Blog

Over 70 million people are displaced around the world because of violence, war and persecution – the greatest displacement in history^₁. As Jews, we live by the value of Tikkun Olam – the repair of the world – and talk frequently of the importance of welcoming the stranger. We have a unique responsibility to support refugees and asylum seekers and raise our voices in opposition to the negative rhetoric and policy changes that we are bearing witness to today.

Clothes shopping is part of the back to school season. Major retailers have introduced new, inclusive clothing lines designed to help solve some of the dressing challenges that parents of children with special needs face. 

Luba wanted to find a job that she was passionate about, so she came to JVS Career & Employment for assistance finding the perfect part-time job that would align with her skill set and career goals. 

Does video gaming cause violence? In this article originally published in Psychology Today, Response for Teens therapist Andrew Fishman, MSW, LSW shows that the research asks you to think again.

JCFS Chicago Knapp School and Yeshiva has partnered with the Skokie Public Library for more than 5 years to provide students with a wonderful opportunity to build skills and gain confidence. 

Jewish chaplaincy is rooted in sacred texts; it builds on older traditions of bikur cholim, the Talmudic commandment to visit the sick. Jewish chaplains haven’t been around for long, however. The first Jewish chaplains can be traced to the American Civil War but greatly expanded in World War II, when about three hundred rabbis served in the U.S. military. After the war, chaplaincy programs started to appear around the country.

The Knapp School and Yeshiva recently had the pleasure of hosting its very first Career Day. Students from many middle- and high-school classrooms met professionals in engineering, aviation, medicine, law, teaching and entrepreneurship/business shared their stories and work experiences.

We are very excited to announce that the JCFS Therapeutic Day School and Yeshiva will now be the Knapp School and Yeshiva! The process of choosing the name involved a few steps and some thoughtful conversations.

There’s a new teen drama on HBO that parents will want to know about. Euphoria follows "a group of high school students as they navigate drugs, sex, identity, trauma, social media, love and friendship." Euphoria will no doubt attract a teen audience. JCFS Chicago Response for Teens encourages parents and caregivers to watch Euphoria – and other teen-oriented shows – with your children. Here are some additional tips for talking with your kids about provocative media.

JCFS Chicago, No Shame On U, and MISSD (Medication-Induced Suicide Prevention and Education Foundation) have received a JUF Breakthrough Fund grant to launch a critical initiative: Suicide Prevention and Support in the Chicago Jewish Community. The overall goal of this initiative is to initiate dialogue that enhances understanding of suicide, reduces the stigma surrounding it, and ensures appropriate and compassionate responses.