News from the Heart
November 2021
Dear Friends,
Being President of Jewish Family Service this year is without a doubt one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in my volunteer career. I never cease to be amazed by so many things. I never cease to be amazed by the incredible programs that are helping so many people in our community and I am constantly in awe of the new programming that gets pulled together whenever there is a need to be addressed. From the Kosher Food Box Program which provides food resources, to the Hanukkah Gift Program for children who otherwise would not be able to receive gifts, to all the support we
provide to the Seniors. This includes a program called Jacob’s Ladder where our volunteers go to Seniors’ homes to literally get on a ladder to help put in new light bulbs or put new batteries in fire and smoke detectors – tasks that are all too dangerous for these seniors. All of these programs are so important and special to those individuals being served.
The counseling done by our incredible social workers are life savers for many and I am especially proud of our new Mental Health Matters initiative due to the times we are in right now. Even when nature surprises us and there are suddenly catastrophic floods or tornadoes, we pull together to reach out to those we know are in unfortunate need. These are just a few of the many
things JFS is capable of doing and hopefully with our newly updated and user-friendly website more and more people will be able to navigate and find out all the programming we have to offer.
I am also grateful every day for all the members of our community who support JFS with their generosity and their time as volunteers. With all of the incredible generosity we can fund our programs and add new ones to address the ever-changing needs of the community. With your time commitments you make our committees strong, so we remain a healthy and growing agency. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to the members of The Board of Trustees and to Pam, Toni, Ashley, Anna, Janet, and Kevin because without them none of this would happen. ❤
Susan Zager
Board President
In this Issue:
- Pandemic Pen Pals Help Each Other Cope
- 2020-2021 Service Highlights & Program Highlights
- 2021 Honorees
- Program Growth Since 2010
- Bringing Shabbat To Seniors
- Tributes
- Life & Legacy Letter of Intent Participants
- Keeping Connections Strong During a Pandemic
- Mental Health Matters
Our comprehensive social services and programs are designed to enrich the whole person, enhance the whole family, and empower the whole community–no matter your age, race, religion, preference, identity, economic standing, or otherwise.
Life can be challenging, relationships can be hard, and you may need the extra support that comes with working with a therapist. Our licensed social workers offer counseling for individuals, couples, and families, as well as for children and adolescents.
Choosing to adopt a child, or to place a child for adoption, is a life-altering decision. We are a licensed child-placing agency in Tennessee with more than 40 years of experience in adoption services in Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
Whether you need emergency financial assistance, such as help paying a utility bill or rent for the month, or material assistance by ensuring your children have gifts at the holidays, school supplies, or food supplements, Jewish Family Service offers this critical assistance in a confidential, compassionate manner.
Older Adult Programs & Services
We recognize that older adults are true treasures, and we strive to create and maintain a community that values and celebrates them for their wisdom, contributions, and experiences. Our programs and services are an important outlet for our older adults, encouraging them to be social and stimulated.
Life can be challenging, and knowledge is power. The Jewish Family Service’s Family and Community Enrichment programs serve to empower, protect, and address the ever-changing needs of the entire Nashville community.
Passionate providers of comprehensive social services, we are advocates, allies, educators, cheerleaders, and guides who create solutions to problems facing families and individuals of all ages.
We are a team of experienced professionals dedicated to treating each person with compassion, care and dignity.
A group of people with different backgrounds and perspectives who come together to help Jewish Family Service fulfill its mission and expand its reach.
We serve the people of Nashville and Middle Tennessee in many different ways. Here are a few of the human stories where JFS programs have made a tangible difference in people’s daily lives.
We’ve compiled a selection of items that we use frequently at JFS – in some cases every day.
The number of ways in which you can help support individuals and families navigate life’s transitions are endless.
Volunteers are a vital part of how we support our clients. Find opportunities to assist those in our community who need a helping hand.
Since our founding in 1853, the generous support of our community has made the work of Jewish Family Service possible.
Press coverage about JFS Nashville’s programing and services, learn about the history of the agency from our past newsletters, and enjoy reading original JFS content like our signature advice column, “Dear Esther.” Stay up to date with the impact we’re making throughout our community.
Check out the full calendar of upcoming JFS Nashville events. From community education, support groups, and special engagements alike, find out where you can show up and get connected.
Information & Referral Resources
Connect with our community partners. Our information and referral directory includes local and national resources that can provide additional support for addiction, mental health, and more.
Mental Health Matters is a JFS series that was designed to reduce the stigma of mental health issues by providing education, increasing awareness, and inclusivity. Check out our ongoing resources and past programming.
Need to know which pharmacies deliver? How to get a ride somewhere? Volunteer opportunities? The senior directory is the go-to resource for anything seniors might need related to the community.
How can we help? Send us a message, give us a call, or find us on social media. We usually respond within 1-2 business days.