A Message from JFCS Board President Natalie Zamansky and CEO Judy Halper
From JFCS Board President Natalie Zamansky:
It is significant and very bittersweet news that our longtime Chief Executive Officer, Judy Halper, has made the difficult decision to retire at the end of this year after a remarkable 32 years of leadership, dedication, and service to JFCS.
Over the past 20 years as CEO, Judy has led the organization with steadfast vision to serve ALL with caring, compassionate and professional programs. She has cultivated incredible relationships in our community and beyond and has strengthened the foundation of JFCS for continued success. She is a well-respected leader in human services on both the local and national front, and we should all be incredibly proud of her. Judy’s contributions are immeasurable, and their impact will continue to resonate for years to come.
Over the next 10 months, there will be many opportunities to recount her accomplishments, honor, and celebrate Judy. For now, I will focus on communicating our plan for next steps:
- Howard Hoffman, President Elect, will be chairing a Search Committee for our new Chief Executive Officer
- The open role/job posting will be made public within the next two weeks
- Our current goal to have the position filled by mid-late summer to offer an opportunity for transition
- Judy’s last day will be Dec. 31, 2025
If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out. Thank you, as always, for your belief in our mission and your support of JFCS.
Sincerely,
Natalie Zamansky
From JFCS CEO Judy Halper:
Dear Friends,
Since 1993, I have been privileged to dedicate my career to Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis, and honored to serve as its Chief Executive Officer since 2005. At the end of 2025, I will be retiring from JFCS, concluding 32 years of service to this remarkable organization. JFCS has truly been as much my home as it has been my place of work. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, contribute and serve alongside tremendously gifted and deeply compassionate staff and volunteers, which has been my experience at this incredible organization in this amazing community.
While there will be many opportunities to share my experience of these past 32 years, I want to especially take this moment to thank the smart, kind, generous JFCS staff and community colleagues who I have been so privileged to work alongside. I also want to extend my deepest gratitude to the many, many Board Members, volunteers, donors and community members who have supported me and JFCS, celebrating our successes, and always supporting the organization when faced with challenges.
Since its establishment in 1910, Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis has endeavored to be the place for the Jewish and broad communities, ensuring that no matter life’s challenges, JFCS would be there “For All, Always” providing hope and help. After 20 years as Chief Executive Officer, it is time for me to pass the torch, knowing JFCS is in a strong position to manage new challenges, reach new achievements, and continue to provide the exceptional care the community expects.
As I retire from JFCS, I do so with deep respect and tremendous gratitude for the opportunity to get to know and work with so many of you. No one could have imagined or experienced a career as satisfying and fulfilling as I have been able to do.
With deep gratitude,
Judy Halper