VOICES SPRING 2010
A P U B L I C AT I O N F R O M J E W I S H FA M I LY S E R V I C E O F T H E D E S E R T
SOLUTIONS FOR SENIORS JFS Geriatric Case Manager Lisa Schmid takes a moment from her busy day to savor a small victory. After several hours work on Medi-Cal paperwork, she has finally gotten an 89 year old client re-certified. “The process was very confusing for him,” explains Lisa. “Without assistance, he most likely would have lost his coverage, resulting in financial hardship.”
IN THIS ISSUE SOLUTIONS FOR SENIORS ONE NIGHT ONLY JFS PROGRAMS IN DHS JFS CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS
In the JFS “Solutions for Seniors” Program, success is often measured by what doesn’t happen. Every day that an 85 year old man remains living independently in his own home, avoiding institutionalization, is a small triumph. Elderly clients that have fewer emergency room visits because they are receiving regular medical care represent success. continues on page 3
VOLUNTEER RENEE SOLOMON JFS ANNUAL MEETING
ONE NIGHT ONLY
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PRODUCTION OF
ONE NIGHT ONLY M CCALLUM THEATER Polly Bergen
Michael Childers Production of One Night Only Continues to Shatter Records On April 8, 2010, the third production of Michael Childers’ One Night Only to benefit JFS delighted a sold out crowd of more than 1,100 guests at the McCallum Theatre for the Performing Arts. Host Rex Reed introduced 21 stellar performers, including legendary film, television and stage actress Polly Bergen, along with Phillip Attmore, Liz Callaway, Ann Hampton Callaway, Loretta Devine, Michelle Duffy, Nancy Dussault, Davis Gaines, Danny Gurwin, Sam Harris, Alix Korey, Carol Lawrence, Rita McKenzie, Marni Nixon, Valarie Pettiford, Lee Roy Reams, Von Smith, James Snyder, Nita Whitaker and John Lloyd Young. A number of the cast members are Emmy® and Tony® award winners and nominees. Palm Springs Life was among the many in the media with rave reviews. “Extraordinary producer Michael Childers continues to attract the best veteran and new performers from Broadway and Hollywood for his amazing ‘One Night Only’ which continues to be the best show presented in the desert all year,” wrote reporter Gloria Greer. One Night Only has become one of the desert’s most popular events, selling out the McCallum Theatre for the third year in a row. The unparalleled evening of musical theater was followed by a lively VIP reception at Piero’s Acqua Pazza at the River. David Lee & Mark Nichols hosted a lovely private party for the cast and major sponsors at their Las Palmas estate the evening before the event. This spectacular evening of entertainment would not have been possible without the leadership of Honorary Co-Chairs Helene Galen, Barbara Keller, and Harold Matzner, along with Event Chairs Barbara Fromm and Sherry Schor. Presenting Sponsor Wells Fargo was among the more than 50 sponsors that included Helene Galen, Barbara & Jerry Keller, Harold Matzner, Annette Bloch, Angie & Harvey Gerber, David Lee & Mark Nichols, Dorothy & Mel Lefkowitz, Barbara & Mike Resmo, Mark Adams, Mary & Jerome Angel, Becky & Jack Benaroya, Leslie & Gordon Diamond, Jackie Lee & Jim Houston, JoAnn McGrath, Myra & Maurice Paperny, Linda & Manny Rider, Faye & Herman Sarkowsky, Thelma & Gilbert Schnitzer, and more than 25 additional sponsors. Media sponsors included Palm Springs Life, the Bottom Line, JACK-FM, BIG 106/KPLM and K-JAZZ. Next year’s production of One Night Only is scheduled for April 28, 2011. Tickets will go on sale in January 2011. One Night Only photos by Jay Jorgensen
Davis Gaines, Event Co-Chair Sherry Schor, Honorary Co-Chairs Helene Galen & Harold Matzner , Event Co-Chair Barbara Fromm & Honorary Co-Chair Barbara Keller
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SOLUTIONS FOR SENIORS JFS created “Solutions for Seniors” in 1999 to provide adults sixty and older with the support that they need to maintain their independence and the highest quality of life as long as possible. As seniors age, some experience a decline in health. Many find themselves alone with the passing of their partner. Often, their extended family live elsewhere, unable to assist with care. The majority of the current clients in the program are over the age of 80 and living by themselves. Program staff can help secure financial assistance, process medical forms, assist with household budgeting, liaison with healthcare professionals, obtain counseling services, provide referrals to local services, arrange transportation to medical appointments, and help manage crisis situations. Often the call for assistance comes from a concerned family member. Lisa describes how one of her current clients, 84 year old “Celia”, became involved with JFS. Lisa received a call from Celia’s sister “Lillian” who lived in another state and was concerned that the effects of dementia were jeopardizing Celia’s ability to live alone safely. Lisa called Celia, relayed her sister’s concerns, and through a series of telephone conversations and visits gained her trust. Through Lisa’s intervention, in-home help was arranged for Celia. Lisa’s continuing efforts ensure that Celia regularly receives medical care and takes her medications, including insulin. For Lisa, the satisfaction in her work comes from the help that she can provide for her clients. One woman received prompt emergency care after a late night fall because Lisa had helped her sign up for a “Life Alert” service. An elderly man with limited means was able to qualify for free medications with her assistance. While Celia remains convinced that she is perfectly capable of looking after herself, Lisa recently spoke to her sister Lillian. “Lillian wanted to thank me for giving her peace of mind. She knows that Celia is not alone and that they both can count on JFS.”
