Dear Friends, 

These past few months have been truly remarkable for Goodman JFS, and I couldn’t be prouder of the work we do to help others. In this newsletter, we are excited to share some recent highlights from Holocaust Survivor Celebration Day, Joshua’s Path Disability Services BOOST graduation, and other meaningful events. These events have been personal highlights for me, and I want to take this moment to express my gratitude for your support. 



Thank you to everyone who attended these events and to those who sent kind emails supporting our work. Your encouragement and dedication mean the world to us and reinforce our passion for what we do! A heartfelt thanks also goes to our friends, donors, staff and community partners who make all of this possible. 

As we close our fiscal year and look ahead to 2024-2025, I am excited to bring our collective vision for growth to fruition. While challenges may lie ahead, our team is solid and I am confident in our readiness for continued success. 



I wish you all a wonderful summer and safe travels.

Sincerely, 

Goodman JFS celebrated this special day by welcoming 250 honored guests, including 97 Holocaust survivors, their families, community leaders and dignitaries.

Broward County is home to one of the largest Holocaust survivor populations in the United States, and Goodman JFS was deeply honored to present attending survivors with commemorative medals of honor. Additionally, 12 survivors were inducted into the Goodman JFS Centenarian Club in celebration of turning 100 or more this year. Each of these centenarians received a personalized birthday cake and a Proclamation on behalf of Congressman Jared Moskowitz and The White House. 

Guests enjoyed a musical performance by Temple Beth Emet students and had the rare and meaningful opportunity to dance and connect personally with the survivors throughout the afternoon. The event served as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of the Jewish people.

Rakitinis with Friends 

Over 30 community members gathered for “Rakitinis with Friends,” a Goodman JFS happy hour event supporting its RAK (Random Acts of Kindness) PAK Clothing Closet. Guests enjoyed signature martinis while learning more about this impactful program, which offers free clothing and hygiene products to men, women and children in a friendly, safe and confidential environment. 

Two clients shared firsthand accounts of how the program significantly improved their lives, providing guests with a personal connection to the impact of their support.

The event successfully raised awareness and critical funds, and inspired attendees to join in the ongoing efforts to make a meaningful difference. RAK PAK Heroes, individuals who support this program with a minimum annual contribution of $1,800, were also honored.



To become a RAK PAK Hero, contact Morgan Weinblatt at mweinblatt@jfsbroward.org or 954.909.0797. 

Joshua’s Path Disability Services B.O.O.S.T Graduation

Goodman JFS recently celebrated the graduation of its BOOST Spring 2024 class. BOOST (Building On Our Strengths Together) empowers neurodivergent adults, including those with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and other similarly abled individuals. The program helps participants develop interpersonal skills through both classroom and practical experiences. 



Fourteen graduates proudly received their certificates and showcased their talents by reciting poetry and performing "Do I Make You Proud." Family, friends and community members beamed with pride as they witnessed the graduates’ hard work and resilience, and the supportive environment provided by the BOOST program.  

To learn more about the BOOST program, contact joshuaspath@jfsbroward.org, call 954-270-0055 or click to set up an admissions meeting.

Goodman JFS Joins U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz During Senior Health & Resource Fair

U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz recently hosted a Senior Health & Resource Fair in Pembroke Pines. Goodman JFS was delighted to attend, providing an opportunity to meet with older residents and connect them with resources tailored to their unique needs. The event created a sense of community while sharing the importance of accessible support for seniors.

Through its Silver CARE and Holocaust Survivor Assistance Programs, Goodman JFS ensures that seniors receive the quality care, attention and wellness resources they need to thrive and age gracefully with dignity. 

Israel Trauma Coalition Tri-County Training

Goodman JFS hosted a psycho-social support and trauma care training provided by the Israel Trauma Coalition (ITC). This essential course prepares licensed therapists to offer both short-term and long-term trauma-focused therapy to community members and families impacted by emergency events.

The ITC offers its expertise and experience to help care providers enhance their preparedness and response capacity, using practices and tools that have been widely field-tested in Israel and Europe. The three-week certificate course was attended by 21 mental health professionals from Tri County Jewish organizations, including Dr. Stanley and Pearl Goodman Jewish Family Services of Broward, Jewish Community Services of South Florida, Ruth and Norman Rales Jewish Family Services, and Alpert Jewish Family Service.

GOOD People