. As a result of these conversations, JF&CS has incorporated tools that help target and measure social isolation at the individual level.

The motto we see every day at JF&CS as we go up and down the stairs of our building is “Everyone has a purpose in life. Ours is to help people of all ages and backgrounds pursue theirs.” A sense of purpose is deeply intertwined with connection. The central theme for all JF&CS programs and services for older adults is building connections and community through “high touch” interactions.

Programs for older adults range from resource and referral to guardianship. We provide services for Holocaust survivors, intensive geriatric care management, age-friendly projects, Jewish Healing Connections, Wise Aging workshops, and geriatric mental health counseling. Our programs for families dealing with Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease include Parkinson’s dance and the Tremble Clefs choral group, our Memory Café, and other networking, creative arts, and support services. Our bottom-line question is: Are we succeeding in increasing connection to resources, support, and sense of community for those who are at risk for social isolation? Are we helping people to understand and pursue their purpose?

We are committed to data-driven outcomes assessment to measure program impact and support continuous improvement. As a result of our work with Boston College Hartford Center of Excellence we have recently incorporated the use of the Lubben Social Network Scale - 6 (LSNS-6) into our home-based geriatric mental health counseling services. We anticipate that this tool will facilitate an ongoing dialogue between clinicians and their clients about social connection. In addition to measuring social networks using the LSNS-6, we will also evaluate the effectiveness of the scale in generating information that leads to more specific interventions.

Kathy Burnes is Director of the JF&CS Center on Aging in Community, which sponsors programs and projects that promote social engagement, mental health, and quality of life for older adults and their care partners. These programs build on the power of local communities to encourage positive aging through social connection, the arts, spirituality, and support. Prior to coming to JF&CS in 2007, Kathy worked as a senior research associate at Boston College’s Center for Corporate Citizenship and at the National Center on Women and Aging at Brandeis University. Kathy also worked for AARP and Operation ABLE of Greater Boston. She has a BA from the University of Michigan and a MEd in Rehabilitation Counseling from Northeastern University.

Q&A with Karen Garber

Fri, 24 Jul 2015 09:36:52 GMT

Shared by Karen Garber

Tell us about your work at JF&CS.
I am a clinician at the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS). As such, my role allows me to wear a variety of hats. One of them is providing counseling and support to young families impacted by a variety of issues including mental illness, substance use, poverty, and immigration. I spend most of my time working for Project BRIGHT, a grant-funded project seeking to provide therapeutic treatment to families recovering from opiate addiction. Project BRIGHT treatment is provided out in the community or at the clients’ outpatient treatment programs where they already receive a number of other services.

Another one of my roles within CERS is of a trainer, offering support and educational opportunities to other organizations in the community. CERS offers me the opportunity to contribute to the community both at a micro and macro level while allowing me to continue to grow as a professional. During my free time, I also enjoy volunteering for our own Welcome Baby! program, a wonderful support for new parents and their infants. CERS is full of new and exciting projects and I really enjoy taking part in many of those initiatives.

What are some of your favorite places to travel?
Our favorite place to travel used to be Venezuela, my hometown. Unfortunately the political unrest there does not allow us to do that anymore. On the other hand, we try to go to Israel to visit grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

More locally we love to visit Cape Cod every summer, a tradition that started many years ago when our oldest son started going to overnight camp there.

You have a free Saturday – what do you and your family do together in Greater Boston?
Riding a bike to the local ice cream shop or, if the weather allows, driving to Walden Pond, to swim, walk, or simply have a picnic.

Recommend a book.
Winter Bone. This book fell into my hands after one of my kids got it as an assignment in school. The writer, Daniel Woodrell, tells the story of an almost forgotten part of this country, the Ozarks. Not everything in the book is poverty and hopelessness. The main character reminds me of so many young women I meet in my work -- strong and incredibly resilient -- despite a past that offered very little in terms of nurturing and love.

What is your favorite food?
Thai! Followed by good Venezuelan food. If you haven’t had an arepa, please do. They are delicious!

Donor Profile: Suzanne Hodes

Tue, 21 Jul 2015 15:47:11 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

In February, otherwise dull and blank walls at the JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham were brought to life when Waltham painter/printmaker Suzanne Hodes graciously donated three of her own colorful paintings to the agency, Joe and Minnie, Jerusalem Landscape, and River Reeds with Sand and Glue.

Hodes’s husband Henry Linschitz had been a JF&CS client before he passed away in November 2014 at the age of 95. They had been married for more than 50 years. When Henry started to suffer from memory loss in his nineties, Suzanne did not know where to turn. “It’s not easy to ask for help when it’s a situation with a loved one and you don’t know what help you might need or what to ask for – it’s a grey, foggy area,” explains Suzanne.

A friend mentioned to Suzanne that she knew someone who might be able to help her navigate the unchartered territory she faced. That friend connected her with Ruth Natanson, a geriatric care manager at JF&CS. “Ruth was very sympathetic and understanding. She gave me and my son more suggestions than we were able to use,” says Suzanne. Soon a social worker was making regular visits to the house, and they were visited by a registered nurse. They brought Suzanne and Henry to visit an assisted living/nursing facility in Waltham and suggested other similar facilities. But Suzanne felt that something was not right. Henry had been a well-respected professor of chemistry at Brandeis University – a “brilliant man,” as Suzanne describes.

She felt that Henry would be better off at home. According to Suzanne, living in a nursing home, “in a small room with people telling him what to do,” would not work. She worried it would be confusing and traumatic for him. Ruth made Suzanne aware of other options that would not require Henry to leave their home. Eventually, Suzanne was able to hire a woman who could stay overnight.

When Suzanne wanted to bring Henry to their family cottage in Maine, Ruth recommended a local agency that sent over a woman five afternoons per week. “I was able to swim and sketch [those afternoons] and didn’t have to worry. It was extremely helpful,” says Suzanne.

In November 2014, Henry passed away. Suzanne was once again in difficult and unchartered territory. “The process of losing a spouse after 50 years is hard. Ruth was very helpful with the decisions I had to make. A place where I felt comfortable enough to cry was built into the relationship,” explains Suzanne. “Ruth was a resource person. She is someone I could go to with questions. I felt there was someone out there who was aware of the whole situation. She would ask, ‘Is this or that working?’”

“JF&CS meant I had a professional case manager to help me with very basic decisions concerning the care of my dear husband. I am grateful for the help we got from JF&CS. I saw all these blank walls every time I was there and said, ‘They could use some art.’ I cannot be a million dollar donor, but I can do some strong works of art to liven up the place.”

Suzanne’s painting River Reeds can be viewed right outside of CEO Rimma Zelfand’s office on the third floor. Joe and Minnie will add life and color to the JF&CS third floor, and Jerusalem will be displayed prominently in the JF&CS lobby. Paintings are pictured clockwise from top left: Jerusalem, Joe and Minnie, and River Reeds.

Warrior Mom Conference

Thu, 16 Jul 2015 10:34:00 GMT

Posted by Peggy Kaufman

On Saturday, July 11, Postpartum Progress, a nonprofit organization that raises awareness, fights stigma, and provides peer support to women with maternal mental illness, held their first Warrior Mom Conference in downtown Boston for new mothers who experienced postpartum depression.

I was invited to participate on a professional panel for “Educate and Empower,” the conference’s kick-off event. I joined three other professionals and spoke about community support and what the Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS) has learned from 26 years of programming.

I shared three core beliefs that guide the interventions of CERS:

Not one size intervention fits the need of every new mother.
Intervention timing is determined by the new mom and her readiness to receive support.
The experience of being nurtured helps us to be more nurturing.

I discussed the importance of connections through groups, one-on-one meetings, or even internet connections since relationships can provide a safe holding environment during the postpartum times when one’s internal world is chaotic and needs a structure to trust. I also referred to the work of Daniel Stern who addresses every mother’s need to find a “motherhood club.” Many of the women in the room had missed this opportunity as they were lost in their experience of depression and anxiety.

As I finished speaking, I looked around the room amassed with nods and tears. Even in that short period of time, I had made the type of connection I was presenting about and these moms had now found their own motherhood club.

Connecting to the Birth Parents She Never Knew

Tue, 14 Jul 2015 14:53:34 GMT

Posted by Rebecca Cohen

Imagine that you are in your sixties and have been living the life of an observant Jew but are unsure of your religious heritage. A few months ago, I received an email from a woman who was adopted through JF&CS in the 1950s. We often receive inquiries from adult adoptees asking for information regarding their adoption and birth parents but this request was different. This woman was writing to find out if she was Jewish by birth. She said that while she had been adopted by a Jewish couple, she had questioned whether her birth parents were Jewish and had also been questioned by a rabbi.

At JF&CS Adoption Resources we keep all our files, even those dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s. We were able to retrieve this woman’s adoption record from our archives. I read each document carefully, looking for mention of her birth parents’ religious background. What I found was very moving; her birth parents had converted to Judaism years before her birth and had specifically requested that she be placed with a Jewish family and raised as a Jew.

I shared this information with her and sent her redacted copies of some of the documents in her file. She told me that the day the packet of information arrived to her house she ripped it open and read each page over and over again. The news reaffirmed this woman’s religious background and gave her a connection to her birth parents by learning of their desire that she be raised as a Jew.

She called the next day to thank me for helping put a missing piece of her story into place. She had already shared this information with her husband and children and was looking forward to talking to her rabbi soon. We at JF&CS Adoption Resources are not only privileged to work with birth and adoptive parents but to also assist adult adoptees with information about and sometimes reunification with their birth parents. It feels very rewarding to know that I helped this woman find information that so many of us take for granted.

Becca joined JF&CS in the summer of 2012 as the Department Assistant for Basic Needs and has been in the role of Program Manager for Adoption Resources since February 2015. She graduated from UMass Amherst with an undergraduate degree in sociology and education and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in clinical social work from Simmons College. Outside of work and school, Becca volunteers as a Big Sister with Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters and enjoys crafting and gardening.

The Ultimate Toy at the Memory Café

Fri, 10 Jul 2015 13:54:08 GMT

Posted by Beth Soltzberg

Last month, JF&CS Memory Café participants were asked to create a collage that represented their life. Collages were combined to create a beautiful display along with quotes from participants in English and translated into Russian and Spanish explaining what the art making experience was like. We are excited to announce that the display will be featured at the Multicultural Coalition on Aging Conference at the end of this month in Watertown.

At today’s Memory Café at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham, we presented the final display to all attendees. We also caught up with Jack, a monthly regular, who was an engineer in the Air Force. He shared with us where he got the name for his collage, “The Ultimate Toy”:

A memory café is a welcoming place for people with forgetfulness or other changes in their thinking and for their family and friends. The JF&CS Memory Café, the first intergenerational café in Massachusetts, features a guest artist, dancer, musician, poet, or author each month who shares his or her work and leads the group in a related activity.

