Addiction and Recovery Services support families and individuals who are impacted by Substance Use Disorder and other addictions. Addiction is a family disease and our programs support the family as a whole. Programming includes education about addiction for diverse audiences, confidential consultations with family members, and referrals to a variety of resources in the Twin Cities and beyond. We work closely with the Family Life Education Department at JFCS and focus on Education, Prevention and Collaboration to support families and reduce stigma around addiction in all forms. We serve all people, without regard to religious affiliation. Our work is informed by the principles of harm reduction.
Call or email to speak confidentially with one of our trained staff members. Also, reach out to discuss your programming needs or if you have an idea for services that are needed in your community.
Liliane Jurayj, Addiction and Recovery Services Program Coordinator
952-542-4837 | Ljurayj@jfcsmpls.org
A collaborative effort to raise awareness, provide education, and reduce the stigma of mental illness in all segments of the Twin Cities Jewish community. To donate to the conference, click here.
VIEW FULL BROCHURE HERE
View the 2022 conference
Tabitha Benci DeRango, JFCS Community Conference Coordinator
952-417-2107 | tderango@jfcsmpls.org
The JFCS Hag Sameach (“Happy Holidays”) program is a great opportunity to feel connected to the Jewish community, whether you are a recipient, donor or volunteer. Hag Sameach works with local synagogues, the Minnesota JCC, PRISM and other organizations to ensure that people in our community who are in need of extra assistance, both during the holidays and throughout the rest of the year, have a resource for holiday gifts and essential items. There are many ways to participate in this program and we are confident we will find the perfect fit for you!
More information here on our Winter Holidays and Passover programs.
Hag Sameach 2022 year in review
Mindy Teele, Hag Sameach Manager
952-542-4870 | mteele@jfcsmpls.org
The Inclusion Program coordinates efforts in raising awareness and increasing access for people with disabilities to participate in all aspects of Jewish life.
Caring Connections
Caring Connections provides opportunities for Jewish adults with developmental disabilities to take part in social and educational events and learn about Jewish holidays and traditions.
Stacey Spencer, Inclusion Program Manager
952-542-4845 | sspencer@jfcsmpls.org
J-Pride creates community through queer-focused Jewish programming for LGBTQ+ Jews and their allies throughout the Twin Cities. For more information on upcoming events and programming, “like” J-Pride on Facebook.
Isaac Ezra Jennings, J-Pride Program Coordinator
952-417-2122 | ijennings@jfcsmpls.org
JFCS’ NextGen program serves Jewish young adults ages 21-36 who are living in the Twin Cities. It provides participants with social engagements and programs, as well as volunteering and leadership opportunities. NextGen operates through a board of volunteers who serve as ambassadors of JFCS and help plan and implement NextGen events throughout the year.
> Donate to NextGen
Alyson Hendrix, Development NextGen Coordinator
952-417-2124 | ahendrix@jfcsmpls.org
This is an international award-winning program designed to strengthen Jewish identity by sending Jewish-content books and music on a monthly basis to children from newborn through age 8. PJ Library also hosts regular community events for kids and families. Any family with a Jewish connection is invited to enroll and receive age-appropriate books monthly. Sign up today at www.pjlibrary.org or visit PJ Library’s Facebook page.
Geri Goldman, PJ Library Manager
952-417-2139 | ggoldman@jfcsmpls.org
This is the next chapter of PJ Library, for kids ages 8½-13. PJ Our Way subscribers can visit www.pjourway.org every month to read kid book reviews and make their own book choices. Kids can also submit reviews and videos about the books. They can apply to be part of the national Design Team that has early access to PJ Our Way books and helps create content for the website.
Geri Goldman, PJ Library Manager
952-417-2139 | ggoldman@jfcsmpls.org
JFCS provides a range of trainings and educational opportunities for diverse groups and organizations. Our professional educators and staff have expertise working with families, diverse organizations, camp counselors, school-aged children, teachers, and community members. Programming is available for secular and Jewish organizations. You can access our full range of offerings here. If you do not see what you are looking for, please reach out and tell us about your needs. We are excited to work with you and tailor programming to meet your unique needs.
Leah Persky, Family Life Education Manager
952-542-4825 | lpersky@jfcsmpls.org
Shalom Baby welcomes families of newborns and babies, up to age 2, to the Jewish community. Families with newborns are invited to community baby showers to meet other families and receive free goodie bags and a subscription to PJ Library. PJ Library Parent Connectors host regular community events for infants and families.
Geri Goldman, PJ Library Manager
952-417-2139 | ggoldman@jfcsmpls.org
