Memorial to Judy Bertacchi
We are very saddened to share the news of the death of former director of the Virginia Frank Child Development Center, Judith Bertacchi. Judy passed away on Friday, April 12.
Read moreWe are very saddened to share the news of the death of former director of the Virginia Frank Child Development Center, Judith Bertacchi. Judy passed away on Friday, April 12.
Read moreAbuse does not discriminate. It impacts Jews and gentiles of every age, marital status, economic and educational level. It is important that our professional and lay leadership understand how abuse occurs throughout the lifespan and how this applies to synagogue life, including sensitivity to those who have been victims of abuse.
Read moreThis month we celebrate our amazing JCFS staff and foster parents for the incredible work they are doing to support and uplift each other, and the youth in their care.
Read moreBy Marc Bermann, Foster Parent Recruiter There are approximately 20,000 children in foster care in the state of Illinois. 50% of them have chronic medical problems; 30% are victims of various forms of abuse and neglect. Many of them have significant issues of attachment and loss resulting from childhood trauma. Prior to foster care, sometimes these children are removed from their home and taken into protective custody by the state. They may be placed in a temporary shelter or substitute care with a relative. Biological parents can terminate their parental rights by choice or court mandate.
Read moreIn grief work, we often devote considerable time to discussing death, the loss of a beloved family member or a dear friend. But what about non-death losses? How does one grieve something that is undefined and intangible?
Read moreSergio Camarillo was an exceptional person, not only at JCFS but with everyone he met throughout his life. Thus, it was with much sadness to everyone who knew him when he passed away from Covid-19 last year. The Sergio Camarillo Impact Award was created to honor his memory and legacy.
Read moreJCFS 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.
Read moreResponse for Teens recognizes that having everybody at home may be a challenge for the parents of tweens, teens, and college-age people. How do you support your child and manage your own stress?
Read moreBy Ann Luban, Community Services Program Specialist Body image isn’t the shape of our bodies; it’s how we view our bodies. And negative body image can affect kids as young as four or five years old. Parents and other adults play a central role in how kids of all ages view their bodies and view themselves overall. It is critical that we act intentionally to support them in their development.
Read moreWe provide opportunities to job seekers from all walks of life, helping them achieve self-sufficiency and fulfillment through employment.
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