Bringing PPD Into the Light

Wed, 08 Jul 2015 11:24:55 GMT

Posted by Kathy Mills

On Monday, June 29, Peggy Kaufman, Director of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS), and I attended “Bringing PPD Into the Light: Decreasing Stigma, Supporting Families, and Implementing Policy Change in Massachusetts,” the first Postpartum Depression (PPD) Awareness Day in Massachusetts. The event was hosted by Senator Joan Lovely, Representative Ellen Story, and Senator Bruce Tarr and was sponsored by the Ipswich Birth to Three Family Center. Providers, practitioners, health care workers, legislators, and parents gathered in the Great Hall of the State Capitol to share information and resources about postpartum depression.

We heard from many speakers including Jamie Belsito, a former federal lobbyist and business immigration expert. Jamie shared her personal experience with postpartum depression, describing missed opportunities for intervention that required personal tenacity in securing the resources and treatment she needed. Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito also spoke, announcing that MassHealth will begin reimbursing health care providers in the spring of 2016 for the costs of screening women for postpartum depression. We were thrilled with this announcement, which has been years in the making.

Many on the Governor’s Commission on Postpartum Depression were also in attendance. In 2012 a law signed into action by former Governor Deval Patrick mandated the creation of a statewide Commission to recommend to the legislature initiatives relating to PPD. A diverse 34-person Commission including health care providers, insurance representatives, PPD survivors, legislators, and state agency representatives was charged with advancing best practices in screening, referrals, treatment, and public and professional education about postpartum depression. Peggy was selected by the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers to serve on the Governor’s Commission and has served since its inception.

Among the Commission’s successes are universal screening for postpartum depression for all pregnant and postpartum women, pilot intervention projects in three community health centers, and the development of the Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Project (McPAP) for Moms that promotes maternal mental health during and after pregnancy and gives front-line providers a toolkit, training, and a screening protocol to address PPD. We are honored that JF&CS has had such a prominent presence in this initiative and hope that “Bringing PPD Into the Light” becomes an annual event.

Kathy Mills, PhD, LICSW is the Associate Director of Programs at the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support^®, a center of excellence for direct services, training, supervision, and consultation that focuses on the earliest infant-parent relationship. Her clinical and teaching background has focused on children and trauma, in particular children exposed to domestic violence. A proud mother of twins, Kathy is passionate about empowerment and establishing safety within families. Kathy earned her PhD from the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University and her MSW from Simmons College School of Social Work.

Each Mother’s Own Shoes

Wed, 01 Jul 2015 15:20:13 GMT

Posted by Peggy Kaufman

These are just some of the inspiring words Peggy Kaufman, Director of the Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS), shared with attendees at the 2015 Women’s Breakfast.

Many of us have hiked different parts of the Pacific Crest Trail. Imagine that one of us might say to Cheryl [Strayed, author of Wild and Women’s Breakfast guest speaker], “Do you remember the ridge walk towards the northern part of the trail where after miles of not a single tree you could see that enormous beech tree in the distance?” She may remember that ridge and that tree, but that is all that was similar in the shared memory. Her footsteps were only her own, her thoughts were only her own, and her feelings were only her own.

I share this metaphor as many of us here are mothers. Despite this shared experience, we never walk in another mother’s boots. No one here has walked in my boots as a mother. Even though we’ve all had newborns, toddlers, maybe school-age children and more, no one has taken the steps that I took when my son was two or when my daughter was 16. They may be similar steps but they are not mine.

Every mother we help at CERS is her own unique person who comes to motherhood with her own history, relationships, and experiences. She has her own walking shoes, her own path, and her own experience of herself as a mother, her way of being with her baby, and her way of navigating her mothering world.

We are presently engaged with three moms who are in the same Boston hospital NICU. The common thread stops there.
We are now working with seven mothers who are receiving their daily dosing at a Boston methadone clinic. That is the limit of their similarities.
Several of our mothers are living in the same homeless motel. Time and place is all that joins them.

Let me give you a snapshot of the work that any staff person or volunteer might engage in on this journey with a new mother in her unique experience: first and foremost we accompany her. She is not walking alone. We bring calm to her travels where calm may not have existed. We are there to understand when the path gets rough; we are there to see her baby the way that she sees her baby; we are there to help the mom explore opportunities when she wants to consider other courses of action or turns to take, other paths to explore; and when she is ready we may offer a drop of information to help her make a choice or do something different. Most important, she is not alone. We are walking the path by her side.

What we don’t bring is a CERS guidebook on “How to Mother.” We bring ourselves, our abilities to listen, to reflect, to engage, and to deepen understanding. And by starting early we help parents to set on a trail with their infants, a trail that is a lifelong discovery process.

Rising from the Ashes: Helping a Client in Need

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 09:45:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

Latisha, a client of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support® (CERS), shared her story at the 2015 Women’s Breakfast on June 11. She told the audience about the help she received from JF&CS on her personal journey to stability and independence.

Latisha was already a JF&CS client when something terrible happened: she lost her apartment in a fire. Everything she owned was destroyed and she, her husband, and five children were left homeless.

At first, Latisha and her family had to sleep in their car. “That changed when Tracy Rich [supervisor for the Lauren & Mark Rubin Visiting Moms^® Vulnerable Families Team at JF&CS] learned how we were living,” remarks Latisha. “She helped me get the Red Cross to find us a hotel room to stay in until we could find a new apartment. Tracy also connected me with Ellen [Jawitz, CERS Family Resource Coordinator], who worked with the welfare office on my behalf. Together, they helped me receive unemployment benefits and find temporary and then permanent housing for me and my family.”

After the fire, Tracy understood that Latisha and her family needed help immediately and Ellen was called upon to give Latisha leads and suggestions for housing and be her advocate. Latisha was specifically looking for Section 8 housing, but with such a large family subsidized apartments were not easy to find. Latisha made more than 500 phone calls that year, and Ellen and Tracy provided back up support several times, calling prospective landlords and housing agencies to try to expedite matters. “Tracy was there for me during all of this. When I found my new apartment, she was happy for me and I was happy for myself,” Latisha proclaimed.

In the meantime, Ellen and Tracy worked to find solutions to the immediate issues and needs that were facing the family. Tracy contacted Cradles to Crayons to get clothing for the younger children. Latisha's teenage daughter was too old for that service, so Ellen put out a notice on a list serve to get clothing donations for the teenager. They collected gently used household items, such as linens and dishes, to make the temporary apartment as comfortable as possible.

Tracy and Ellen then helped Latisha transition from the temporary apartment to her new home. Ellen contacted a local furniture bank that provided good quality, used furniture for the family. They coordinated with other JF&CS programs to provide movers and also helped to obtain other government benefits for her. Once she was settled into her new apartment, JF&CS assisted Latisha in applying for fuel assistance and utility discounts and assisted with issues related to the family's Transitional Aid benefits. Although Tracy and Ellen helped Latisha with the many tangible items she needed, they also never lost focus on supporting her as a mother of five children.

“Latisha could have been just another statistic - but instead she feels supported, cared for, and strengthened by [JF&CS] being creative and resourceful and working together across departments," says Tracy. "Any one of us could find ourselves in Latisha's situation. JF&CS never loses sight of the human being behind their needs and we try to weave together a supportive relationship helping clients with their concrete needs. It has been inspiring to see her stay focused on her children, keeping her family together despite such incredible disruption, and making such good use of our services," she adds.

“From the moment you meet her, you can feel Latisha’s nurturing self, alive spirit, and desire to grow,” echoes Peggy Kaufman, Director of CERS. “Throughout her journey, she has faced an unusual set of challenges with strength and grace, always keeping her infant and four older children her priority. She is an admirable mother, daughter, and community member.”

“Through everything, Tracy and Ellen and everyone at CERS were my support team,” Latisha explains. Tracy stood by me through everything and she and CERS will always be in my heart.”

Take Us With You: New Responsive Website

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 11:16:51 GMT

Posted by Marketing & Communications

JF&CS is delighted to announce the launch of our new and dynamic responsive website. Now, you can take us anywhere you go – on your desktop computer, laptop, notebook, tablet, phone, or other mobile device.

In the past, as with many websites, what appeared on your desktop monitor might not necessarily translate to your mobile device, at least without a lot of pinching, squeezing, squinting, and expanding. In some cases, mobile-specific websites could differ dramatically from their desktop or tablet-version counterparts. Now, thanks to responsive web design (RWD) technology, our website can flow seamlessly, providing optimal reading, navigation, and interaction between all of your devices - mobile and otherwise.

RWD technology will allow more and more people to bring their favorite websites like www.jfcsboston.org with them anywhere, delivering an easy, clear, interactive experience. And maybe we’ll see you (or at least you’ll see us) this summer at the beach, the ballgame, or anywhere else you might be.

Masterworks Conductor Visits the Tremble Clefs

Fri, 19 Jun 2015 12:35:11 GMT

Posted by Marilyn Okonow

On a beautiful spring Monday morning (finally!), members of the Tremble Clefs arrived for their weekly chorus rehearsal at the United Parish Church in Auburndale. This was no ordinary Monday. Steven Karidoyanes, conductor of Boston’s highly regarded Masterworks Chorale, was going to join the group for a master class in singing. We had initially contacted Steven to tell him about our chorus and ask him for a testimonial about the power of singing and, more specifically, singing with others. What we didn't know was that his mother had suffered from Parkinson's, so he was especially interested to learn more about our Parkinson’s Family Support program. He offered to help us, and we invited him to join our singers and add value to what we were already doing.

I had already given Steven some background on our chorus before he arrived. Our chorus is comprised of singers of all ages who have Parkinson's and their care partners. Some have no musical training at all; one singer, a gentleman in his 80’s, had actually sung for years with the Masterworks Choral long before Steven took the helm. Our participants have a wide variety of musical tastes and have various challenges associated with Parkinson's. Some can sing in harmony, others cannot. Some can read music and others cannot. So Steven and I agreed that we would perform several songs for him that we had been working on that we knew really well. He would then see if he could make suggestions.

What happened in the course of the hour and a half that Steven was with us was extraordinary. First, we showed him our warm ups. In singing, visualization is so important. I had been using certain descriptions to help our singers improve their breathing techniques. Steven provided the image of breathing through a straw and feeling the belly expand. This resonated with the singers, and they found that with his imagery, they could actually take in more air.

The next suggestion Steven made related to how we warm up our voices throughout our vocal range. Many people start warming up in the low part of their voice and then gradually go up to the higher part of their range. Steven showed us how to make a big sigh by starting at the highest part of our voices and very gradually going all the way down to the low part, making the transition between the head voice and chest voice.

