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.

Our lives have been turned upside down during this pandemic in one way or another.  We have missed or adapted to life events such as Jewish holidays, weddings, graduations and funerals. Many of us are still trying to process our experiences. We are reflecting not only personally but as a nation, as a faith group, as a culture and as a Jewish community.

If you give it some thought, could you answer this question: where were you the first time you heard the word ‘suicide’ used? Today, more people are talking publicly about suicide, but sadly, often only in the aftermath of a crisis.

The Integrated Pediatric Therapists are busy helping families prepare for at home learning. From seating, creating an environment and increasing attention, these are our top tips to set your child up for success.

Everyday household activities can be great learning opportunities. They help get the daily chores done while having fun together!

Whether joining online, in person, or a hybrid, our kids are going back to school in the fall, and it will look remarkably different from past first days of school. Read more for tips to set your kindergartener up for success. 

They say it’s never too early to learn how to swim, save for the future or teach your children how to do their own laundry. Teaching laundry skills by measuring the detergent, sorting, folding and putting clothes away can all transfer to successful work skills later in life.

As a young adult with disabilities, Kara came to the Duman Opportunity Center looking for help starting her career. She began working with her employment specialist Allen, and expressed her passion for working with children. She guided her through every stage of the job search process, providing individualized support that helped her secure a job as a child-care assistant at a local park district.

Keeping with the principle of pikuach nefesh (preservation of life and health), JCFS Chicago chaplains continue to provide support by phone or online. We speak with people who live at home, in senior communities or in other residential facilities, often bringing a sense of spirituality and connection to the Jewish community in challenging times.

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