Jewish Fertility Foundation celebrates first birthday

In its first year, the Birmingham office of the Jewish Fertility Foundation has already touched numerous lives.

“We’ve provided two fertility grants, with a third pending. We’ve created 12 fertility buddy matches, providing peer support for those experiencing infertility — and four of our clients have given birth, with more babies on the way,” said Julie Cohen, manager of Jewish Fertility Foundation-Birmingham.

On Nov. 3, JFF-BHM celebrated its first year with an event at the N.E. Miles Jewish Day School. A panel discussed the topic “How to Love Someone With Infertility,” with speakers including Michelle Bearman-Wolnek, chair of the JFF-BHM Advisory Council; Jennifer Bradley, the Collat Jewish Family Services therapist who leads the JFF-BHM support group; JFF board member Stephen Royal; and Ariella Kamen, a community member experiencing infertility.

The speakers touched on their own personal journeys, and Bradley shared how the “Five Love Languages” can be used to provide loving support to those experiencing infertility.

The JFF, which provides financial assistance, emotional support and educational programming for people experiencing infertil- ity, was founded in Atlanta in 2015 by Elana Frank. The Birmingham office was launched six years later in partnership with CJFS and with support from the Birmingham Jewish Foundation.

Cohen signed on to launch the organization’s Birmingham office after she and her husband experienced a long road of infertility to grow their family. In her role, she provides outreach and support for those experiencing infertility. “I don’t want anyone in Birmingham to feel alone as they navigate what can be a very isolating journey,” Cohen said.

This past year, JFF-BHM has hosted a monthly virtual support group, provided nine educational or training programs for fertility clinics and professionals, participated in seven community partnerships and programs, and supported two women who underwent uterus transplants.