Once we were all warmed up, we sang one of our favorite ballads, “We Kiss in a Shadow” by Rodgers and Hammerstein, from The King and I. This melodic song has beautiful, long lines and it gives the singers plenty of time to sing on nice, open vowels. This time Steven’s suggestion was for me. He demonstrated how a conductor can elicit a beautiful phrase by creating an arc in the air for the singers to follow. Suddenly the singers could envision the entire phrase and sing the lines musically instead of focusing on each word individually. I could hear the difference immediately, and everyone felt as if they were really making music together.

Our second song was “From Monday On”, which is a peppy Dixieland melody that we use as our closing song each Monday. We wrote some new words to the song. Our last line is “We’re gonna start shouting Hey,Hey/Even with Parkinson's we’re okay/We'll be happy/from Monday on!” Steven helped us with our diction on this one as the words go by fairly quickly at this tempo. He had us visualize an entire theater audience in front of us, and the singers tried to project to words to the people sitting in the back of the house. This imagery made a huge difference.

Our last song was "Holy Ground” written by Craig Taubman. This has become one of our anthems, and our singers always request that we do this one. “All of life is holy ground/Can you feel the holy ground?/Take your shoes off/You're on holy ground.” The simplicity of the melody and the poignant lyrics are very touching and spiritual, and Steven was visibly moved by our performance. He showed us how to vary our dynamics (loud and soft) to highlight the different sections of the song and give it greater variety in the phrases.

I think we all floated out of our rehearsal that day, happy to have experienced the incredible talent of one of the preeminent choral conductors in Boston and proud of ourselves for rising to the occasion and to have improved our singing as we made music together. Thank you to Steven for sharing your gifts with us!

We hope that this will be just the beginning of our relationship with Steven and the Masterworks Chorale. Stay tuned for news of an exciting collaboration!

Marilyn Okonow is the volunteer conductor of Tremble Clefs choral group, a program of JF&CS Parkinson’s Family Support. Marilyn engages the singers with great sincerity and heartfelt warmth and acceptance. She creates a sense of community and makes each participant feel welcome and appreciated. Marilyn has a masters degree in Music Education from the New England Conservatory.

Envision Your Future in Your Current Home

Tue, 16 Jun 2015 14:54:37 GMT

Posted by Kathy Burnes

Universal design seems like a no brainer. Who wouldn’t want to live in a home and community environment that is flexible, easy to use, and requires minimal physical effort across the lifespan? Think of a sidewalk curb cut. It’s a simple and ubiquitous design that has universal utility.

JF&CS and the Salem Council on Aging hosted Envision Your Future in Your Current Home at Salem State University on June 4 for older adults on the North Shore to learn about the importance and feasibility of adapting their current home environment.

Valerie Fletcher, executive director of the Institute for Human Centered Design (ICHD), gave a fascinating presentation that introduced the concepts of universal design, provided an education on exciting design developments around the world, and offered practical low-cost solutions that enhance comfort, confidence, and a sense of control.

Though there was a ton of great information, here are five practical takeaways:

Though aging does not cause falls, falls are the leading cause of injury-related death for adults age 65 and older. Most falls occur in the home and stairs are a major cause. Try using non-slip adhesive strips on stairs, install railings on both sides of stairs, eliminate overhangs on steps, and provide a contrast color at the edge of the stair to make it easier to see.
Light is critical for vision and mood. The amount of light we need at 20 years of age doubles at 40 and doubles again at 60. Maximizing daylight whenever possible and introducing it into the home from more than one direction (skylights, opposing walls) can help. Balance natural light with electric lighting using LED bulbs to immerse the space with light and minimize shadows. Task lighting for reading, sewing, working on crossword puzzles, etc. should be located above and behind the person and should provide multiple levels of brightness.
Check out Washlets (made by Toto), also known as bidet toilets, a highly advanced system in hygiene and comfort. As people get older and frailer, it’s harder for them to perform good personal hygiene and it’s often a triggering reason – think urinary tract infections – for a move into a skilled nursing facility or a trip to the hospital. They are used everywhere in Japan and are engineered to improve ease of use for people of all ages and abilities.
Visit ICHD in Boston (near North Station). It’s a cool place. You will be able to experience not only the Washlet but other universally designed products!
Variation in ability is ordinary, not special, and affects most of us for at least part of our lives. So we must become "user/experts." We can’t expect effective design without the input of people whose abilities are different than the norm and who know where design fails and what works. We are the change agents in making universal design principles a normal part of community living!

Embracing the Journey at the Women’s Breakfast

Fri, 12 Jun 2015 11:08:32 GMT

Posted by the JF&CS Events Team

Yesterday morning, more than 450 guests gathered at Congregation Mishkan Tefila to celebrate the important work of the Center for Early Relationship Support^® (CERS) at the JF&CS Women’s Breakfast. The morning’s featured guest speaker was Cheryl Strayed, author of the #1 New York Times bestselling memoir, Wild.

We raised more than $200,000 to help CERS continue to promote the best possible infant-parent relationship and address the many complex needs of families in the early years of their babies’ lives.

Thank you to all those who helped make the Women’s Breakfast a huge success - chair Penny Goodman, honorary co-chair Audrey Schuster, guest speaker Cheryl Strayed, the Women’s Breakfast event committee, AE Events, Artistic Blossoms, Congregation Mishkan Tefila, Grossman Marketing, sponsors, ticket buyers, table hosts, board members, old friends and new. Your generosity continues to make CERS a unique and invaluable program in our community.

Salsa, Sangria, and Dementia

Wed, 10 Jun 2015 09:00:29 GMT

Posted by Beth Soltzberg

Last Thursday, 15 people gathered in a festive, private room at Jose’s Mexican Restaurant in Cambridge to delve into the difficult topic of coping with a parent’s dementia. Joanne Peskowitz, care manager for JF&CS Your Elder Experts, and I facilitated a lively discussion that ranged from laughter to tears as participants shared their concerns and hard-won wisdom.

Those involved in a parent’s care are often juggling many responsibilities. They are dealing with an ongoing emotional and practical upheaval, but they tend to have very little time to get support. By holding this event in a wonderful restaurant with delicious food, we hoped to offer a nice evening out along with support and information.

Topics discussed included the varied ways that families respond to dementia, the importance of recognizing the particular grief that comes when dementia alters a relationship, and ways to keep people with dementia and their care partners socially connected and engaged in pursuits that hold meaning for them. The following points came up again and again during the evening:

Listening with a truly open mind is the best way to figure out what a parent’s needs are.
Even when someone’s words don’t make sense, you can “listen” to behavior and nonverbal communication.
This is a very hard journey. Care partners struggle with the sometimes perplexing and challenging ways that dementia has changed their relationship with their parent and often with other family members as well.
There is no perfect way to “do” this. Care partners need support and to be forgiving and compassionate toward themselves as they cope with a parent’s evolving symptoms and needs.

If you’re interested in joining the discussion, you can join us at Balancing Act, a monthly evening support group for adults whose parent has dementia. The group meets monthly at JF&CS Headquarters in Waltham. For more information, please contact Beth at bsoltzberg@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5628.

Beth Soltzberg, LCSW, MBA, manages the Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support program and works as a coordinator with the Parkinson’s Family Support Program. These programs of Jewish Family & Children’s Service encompass support, education, and the arts.Beth’s work includes facilitating caregiver support and education groups, and designing new offerings for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Beth earned her MSW and MBA from the University of Chicago and a certificate in end-of-life care from the Smith College School of Social Work. She holds an advanced credential in hospice and palliative care social work.

The Healing Power of Dance

Wed, 03 Jun 2015 12:34:08 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“Music is primal,” explains Art Sullivan, resident dance instructor at JF&CS. “It is the last memory there when all the others are gone. It resides in the same part of the brain as our primal fears. It triggers memories residing deep within the core of the brain.”

When music is combined with physical movement in the form of dance, studies have shown that it can have a positive, healthy effect on humans. Starting with the premise that the body, mind, and spirit are interconnected, dance can be an effective healing technique for people with developmental, medical, social, physical, and psychological impairments. It uses the body’s movement as a door to mental and physical well-being.

Art sets movement to music specifically selected depending on the make-up of his classes. “If I’m leading the elderly, I use music from the Great American Songbook because it is familiar to them and brings back happy memories. Similarly, if Alzheimer’s patients are involved, music from their youth can bring a very favorable response,” he adds.

A recent study led by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that certain human experiences like dancing can actually turn on genes that facilitate growth in the human brain and can actually stop or slow the production of “amyloid plaques” (the significant factor of Alzheimer’s disease ) in the brain.

Dance has been shown to help other populations, as well. For children with autism spectrum disorders, it can build new motor, behavior, and communication skills. It has also shown great success with people suffering from addiction, substance abuse, eating disorders, and depression and can help those recovering from psychological trauma who may have difficulty verbalizing their feelings.

Even people with chronic illnesses and immunosuppressed people can benefit from dance. The “Lebed Method” is a movement program designed by doctors to promote drainage of the lymphatic system and increase range of motion -- problems often faced by those who have undergone treatment and surgery for breast cancer.

Art Sullivan is trained in the Lebed Method and is currently developing a way to incorporate some of these dance techniques into his work with people with Parkinson’s disease. He also offers a class for seniors who have fallen and broken bones. “They’re afraid of moving because of mental trauma. I get them to do simple, slow movements to music, starting from a seated position. We stretch and then we coordinate opposite movements. I try to get them to visualize their movements in their own homes and to be less dependent on mobility devices, canes, and walkers,” he explains. “In time, they conquer their fears.”

“What I do is not about a performance,” adds Art. “I’m not looking for them to be perfect. I want to bring them out of isolation, whether it’s at JF&CS or at a nursing home. I see people from different backgrounds come together and continue to socialize after class. Aside from the therapeutic benefits, it’s just fun for them – they don’t even realize that it’s exercise.”

Please contact Art Sullivan at asullivan@jfcsboston.org for more information.

Jon Federman is the JF&CS Staff Writer. A practicing attorney for more than 15 years, he is thrilled to bring his legal and persuasive writing skills to the JF&CS Marketing Communications department. Jon has a BA from Tufts University and a JD from Boston College Law School. In his spare time he is an exhibiting photographer and an award-winning cartoonist. Jon lived in London, England for five years before returning to Boston in 2011.

Q&A with John Wills

Fri, 29 May 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Shared by John Wills

Tell us what you do at JF&CS and how you got here.
I am the Manager of Employment Programs for JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities & Mental Illness.

