Jewish Family & Community Services East Bay

At JFCS East Bay, we're proud to stand with individuals and families fleeing conflict and persecution, offering critical support every step of the way. From basic needs assistance to cultural integration and legal aid, we provide comprehensive services to empower and uplift those in need. Together, we're making a difference and building brighter futures.

5,000 Miles, 8 Countries: The Path to the U.S. Through One Family’s Eyes With three children and a dog, the Aguilar Ortega family trekked through the jungle, hopped freight trains and toured Times Square. Significant challenges still lay ahead.

Community Leader Profile: David Haubert
David Haubert, Supervisor for Alameda County's District 1, is a dedicated advocate for community welfare. His support for funding refugee housing and job skills training demonstrates his commitment to helping vulnerable populations. Haubert believes refugees enrich our community with their hard work and diverse skills.
As a county supervisor, he oversees essential services like emergency food, shelter, medical care, and employment assistance. Haubert's leadership is making a significant impact on our community. Thank you, Supervisor Haubert!

Join New Lehrhaus SF Bay Area & JFCS East Bay for Anastasiia Mikhailova’s deep dive into the history of Soviet Jews, starting TONIGHT!

We’ll cover the history and lived experiences of Soviet Jews, their fight to leave for Israel and their current life in Russia. Beginning with the history of Jewish communities in Russia and the Soviet Union and widespread antisemitic laws, we will cover how Jews struggled to preserve their culture and to continue to exist as a Jewish community.

We will learn about their fight for freedom, the Free Soviet Jewry movement and the great emigration of Jews and the social and political position of Russian Jews and the present-day danger Jews experience in Russia.

Register here: https://newlehrhaus.org/program/anastasia-mikhailova-let-my-people-goand-stay-zoom-only-2/

📆 Tuesdays, May 28, June 4, June 18
⏰ 7pm-8:30pm
🛜 on Zoom

Join us for the World Refugee and Immigrant Day Festival!

We’re excited to partner with the East Bay Refugee and Immigrant Forum to celebrate the incredible cultures and contributions of refugees and immigrants in our community.

📅 Date: June 15th
🕒 Time: 12 PM - 3 PM
📍 Location: Clinton Park, Oakland (International Blvd & 6th Street)

Bring your family and friends to enjoy a day filled with cultural performances, delicious food, and engaging activities. This is a FREE event, and everyone is welcome! Let's come together to show our support and appreciation for the diversity that makes our community strong.

🌍🎉 Save the Date! 🎉🌍 Join us for the World Refugee and Immigrant Day Festival on June 15th from 12 PM to 3 PM at Clinton Park, Oakland (International Blvd & 6th Street). Celebrate the rich cultures of refugees and immigrants in our community. It is a free event where everyone is welcome!

Flyer art:

Introducing Ami Dodson, our rockstar Volunteer Services Manager at JFCS East Bay!

With nearly 8 years of dedication, Ami coordinates volunteers for 30+ programs, amplifying our impact in the community. From volunteer to full-time manager, her journey reflects passion and expertise.

Ami's background in law and communications, coupled with her degrees from Duke, adds depth to her leadership. Outside work, she's a devoted spouse, parent, and pet lover.

Let's cheer for Ami, a true inspiration!

In celebration of Mother’s Day, this year we are offering a special customizable Mother's Day card from Jewish Family & Community Services East Bay. Click below to customize and download. Let's honor the unsung heroes by not just celebrating, but by supporting them. Consider making a donation in the name of the caregivers in your life, providing much-needed respite to those who selflessly care for others. Happy Mother's Day! 🌷
https://jfcsmainstg.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Spring-2024-Mothers-Day-Card.pdf

Join us in strengthening our East Bay HOME with "So Close to Home" this May! As we mark Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, let's reflect, act, and advocate for our community.