JFS Installs Directors and Officers at Annual Meeting On Monday, April 26, 2010, JFS held its 16th Annual Meeting at the Miramonte Spa & Resort in Indian Wells with more than 70 people in attendance. Executive Director Dan Bass reported to guests on the accomplishments of JFS in the past year in serving clients in more than 1,600 households throughout the Coachella Valley. In addition, newly appointed officers of the Board officially assumed their responsibilities. Don Levy was named as the new President of the board and Deanna Pearl and Marc Kashinsky as Vice Presidents. Barry Kaufman retained his position as Treasurer and Annabel Goldstein was elected Secretary. Newly elected board members include Myra Gordon, Susan Rosser and Sandy Seplow. Leaving the board with appreciation are Kevin Katz and Sam Oberman, a past president who served on the board with distinction for 11 years.
New Board President Don Levy with Past President Judy Wallis and board member Barbara Keller
Immediate Past President Judy Wallis warmly congratulated her successor. “Don Levy has been a friend and a colleague for many years. I’m delighted to leave the responsibilities of Board President in his extremely capable hands.” At the Annual Meeting, the Board of JFS recognized two dedicated individuals for their extraordinary commitments to the work of the organization. Barbara Keller received the “Vi Felix Community Service Award”. Barbara has been a board member of JFS for 6 years. She has served as Honorary Co-Chair of Michael Childers production of “One Night Only” since 2008. Retiring Office Manager Donna Stone was also recognized for her dedication and service to the agency, which began in 1982.
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2010 One Night Only Cast
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photo by Pat Krause Rex Reed, Lorna Luft, Michael Childers & Ann Hampton Callaway at the cast party
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Carol Lawrence performs “Top Hat” with help from audience members Jerry Keller, Milan Tojagic, Chuck Hilliar, Walter Green (hidden), Bernie Fromm, Sandy Seplow.
JFS Awards Nine Scholarships to Jewish Summer Camps This spring, JFS awarded scholarships to 9 local children and youth to subsidize the cost of attending a Jewish camp this coming summer. This year’s recipients include three boys and six girls, ranging in age from 8 to 17. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need. Priority is given to children who have never had the chance to experience a Jewish summer camp. Most of the camps are located in Southern California, including the San Bernardino Mountains, Malibu, Ojai and Simi Valley. The camps provide the opportunity for young people to explore being Jewish in today’s world, expand creativity, develop leadership skills, make lasting friendships and experience nature. JFS has been providing scholarships to Jewish summer camps for more than 15 years. More than 80 boys and girls have received scholarships during this time. If you would like to contribute to the JFS Camp Scholarship Fund for 2011 or would like to apply for a scholarship for summer 2011 for a deserving child, please contact JFS at (760) 325-4088.
IN MEMORY OF
ARNY SHAPIRO A DEAR FRIEND AND DEDICATED BOARD MEMBER OF JFS. HE WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED.
Dear Friends: Four years ago, I received a call from a good friend who asked if I would join the Board of Directors of Jewish Family Service of the Desert (JFS). I immediately agreed and shortly after was voted on to the Board. In the ensuing time, I’ve had the privilege of seeing first hand the vital role that JFS plays in enriching the lives of the people in our community. That good friend who invited me to join the board was Judy Wallis, who stepped down after two years as President of the Board on April 26th. As I assumed the responsibilities of President from Judy, I reflected on how much has changed in our community, our society, and within our organization. As we emerge from an extended period of financial crisis, the need for the services of JFS continues to grow. As the need has grown, so too has the ability of JFS to rise to the many challenges that our community faces. I invite you to join with JFS by contributing your financial support, or your time as a volunteer, so that together we can make a significant difference in the lives of those less fortunate. Thank you for your support. Sincerely, Don Levy
JFS Provides Programs for Jewish Residents in Desert Hot Springs The Jewish residents in Desert Hot Springs have access to a number of programs and services that JFS provides in the city. These programs are supported by a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Palm Springs and Desert Area. Gloria, a Desert Hot Springs resident, credits JFS for helping her rediscover her Jewish identify. Her connection to Judaism had faded for much of her adult life. Last year, she received an invitation from JFS to attend a service in Desert Hot Springs. “I’ve been on a journey these past seven month to rediscover my heritage,” explains Gloria. As a result of this journey, she had her Bat Mitzvah on May 22nd.
