March 2025

Our  Jewish Community Care Services  at JFCS East Bay provides personalized support to Jewish individuals, particularly those facing aging, disability, or other life challenges. We offer a range of services, including case management, mental health counseling, and daily living assistance, all tailored to meet each person’s unique needs.

Our goal is to help individuals maintain independence while fostering a sense of community through social activities and volunteer opportunities. Caring for our Jewish Community  reflects our commitment to the Jewish community’s responsibility to care for one another in body, mind, and spirit..

We are grateful for the staff, volunteers, and partners whose dedication makes this program possible, helping us build a stronger, more resilient community.

As the Managing Attorney for Afghan Legal Services at JFCS East Bay, Sarah Gakenia Cleveland leads a dedicated team providing critical immigration legal support to over 300 Afghan clients. She also oversees the pro bono program, training volunteer attorneys to assist asylum seekers.

Sarah was drawn to JFCS East Bay because of its strong community-centered approach and the genuine care staff show for both clients and colleagues. One of her proudest achievements was seeing her entire team become DOJ Accredited Representatives in 2024—expanding their ability to serve more clients while also creating new career pathways for her team members.

Beyond her work, Sarah loves traveling (27 countries and counting!), exploring new food spots, collecting vinyl records, and hosting friends—especially in the summer.

Thank you, Sarah, for your dedication to our community!

Veronica Granillo, a passionate advocate for accessible immigration services, recently joined the board of JFCS East Bay. A first-generation immigrant to Richmond who lived for many years with undocumented legal status, Veronica became an immigration attorney to help others facing similar challenges. She currently serves as a Senior Staff Attorney at East Bay Sanctuary Covenant, leading asylum and naturalization programs. Veronica has volunteered with several organizations, offering pro bono services to immigrants in need. Recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year in 2013, she continues to fight for immigrant rights. Veronica holds a BA in Criminal Justice and a J.D. from San Francisco Law School. She lives in Pinole, CA, with her husband and two young boys.

Jennifer Chang has been making a tremendous impact as a volunteer with our Employment Services. She developed the curriculum for our current English class for job seekers, helping newcomers build the language skills they need to succeed in the workforce. Now, she’s working on launching an Afghan Women’s Business Basics cohort—an eight-week program starting in May—to support Afghan women in gaining essential business skills. Jennifer’s dedication and expertise are invaluable to our community. Thank you, Jennifer, for all you do!

White Pony Express is a key partner in our efforts to combat food insecurity and support vulnerable communities across the Bay Area. Based in Pleasant Hill, CA, White Pony Express delivers nutritious food to individuals and families in need, aligning with our mission to strengthen the well-being of our community. Together, we work to ensure that those struggling with hunger have access to the resources they need to thrive. In addition to their local food delivery services, White Pony Express also stands as a fellow supporter of global humanitarian efforts, including providing aid to Ukrainians affected by the crisis. Their commitment to service and compassion mirrors our values, and we are grateful to collaborate with such an impactful organization.

Don't miss out on the event of the year! The Art of Living Gala is just around the corner, and tickets are still available. We’re excited to welcome Mina Kim, esteemed journalist and anchor at KQED News, as a key speaker for the evening. Known for her insightful coverage of local and global issues, Mina's voice will bring depth and relevance to the night’s celebration. Join us for an inspiring evening with live entertainment, meaningful conversations, and a chance to support our community. Get your ticket today and be part of this unforgettable event! Click here to learn more.

JPAC Capitol Summit 2025

May 5-6, 2025 - Sacramento, CA

Join JFCS East Bay in Advocating for a Safer, Stronger Community. 

During this two-day gathering, you will hear from some of the state’s most powerful lawmakers and activists, practice and participate in direct lobbying, and have access to exclusive networking opportunities with elected officials, Jewish organizational leaders, and lay leaders from across the state.



The Capitol Summit will take place May 5-6, 2025 and offers an empowering opportunity to learn, network, and advocate for our community’s needs. 

Sign up today and be part of this impactful event: jpac-cal.org/capitol-summit/

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to promote inclusion, raise awareness, and celebrate the valuable contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities. We are proud to honor this month by continuing our commitment to providing compassionate support and services to individuals with developmental disabilities. Through our programs, we foster a more inclusive community where everyone, regardless of ability, has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. We believe in creating spaces where people are celebrated for their unique strengths and are empowered to live full, meaningful lives.

Celebrating Women’s History Month at JFCS East Bay

This Women’s History Month, we honor the strength, resilience, and leadership of women in our community and beyond. From our dedicated staff and volunteers to the courageous refugee mothers rebuilding their lives, the incredible caregivers supporting aging loved ones, and the young women advocating for a more just world—women continue to shape our work in profound ways. At JFCS East Bay, we are committed to uplifting women through essential services, mental health support, and community partnerships. Join us in celebrating their contributions and ensuring a future where all women can thrive.