From the Desk of CEO Judy Halper: January 2020

The 5 pillars of thriving non-profits

Joan Garry, a recognized leader in non-profit management, says there are five pillars that establish a thriving non-profit: people, programs, money, strategy and narrative. Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis demonstrates strength in each of those areas. As the new year begins and we look back over the one that just ended, our response to each of those necessary pillars is as follows:

People: Thousands of individuals rely on JFCS each year to provide essential professional and compassionate care. Our 130 exceptional staff are dedicated to offering person-centered care in a holistic fashion, applying all the resources of the organization towards achieving maximum positive outcomes for all those seeking assistance.

Programs: With over 30 programs and services, JFCS is responsive to the needs of individuals and families across the life span. Examples of JFCS innovative programs include the evolution of our Jewish Big Brother/Big Sister Program to a Mentoring program, adding a new service for older adults with dementia and their caregivers (Memory Café), and providing Chanukah gifts to area hospitals for patients who would otherwise not have the opportunity to celebrate the holiday.

Money: With the generous support of our donors and funders, careful budgeting and resource management, and commitment to sustainability, we are proud to report that we ended the year with a balanced budget. We could not do all that we do without your support!

Strategy: This year we will continue to implement our current strategic plan. We have focused on sustainability and growth, and have diligently established and implemented a thorough and usable process of outcomes measurement. We are committed to meeting the needs of our community and demonstrating our effectiveness and value.

Narrative: Our story is your stories. When you offer feedback, we listen. Gratefully, many of our clients, volunteers and donors share their experience and appreciation with us. I am pleased to share that scholarship recipients frequently offer gratitude for financial assistance that enables them to attend summer camp or reduce college debt. “Sandwiched generation” folks tell us that our care consultations provided them with the information and guidance they needed to care for their aging parent and themselves. PJ Library young families say thank you for creating opportunities to join with other kids and parents towards establishing positive Jewish identity and experiences. People with disabilities share how they feel included and valued in Jewish community celebrations, activities, and observances thanks to our Inclusion programs. I could go on, but space is limited!

JFCS is in a strong and healthy place to continue meeting the needs of our diverse community. You may have seen a video on social media recently that featured me, JFCS staff, and a cute toddler (that may or may not have been my adorable granddaughter). In it, we messaged repeatedly that while we are happily busy here at JFCS….we will do more, if you can do more! Thanks for being our partner and our supporter!