Passover comes late this year. It begins at sunset on April 22, which does seem really, really late! Of course, those of us who celebrate Jewish holidays know the inside joke that our holidays never arrive on time – they are always early or late!
When I was a young child, my entire extended fa[...]
February is a very fitting month for Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis. Lots of people associate February with hearts and Valentine’s Day. For JFCS, not only is February the month of our founding (Feb. 10, 1910), but hearts are at the center of our much-loved logo (the Star of[...]
New year, new beginnings…..
In the first days of this new year, I have been approached by several people who are looking for ways to get more involved. Is it because January in Minnesota can be isolating due to cold weather and it’s just easier to stay indoors? Is it because the world can fe[...]
In a few days we will experience the winter solstice, and with it, the relief that little by little, daylight is beginning to accumulate. Eventually, we will experience more light with each passing day. Now more than ever, that light is so welcome. It is commonplace to remind people of the challeng[...]
This time of year is often harried and frenetic with preparations for holidays. Many of us take on the heavy load of buying groceries, planning meals, preparing feasts, wrapping gifts, sending invitations, managing schedules, and much more. It starts with high anticipation and Hallmark images of pe[...]
What does the “J” in JFCS stand for? That is a question the Board and staff of Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis spends time reflecting on strategically and thoughtfully. After all, we are a staff of nearly 130 diverse people reflecting many religions, ethnicities, cultures,[...]
Food and the month of September seem to go hand-in-hand. As kids return to school and busy schedules, the amount of food they consume is evident in family budgets. Our tastes turn from cold and creamy deliciousness to hearty and savory comfort foods. Jewish holidays at this time of year – in addi[...]
Some people might think it premature to feel as though summer is ending when the calendar tells us it’s still August and fall doesn’t officially begin until Sep. 23. Yet, the kids are home from summer camp, school is resuming for most students in the next few weeks, and “everything on a stick[...]
I know what you’re thinking. How is it possible that we are already talking about, thinking about, and preparing for the return to school and the upcoming High Holy Days? It is true that summer passes much too quickly. But it isn’t just that seasons come and go too quickly (except winter) – t[...]
Managing and maintaining our mental health and the well-being of our families and friends has become an unavoidable topic – and that’s a good thing. There are so many ways we can take small steps to alleviate stress and anxiety, and as such, get more exercise, develop better eating habits, and[...]