Pathways to Employment supports adults with disabilities in developing their “soft skills,” or social skills, as they relate to the world of employment. The participants of this program are given the opportunity to volunteer with one of our community partners so they can practice hands on working skills followed by classroom sessions to discuss relevant topics and practice the new skills. As the participants spend time in the program and work on their specific individualized goals we begin the process of pursuing competitive employment.

Meaningful Days supports adults with disabilities in pursuing meaningful activities in their lives. Participants of this program often go through Pathways to Employment prior to receiving services through Meaningful Days. We are committed to developing a thorough understanding of each participant’s support needs, employment desires, and skills. From developing a resume to searching for jobs to preparing for an interview, we do everything we can to ensure the individual has the tools for success and has identified a job that is a good match for their skills and experience. Once a job offer is made we provide on job support by working with the employers to assist with training and act as a support and advocate for the entire length of employment.

I’ve been with JF&CS for more than five years. I started as a Program Coordinator for CHAI Works. Previously I worked at an inpatient psychiatric unit for adolescents as a mental health specialist. Before I entered the human services field, I worked as a cook for several restaurants and a painter for several contractors.

Share one of your favorite experiences at JF&CS.
Every day at JF&CS is exciting and challenging so it is difficult to pick a favorite, but the first time I was able to find someone a job was probably the best. The individual had many skills but very little support to help with social or employment activities. We worked together for just shy of a year and found him a job that matched his skills, and I am happy to say that he is still gainfully employed to this day!

When you’re not working, what would we find you doing?
Riding or working on my motorcycle, kayaking/fishing, working in my yard/garden, and cooking/grilling. Also, my wife and I recently became the proud owners of a 120-year-old and very dated house, so much of my free time is spent utilizing the skills I developed as a painter to brighten and update our living spaces.

What’s your favorite movie?
Either Back to the Future or Donnie Darko. They are very different movies but both have awesome soundtracks and are about time travel, which I find fascinating.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a baseball player or a motocross (dirt bike) racer.

Family Circle Newsletter

Tue, 26 May 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Posted by Caitlin Bohara

The Family Circle Newsletter, created by JF&CS and funded by the HALO Foundation, provides a wealth of up-to-date information about services, benefits, support groups, workshops, and other resources that help families meet the challenges of raising a child with disabilities.

This edition of the Family Circle Newsletter explores the outdoors as well as some great events and activities offered in Greater Boston for children, adults, and the entire family. Take advantage of the wonderful spring weather before it is gone!

The Family Circle Newsletter includes the following information:

JF&CS Family Swim Program
Accessible Recreation Fair
Boston Children's Museum Magic and Dance Show
Museum of Fine Arts Artful Healing
Mass Audubon
Resources

The organizations and websites are listed as a public service and are not endorsed, recommended, or validated by the H.A.L.O. Foundation or JF&CS.

To sign up for the newsletter or for more information, contact Caitlin Bohara at cbohara@jfcsboston.org or 781-647-JFCS (5327).

Caitlin Bohara has been in the field of developmental disabilities and mental health for five years. Before coming to JF&CS, Caitlin worked in Connecticut with young adults with mental illness in a residential setting, assisting them with daily living skills, employment, social activities, and individualized goals. Prior to working in Connecticut, Caitlin attended the University of Massachusetts, Amherst where she studied psychology. Currently she works for Services for People with Disabilities and Mental Illness as the Community Programs Manager, overseeing the Family Support program as well as some residential programs.

Why I Volunteer at the Memory Café

Wed, 20 May 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Posted by Leah Levine

When I found out that my grandmother had Alzheimer’s disease, I was too young to understand. In my ten years of life, I had learned that ‘disease’ meant ‘sick,’ and sickness was cured by a few simple things: medicine, soup, and rest. My parents gently explained that these usually reliable methods wouldn’t help my grandmother; she wasn’t going to get better.

Alzheimer’s disease is the only leading cause of death in the United States that cannot be prevented, cured, or even slowed (alz.org). It causes memory loss, confusion, and difficulty functioning. This progressive disease leads to a complete loss of ability to respond and eventually death.

I was not told these details then, but I learned over the years as I watched my grandmother slowly lose her ability to walk, feed herself, and even speak. When she moved to a facility, visits were scary at first; I hung back with my little sister and observed from a distance. My grandmother had been a math teacher, teaching middle and high school students after earning a graduate degree in mathematics, a rare accomplishment for a woman at the time. Now her abilities to add, subtract, and multiply, along with her interests in cooking, knitting, and community service, were eclipsed by this terrible disease. My grandmother loved babies and children and took enormous joy in her grandchildren. On one visit, as I hugged her goodbye, her eyes suddenly focused on me, and I heard her whisper “Pussycat…so… so beautiful… love… love you.” And for a second, however brief, there was a small glimmer of recognition in her eyes.

Since then, I have been determined to find a way to help. In high school, I volunteered at an assisted living facility dedicated to those with the disease, reading stories and running activities. Though the residents needed help walking and remembering where their rooms were, they had incredible stories and life advice to offer me each week.

Last spring, I volunteered at the first JF&CS Memory Café through a community service club at Brandeis University. The café gives people with dementia the chance to relax, drink coffee, and converse in a situation free of the pressure of everyday life coping with the disease.

My grandmother passed away a few months ago. With Alzheimer’s disease, you lose your loved ones twice. Although we lost her slowly to the disease’s symptoms years ago, this was different. Even though she couldn’t come to my bat mitzvah or high school graduation, make her special brownies for me and my sister, or even talk on the phone, I always counted on her presence in our lives. As my family went through this loss, it only strengthened my resolve to help.

I am now active in a newly formed club at my university, Students to End Alzheimer’s Disease (SEAD), I have started a fundraiser in my grandmother’s honor, and I continue volunteering at the Memory Café. I believe that the most important way to help people struggling with this disease is to let them know they are not alone. The Memory Café has given me the opportunity to hear wonderful life stories from people coping with the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia. It also helps me remember the wonderful and vibrant woman my grandmother was.

Great Joy in Human Relationships

Mon, 18 May 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Posted by Betty Ann Miller as told to Jon Federman

When I was a teenager, I survived Stage III Hodgkins, a lymphatic system cancer. The intensive year-long radiation and chemotherapy left me weakened and prone to chronic medical issues. Those challenges deepened my compassion for others and eventually drew me to JF&CS - first as a client and then as an active supporter.

In 2001, I participated as a client in a Jewish Healing Connections (JHC) spiritual support group for caregivers and people living with serious illness. I needed some professional emotional support for managing my daily life. Almost everybody has moments that are unbearable, but there are some of us who live in those times more often than not. That supportive experience was profoundly important to me at the time.

I was so impressed and moved by the program’s mission that after my support group ended, I became a member of the newly created JHC advisory committee in 2002. I transitioned from someone who came to JF&CS to be helped to someone who could be a creator of the next wave of supportive activities for others. I personally feel very connected to the kinds of experiences that folks have when they’re in difficult times. The opportunity to comfort, listen, and be present with another person in moments of loneliness or distress is profoundly meaningful. I feel honored to be part of JHC, whose mission is just that.

Many people don’t have support systems, loved ones, resources, or community. I want to be one of the voices who says "don’t forget them, help support them." I try to raise awareness and get people involved in helping others in the Jewish community who are dealing with the challenges of illness, loss, and isolation. I have always found great joy in human relationships, especially in times of need, and I would like to continue to make a difference by helping people who are facing trauma and crisis in their daily lives.

That is why I’m passionate about Jewish Healing Connections and JF&CS.

Chaverim Shel Shalom Talent Night

Fri, 15 May 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Posted by Sandy Slavet

Talent is hard to define, but it is even harder to describe. At our recent Chaverim Shel Shalom Talent Night I didn’t have to define it, because I got to see it!

Members of Chaverim Shel Shalom (CSS), a social program for Jewish adults with psychiatric challenges, played guitar, sang, and even gave dramatic readings of their insights into modern times and its challenges. Performances included songs by Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, Rod Stewart, the Rolling Stones, Kool and the Gang, the Temptations, and the Beatles!

Those who didn’t perform were treated to singing, music, and entertainment. Throughout the evening, participates were invited to join by serving as back-up singers for the more lively numbers. There was no shortage of talent or courage, and it was a night of great fun. The event was so successful that folks want to add this to our regular activity schedule.

Talent may hard to define and describe, but our performers certainly made it clear that talent is alive and well at CSS!

Leaving a Legacy

Tue, 12 May 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Posted by Jon Federman

“Greg Baker was the kind of guy who always wanted to help others. He loved the fact that he was working for an organization that helped people,” says Greg’s mother, Rhonda Steeg. Now the Steegs are honoring Greg’s memory by making a bequest to JF&CS in their estate plan. “What better way to remember him than by doing something for JF&CS that will help bring more people like Greg into the community and ensure that they have meaningful, connected lives?” asks Rimma Zelfand, JF&CS CEO.

Greg first came to JF&CS as a client of its Services for People with Disabilities & Mental Illness program in 2008. Greg’s mother, Rhonda, had found the agency when she began looking into services for Greg, who had been diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of three and had undergone several invasive treatments and surgeries throughout the course of his life. He also suffered from a seizure disorder and learning disabilities.

JF&CS helped Greg live independently. His caseworkers, Jobe and Isa, assisted Greg with bills, insurance issues, and other day-to-day issues. He started working at Strawberries, the music and record store, but he was laid off when the company downsized. By the end of 2008, Greg started working at JF&CS in the Facilities department. There, he was responsible for keeping the building running, setting up meeting rooms, refilling the coffee and tea supply, watering plants, and recycling. He took his job very seriously and despite an extraordinarily lengthy commute from Brighton on public transportation, he was always careful to arrive for work on time.

His positive attitude, an inspiration to so many, came from his supportive parents. He embraced life despite its challenges. “We taught him no pity parties. Pick yourself up and keep going. He just wanted to get up, go to work, and live a normal life,” adds Rhonda.

In 2011, Greg’s health began to rapidly decline. He continued to work, even after medical treatments. Despite his weakened condition, he continued to think of others. Abdirisaaq Dalmar, JF&CS Supervising Facility Coordinator, recalls taking him home one day when he wasn’t feeling well. Greg, of course, stopped to help an elderly woman down the stairs before going inside his own building.

When Greg passed away in June 2011, his JF&CS family was devastated. In time, a memorial plaque with Greg’s likeness was put up at the entrance to the JF&CS Family Table food pantry. Greg had a special interest in Family Table, referring friends to the service and befriending the Family Table staff.

His connection to Family Table was so strong that Rhonda and her husband Carl Steeg, Greg’s father Harvey Baker, and stepmother Michelle started a fund at JF&CS in Greg’s memory to support the program.

