From the Desk of CEO Judy Halper: March 2025

Growing up, I remember the story of Purim mainly as a fairytale – it has a wicked character, Hamen, and a heroine and hero, Queen Esther and her uncle, Mordechai. Even as I grew older and became a parent to young children, I think Purim was pretty much still conveyed the same way. It was all fun and games! As the bad joke goes, Hamen tried to kill the Jews, Esther and Mordechai saved them, now let’s eat Hamentaschen!

With the rise in anti-Semitism, Purim this year has taken on some additional meaning. While there was still much dressing up in costumes and parading, and lots of adult celebration too, a story about anti-Semitism in this environment required some careful navigating. Throughout the festivities, I feel certain many people felt a little on edge while toasting the downfall of Hamen.

Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis has many programs and services to support families during difficult times. If you are feeling anxious as a parent, or recognizing stress in your children, check out our SPACE Program, described here. Trained therapists in our Counseling program have tips and strategies designed to support your parenting and caring for your kids. If you’re looking for professional or community education for your schools, workplaces, or other groups, take a look at all that is offered from our programs in Professional and Community Education; or review the many blogs also available on our website. With summertime and the camping season just a few months off, JFCS can assist with scholarships to ensure your kids have respite from daily stress in an environment that promotes positive identity and independence.

World events and stress only contribute to the heavy load you may feel as a caregiver. JFCS’ Keeping The Spirit Alive Conference, focusing on the well-being of caregivers, and offering many tools and services to support loved ones, is right around the corner, taking place this year on April  27. You can register for this free event here.

In challenging times, we encourage you to focus on your needs and those of your loved ones. Let us know how we can help. JFCS is Here for all. Always.