Volunteer

"JCFS Chicago is people helping people, it's as pure and simple as that," said Toria Stender, JCFS Chicago board member and chair of this year's A Striking Event.

When it comes to philanthropy, Aliza Gross believes it’s important to lead by example. As she always says, “If not me, then who? And if not now, then when?”

Jordan Brown is one of the newest members of JCFS Chicago’s Associates Board, a dedicated and enthusiastic group of young professionals that are passionate about strengthening the Chicagoland community.

“Being on the RAC is both a privilege and a responsibility. It allows me to see the evolution of Response up-close and personal, which makes me very proud of what we're doing to support the community,” shared Alexa Ehrlich.

Michael Lieber is a longstanding friend of JCFS Chicago, and President of Laminet Cover Company, a plastic manufacturing company in Chicago. When the pandemic hit, Laminet quickly pivoted to produce and ship face shields. In addition to producing face shields for hospitals and medical workers, Laminet began donating shields to others in need, including 200 for teachers and administrative staff at JCFS Knapp School & Yeshiva.

“You have to give back because you’re not alone in this world. If somebody hadn’t been there to help me up, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” shared Rochelle Cueto, a donor and former Jewish Children’s bureau foster child. 

Jennifer Lucas's first-hand experience observing a close family member struggle with mental health challenges fueled her passion to support and advance the mission of JCFS Chicago to help community members in need. After almost six years on the JCFS Chicago Board of Directors, Jennifer began her tenure as Board Chair on September 14.

Current co-chairs of JCFS Chicago’s Associates Board, Becca Friedman and Sarah Dorfman are setting an example for young philanthropists in Chicago.

David’s Schwartz  late wife, Elaine, was on the board of JVS Career & Employment and on the Response for Teens Advisory Council. Through Elaine’s leadership, David became passionate about these crucial services for our community and honors her legacy through two special funds each year.

Through advocacy, leadership development, fundraising, volunteerism, and service projects, the JCFS Associates Board  - a dedicated and enthusiastic group of young professionals who are passionate about promoting the work of JCFS Chicago - hopes to act as ambassadors, encouraging younger generations to become more involved with JCFS. “We believe in the importance of social service and giving back to the community. We are proud to become ambassadors for the next generation of JCFS leaders and are excited to share everything we have in store,” says co-chair Karly Worth.