About Us

Who We Are

We are a collective of social workers, volunteers, generous supporters, compassionate hearts, spirited and spiritual human beings.

Passionate providers of comprehensive social services.

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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.

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1853

Hebrew Benevolent Society established

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1860

Young Men’s Hebrew Benevolent Society established

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1870

Nashville Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Society established

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1871

Hungarian Benevolent Society established

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1879

Hebrew Relief Society, a collaboration of all benevolent societies established

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1914

Federation of Jewish Charities

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1937

Jewish Welfare Federation

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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

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.

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

“JFS Nashville helped make my dream of becoming a parent a reality. From beginning to end, they provided skillful and compassionate guidance through the long and emotional adoption journey. I remain forever grateful and blessed for the work they do in the LGBT community.”

– Adoption Client

“The social workers at Jewish Family Services are caring, compassionate, and knowledgeable. They always made sure we were comfortable and treated our family with the utmost respect.”

– Counseling Client

“Thank you for the supplemental food box this month. This helps immensely and the good, hearty, healthy and large amount of food will lower my bill. Thank you for the kindness and discreteness you have shown me.”

– Kosher Food Box Recipient

“Thanks so much for your caring spirit. I’m forever grateful for your support during this down period in my life. JFS is a great place for families.”

– Financial Assistance Recipient

“We are so thankful and overwhelmed by the love shown to our children through JFS. This is going to be the best holiday ever for them! Thank you is just too small for what’s in our hearts!”

– Hanukkah Gift Recipient

“I hope that JFS understands what an important service they are doing with the Helping Hands Program. The Shabbat services led by volunteers in the assisted living facility where my mother lives allow her to have a Jewish life in which she can participate on her own. It gives her a needed feeling of independence.”

– Helping Hands Participant Family Member

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.

Partners & Affiliations