A new support group led by a JFS licensed clinical professional and a registered nurse begins April 8. This confidential space is available for peer support and to share coping skills.
Featured Blog
Agency News
A Year of COVID-19: What JFS Heroes Have Learned
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the JFS staff came together as a team to do what we’ve always done – help others – one person, one family at a time.
Chaplaincy – Connecting Individuals and Families
JFS, through Community Chaplain Rabbi Rudnick, facilitates a connection between Spiritual Care volunteers and those amidst family crises—connecting them to the Jewish community.
Agency Stories
Laura Gilman Votes YES on 2
To ensure that 230,000 Missourians gain access to a healthcare system that is more equitable for more of us in a time when healthcare is more essential than ever, VOTE YES on AMENDMENT 2.
CONNECTION Art Benefit Honors Lowensteins
Babs and Bill Lowenstein are honorary chairs of the CONNECTION art exhibit benefiting JFS. The Lowensteins will be honored at a virtual kick-off event Thursday, July 16, at 4:00pm.
Our Statement on Racism & Injustice
JFS is founded on the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam, “repair of the world”. We join in the work to build a more just and compassionate society. Read our statement.
Chaplaincy
Chaplaincy – Connecting Individuals and Families
JFS, through Community Chaplain Rabbi Rudnick, facilitates a connection between Spiritual Care volunteers and those amidst family crises—connecting them to the Jewish community.
Volunteer of the Month—Brad Ordo, Spiritual Care Volunteer
Spiritual Care volunteers are a welcome surprise to isolated members of the Jewish community. Brad’s mission is to meet people isolated at home.
Communitywide service of Spiritual Renewal
Join this expressive and supportive gathering starting March 18 in preparation for Passover, where we will share in traditional and contemporary prayers, songs, and readings.
Counseling & Mental Health
Nurses Support Begins Virtually
A new support group led by a JFS licensed clinical professional and a registered nurse begins April 8. This confidential space is available for peer support and to share coping skills.
Social Work is the Heart of Jewish Family Services
“I get to see someone’s life change drastically before my eyes, and it is living proof our clients are amazing and powerful. Sometimes, they just need a little bit of help to go from one terrible circumstance to an amazing new beginning,” says Liz, JFS Older Adult Care Manager.
Virtual Happiness Habits in 2021
Start your week with a habit that brings happiness! This wellness Series is a free and ongoing half-hour program that is available Mondays at 3 p.m.
Family Life Education
Learn, Laugh, & Love Virtual Yom Ha’Atzmaut Challah
Join Meghann Hennen on April 15 and discover challah’s incredible impact on her life when she decided to start her own challah business on Instagram.
Learn, Laugh, & Love with Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz
“I Love Lucy” captivated millions of viewers as a husband and wife team. Marlene Katz will present their life stories on March 25 with The J Heritage Center.
Grandparenting: Expectations vs Reality
Join acclaimed journalist, author, and educator, Barbara Unell on March 3 as she shares a 3-step approach to collaborative, supportive family relationships that turn challenges into opportunities of resilience and respect.
Food, Shelter, and Employment
Food Pantry “Drive-thru” December 20
Join JFS, The Rabbinical Association, and The J KC on Sunday, Dec. 20 to support the JFS Food Pantry. We could not serve families at the level we do without your support.
Kansas City’s Medicine Cabinet
For people on limited incomes, an unexpected medical expense can become an emergency that impacts existing medical care, reducing job opportunities, and diminishing life quality.
Local Teen’s MASKerAID Benefits JFS
Jonah Stein created MASKerAIDs for his Bar Mitzvah project – a beaded necklace that connects to a face mask when not needed. Proceeds benefit JFS. Learn more and order a MASKerAID!
Older Adult Services
Nurturing your Mind, Body & Spirit through Yoga
Join Lauren Glass February 18 for Yoga that can influence not only mental and physical strength but also to bring empowerment and confidence.
LL&L Virtual Older Adult Care Management
On Dec. 17, learn how expert older adult Care Managers coach, guide, and advocate on your behalf. Our goal is to support your ability to live with quality of life.
Partnerships to help JFS provide for Holocaust survivors
As of February, JFS serves more than 80 survivors in our community. If you are a Holocaust survivor or know of one, Laura, Gilman encourages you to contact JFS—resources are available to survivors at any time.
Volunteer Spotlight Stories
Volunteer of the Month—Brad Ordo, Spiritual Care Volunteer
Spiritual Care volunteers are a welcome surprise to isolated members of the Jewish community. Brad’s mission is to meet people isolated at home.
Feb. Multifaceted Volunteer – Kathy Keller
The older adults Kathy Keller, our February Volunteer of the Month, would visit and the Pantry clients she helped became extended family. She is anxious to get back to in-person volunteering as soon as it is safe.
Jan. Calling Connections Volunteer – Max
JFS Calling Connections Volunteer, Max, shares her story, “Besides my regular calls, I call Saundra when the Chiefs are playing because we are both fans. It just feels right helping people feel connected.”
