As we approach the end of 2023, I am filled with a profound sense of pride. Reflecting on the year at Goodman JFS, it's clear that we stand united in our mission. I am thrilled to share some of our remarkable achievements with you.
- This year marked a significant milestone in our commitment to mental wellness in our community. We celebrated the opening of the Jeff Masarek Behavioral Health Center, expanding our capacity to offer compassionate, specialized care in the northern part of the county. The launch of our Mental Health First Aid initiative offers free training to community members, equipping those who become certified with the skills to assist those battling mental health challenges. And, we remain committed to providing a safe and caring space for those struggling with the emotional toll of the Israel-Hamas War.
- We've delivered thousands of warm holiday meals to Holocaust survivors and homebound seniors, and we even inaugurated a Centenarian Club for our survivors who have reached the milestone of 100 years and beyond.
- Our first in-person fundraiser in over three years to benefit The Dorit & Ben J. Cupboard underscored our commitment to eradicating food insecurity in Broward County.
- We've secured federal and state funding, strengthened our existing partnerships and built new and meaningful relationships that will propel us into future success.
- Our team has grown, welcoming new hires who bring fresh perspectives and dedicated expertise that will enable us to serve more effectively.
These accomplishments are not just milestones; they are stepping stones to greater heights.
As we look to the future, I am filled with optimism. Your support and partnership are vital to our mission, and I encourage you to continue sharing our vision with others who may wish to join us in making a difference.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire staff of Goodman JFS, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a happy and safe New Year to you and your families.
Sincerely,
|
|
Randy Colman
President & CEO
|
|
Highlights and Happenings… |
|
Holocaust Survivors Assistance Program Celebrates Café Europa
Recently, Goodman JFS had the honor and privilege of hosting nearly 150 Survivors during an annual Cafe Europa Event at Temple Beth El in Hollywood. The name 'Café Europa' originates from a café in Stockholm, Sweden, where survivors would gather post-war in hopes of finding family and friends.
This program is designed to bring survivors together to socialize, dance and foster a sense of community over a shared meal. Friends, staff, community leaders and dignitaries including US Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz joined in celebration of life and the power of resilience. Additionally, Mayor of Hollywood Josh Levy presented a Proclamation declaring December 21, 2023 as ‘Goodman Jewish Family Services’ Cafe Europa Day.’
Goodman JFS' Holocaust Survivor Assistance Program provides Survivors with compassionate support, ensuring their unique medical, social, financial and emotional needs are met with sensitivity and expertise. Broward County is home to one of the largest Holocaust survivor populations in the United States.
|
|
Last Call to Make A Difference this Year!
Make your gift before December 31, 2023 to support individuals and families in our community facing hunger, financial hardship and other life crises. Your continued generosity will impact the lives of thousands in Broward County by restoring their dignity.
Goodman JFS Community Impact in a Year
|
|
Mission United: Supportive Services for Veteran Families
Goodman JFS is proud to introduce Mission United, a new initiative in collaboration with the United Way of Broward County. The program is aimed to provide comprehensive case management services to veterans and their families, helping them secure stable housing and access various supportive services.
We are pleased to announce the addition of five case managers, a health service navigator, an outreach and eligibility specialist and a program director to the Goodman JFS team. They are ready to assist veterans and their families in securing housing, finding stable employment, accessing VA benefits, applying for financial assistance and obtaining other necessary services.
If you know of a prospective or current client who could benefit from this program, please contact Leo Bingham, Outreach and Eligibility Specialist, at lbingham@jfsbroward.org via email, copying Jessica Perez, Program Director, at jperez@jfsbroward.org.
|
|
Thanksgiving Table Meal Distribution In Memory of Chef Howie Kleinberg
In a heartfelt tribute to the late Howie Kleinberg, a beloved Miami-based chef and notable alumni of Bravo's 'Top Chef' Season 3, The Dorit & Ben J. Genet Cupboard organized a Thanksgiving meal packing and distribution event. The event, conceptualized by Ross Adel, Director of Operations for The Cupboard, alongside Susan Kleinberg and Amy Wildstein, Chef Howie’s mother and sister, honored his legacy of generosity and his belief in the importance of food in bringing people together.
The family's commitment to combating food insecurity was evident as they spearheaded this effort ensuring that no one in the community went without a turkey during Thanksgiving. With the help of over 100 volunteers and the incredible support of The Cupboard’s team, nearly 700 meals were packed and over 400 of those meals were hand-delivered across Broward County.
|
|
Howard “Howie” Kleinberg, born and raised in South Florida, opened his restaurant, Bulldog Barbecue, in North Miami. Kleinberg was known for his charitable efforts, frequently contributing to "Taste of the Nation," an event aimed at combating adolescent hunger. The Thanksgiving event served as a fitting tribute to a man whose life and work were a testament to the power of food in fostering community and care.
We are grateful to Susan and Amy for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in making this event a success.
|
|
The Goodman JFS Feed the Need campaign is running now until December 31, 2023. The Cupboard is the largest kosher food choice pantry in Broward County and feeds over 600 families monthly, including many Holocaust survivors and homebound seniors. This program is fully supported by donations from the community. *10% of the proceeds raised will be contributed toward supporting food initiatives in Israel
|
|
Goodman JFS Welcomes Morgan Weinblatt
Morgan Weinblatt, the newly appointed Senior Director of Development at Goodman JFS, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to nonprofit management. With her donor-centric approach, she excels in fostering meaningful connections. Morgan's passion lies in bridging community gaps, a mission she has pursued through the development and nurturing of programs throughout her career.
Prior to joining Goodman JFS, Morgan served as the Director of Resource Development and Engagement at Jewish Community Services of South Florida and Director of Philanthropic Engagement at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation.
With Morgan at the helm of development at Goodman JFS, the organization is poised to reach new heights in service and community engagement.
Morgan lives in Pembroke Pines with her husband, Brian, and new baby Jules.
|
|
A conversation with the Goodmans
Earlier this month, President and CEO, Randy Colman, sat down with Dr. Stanley and Pearl Goodman in their Ft. Lauderdale home and recounted their journey. From growing up during the Great Depression to raising a family in South Florida and becoming significant philanthropists in our community. Through their efforts, they have not only made a substantial impact on the lives of many but have also set an extraordinary example for all of us to follow.
Stay tuned for more on their conversation…
|
|
Goodman JFS Upcoming Events |
|
|
|
Virtual Bereavement Support Group
A group for individuals who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
Mondays | 5 p.m. - 6 p.m. | FREE
Call 954-909-0888 for more information.
|
|
|
|
Parent to Parent Support Group
Join our monthly Giborim United and Joshua's Path support group for parents who are raising a child or an adult with exceptional needs.
January 18, 2024 | 5:00 p.m.| FREE
|
|
Breaking the Silence, Building Resilience - March 2024 |
|
Make a Difference. Make a Gift Today.
|
|
|
Goodman JFS is dedicated to empowering individuals
and providing exceptional social service.
|
|
Goodman JFS of Broward (GJFS) is a non-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization, providing programs and services to those in need in Broward County since 1963. A copy of the official registration SC-00196 and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling 800-435-7352 within the State or visiting www.FloridaConsumerHelp.com. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the State. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