“We cannot say enough about how much support everyone at JF&CS gave Greg,” says Rhonda. “When my husband Carl and I started having conversations about our estate plan, we wondered how we could help organizations that meant a lot to us through our legacy giving. We identified a handful of charities, and then we thought about what these groups had done for us and our family, and what they do for so many others.”

“JF&CS was as important to us as it was to Greg,” she explains. “We wanted to be able to support JF&CS as best we could, even after we’re gone. Making a bequest to JF&CS was a natural fit.”

“Greg’s optimism and good humor was something we learned to expect when we came to work each day,” adds Rimma. “With bequests like this, we can ensure that our mission lives on. It’s a wonderful way to honor Greg’s humanity and his connection to the JF&CS community. I hope that others will be inspired by the generosity of Rhonda and Carl Steeg to plan their estates with a bequest to JF&CS, as well.”

To learn more about making a bequest to JF&CS, please contact Wendy Wilsker at wwilsker@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5674.

Honoring Mothers Every Day

Fri, 08 May 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Posted by Peggy Kaufman

Recently several staff members from the Center for Early Relationship Support® (CERS) were discussing Mother’s Day. A clinician mentioned that one of the moms she works with decided to mark the day by sending a picture montage to her daughter’s birth mother. We wondered if others had heard from new mothers about their choices for Mother’s Day.

We learned that Tanji was looking forward to getting a family pass to the zoo and meeting up with her sisters and their children. Deidre was planning to hike Blue Hills in Milton with her partner. Since both were celebrating Mother’s Day, one would carry the baby up the trail and the other down. Sophia, at five weeks postpartum, requested not only breakfast in bed but a day in bed.

Many mothers have an idea of how they’d like to spend the day and be celebrated. Others do not want to partake. Some Mother’s Day plans meet expectations while others are so influenced by the media façade of delighted mothers, happy children, and smiling faces that disappointment is inevitable. No matter what the choice, we know that a plan is only a plan and the reality of what then transpires with babies and children and partners is another story.

In last Sunday’s Boston Globe, Robin Abrahams (Miss. Conduct) reminded readers that, regardless of how the day is celebrated, “Mother’s Day was made for mothers. You don’t exist to celebrate the holiday appropriately. The holiday exists to celebrate you.” At the Center for Early Relationship Support, we honor mothers every day. A woman does not become a mother only by giving birth, but by dealing with the complex feelings, experiences, and tasks that accompany motherhood. We celebrate all mothers, whatever their experiences, on Mother’s Day and throughout the year.

Peggy H. Kaufman, MEd, LICSW is the founding director of the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support. With a background in perinatal emotional health and the growth and development of parents, her interests include the earliest relationships. Ms. Kaufman is the recipient of multiple awards for her groundbreaking programs and her commitment to increase awareness of postpartum depression and maternal and infant mental health.

Nutrition Services Recipe

Tue, 05 May 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Posted by Jennifer Heinen

This Asparagus with Citrus and Oregano side dish will brighten up any meal. Along with adding fresh flavor, the oranges make this a great source of vitamin C. Try serving with grilled chicken and brown rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition Services provides recipes for clients, community partners, and the general public. Recipes cost $2.50 or less per serving and meet nutrition guidelines consistent with the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Visit the Nutrition Services recipe page or sign up to receive the recipe of the month in your inbox.

The Transformative Power of Changing Lives

Thu, 30 Apr 2015 12:00:00 GMT

JF&CS Volunteer News Spring 2015

We recently received a check for $20 from a six-year-old boy. The grandson of one of our Board members, he had volunteered with his family at JF&CS Family Table, New England’s largest kosher food pantry, and he was so moved that he decided to do more. Something about his experience as a volunteer struck a chord so deep within his six-year-old soul that he knew he had to continue on his mission to help those less fortunate in the community.

At JF&CS, we have many opportunities for volunteers to help others. Family Table regularly utilizes volunteers in all aspects of the collection and distribution of food to hungry families. Our award-winning Lauren and Mark Rubin® Visiting Moms program is dependent on volunteers who want to make a difference in the lives of new mothers. In 2014 alone, we had nearly 2,200 volunteers contribute almost 21,000 volunteer hours throughout the agency. Without these volunteers, many of our programs would cease to exist.

As we celebrate our 150th birthday this year, we continue to meet the ever-changing needs of our community. Our roster of new and innovative programs affords even more ways for potential volunteers to get involved with our agency. Shoulder to Shoulder offers peer-to-peer support for families faced with the unique challenges that accompany military service. Like the Visiting Moms program, trained volunteers are the backbone of this new service. Our new Challah Baking program brings synagogue volunteers together to bake fresh challahs and deliver them to people with disabilities in JF&CS supported living houses so that they can enjoy a traditional Jewish Shabbat.

Our volunteers even take existing programs in new directions so that more people can benefit. Our Parkinson’s Dance program now incorporates a wonderful volunteer who mimics the instructor in a seated position so that anyone can participate and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of dance and movement.

I often hear from our volunteers that they get back as much as they give and I truly believe that volunteerism empowers people, families, and children. By doing something that makes a difference in the life of another, a volunteer can realize the transformative power of changing lives. It teaches children about the social responsibility that comes with being an adult - and perhaps later in life, that child will be prepared to make a difference on a global scale. If one six-year-old has already discovered a passion for volunteering, imagine what he and others like him will do for our community in the future.

For more information, call 781-647-JFCS (5327) or email your questions via our contact us page.

Supporting Military Families

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 12:00:00 GMT

JF&CS Volunteer News Spring 2015

Since 9/11, thousands of Massachusetts residents have enlisted in the military, answering the call to serve. The conflicts of the past ten years and repeated deployments have affected military veterans and families alike. The stress of their time away and of rejoining their families has proved challenging.

JF&CS is reaching out to families of these veterans and active-duty military through an innovative new peer-to-peer program called Shoulder to Shoulder. Using the model created by the award-winning JF&CS Lauren and Mark Rubin Visiting Moms® program, Shoulder to Shoulder pairs trained volunteers with military families for weekly, one-hour visits in the home.

“The program will help to bridge the civilian-military gap that exists in our community, while addressing the unique challenges faced by veterans and their families,” said Jamie Grossman, founder of Shoulder to Shoulder, JF&CS Board member, and an active volunteer, advisor, and ambassador for the program. “This is a vulnerable community, suffering the invisible wounds of war.”

During deployment, the parent at home is left to manage household responsibilities, often while also continuing to work outside the home. Their coping skills are impressive, but the stress takes a toll. Challenges can emerge then or later when the service member returns. Combat stress (also called post-traumatic stress) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are the signature “invisible wounds” of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. It has been estimated that these invisible wounds affect one in three veterans.

Many military families in New England are part of the National Guard and Reserve. As a result, military families here do not have a large base community, and that can be isolating. In Massachusetts, military children may be the only child in their school who has a parent or another family member who is serving.

“There’s an absence of military culture in this region. We don’t see military families coming and going as visibly and many feel alone in their experiences,” said Jamie. “We want them to know that we care and provide access to the many different services available at JF&CS.”

Shoulder to Shoulder supports families of those who have served since 9/11, regardless of their time of service or discharge status, from all branches of service. Key to the program are the military-connected volunteers who are trained by Shoulder to Shoulder staff to help identify strengths and improve the family’s resiliency by providing support and encouragement. They bring their unique perspective as members of the military community who understand the pressures of military life. It is the only volunteer program in Massachusetts that provides extended free care to military families in the home.

“We provide empathetic, non-judgmental support for families that we already know are strong,” said Jamie. “Our goal is to help improve coping strategies and optimism.

In addition, two veterans have joined the JF&CS staff to manage the day-to-day operations, training, and outreach for the program. Stacie Fredriksson, Program Manager, served fourteen years in the Air Force on active duty before transferring to the Air Force Reserves where she has served the last eight years. Amy Leah Bonneau, Clinical Program Manager and Outreach Coordinator, is a member of the Massachusetts Army National Guard and served in the Vermont Army National Guard for seven years, during which time she deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan. Following her deployment she received her MSW from Boston University.

“Resiliency is a trait you can learn and build on over time,” said Stacie. “This is the only long-term home visiting program with a goal of strengthening families and giving them the tools to be resilient. We’re not giving advice, we’re teaching skills and connecting families to resources.”

“I’m very proud of our agency for putting resources behind this program. What we are doing is innovative,” added Jamie. “Military families have served us, now it’s our turn to serve them.”

Interesting in volunteering? Contact Lauren Schleicher, Manager of Volunteer Services at volunteers@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5576.

Sharing a Love of Dance

Tue, 28 Apr 2015 12:00:00 GMT

JF&CS Volunteer News Spring 2015

Dancing is an expression of joy. Throughout history, people have gathered to dance – to celebrate, to move, and to be together. JF&CS volunteer Peggy Wacks has been dancing her whole life: ballet as a child and modern, folk, and jazz as an adult. Every week for almost four years, she’s been sharing her love for dance with the participants of the JF&CS Parkinson’s Family Support dance program.

“It’s a wonderful group and it helps so many people. It’s not just the dancing, it’s the support,” said Peggy. “Dance contributes to their well-being -- physically, mentally, socially, in every way!”

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that causes trembling, rigidity, and slowness of movement that typically gets worse over the years. Parkinson’s Family Support offers a way for people at all stages of the disease to enjoy the pleasure of music, movement, and togetherness.

“The dance program is an opportunity for people to become part of a community and feel connected,” said Nancy Mazonson, Director, Parkinson's Family Support. “With Parkinson’s, people become socially isolated. This is an upbeat place to meet other people.”

A retired pathologist who lives in Lexington, Peggy brings a unique combination of medical and dance skills to the program. She’s a member of "Dance'n Feet,” a group of ten women in their 60s and 70s who practice modern jazz and acrobatics every week and “perform whenever we can” at local dance festivals such as Mayfair in Harvard Square and the Dance for World Community festival.

Peggy loves dancing with the thirty or more people who gather each week at JF&CS Headquarters, driving through snow, sleet, or rain for a two-hour session of movement and conversation.

“Peggy always has a smile on her face and has a great personality,” said Nancy. “She loves to dance and adds tremendous life to the program.”

Art Sullivan, a country western dancer trained in Parkinson’s dance, leads the group through a series of moves set to all types of music including modern, country and western, pop, classics, Hawaiian, Bollywood, and show tunes. Wearing upbeat and colorful dance costumes and occasionally a sparkly pink hat, Peggy sits in the middle of the circle and follows Art’s movements, demonstrating a slower, seated version of what he is doing so that everyone can participate.

