A New Year, A Stronger Community: Resolutions for Collective Impact | |
Hello Friend,
The start of a new year brings with it the tradition of resolutions—a chance to reflect, reset, and renew our commitment to what matters most. Resolutions are often personal: exercise more, spend less, read more books. But what if this year, we broadened our resolutions to include not just ourselves, but also the communities we’re a part of?
Leveraging small individual actions to create collective transformation resonates deeply as we step into 2025. With new changes in the White House ushering in a period of uncertainty for our nation, it is natural to feel a mix of apprehension and hope. In such times, it’s more important than ever to commit ourselves to the values and actions that strengthen our communities and uplift the needs of those most affected by policy shifts.
At JFCS East Bay, we are gearing up to keep our community informed about these shifts in federal policies, their impacts on our neighbors, and how you can get involved. To support this, we are creating a resource hub on our website that will include important information about how to take action and make a difference. We’ll share more details and send out additional communication about this exciting development next week.
What if we resolved to use our time, energy, and resources in ways that lift others, foster connection, and inspire resilience?
- Commit to mentoring someone, volunteering, or supporting a local cause.
- Collaborate with neighbors, colleagues, or friends to create positive change.
By leveraging our resolutions, we amplify their impact—turning intentions into outcomes that ripple far beyond ourselves.
Let’s resolve to keep showing up—bringing our unique strengths, resources, and care to transform lives and strengthen the fabric of our community. When we come together, we do more than address immediate needs; we instill hope for the future.
Here’s to a year of impact, resilience, and brighter days ahead for us all.
With gratitude and determination,
|
Robin Mencher
Chief Executive Officer
| |
Get to Know JFCS East Bay | |
Program Highlight:
Fresh Starts: Empowering Older Adults for a New Beginning
| |
Our Older Adult Services program embraces the theme of Fresh Starts, focusing on new beginnings and opportunities for growth while addressing the challenges of economic instability. With the older adult population in the East Bay growing rapidly—Alameda County's older adult population is the fastest-growing segment, currently numbering 439,874 individuals aged 60 and above, and Contra Costa County is home to 236,500 adults aged 60 and older—we are committed to doing our part to care for the elderly and support vulnerable populations. Through personalized case management, counseling, and workshops, we empower older adults to set meaningful goals, strengthen family connections, and foster social belonging.
At JFCS East Bay, we believe that every stage of life holds the potential for transformation, connection, and hope. We can create a community where every older adult feels valued, supported, and inspired to embrace their next chapter. Together, we can make this year a time of renewal and lasting impact for all.
| |
International Holocaust Remembrance Day - January 27, 2025
Holocaust survivors inspire us with their resilience and courage. At JFCS East Bay, we provide compassionate support to preserve their dignity and share their stories, ensuring their legacy guides future generations toward justice and compassion. Click here for stories shared by local survivors.
| |
Client Success:
Shayna’s Journey of Resilience and Renewal
| |
In January 2024, Shayna (not her real name) found herself facing an overwhelming challenge: a cancer diagnosis that left her in shock and fear for the future. As an older Jewish adult in Contra Costa County, Shayna was navigating the emotional and physical toll of her illness, but her challenges didn’t end there. She struggled to find a therapist through her insurance, and private pay options were beyond her financial reach. Shayna felt lost, but she reached out to JFCS East Bay, and that was the first step toward a fresh start.
Through the Jewish Community Safety Net (JCSN) program, Shayna quickly found the support she so desperately needed. Within a week, she was able to begin therapy sessions with a caring, compassionate therapist who provided critical emotional support. During this time of crisis, Shayna received validation, empathy, and healthy coping strategies that helped her manage the overwhelming emotions she faced. The support she received from JFCS East Bay was instrumental in helping her navigate the challenges of her cancer diagnosis with strength and resilience.
(click here to read more)
| |
Staff Spotlight:
Fouzia Azizi, Director of Refugee Services
| |
As we embrace the theme of new beginnings and setting resolutions for the year ahead, Fouzia Azizi’s journey exemplifies the power of fresh starts. With over seven years of service at JFCS East Bay, including nearly four as Director of Refugee Services, Fouzia has been a guiding force in providing critical support for refugees by helping them embark on new chapters in their lives.
Fouzia’s personal experience as a refugee shapes her leadership, fueling her passion for helping others rebuild their lives with dignity and respect. Her focus on supporting newly arriving individuals has paved the way for new beginnings in the East Bay, particularly during challenging times of global crisis. Under her leadership, the refugee resettlement program has grown from a small team to a dynamic and dedicated group of over 24 staff members, working together to ensure that each client receives personalized care and support as they transition to life in the U.S.
