Blog

For many immigrants, applying for U.S. citizenship can seem overwhelming. Take Agnes Enriquez, a Montessori preschool teacher who immigrated nearly 20 years ago: she didn’t apply for citizenship after receiving her green card in 2008 because she was busy raising her children and worried she would not have time to study.

But recent news of valid green card holders being denied reentry into the United States after traveling out of the country gave her pause.

Navigating conversations with teens about drugs and alcohol can feel overwhelming—but it's one of the most important talks for a teen. Here are five practical tips to help you open the door to meaningful conversations that build trust and resilience.

When the Elaine Kersten Children’s Center in Northbrook temporarily closed for construction this summer, Speech-Language Pathologist Jennie Marble took the opportunity to work with a teenager outside of the clinic—at a local ice cream shop.

Each summer for the past ten years, staff members from Jewish Community Services have trained local camp counselors to recognize and respond to abuse and boundary-violating behaviors.

In these turbulent times, we need friends who offer joy, support and emotional well-being. It is comforting to surround ourselves with friends whose views align with our own. But what happens when differences emerge within our friendships – especially around deeply held beliefs or political perspectives?

Knapp School & Yeshiva students have increased their confidence along with their creativity through participation in a drama program called Build A Play, offered by Northlight Theatre in Skokie.

Several residents supported by JCFS have been participating in book clubs – first via Zoom, at the beginning of the pandemic, and eventually in person at the Skokie Public Library.

Grief can be incredibly lonely. But something powerful happens when you’re in a room with others who truly get it. That’s what I’ve seen during my time as an intern at JCFS Chicago: the power of connection in grief support groups.

The Jewish community has come a long way in acknowledging addiction, supporting those who have struggled and uplifting those in recovery. JCFS Chicago and the Chicago Board of Rabbis invite you to continue this forward momentum during a special Shabbat.

JCFS Chicago received an AARP Foundation grant in February to help fund job training for individuals over 50 through Project EM.