This year marks Nanci Dobkin’s sixth time as co-chair of Tuned In: The Larry Dobkin Event, the annual fundraiser for JCFS Chicago’s Response for Teens program. Her neighbor and family friend, Barry Rubin, who has served on the Response Advisory Council (RAC) since 2022, joins her as co-chair.

Simon Fleischmann is a Chicago area attorney and JCFS Chicago board member.

"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?”

“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.

Each person’s background and story is unique

Emily came to JCFS after months of conflict and unhappiness. Through counseling she was able to identify unhealthy patterns and gain the strength to take control of her life.

Dear Community Members, my bat mitzvah is in May and as a mitzvah, or service, project I’ve chosen to partner with Jewish Child & Family Services (JCFS) to help supply all kinds of kids in need with backpacks and school supplies.