From the Desk of CEO Judy Halper: May 2017

It’s hard to believe how quickly three years goes by! For several years now, JFCS has been implementing three-year strategic plans intended to direct the scope of our work and create measurable outcomes demonstrating our success in meeting our mission of sustaining healthy relationships, easing suffering, and offering support to people of all backgrounds and ages. Just recently, we engaged our Board of Directors and our staff in strategic planning to guide our work through the next three years. As is usually the case, the process of formulating a plan is every bit as satisfying as the ambitious goals we set forth. I encourage you to learn more about JFCS and the life-changing work we will do by checking out our new strategic plan. You can access it on our website here. While you’re there, please spend some time on our new website and tell us what you think!

Becoming increasingly involved with hunger relief, JFCS is proud to co-sponsor with Adath Jeshurun Congregation a traveling exhibit titled “This Is Hunger.” Two semi-trailers with interactive educational experiences to help all of us learn more about hunger in America will be set up in the parking lot of Adath from June 27-30. The exhibit was developed by MAZON, the national Jewish response to hunger. There is no cost to view the 45-minute exhibit, but you must have a ticket to attend. JFCS is hosting two viewings on Wednesday, June 28, at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. To join us at one of these times for this important exhibit, please register here. To attend the exhibit at another time, please reserve your tickets here.

It’s also transition time on the JFCS Board. Every June new Board members are elected. This year we welcome the following new Board members: Jaclyn Gavzy, Jill Halper, Lauren Hoffman, Scott Rubin and Stacie Usem. We thank Rochelle Rubin, whose two terms on the Board are ending and who is becoming an Honorary Board member. The following Board members are accepting a second 3-year term on the Board: Jeff Barin, Jennifer Ezrilov, Nancy Fink, Jean Holloway, Craig Stillman and Natalie Zamansky. I want to extend a huge thank you to Danny Zouber, who completes his term as Board Chair. Danny has been an important part of JFCS leadership for many years and his impact will continue to be felt for years to come. Marc Rubenstein will become JFCS Board Chair and the following Board members will serve on the Executive Committee: Jeff Barin, Jon Benowitz, Pam Berkwitz, Jennifer Ezrilov, Andy Stillman, Natalie Zamansky, and Danny Zouber.

As I mentioned, time is flying and here it is nearly the end of May. I wish everyone a joyous Memorial Day weekend (the unofficial beginning of summer), and a meaningful Shavuot, which takes place just a day later. Enjoy the holidays, and your time with family and friends!