President, Board of Directors
Volunteer of the Year: RENEE SOLOMON At the annual JFS Volunteer Appreciation luncheon this April, Renee Solomon was one of more than thirty volunteers enjoying the good food and company of friends when something unexpected happened. In the midst of the presentation, Coordinator of Volunteer Services Linda Zweig announced this year’s Volunteer of the Year: Renee Solomon. “I was shocked and delighted,” recalls Renee. She had never expected that she would be the one selected for the award.
In addition to the programs sponsored by JFS, Torah study classes are available in Desert Hot Springs both in class and by telephone. Rabbi Yankel Kreiman of Bikur Cholim leads a Torah study class at the Desert Hot Springs Senior Center on the third Tuesday of the month from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., and local resident Elysa Markowtiz also leads a Torah study class and can be reached at ( 760) 251-7488.
Renee began volunteering at JFS more than 18 years ago, when she first moved to the desert. Throughout that time she has spent hundreds of hours as the reliable, calming, steady presence greeting callers at the front desk. She volunteers approximately five hours each week, assisting with a variety of administrative tasks. According to Renee, one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is in seeing the transformation evident in clients, often arriving for appointments in distress, then departing with a sense of calm after their visit. When asked what advice she would have for people considering volunteering at JFS, Renee says simply, “Do it! It’s fun, rewarding and exhilarating.”
For more information on programs and services available in Desert Hot Springs, please contact JFS Volunteer Coordinator Linda Zweig at (760) 325-4088.
For more information on JFS volunteer opportunities, contact Linda Zweig at (760) 325-4088.
Rabbi Faith Tessler conducts services on a regular basis in Desert Hot Springs with one monthly Shabbat service, as well as the Havdallah Plus program. In May, Rabbi Tessler led Shavuout services and in April, she conducted a Passover Seder with more than 55 participants. Services are held at Mission Lakes Country Club.
Non Profit Org POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #149 Palm Desert CA
801 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Suite 202, Palm Springs, CA 92262-6990
Count on us...for life
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers Don Levy, President Marc Kashinsky, Vice President Deanna Pearl, Vice President Barry Kaufman, Treasurer Annabel Goldstein, Secretary Directors Carol Feinstein Bill Fisher Carol Fragen Barbara Fromm Myra Gordon Ed Gubman Barbara Keller Bertel Lewis
Susan Rosser Jane Sallo Jeanne Sassoon Babs Schrager Sandy Seplow Royal Taxman Howard Vogel Joyce Wolff
Immediate Past President Judy Wallis Past Presidents Violet Felix Murray Felson Merv Lemmerman Sam Oberman Barbara Pitts
Dee Dee Raskov Sam Rosenthal* Martin Russell Jane Sallo Molly Saltman
Honorary Board Members Tom Ostwald Eve Chaiken Maurice Paperny Joan Rose Bernice Posner* Joyce Freund *Deceased Marion Schaefer Executive Director Daniel Bass, LCSW, MAJCS
CONTACT US Main Office 801 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, #202 Palm Springs, CA 92262-6990 (760) 325-4088 Fax: (760) 778-3781 Email: info@jfsdesert.org www.jfsdesert.org Satellite Office 72-925 Fred Waring Drive, #202 Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 568-2441
OUR MISSION IS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SOCIAL SERVICE NEEDS OF THE JEWISH AND GENERAL COMMUNITY THROUGHOUT THE GREATER COACHELLA VALLEY WITH A COMMITMENT TO PROMOTE THE WELL-BEING OF PERSONS OF ALL AGES, INCOMES AND LIFESTYLES. SERVICES & PROGRAMS Solutions for Seniors KidsFirst School Counseling Mental Health Counseling JFS Express Transportation Program
Outpatient Drug & Alcohol Program Referrals Financial Assistance Career Guidance Case Management for Homeless Families
Bereavement Services Camp Scholarships Trauma Counseling Volunteer Programs and many additional services
Jewish Family Service of the Desert is a beneficiary of the Jewish Federation of Palm Springs & Desert Area, the United Way of the Desert, and a member of the Association of Jewish Family & Children’s Agencies.
JFS IS A CARING RESOURCE FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE SEEKING GUIDANCE, COMFORT, SUPPORT AND HOPE DURING DIFFICULT TIMES.
COUNT ON JFS TO BE THERE FOR YOU WHEN LIFE CHANGES.