JFS of Greenwich is delighted to welcome three exceptional community leaders to our Board of Directors. Each brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to service, and a shared passion for strengthening the lives of individuals and families in our community.

JoAnn Messina

JoAnn Messina served as the founding Executive Director of the Greenwich Tree Conservancy (2007–2024) and continues her statewide environmental advocacy through CT Advocates for Trees. She recently accepted the role of Chair of the Board of Greenwich Green & Clean. JoAnn has long been active in civic leadership, including serving as President of the League of Women Voters of Greenwich and Vice President of the State League. Through her many town committee roles, JoAnn often partnered with JFS, experiences that inspired her to formally join and support our mission.

Robin Berlin, Esq.

Robin Berlin is an attorney with more than 35 years of experience and a career shaped by service, community, and Jewish values. A dedicated volunteer with the Bikur Cholim program at Greenwich Hospital, Robin brings compassion and a strong connection to Jewish communal life. Outside of her professional and community commitments, Robin embraces an active lifestyle and is a devoted supporter of Jewish culture and Israel. She looks forward to contributing her passion and perspective to the JFS Board.

Abby Meiselman

Abby Meiselman is a retired attorney who practiced law for 30 years. Abby is deeply committed to nonprofit work and currently volunteers with JFS through weekly conversational English sessions with an Afghan immigrant client. She has held leadership roles with the YWCA Greenwich, Women First International Fund, and Seminars at Steamboat, and has served as an independent board member for a New York City family‑owned business. Abby brings broad governance experience and a strong dedication to community empowerment.

Greenwich Reform Synagogue hosted a meaningful and well‑attended Refugee Shabbat, bringing the community together in support of refugees and asylum seekers.

Rachel Kornfeld, CEO, shared an update on the current refugee crisis, highlighting both global challenges and the work JFS is doing locally to support families seeking safety and stability.

She was joined by Kevin Cruz Sanchez, JFS Case Manager, who offered insight into the day‑to‑day realities faced by newly-arrived refugee families and the importance of personalized, compassionate case management.

Their remarks underscored the vital role community partnerships play in helping refugees rebuild their lives. JFS is grateful to Greenwich Reform Synagogue for hosting and for its continued commitment to welcoming and supporting those in need.

Resettlement Health Program Hosts Successful Group Session in Norwich

The Refugee Health Program (RHP) group session at our Norwich location was highly successful, with 21 participants in attendance. Guest speakers delivered an engaging and informative presentation. Participants were encouraged to ask questions, and many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to interact directly with the presenters.

The session concluded with a raffle in which four participants received gift cards, adding a fun and interactive element to the event.

Shabbat Services: Fridays at 1:00 pm via Zoom

Jewish Health & Healing Service: Monday, March 9 at 12:15 pm via Zoom

For more information or to receive the Zoom link, please email Jayme Schneider.

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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 | www.jfsgreenwich.org