About Us

Board of Directors

A group of people with different backgrounds and perspectives who come together to help Jewish Family Service fulfill its mission and expand its reach.

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Meet Our

Leadership Team

To accomplish our mission JFS is led by a visionary group of community leaders from diverse backgrounds and education. Their commitment, passion and resourcefulness help guide our organization in collaboration with our gifted professional staff.

Executive Committee

President

Susan Zager

Community Volunteer

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Vice-President

Harris N. Gilbert

Community Volunteer

Treasurer

Danielle Mendelson

Best Brands

At-Large

Adam Hyatt

Acadia Healthcare

Past President

Nan Speller

Zeitlin Sotheby’s Realty

Board Members

Pamela Carver

Harpeth Hall School

Robin Cohen

Community Volunteer

Lynn Fleischer

Jewish Community Archivist

Michelle Frohsin

Community Volunteer

Ira Helderman

Nashville Psychotherapy and Counseling

Brian Lapidus

Elliptic

Sophie Rapoport

Eventbrite

Freya Sachs

University School of Nashville

Scott Tomichek

Tomichek CPA

Katie Wayne

Clearbrook Realty

Cathy Werthan

Marcum LLP

David Pearl

Music City Psych

Haley Attridge

Animax Designs, Inc.

Melissa Davis

Community Volunteer

Leslie Newman

Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance

Jon Poster

Unit 42

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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.

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Counseling Services

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.

Individuals | Couples | Families | Children & Teens

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Adoption Services

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.

Birth Parents | Adoptive Parents | LGBTQ+ Adoptions

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Food & Financial Support

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.

Family & Community Enrichment

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.

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We are a team of experienced professionals dedicated to treating each person with compassion, care and dignity.

Meet the Team →

Board of Directors

A group of people with different backgrounds and perspectives who come together to help Jewish Family Service fulfill its mission and expand its reach.

Meet Our Leadership Team →

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.

Read Our Stories →

Items That Tell a Story

We’ve compiled a selection of items that we use frequently at JFS – in some cases every day.

Check Out the Items →

The number of ways in which you can help support individuals and families navigate life’s transitions are endless.

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Volunteers are a vital part of how we support our clients. Find opportunities to assist those in our community who need a helping hand.

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Make a Donation

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.

Events & Gatherings

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.

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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.

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Mental Health Matters

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.

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Senior Services Directory

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.

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