“She makes it as much of an offering as what Art’s doing. She puts a lot of heart into what she does and she makes people feel valued,” said Nancy.

Within the class there is a wide range of abilities. As participants dance, some standing and some in wheelchairs, they work on balance and multi-tasking while doing complicated movements. No matter what challenges they face, , the participants love dancing and being together. One woman said, “I come because I get so much out of it.” Another added, “I just come to watch Peggy dance.”

Peggy feels that because she is the same age as many participants, she normalizes their experience. “I’m the only volunteer who’s the age of the people in the group. It’s nice to see someone their age. They identify with me.” She added, “People respond me and say wonderful things like ‘I look at you and I can follow along’ and ‘You help me.’”

Peggy’s energy and enthusiasm are a great gift to the dance program. She loved her work as a pathologist and thought that she would miss it when she retired. But, unsurprisingly, she has become an active volunteer for organizations throughout Greater Boston and has even started taking lessons in – what else? -- tap dance!

For more information, call 781-647-JFCS (5327) or email your questions via our contact us page.

Let’s Make a Match

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 12:00:00 GMT

JF&CS Volunteer News Spring 2015

When Lauren Schleicher was only ten years old, she wrote an essay that appeared as a letter to the editor in the Jewish Journal. The essay was about her father - who was her hero because he was a volunteer for many different local organizations and causes, and because he gave back so much to the community. Lauren recalls with pride how both of her parents were "professional volunteers," serving on numerous boards and committees, including Cohen Hillel Academy, and leading JCC "Super Sunday" events. She remembers how she and her family would volunteer at My Brother’s Table, a soup kitchen in Lynn, and how as a teen, she babysat free of charge for a local family that could not afford a babysitter. "Both my parents were very philanthropic, not only with their money, but also with their time," she explains. "They were both my heroes and I'm thrilled to work in an environment where volunteerism is so highly valued."

Lauren previously worked in the JF&CS Development department where she enjoyed working with donors and getting to know them in a professional setting. As Manager of Volunteer Services, she gets to incorporate those people skills along with her passion for volunteering. "I like forming relationships and meeting great people - people who love this agency and what it does," she emphasizes. "My goal is to get to know volunteers and potential volunteers so that their participation is not just a one-time thing. Each volunteer should feel special and needed."

A native of Marblehead, Massachusetts, Lauren attended Hofstra University, majoring in sociology. She then found herself working as a talent agent for Broadway performers at the renowned William Morris Agency in Manhattan and then at Sames & Rollnick. Eventually, she moved back to the Boston area to be closer to her family and because she felt like she wasn't "contributing or giving back" to the community.

A devoted (or even obsessed) Boston Red Sox fan, she met her husband, a graphic designer, through a Red Sox chat room. Together since 2008, they married in 2011 and had a daughter, Olivia, in 2012. Lauren's quick wit becomes apparent when she notes that although "Olivia doesn't volunteer yet, she shares well."

"I encourage anyone reading this who wants to volunteer and become a part of the JF&CS family to contact me so we can learn about your skills and interests to find what suits you. Let’s make a match!” adds Lauren.

Interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities at JF&CS? Please contact Lauren Schleicher at lschleicher@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5576.

Sharing Shabbat

Thu, 23 Apr 2015 12:00:00 GMT

JF&CS Volunteer News Spring 2015

Flour, yeast, eggs, oil, salt, sugar, and water… a few simple ingredients of a traditional challah bread can fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma. Whether you bake your own or pick up a loaf on your way home, challah brings people together.

Now through a new JF&CS Challah Baking program, volunteers at temples throughout Greater Boston are gathering to bake and deliver challah and share Shabbat dinner with adults with disabilities.

“Our goal is to be able to provide a Shabbat experience for adults with disabilities who live in the community and an opportunity for congregants to meet and share Jewish life experiences,” said Sandy Slavet, Director of JF&CS Jewish Life Services for People with Disabilities.

In honor of its Jewish traditions, JF&CS hosts this special meal for residents of its seven supported living houses. With Sandy’s help, residents take part in the candle lighting ceremony, Kiddush, and Motzi, and eat Shabbat dinner together several times a month. The dinners are an important way for adults living in a JF&CS program or receiving staff support from JF&CS to spend time together and enjoy this ancient ritual.

The Challah Baking program is a new way for volunteers to get involved. On Thursdays, volunteers meet at their temple to braid and bake the challah. The following night, they deliver the challah to a local supported living house, where residents of that house and other supported living houses in the area gather to welcome Shabbat.

The program was initiated by JF&CS volunteer Jennifer Gorman, a member of the Services for People with Disabilities advisory committee and chair of the JF&CS volunteer task force. Jennifer loves to bake and wanted to create a connection to the disabilities community.

“I had an idea to get into temples to do challah baking with youth groups and have them come to dinner,” said Jennifer.

“Adults with disabilities are a part of our population that needs to be respected. I think young adults don’t quite know how to interact,” she added. “Shabbat is a natural and easy way. They see that these adults sing the songs just like they do. It grabs my heart.”

During the pilot, teens from Temple Sinai of Sharon gathered to braid and bake the challah, which they delivered to a residence in Norwood the following night, joining the residents for dinner.

“It was very fun. We did different types of braiding. Some put raisins in. It was very creative and the kids enjoyed it,” said Jennifer. “We made enough so that each resident went home with a challah.”

Like most good things, challah takes time and patience. With wisdom acquired at challah bake-offs, Jennifer is looking forward to watching the program grow like dough in a bowl. She encourages everyone to get involved, saying, “JF&CS is the greatest and the team is incredible. There’s a place for everybody at JF&CS.”

You’re invited!
To find out how you and your temple can participate in Challah Baking, please contact Lauren Schleicher, Manager of Volunteer Services, at volunteers@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5576.

Aging Well at Roxbury Tenants of Harvard

Tue, 21 Apr 2015 12:00:00 GMT

Posted by Kathy Burnes

I was recently at a party talking with a friend who is about to celebrate her 50th birthday. We were sharing our perspectives on the experience of growing older. Inevitably we got to talking about the kind of living situation we want for ourselves in our “later years.”

It’s a familiar topic of conversation. What do we do when the day-to-day activities and responsibilities we can handle now become more challenging? I shared with her a new initiative I am working on at JF&CS that offers insight into what’s possible.

We are about to launch Aging Well at Roxbury Tenants of Harvard (RTH), a partnership between JF&CS and RTH. RTH provides affordable housing, social and education services, workforce development, and community activism for more than 2,000 residents living in the Mission Hill community of Boston. Aging Well at RTH was developed with and for more than 600 older residents. Its goal is to provide services that make everyday life easier, safer, and more satisfying.

Ashley Boyd, the JF&CS Aging Well Program Coordinator, will train RTH Community Liaisons who are residents of RTH. They will receive a stipend from RTH to deliver hassle-busting services that seniors want. To start, Aging Well at RTH will help residents with organizing, cleaning, and moving tasks that are involved in preparing for regularly scheduled housing inspections and pest control. More support with tasks will be offered as the program develops.

My friend was intrigued by my explanation and she especially liked the term hassle-busting. Our conversation gave her a handle on what could help us to keep living where we want to as we age. For me, I was once again reminded how often my personal and professional lives are entwined!

Yom Hashoah at JF&CS

Thu, 16 Apr 2015 14:41:00 GMT

Posted by Elyse Rast

Yesterday, JF&CS employees joined together at JF&CS Headquarters to commemorate Yom Hashoah, hearing from Schechter Holocaust Services Advisory Committee member and Holocaust survivor, Jack Trompetter. At the end of the program, I shared the following with all in attendance:

Sunday was Boston’s Holocaust Commemoration at Faneuil Hall, which JF&CS proudly co-sponsored with other leading Holocaust agencies. The program was entitled Liberation: From Darkness to Light, since this year marks the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the death camps and the end of the Holocaust and WWII.

I brought my two children to the commemoration since the messages imparted were important reminders about remembering the past while creating a better present day. I asked my 13-year-old son why I brought him and his sister along, and he responded in a typical, sullen adolescent way that he had to go because I made him and because he’s learning about the Holocaust in school. When pushed further, he responded that it would help him learn empathy and he would be a kinder person. That night I realized the program’s impact when I saw him reading The Diary of Anne Frank.

One of the first speakers at the event, Rolf Schuette, the Consul General of Germany to New England, advised the audience to, “Remember. Do not forget. Tell the story of darkness. And take action.”

My favorite speaker was Max Michelson, a long-time member of the JF&CS Schechter Holocaust Services Advisory Committee. Max spoke beautifully about his experiences during the war and ended his speech with a call to action. He said that after 70 years, anti-Semitism is back and Jews are being treated like “historical children perpetually crying wolf.” Max continued by saying that everyone has a duty to be vigilant, learn what is happening around Europe, and to a lesser degree the US, and to vigorously stand up to Holocaust deniers and to those who hate Jews.

One last person I want to mention is the winner of the Israel Arbeiter Holocaust Essay Contest, Donaldo Jean-Baptiste, a senior at Malden High School. His essay was about standing up wherever there is injustice and always speaking your mind, especially when it’s difficult. This is an admirable thing for anyone to say; however, it was especially commendable in this case since Donaldo’s mother and father were killed during the war in the Republic of Congo. He saw unspeakable violence and suffering, including at age 11 when he witnessed the day his school was turned into a slaughter house. Donaldo concluded his essay saying, “Until the end of my last breath, I swore to myself that I would never be silent whenever and wherever I saw human beings endure suffering and humiliation of any kind.”

These four comments from Sunday’s program stood out to me because they offered similar messages from four very different people.

My son, Jake, lives with both his parents in an affluent Boston suburb and sees the world very differently from Donaldo who grew up in poverty during a war. However, both understood the importance of remembering the past and looking at the world with an empathetic eye.

The Consul General of Germany and a Holocaust survivor also see the world from two very different vantage points, but both offered messages of vigilance and action.

Personally, I think we need to see the world from all these perspectives. We need to be kind and empathetic to those in need while always remaining aware of what’s happening in the world around us.

Chaverim Shel Shalom’s Paint Night

Tue, 14 Apr 2015 14:09:00 GMT

Posted by Sandy Slavet

At last month’s Chaverim Shel Shalom Nosh & Learn, a social program for Jewish adults with psychiatric challenges, our gathering was transformed into a creative art festival. Our participants became budding artists and got their creative juices flowing to paint their own version of a painting of a vase and flowers. As adults, it was a little daunting - kids seem to be less inhibited or intimated by an empty canvas and a table full of paints. But when participants realized there were no blue ribbons, no trophies, and no Arts and Culture reporter from the Boston Globe, everyone was able to relax and welcome the challenge.

