October 2024

Wishing you a happy, healthy New Year from

the board and staff of JFS.



Every October, in recognition of Domestic Violence awareness month, JFS chooses a theme to shine a spotlight on the critical issue of domestic violence. This year, JFS asks a question to our community- if someone shared with you that they are feeling unsafe in their relationship, controlled by, emotionally hurt or are physically afraid of their partner- would you know how to help? With this year’s campaign, JFS is here to help us “Know what to say and know what to do.” This October, we invite you to learn more by visiting the table in the front lobby of the LJCC during the month of October. Please click HERE to read our full article in the October Issue of the Charlotte Jewish News.

Family to Family Annual Campaign

September marks the start of JFS’ Annual Family to Family fund raising campaign. This campaign is our largest fund raising effort ensuring JFS’ capacity to continue to provide critical services to members of our community impacted by issues of mental health, aging, domestic violence and food and financial insecurity. On October 10^th our board members will be making calls to engage your support. They would love the opportunity to thank you for your support. You can also make your tax deductible donation to the campaign at jfscharlotte.org and thank you for helping JFS strengthen our impact toward a healthier community.

At JFS, we take great pride in our team of highly trained, professional therapists who bring expertise, empathy, and dedication to their work. Our therapists are committed to supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of our community. Today, we are pleased to highlight two of our exceptional therapists, each bringing their unique skills and passion, including trauma-informed care, for helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges.

Sara Scheibner, LCSW

I have over 10 years of experience in supporting individuals through their healing journeys and have been with JFS for almost 3 years. Through my previous work as a domestic violence clinician, I’ve learned the importance of building trust and respecting client’s autonomy, allowing them to make their own choices about their path forward. Providing resources, such as legal aid or counseling, is essential, but it's equally important to empower clients to find their voice and strength.

My therapeutic approach is integrative, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. I am committed to empowering client’s by integrating evidence-based practices with an understanding of each person's unique experiences and strengths. My focus is helping clients navigate their emotions, build resilience, develop coping skills, and improve self-esteem. Every interaction is unique, highlighting the resilience of those I work with and the need for tailored support. Witnessing their journeys towards healing and independence is profoundly inspiring.

Outside of my professional life, I enjoy running, fly fishing (although I’m not very good at it) and spending time with family and friends, which I find enriches my approach to therapy and overall well-being.

Courtney Lawrence, LCSW

I’ve been with JFS a little over 2 years. The bulk of my career has been working with domestic violence and trauma, with the Domestic Violence Healthcare Project, Victim Assistance, and Mecklenburg County Community Support Services, but has also included medical social work and working with children. I have trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, in addition to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE). I feel fortunate to be at JFS, a supportive and close-knit environment that is responsive to the community and people it serves and gives me the opportunity to work with a wide range of people.

September Caregiver Speaker Series Recap

Would you be able to send me a recap of the 9/19 program by 9/25? I have included the content we had in the September issue in case it helps.

On September 19^th JFS welcomed local occupational therapist (OT) Mattie Ablitz at our Caregiver Speaker Series. Attendees gained valuable insights and information as Mattie took us on a virtual walk of a home to: assess safety hazards, identify potential modifications, and plan for aging-in-place needs. Read on to learn details about our next speaker series program coming up on November. 

Caregiver Speaker Series: Coping with Holiday Stress as a Family Caregiver

The holiday season, while joyful, can also bring added stress for caregivers balancing their responsibilities with festive demands. Join us for an empowering presentation designed for caregivers seeking strategies to manage stress during this busy time of year. This program will cover practical tips for maintaining your well-being, techniques for setting boundaries, and methods to create a supportive network. Discover how to incorporate self-care into your routine, enhance your resilience, and find moments of peace amidst the holiday bustle. 

Many of us help older, sick, or disabled family members and friends every day. We know we are helping, but we don't think of ourselves as caregivers. Caregiving can be stressful. That’s where supportive information can be helpful. No cost to attend. Thursday, 11/21, [Time] via Zoom. To register or for more information visit [website].

I’ve noticed that my 11 year old has been having a hard time since starting 6th grade. At first I thought it was just adjusting to a new school, but I am starting to get worried. She cries every Sunday night and tells us her stomach hurts. She begs to stay home and seems quiet and withdrawn when she gets off the bus. I try to ask what is going on and she just replies “nothing.” She used to be such a happy child! I am also worried because she told me she doesn’t want to do girl scouts anymore, and it used to be her favorite thing! She said those girls aren’t her friends anymore, so why go? I wonder if she is being bullied? Should I be worried?

Thanks for listening, Middle School Mama

Dear Middle School Mama

I am so glad you reached out. I can tell that you are really attuned to your daughter and are a caring and devoted mom! It sounds like your daughter is struggling with some really common 6th grade challenges. Kids in this age group often struggle with the transition from the more supportive and familiar environment of elementary school to the hustle, bustle, and new expectations of middle school. During this time of development, it is also common for kids to deal with fitting in, friendship troubles, moodiness, and becoming more independent from parents. All of these developmental milestones can be challenging for tweens and parents! Continue to provide consistent love and support. Remember- she may not want to talk to you as much as she once did! But don’t give up! You can ask open ended questions or simply try saying “tell me more.” Most importantly, don’t take any rebuffs personally! 



It also sounds like your child may be experiencing some difficulties beyond what we may expect. She is struggling weekly and it sounds like this may be impacting her ability to engage at school. She is also no longer enjoying activities she used to enjoy and I understand why you are concerned about her remarks about her friends not liking her. These all may be red flags or warning signs that she may need some additional support. You can reach out to her pediatrician or call a child/teen therapist to consult. Feel free to give us a call at JFS to chat at 704-364-6594. Thanks for reaching out! 

Rachel Green, MSC, LCSW

Feeling the back-to-school stress? Try these simple coping strategies:

1. Prioritize Sleep: Try to go to sleep and wake up at around the same time every night (even weekends!) and encourage your kids to do the same. This can help with the Sunday Scaries and Monday blues! 
2. Practice Mindfulness: Stop and take a moment to wiggle your toes. Notice how they feel on the floor. Take a deep breath. Look around and name 10 colors you see in the room. This can help you come back to the “here and now” and ease racing thoughts and anxiety. 
3. Practice Gratitude: Think about three specific things you are grateful for in this moment. Try to be as specific as possible. Studies show that a gratitude practice can lead to improved happiness, reduced depression and increased resilience!

October

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

10/23: JFS Food Pantry Drop Off at the Portico/Library entrance

November

11/4-12/6: Dreidel Drive

11/6: JFS Food Pantry Drop Off at the Portico/Library entrance

11/20: JFS Food Pantry Drop Off at the Portico/Library entrance

11/21: Caregiver Speaker Series, Holiday Stress