(click here to read more)
| |
JFCS East Bay in the Community |
Community Leader Spotlight:
A Spotlight on Ms. Cecilia Cunningham
|
Ms. Cecilia Cunningham, a dedicated community organizer with EBHO's Regional Community Organizing Program (RCOP), was honored with EBHO’s 2024 Affordable Housing Hero award for her tireless advocacy in affordable housing and social justice. Originally from New Orleans, Ms. Cecilia moved to Oakland for her work with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and has since become deeply involved in multiple local organizations, including EBHO, Communities for a Better Environment, and the United Lutheran Church.
In an interview with EBHO staff in April 2024, Ms. Cecilia reflected on her journey into organizing, her passion for helping others, and the challenges facing Oakland today. She described witnessing the decline of Black-owned businesses and the rise of homelessness, attributing the crisis to rising rent costs, which force many to choose between paying for housing or food.
Ms. Cecilia emphasized the importance of affordable housing for reducing stress and improving quality of life. She also highlighted the interconnectedness of housing justice with broader social issues like environmental health and economic inequality. Her drive for social change is fueled by a deep sense of faith, as she believes in the power of community support and activism to create meaningful change.
Ms. Cecilia’s unwavering commitment to justice and her belief in the right to safe, stable housing align with our ongoing advocacy to expand access to affordable housing across the East Bay, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
| |
Community Partner Highlight:
The ReCARES Network
| |
Since 1996, The ReCARES Network has been dedicated to collecting, redistributing, and encouraging the reuse of medical equipment and supplies throughout the Bay Area. Through their compassionate work, they help reduce the environmental impact of medical waste while supporting those who need it most.
At JFCS East Bay, we are proud to partner with The ReCARES Network to ensure that our elderly families in need have access to the vital medical supplies and equipment they require to maintain their health and independence. This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to serving the community and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.
Through our partnership with The ReCARES Network, JFCS East Bay is able to better serve our elderly families in need by connecting them with the vital medical equipment they require. We are grateful for their dedication to fostering community support and sustainability and encourage you to join us in supporting their impactful mission.
Looking for Equipment?
If you or someone you know needs medical equipment or supplies, ReCARES invites you to visit one of their locations. Simply stop by during their operating hours—no reservations needed. If the item you're looking for isn’t available when you visit, you can try another site or revisit later. For additional options, check out the ReCARES resources page for a list of alternative providers.
| |
Join Us for an Immigration Forum in Pittsburg, CA!
JFCS East Bay, as part of Stand Together Contra Costa, is partnering with the Pittsburg Unified School District and Willow Cove Elementary to host an Immigration Forum in Pittsburg. This important event will provide valuable resources, information, and support to immigrant families in our community.
Saturday, January 25, 2025
Willow Cove Elementary, Pittsburg, CA
1880 Hanlon Way, Pittsburg, CA 94565
Come learn about your rights, connect with local services, and gain access to tools that empower and protect immigrant families. Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive Contra Costa County.
| |
Become an AOL Sponsor: Gain Valuable Business Exposure | |
Join us as a Business Sponsor for the Art of Living Gala and gain unparalleled visibility in the East Bay. Your logo will be featured across our marketing channels, including 10 eblasts to over 9,000 recipients, social media with 3,700+ followers, and our website, which receives 3,200 monthly visits. As a sponsor, your logo will also appear in a thank-you ad in JWeekly, reaching 35,000 print readers (if committed by February 15th).
Additionally, you’ll receive tickets to the event, where we anticipate 400+ attendees, with a goal of reaching 500 or more.
Become a sponsor today and showcase your business’s community commitment!
Click here to learn more.
| |
Resources and Support During National Human Trafficking Prevention Month
January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. If you or someone you know is experiencing human trafficking, help is available. The Bay Area is home to numerous organizations providing vital services, including crisis hotlines, legal support, housing assistance, counseling, and case management. These resources empower survivors and help prevent exploitation by raising awareness and promoting community action. Whether you need immediate assistance or ongoing support, connect with local programs committed to ending human trafficking and ensuring safety and dignity for all.
If you or someone you know is affected by human trafficking, support is available. Along with local organizations, additional resources can be found through HEAL Trafficking, which connects individuals with vital services and tools for survivors. Explore resources like MISSSEY (Motivating, Inspiring, Supporting, and Serving Sexually Exploited Youth) for advocacy and support tailored to young people who have experienced exploitation.
Visit HEAL Trafficking's Resources to learn more about MISSSEY and other programs designed to help survivors on their path to healing.
| |
|
Immigration Forum (Pittsburg, CA)
STAND TOGETHER CONTRA COSTA, is partnering with the Pittsburg Unified School District and Willow Cove Elementary to bring an Immigration Forum to Pittsburg.
| | |
|
PJ Library Shalom Babies (Concord, CA)
PJ Library invites families with babies and toddlers to a relaxed meetup to connect and share about raising Jewish kids. Kids are welcome, and the atmosphere is warm and inclusive. RSVP encouraged.
| | |
(970) 867-5309
515 Ames Blvd
Fort Collins, CO 80521
| | | | | |