2022 Stories of Impact

from Jewish Family Service 2022 Annual Report

We Care Because You Care

With Therapy, Jonathan Feels Better at School and Home

Jonathan (a composite to ensure anonymity) was an outgoing, music-loving Rockwern Academy student, but seemingly overnight, he became withdrawn, irritable, and barely engaged in his music. Jonathan’s parents and teachers suspected anxiety or depression. As part of the work being done through its Youth Mental Health Services (YMH), JFS had established a presence at Rockwern Academy. A YMH social worker met with Jonathan and his parents, and it helped. Jonathan is better. He is back to being himself.

Despite Being Homebound, Joanne Celebrates Passover

At 83, Joanne (a pseudonym) loves to sing, but she couldn’t fly to New York to celebrate Passover with her son and his family. She can’t even leave her apartment, due to worsening Parkinson’s. She could not shop for, or prepare, the Passover meal. JFS and its volunteers stepped up, providing a free, full Passover meal, so Joanne could celebrate via Zoom, singing “Dayenu” while enjoying a meal of her own.

JFS Helps People Affected by War in Ukraine

Jewish Family Service has historically played an important role in helping resettle Jewish emigrants from the former Soviet Union in Greater Cincinnati. As a result, thousands of local individuals and families were personally impacted when Russia invaded Ukraine. In response, JFS helped establish the Crisis in Ukraine Community Hotline to connect those living here with resources available to family and friends overseas. We also moderated two webinars that provided in-depth information and assistance. Our Russian Jewish Cultural Center helped significantly by providing translators for those in need.