We had only four rules:

You must use the model picture.
No criticizing anyone’s work.
No criticizing your own work.
Enjoy!

All the rules were followed and the results were amazing. Every picture captured the model but also reflected each individual’s talent and imagination. Vibrant colors and varying uses of space and contrast showed that there is no limit to the unique perceptions we each have.

Sandy Slavet is the Director of Jewish Life Servies for People with Disabilities. Sandy works with CHAI and CHAI Works participants providing social, educational, and Jewish programs including Shabbat and Jewish holiday celebrations as well as participation in community activities at local synagogues and other community locations. She also leads several social programs for adults with disabilities including Chaverim Shel Shalom, Chaverim Chaim (Friends for Life), and Jewish Signers of Massachsetts. Before coming to JF&CS in 2001, Sandy was an ASL Interpreter in private practice. Sandy is active in many community organizations and is an active member of her synagogue. Most importantly, she and her husband, Joe, have four wonderful daughters; her youngest daughter, Marie, is a beautiful 26-year-old who happens to have Down Syndrome.

Coming Soon to a Plate Near You

Thu, 09 Apr 2015 18:41:00 GMT

Posted by Bianca Tamburello

If you want to improve your health and the health of the environment, you might be happy to see proposed changes to the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which are updated every five years. This is the first time some of the proposed recommendations are rooted in food sustainability and environmental practices.

Be Green to be Healthy
The proposed changes explain that a plant-based diet is associated with “lower greenhouse gas emissions and more favorable land, water, and energy use.” A plant-based diet includes more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes, and fewer animal-based products.

If the proposed updates are passed, they have the potential for large-scale environmental impact. This is because the Dietary Guidelines are taught by health professionals and serve as the backbone of federal nutrition programs.

Eggs are Back Again
The days of splitting egg yolks from whites may be ending soon. Restricting dietary cholesterol to the current recommended limit of 300 mg/day may not help prevent heart disease in all people. Research shows that for 70% of people, eating three eggs per day does not cause an increase in blood cholesterol. Always check with your doctor if you choose to eat more foods that are high in cholesterol.

View all the additional proposed changes to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Bianca is a dietetic intern on her way to becoming a Registered Dietitian. She started working with JF&CS Nutrition Services in February and has enjoyed learning more about the unique food and nutrition programming at JF&CS and developing her skills as a future nutrition professional. Bianca is working with JF&CS Family Table and has helped promote the new cookbook, Home Cooking without a Kitchen. Prior to her time at JF&CS, Bianca worked with Boston University’s Sargent Choice Nutrition Center, the New England Dairy and Food Council, and the Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center at Tufts University.

Taking the First Step

Tue, 07 Apr 2015 14:34:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2015

Of the many Passover stories told at this time of year, one in particular reminds me of JF&CS and our mission to help vulnerable people. When the Jews were fleeing Egypt led by Moses, they found themselves at the Red Sea with the Egyptian army in hot pursuit. They had nowhere to go. If they turned around, they would be killed by the approaching Egyptians, yet the sea was impassable. No one dared approach the sea for fear of drowning. As Moses prayed, a brave man named Nachshon took the first step and walked into the water. At first, the water reached his knees, then waist, then neck, and then mouth. At the very last moment, when he was certain he would drown, the Red Sea parted and the Jews were able to make it to the other side unharmed.

Nachshon’s faith allowed him to take the first step into those threatening waters. Like Nachshon, our clients take a big first step in contacting us. JF&CS is then able to determine the next step to serve the needs of the client. Our various programs, often in combination with other Jewish and community agencies, come together so that the client’s obstacles will quickly recede just as the water receded for Nachshon at the Red Sea.

We rely on strategic partnerships with organizations such as the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany and the Dorot Foundation that bring critical financial assistance to Holocaust survivors. We also depend on Combined Jewish Philanthropies and many other generous individuals and organizations to help us improve the quality of life for those most vulnerable in our community. Our Schechter Holocaust Services program helps elderly survivors of Nazi persecution with war reparation payments, Claims Conference applications, benefits, and social programming. Jewish Healing Connections provides support and solace during times of loss as well as a spiritual connection throughout life. The Friendly Visitor Program matches caring volunteers with frail, isolated elders to provide companionship and a treasured connection to the Jewish community. We offer Shabbat dinners for people with disabilities and Passover Seders for seniors and adults with mental illnesses.

Once someone in need takes the first step to contact us, we take the next step so that impediments to a happy and fulfilling life can be removed. We want people to be able to "make it over to the other side" with faith in themselves, self-respect, and skill sets that will allow them to thrive, not just live. This is what we have been doing for 150 years -- through waves of immigration, the Chelsea Fire, the depression, the Holocaust, and the recent economic crisis. And, together with our partners in the Jewish community, we strive to encourage even more positive change in the years to come.

For more information, call 781-647-JFCS (5327) or email your questions via our contact us page.

A Voice for Survivors

Mon, 06 Apr 2015 14:42:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2015

When JF&CS President-elect David Schechter attended a Hakalah dinner a decade ago, he had no idea that JF&CS even had a Holocaust Services program, let alone that it had already existed for ten years. A JF&CS Board member since 2003, David listened attentively that evening to a story told by Holocaust survivor Dr. Robert Berger. "His story inspired me to get involved," says David. Shortly afterwards, David made a substantial donation to JF&CS, specifying that the entire amount go to the Hakalah/Holocaust Services program. He still remains an active, supportive member of the Advisory Committee.

Schechter Holocaust Services (SHS), as it is known today, relies primarily on funding from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany as well as philanthropic sources like the Dorot Foundation to achieve its goals. SHS ensures that survivors of Nazi persecution can age with dignity, preserve their self-respect, and enjoy a sense of independence. The program provides comprehensive no-cost assistance to survivors, including emergency financial assistance, homecare subsidies, assistance with reparations and restitution of assets, and advocacy and help accessing community resources.

The social part of the program includes Café Hakalah, a monthly social and cultural gathering of Holocaust survivors, and the Holiday Visitor program, where volunteers visit survivors on major Jewish holidays and maintain ongoing contact with survivors in need of companionship. They also participate in the annual Chanukkah and Passover events coordinated by JF&CS Jewish Healing Connections.

"We are passionate about making a difference in the lives of people who experienced such tragic events. We are a voice for survivors, when needed, so that they can live with dignity," explains Carol Laibson, SHS Case Manager.

Clients range in age from their 70s to 100. With age, they often become frailer and have increasing needs. "Our goal is to ensure that every survivor can remain in the living situation of their choice," says Elyse Rast, SHS Manager of Outreach and Education. "We are tremendously successful when we utilize flexible resources to meet the needs of our clients," Elyse emphasizes. Carol adds, "We act as a comprehensive safety net for survivors. We try to find every resource possible, both within JF&CS and outside the agency. It does take a village.'"

One recent story demonstrates how the many different departments at JF&CS act in concert to help survivors. Chaya* is an 89-year-old survivor from Germany who came to this country alone at the age of nine. She lived in foster homes until she married at 18.

Chaya has been a JF&CS client for many years. Early on, her SHS case manager helped her obtain financial assistance for heat, food, clothing, telephone bills, and medicine as well as homecare subsidies and companion care. Her case manager also helped re-establish contact with distant family members, complete applications for hardship fund reparations, and connect her with an elder law attorney to sort out long-term care planning.

Increasing dementia has recently made it unsafe for Chaya to live at home. Her case manager worked with a geriatric care manager from Your Elder Experts at JF&CS to get the medical care she needed and to find an assisted living option. Her case manager even helped orchestrate Chaya’s move . One month later, Chaya was happier than she had been for quite a long time. Her family was confident that she was in the right place and that she was well cared for. "This gives us such peace of mind," says one family member.

Holocaust survivors tend to present greater challenges than the typical JF&CS older adult client. Their early traumas often linger into old age. Institutional settings can trigger unpleasant memories, and it is essential that these concerns be addressed. "It's important that we work with institutions and home health aides on the importance of safety and trust issues in the lives of survivors," Carol explains. "Sometimes survivors do not want to impose on anyone. Quite often, they don't ask for help, so we have to read between the lines."

Despite the numerous complexities and challenges facing survivors, families, care givers, and case managers, Schechter Holocaust Services gets results. Whether it is a client’s new hearing aid or reparation and restitution payments that enable a survivor to live more comfortably in her own home, there is a sense of justice in seeing a Holocaust survivor supported, cared for, and living with greater dignity. As more than a few clients have said, "I don't know what I would do without JF&CS."

*Name changed to protect privacy.

For more information, call 781-647-JFCS (5327) or email your questions via our contact us page.

**Challenge Grant for Schechter Holocaust Services**

Jewish Family & Children’s Service is proud to announce that we have received a generous challenge grant of $50,000 from the Seed the Dream Foundation for Schechter Holocaust Services. This gift will fund critical hours of homecare that survivors need to live safely and comfortably in their own homes, as well as emergency expenses such as rent or utilities assistance, emergency food, and medicine. In order to receive this gift, we are charged with raising $75,000 in 2015 from individual donors. All of this funding will be used to keep Holocaust survivors safe and healthy.

“Please join me in helping the many Holocaust survivors in our community get the support they need as they grow older,” states David Schechter.

For more information or to make a contribution toward this $75,000 in matching funds, please contact Ruth Maffa at rmaffa@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5059.

Welcome to the Mothering Community

Fri, 03 Apr 2015 13:05:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2015

Welcoming a baby into your home brings great joy and, for some, a steep learning curve. Hannah* and her spouse had recently moved to Greater Boston and celebrated the birth of their daughter. Like many new moms, Hannah was feeling overwhelmed with the constant demands of her one-month-old.

Luckily, Hannah had signed up for a visit from Welcome Baby!, a JF&CS program that welcomes Jewish and interfaith families into the community. When Ellen, the Welcome Baby! volunteer, arrived at Hannah’s home with a tote filled with gifts for the baby and community resource suggestions for the family, she was greeted warmly and ushered inside.

Hannah shared that she had not yet had much of an opportunity to meet other families with babies. As she grew more comfortable in Ellen’s warm presence, Hannah told her that she felt isolated and a little anxious as she transitioned into her role as a new mom. Ellen connected her with the Lauren and Mark Rubin Visiting Moms® program offered through the JF&CS Center for Early Relationship Support® and the JF&CS-sponsored new moms support group in her town.

Hannah was soon matched with a Visiting Mom volunteer and began to make friends in a local new moms group. She and her spouse plan to attend a JCC family program with a Passover theme, and she is excited to be part of a new community.

