FEBRUARY 16, 2025

JFS CEO Rachel Kornfeld had the pleasure of meeting with King School students in a class called: Empowering Voices: Migration, Conflict, Resettlement & Testimony. Created by history teacher Lindsey Rossler, the students learn interpersonal skills and build empathy and historical understanding through testimony. 

Ms. Rossler developed this way of learning and listening with refugees resettled locally by JFS of Greenwich. Refugees are empowered to tell their own stories directly to students, so that history may be told by the survivors, not just by generals or politicians. Ms. Rossler and her students are true humanitarians and historians. This project connects those involved in a deeply moving way, breaking down barriers of race, religion, ethnicity, and country of birth.

Thank you to King School, for creating opportunities to document history and positively influence the future.

JFS is incredibly fortunate to have volunteers like Joan Mann and Barbara Salop, whose dedication and partnership enrich our community. They have worked together for many years, in their shared mission to bring comfort, Jewish tradition, and compassion to those who need it most. Whether they’re leading Shabbat services, visiting patients in hospitals, or planning holiday programs, their teamwork is a shining example of what it means to give back.

If their story inspires you, please contact the volunteer department to learn how you can get involved.

Q: How long have you known each other?

Barbara: I met Joan in 2014 at Rabbi MJ’s class on Counting the Omer at Greenwich Hospital. Joan had been visiting the hospital for 15 years before that!

Joan: I’ve been a JFS volunteer for over 30 years, and it’s been a joy to work with Barbara for many them. Our times together, both in Greenwich and in Israel, are incredibly meaningful, and I cherish our bond.

Q: What does Bikur Cholim (visiting the sick) mean to you?

Barbara: Bikur Cholim is about bringing warmth and compassion to those in pain or feeling disoriented. It’s also a way of being patient and present for the people around me.

Joan: Our tradition teaches that visiting the sick takes away one-sixtieth of their pain. This mitzvah holds great meaning, and I feel deeply honored to be able to do it.

Q: What impact do you think your work has on the community?

Barbara: Our Zoom Shabbat services create a sense of togetherness, while JFS holiday programs bring back cherished memories for seniors. Interacting with Supermarketing for Seniors clients helps alleviate their loneliness.

Joan: JFS creates connections between people, whether through shared prayers or a kind word. The patients and seniors we visit are so grateful; our work helps them feel cared for and remembered.

Joan was a founding member of JFS 42 years ago, and Barbara is a long-time board member. Their unwavering commitment to the Jewish community and to the mitzvah of Bikur Cholim continues to inspire all at JFS. We are proud to celebrate you both!

To read more about Joan and Barbara, please click here to view the entire interview.

We are looking for volunteers to help support older adults and refugees in our community. Your time can make a big difference, whether it's helping with daily tasks, offering companionship, or providing support. Join us in making our community a welcoming and caring place for everyone!



To make a difference, please email the Volunteer Department.

THANK YOU FOR GENEROUSLY SUPPORTING

JFS OF GREENWICH!

Jewish Family Services of Greenwich

67 Holly Hill Lane | Greenwich, CT 06830

203-622-1881 | info@jfsgreenwich.org