About Us
Who We AreWe are a collective of social workers, volunteers, generous supporters, compassionate hearts, spirited and spiritual human beings.
Passionate providers of comprehensive social services.
Jewish Family Service of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, Inc. is an independent 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide professional social services from Jewish perspectives which respond to and support individuals and families through life’s transitions.
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 collective of social workers, volunteers, generous supporters, compassionate hearts, spirited and spiritual human beings.
We are one of the oldest social service agencies in Nashville, but that doesn’t mean we are stagnant. We are constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of the people we serve. Above all, we never cease finding new ways to enrich, enhance, and empower the lives of those in need of help.
Serving Nashville
Since 1853
As part of a nearly 170-year-old global tradition, ours has been the compassionate thread of continuity in an ever-changing world. We know that the work we do makes where we call home, a kinder and more inclusive place.
Our Mission
To provide professional social services from Jewish perspectives which respond to and support individuals and families through life’s transitions—enriching social, emotional, and economic conditions; enhancing personal growth; and empowering our clients to lead independent, productive and satisfying lives.
Our History
In 1853, the Hebrew Benevolent Society, was established to care for the sick and protect orphans, widows, the afflicted, and the destitute.
Over the years, the organization evolved into what is known today as Jewish Family Service. When you look through the volumes written about Nashville’s Jewish history, on nearly every page you’ll find us or one of our predecessors.
Whether we are visiting the sick, counseling the broken, responding to crisis situations, facilitating adoption journeys, or offering financial assistance, our values-driven approach to societal care is rooted in the foundation of our history–caring for our neighbors, honoring dignity and respect above all.
1853
Hebrew Benevolent Society established
1860
Young Men’s Hebrew Benevolent Society established
1870
Nashville Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Society established
1871
Hungarian Benevolent Society established
1879
Hebrew Relief Society, a collaboration of all benevolent societies established
1914
Federation of Jewish Charities
1937
Jewish Welfare Federation
1976 - Present
Jewish Family Service
Beliefs
Our Core Values
Compassion
Empathetic and caring, kind and generous, we listen with open hearts, and offer loving kindness. We treat everyone with dignity, we are welcoming, and go the extra mile without hesitation.
Professionalism
With a high standard of professional conduct and credentialed providers, we act with integrity and firmly protect client confidentiality. We strive for excellence and high-impact in all that we do.
Dignity
We offer unconditional love, without fear of judgement—welcoming one and welcoming all. Our environment is safe, affirming, and respectful. We believe all humans have value and should be treated as such.
Inclusivity
Agility
Both nimble and flexible, we stand ready to respond to our community’s ever-evolving needs. We observe then adapt—offering innovative ideas and thoughtful solutions when and where they’re most needed.
Jewish Values
We actively heed the calling of our human responsibility. We are guided by Jewish values of hope, justice, community, healing, acts of loving kindness, and to repair the world.
What Our Clients Are Saying
Financial Disclosure
Jewish Family Service of Nashville and Middle TN, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. As part of our commitment to accountability and transparency, our IRS Form 990s and Audited Financial Statements are available here.
2022-2023
2021-2022
2020-2021
2019-2020
2018-2019
2017-2018
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.