“At the Center for Early Relationship Support (CERS) most programs are home visiting programs,” said Laura Gerson, the JF&CS Coordinator of Welcome Baby!. “In addition to being a welcoming resource to the Jewish and interfaith community, the program is also about connecting to the mothering community. That’s something we’re good at.”

Hannah’s is just one of many happy stories to emerge from the Welcome Baby! program. Now in its sixth year, Welcome Baby! supports new parents in more than 100 communities in Greater Boston, the North Shore, and Central MA. Clients receive a home visit and a gift tote that includes a $25 Magic Beans coupon, two-year subscription to PJ Library, swaddle blanket, book, high-quality baby toys, community resource guide, invitations to parenting and play groups, and information about local congregations and Jewish family events.

“Welcome Baby! is very accessible. There’s nothing that you have to join, buy, or affiliate with. You don’t have to belong to a synagogue and you can participate as much as you want to. That’s what makes this such a lovely program for families,” said Laura.

Supported by trained and supervised volunteers, Welcome Baby! is a partnership between Jewish Family & Children’s Service and the Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston, with generous support from Combined Jewish Philanthropies.

“The Welcome Baby! visit is the entry point. Beyond that, the JCC offers a number of ways to stay involved with the Jewish and interfaith community,” said Laura. “It enhances the program by providing many opportunities for families to participate.”

With 35 volunteers, the program continues to flourish and expand to new communities. In collaboration with the JCC, the program has added features, including monthly meet-ups at Panera Bread in Porter Square, Cambridge. JCC also offers a wide range of programs – stroller walks, new moms groups, playgroups, drop-ins, parenting workshops, and Jewish holiday family events.

New parents who participate are grateful. After a recent visit, one happy mom said, “I can’t thank you enough. The visit and everything else you offer has helped us tremendously.”

In 2013 JF&CS was able to expand this program to the Worcester area with generous funding from the Jewish Federation of Central MA. Shalom Baby (as it is called in Central MA), offers the same tote filled with gifts and resources specific to Central MA.

Welcome Baby! is looking for volunteers to conduct one-time visits with a Jewish or interfaith family in Metro North (particularly Arlington, Cambridge, Somerville, and Melrose). For more information, contact Lauren Schleicher, Manager of Volunteer Services at 781-647-JFCS (5327).

*Name changed to protect privacy.

For more information, call 781-647-JFCS (5327) or email your questions via our contact us page.

World Autism Awareness Day

Thu, 02 Apr 2015 12:57:00 GMT

Posted by Shayna Fel

John is in his early 60s and has Asperger’s syndrome. He was referred to the Adult Autism Spectrum Care Coordination and Coaching program by his elderly parents. He had no daily schedule, minimal social interaction, limited understanding of personal hygiene and social cues, and no concrete plans in place for his future. Through our work together, John now participates in the CHAI Works day program, has a buddy through Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters, and receives coaching on social skills, hygiene, and how to live independently. Additionally, John’s parents are receiving support to create plans for John’s future when they are no longer able to be present for their son.

Now John is taking advantage of all of the different resources his community has to offer and his charm and exuberance shine through. John walks into any room and exudes a warm and friendly attitude that draws people to him. He knows the names of the employees at the shops he frequents and never shies away from a conversation about politics, the Red Sox, or Judaism.

Today is World Autism Awareness Day. At Jewish Family & Children’s Service we are wearing blue to join this campaign and celebrate with, bring awareness to, and show our support of John, all of our clients on the autism spectrum, their families, and the worldwide autism community.

Did you know…

Autism now affects 1 in 68 children.
Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disorder in the US.
Autism costs a family $60,000 a year on average.
Boys are nearly five times more likely than girls to have autism.
There is no medical detection or cure for autism.

List from Autism Speaks

Learn more about Light It Up Blue (#LIUB) on Autism Speaks’ website.

Shayna Fel, LICSW has been with JF&CS Services for People with Disabilities & Mental Illness since 2011. Shayna is the Coordinator of the Adult Autism Care Coordination and Coaching program. Shayna earned her MSW from the Hunter College School of Social Work in New York City. Before becoming a social worker, Shayna received her BA in Elementary and Special Education from Boston University. Shayna’s experience in teaching and social work has been focused on supporting clients with disabilities to create meaningful and purposeful lives for themselves.

Creating a Supportive Parkinson's Community

Wed, 01 Apr 2015 18:46:00 GMT

JF&CS News Spring 2015

By 2006, Dale Okonow had become very familiar with the challenges facing people with Parkinson's disease, their families, and their caregivers. His father suffered from the disease for years and Dale knew that while monies were being spent on research to find a much-needed cure, there was little, if anything, being done to help people with Parkinson's and their families cope on a day-to-day basis. “I saw first-hand the severe emotional and physical toll [my father’s] illness took on my mother and the rest of our family. Although my parents lived in Florida, I saw the need in the Boston community for a program that could provide support and comfort to those people in our area who had Parkinson’s, their families, and caregivers,” Dale explains.

“I had been involved in JF&CS as a Board member for several years and had seen the great work JF&CS was doing with similar support programs for the elderly,” adds Dale. That is when he, along with real estate developer and investor Mitchell Robbins, approached Sy Friedland, who was the CEO of JF&CS at the time, with their vision for the Parkinson’s Family Support program. With both of their fathers suffering from the disease, Dale and Mitchell understood the need for such a program, and together they provided the seed money for it.

Join the Okonows in supporting the Parkinson’s Family Support program.

Make your gift today.

Thanks to the Okonow and Robbins families, JF&CS has been providing a supportive community for people with Parkinson's and their families for more than eight years. In addition to support groups, the program also provides art-based therapeutic activities, information, referrals, and resources. Tools and approaches for self-management of Parkinson’s disease (PD) are all part of the programming. Nancy Mazonson, director of the program since its inception, adds, "Parkinson's Family Support is here to help with the challenges of living with PD and to help improve quality of life.”

Over the years, the therapeutic programming component has expanded dramatically. There is now a therapeutic drumming group as well as a dance and movement group, which was recently described by David Leventhal, Director of Dance for PD at the renowned Mark Morris Dance Group, as "one of the most established in the nation." There is even a chorus for people with Parkinson's and their caregivers, called the Tremble Clefs.

Interestingly, the Tremble Clefs is led by Dale's wife, Marilyn Okonow. In 2009, the Okonows received an update from Nancy Mazonson about a new singing program she was starting for people with Parkinson's. When the original choral director did not work out, Marilyn offered to help. Unbeknownst to Nancy, Marilyn had years of professional voice and music training.

After graduating from Cornell University, where she studied music and voice performance, Marilyn received a masters in music education from the New England Conservatory of Music. She had a successful career as a professional singer, pianist, and arranger, appearing with her quartet in Philadelphia, Atlantic City, and New York. While raising her two children, Marilyn was a driving force in developing a music curriculum for the Rashi School and she has also been a frequent cantorial soloist at Wellesley's Temple Beth Elohim.

When Nancy described the program to her, Marilyn said, "I can do this!" and she became the group's director.

Six years later, Marilyn's passion for the Tremble Clefs only gets stronger. "I have become emotionally attached to all the singers. To watch everyone come week after week, through the rain and the snow, with the challenges they face in just getting out of the house, is incredibly inspiring to me," says Marilyn. "The group is very close and everyone supports one another. There is a strong sense of community. They leave humming and with smiles on their faces. For a period of time each week they can forget about their immense challenges and just have fun. Their entire demeanors change once they start singing."

During practices and performances, Marilyn tries to reinforce some of the concepts of formal speech therapy, using vocal techniques specifically designed for people with Parkinson's. "One of the effects of Parkinson's is that people sometimes lose the ability to speak loudly and be heard properly. Singing helps them learn to project their voices. We work on breathing techniques, posture, enunciation, consonant and vowel production, phrasing, and dynamics, just as any chorus would. Rehearsals are run just as any chorus rehearsal. Musical elements are discussed and worked on, and it is the immersion into the music itself that has a profound effect on the singers, along with the experience of making music with others," explains Marilyn.

"Our participants notice an improvement in their ability to speak, thereby allowing them to be heard on the phone, for example, or participate in normal conversation. But it is the power of music expression at the heart of the Tremble Clefs," she adds.

Despite the challenges they face, Marilyn describes seeing spouses holding hands. "It's hard not to see the love and the dedication they have for one another. They motivate others to be positive in life and to play the hand that has been dealt to them as best as they possibly can. One woman, who lost her husband to Parkinson's, still sings in our chorus," she marvels.

The significance and reputation of the Tremble Clefs has not gone unnoticed in the professional musical community. “As a person whose mother, her two sisters, her brother, and their mother (my grandmother) all suffered from Parkinson's disease, I feel a particular connection to your group and your efforts,” remarks John Oliver, conductor and founder of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus. “The power of choral singing to connect and engage people of all ages and backgrounds cannot be overstated. When singing together, we are united in the creative process and the barriers in our lives that prevent us from connecting with one another are overcome. The work of [JF&CS] with the Tremble Clefs is a tremendous opportunity for those living with Parkinson's disease,” he notes.

Both Dale and Marilyn are deeply involved in Jewish philanthropy in Greater Boston. Dale, a partner at the Watermill Group, a private equity investment and management firm in Lexington, serves on the CJP Board of Trustees and is Chair of the CJP Committee on Development. He also co-chaired the 2012 CJP Annual Campaign. Additionally, he is a member of the Board of Trustees at the Rashi School, the Board of Directors of the Friends of Yemin Orde Youth Village in Israel, and the JF&CS Board of Directors. Dale is also on the Hematology/Oncology Visiting Committee of the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, where he helped establish the Okonow/Lipton Family Lymphoma Research Fund, and he serves on the Board of Directors of the iF Foundation, a charity that does economic development work in Haiti.

Aside from directing the Tremble Clefs, Marilyn serves on the Hematology/Oncology Visiting Committee of the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, is on the Board of Directors at the Vilna Shul/Boston's Center for Jewish Culture, and is the outreach coordinator for the Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Boston. She is also on the JF&CS Board of Advocates and was the 2012 recipient of the Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award for volunteering as musical director for The Tremble Clefs.

Dale and Marilyn are now working to find donors in order to permanently endow the Parkinson's Family Support program so that it will be financially stable in the future and so that all who participate in the program, from those afflicted with the disease, to their caregivers, spouses, siblings, and adult children, can enjoy an improved quality of life.

“My hopes for the future of the program are to grow our service offerings and widen our geographic base and reach in Greater Boston – to serve as many Parkinson’s patients and caregivers as possible. Eventually, I would like to see our program develop so it can be rolled out on a national scale to JF&CS agencies all over the country,” adds Dale.

For more information, call 781-647-JFCS (5327) or email your questions via our contact us page.

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