Jewish Community Programs

Being an askable parent means creating a safe space where your child feels comfortable asking any question, knowing they’ll be met with honesty and understanding. Just as we tailor our responses at the Passover Seder, we must also adapt how we talk to our children — especially about important topics like body safety, boundaries, and growing up.

Passover often brings together multiple generations and diverse perspectives around the seder table. In today’s polarized world, thoughtful planning can foster civil dialogue across differences, allowing everyone to appreciate the richness that such diversity offers.

Here are some strategies that allow us to experience a Simchah of enjoyment without the risks of consumption or overconsumption of alcohol.

While spiritual care, or chaplaincy, is an important factor in both physical and mental health care, our work is not well known in the Jewish community.

Family estrangement is a deeply emotional and often complex issue that affects many in our community. It can stem from a variety of sources.

Dry January is a global movement where individuals and communities choose to abstain from alcohol for one month. Synagogues and communal organizations can participate in Dry January and send a message of support to those who wish to take a break from alcohol during this month in several meaningful ways.

Sadness, stress and anxiety are natural parts of the broad spectrum of human emotions. However, when someone you care about is struggling with these feelings, it’s natural to be concerned and want to help. Here’s what you need to know to support those who are struggling with their mental health.

In difficult times, we may find ourselves navigating a complex mix of uncertainty, anxiety, trauma and loss while also holding on to hope for a brighter future. Everyone faces challenges, but with the right tools and support, we can build resilience and pave the way for a more hopeful tomorrow.

Addiction is a challenge that affects millions in the United States, with 46.3 million people struggling with substance use disorders. In the Jewish community, however, addiction is often treated as a silent issue—something that feels isolated or exceptional.

A unique offering to JCFS Chicago’s chaplaincy program is a Russian Jewish chaplain who serves the Russian faction of the Jewish community and provides something they may not have experienced before: spirituality.