Esther advises a woman whose friend passed away a few years ago and who is having a hard time finding peace and closure.
From Esther: Encouragement to Be Gentle With One Another
In this era of conflict, war, and pandemic, Esther encourages us to make it a goal for the year to find ways to be gentler with each other.
Dear Esther: A Mother’s Worry About the New School Year
Esther advises a woman whose son is starting middle school, and she is a bundle of nerves ahead of the new school year.
Dear Esther: Help Returning to Normal Life After COVID
Esther advises a woman tired of living in fear of COVID and desperately wants to get back to “normal”…complete with family gatherings.
Dear Esther: Mom Struggling to Make Ends Meet
Esther advises a woman who is struggling financially to make ends meet and needs help figuring out how to manage her expenses.
Dear Esther: Mother’s Day Misery
Esther advises a woman who is struggling financially to make ends meet and needs help figuring out how to manage her expenses.
From Esther: Resolving Conflict
In a departure from her usual advice column, Esther offers a few basic steps to help effectively resolve conflicts.
Dear Esther: Grieving in Isolation
Esther advises a woman who lost her mom during COVID and feels shortchanged in terms of support because of pandemic isolation.
Dear Esther: Talking to Small Children About People Differences
Esther advises an embarrassed mom who seeks help talking to her small child about people differences.
Dear Esther: Will I Ever Get Over the Death of My Husband?
Esther helps a woman seeking healing and closure after the death of her husband.
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.