Our first in-person Community of Giving event on November 12 was far more than a feel-good breakfast gathering; guests were immersed in the full scope of services that reach more than 10,000 people each year. Attendees left with full hearts and grounded in connection and hope.
The JF&CS Experience
Guests mingled while taking in the JF&CS Experience at Community of Giving.
Guests stepped into our clients’ shoes the moment they arrived. Along the perimeter of the room, interactive stations brought our core services to life: a miniature Kosher Food Pantry to explore, short films created by clients in our Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Services, and even a cozy beanbag corner where guests could chat with clinicians.
Because it’s difficult to convey the full breadth of our wraparound care, we invited guests to literally walk our clients’ paths; color-coded routes allowed visitors to follow the journeys of real people whose lives have been touched by multiple programs. For example, Rachel.
Lillian Gibson, Director of Supported Employment, Lindsey Shippel, Intern with Bridge to Stability, Abby Lail-Franz, Community Advocacy Manager at IndependenceWORKS, and Cory Rosenberg, Direct Support Professional.
Rachel’s Story
After losing her job, Rachel’s family faced overwhelming financial strain and the threat of eviction. Bridge to Stability provided emergency assistance and budget support, giving her room to regain control. Guests followed Rachel’s path from Bridge to Stability to Bunzl-Wilner Clinical Services and then to Aviv Older Adult Services.
Counseling with one of our professionals helped her process the emotional toll, while her young son received care at the Horwitz-Zusman Child & Family Center to manage his anxiety. When Rachel grew concerned about her aging mother living alone, Aviv Older Adult Services stepped in with resources and case management. Walking through the experiences of Rachel, and others, helped guests connect with the concrete impact they make through their support.
Jay Cranman and Rick Folbaum.
After exploring the stations, everyone gathered for a family-style breakfast and a morning of connection. Jay Cranman, CEO of JF&CS, joined journalist Rick Folbaum for a fireside chat reflecting on his first 90 days and his vision for deepening our impact. The morning concluded with emotional testimonies from clients Peggy and Sandy, whose courage and generosity brought the heart of our mission fully into the room.
As the morning came to a close, one thing was clear: the work of JF&CS is only possible because of our community. Your support of the Annual Campaign ensures that families in crisis, older adults, children, individuals with disabilities, and more can rely on us when they need it most. Together, we will continue building a community where no one has to walk alone.
Mark your calendars for the next Community of Giving: November 12, 2026.