We're highlighting four key programs needing urgent funding:
1️⃣ Respite Care
2️⃣ Immigration Legal Services
3️⃣ Volunteer Services
4️⃣ Jewish Community Safety Net

Your donation will be matched up to $36,000! Reflect, act, and advocate with Jewish Family and Community Services East Bay. Together, we can make a difference!

https://jfcs-eastbay.org/so-close-to-home/

Join us in honoring the memory of the Holocaust and its survivors. The City of Berkeley, in partnership with JFCS East Bay, presents a free, virtual Holocaust Remembrance Day program, featuring a distinguished survivor and solemn tributes to those lost during the Shoah. Experience the moving accompaniment of cello and bassoon music as we come together as a community to reflect on the importance of memory and resilience. A unique candle lighting ceremony will symbolize our commitment to never forget. Let's stand against antisemitism, racism, bigotry, and hatred in all forms. Together with JFCS East Bay, we affirm our dedication to human rights and dignity for all.
Register now for this meaningful event and receive the link. Even if you can't join us live, the link will grant you access to watch the program afterward. Let's commemorate, honor, and reflect together.
Secure your free tickets by registering at
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/city-of-berkeley-21st-annual-holocaust-remembrance-day-program-tickets-871337432717?aff=oddtdtcreator
-of-Berkeley

Tonight will be a celebration of creativity and community at our 17th Annual Art of Living Gala! We're beyond grateful for the incredible support from our partners: , , , and Brilliancy . Together, we're making magic happen! See you there!

A huge shoutout to our fantastic friend level sponsors Temple Sinai , Mechanics Bank, and Piedmont Grocery for their incredible support of our Art of Living Gala! Your generosity helps make this event truly unforgettable. Thank you for being part of our community and championing the arts!

Gratitude Spotlight
A massive shoutout to our incredible friend level sponsors who made our Art of Living Gala shine brighter than ever! Huge thanks to Edward Jones , California Bank of Commerce, and Ferber Law for their generous support! Your commitment to our cause truly makes a difference.

Let's celebrate this wonderful evening together, filled with art, inspiration, and the spirit of giving back. Don't miss out on the magic!

Gratitude Alert! Huge shoutout to our amazing friend level sponsors for making our Art of Living Gala an unforgettable event! Special thanks to Laura Turbow Photography, North Berkeley Wealth Management , and Linda Friedman and The Village Associates for their generous support. Your contributions have truly helped us make a difference! Let's celebrate the spirit of giving and creativity together at the . Get ready for an evening filled with art, inspiration, and the wonderful presence of Isabel Allende. See you there!

A massive shoutout to our incredible friend-level sponsors for their unwavering support towards our upcoming Art of Living Gala! Special thanks to Congregation B’nai Shalom , Sparks Promotional Products & NeedleWorks Embroidery .Promotional.Products, and Bridge Bank for their generous contributions. Your commitment to our cause means the world to us! Let's make this gala an unforgettable celebration of art, culture, and community.

Big shoutout to our incredible Friend Level sponsors for the Art of Living Gala!

A heartfelt THANK YOU to Redwood Fiduciary Services, Pave Fine Jewelry , and Hugh Groman Catering for their generous support! Your contributions help make our event a success and enable us to continue our mission of enriching lives.

Let's make this an unforgettable evening celebrating art, community, and compassion. See you there!

We're immensely grateful for the support of our Friend level sponsors!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Incite to Leadership , Temple Isaiah , The Diamond Group , and NFP Insurance Broker for their generous contributions to our upcoming Art of Living Gala. Your support helps us make a meaningful impact in our community and beyond.

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the arts, culture, and community empowerment at the . Let's come together to create positive change!

A huge thank you to , our bronze sponsor at the ! Committed to dignity and independence for all, they embody our core belief of Upholding the Dignity of Every Human Being. With deep respect for individual needs, rights, and beliefs, they draw on decades of experience to provide expert fiduciary management coupled with resourceful, ethical care for each and every client. Join us in celebrating their dedication to respecting every individual's rights and beliefs!

Special thanks to our silver level sponsor, Kaiser Permanente!

At , we're incredibly grateful for 's unwavering support. Their commitment to providing high-quality, affordable healthcare services aligns perfectly with our mission of enriching lives and fostering vibrant communities.

Together, we're making a difference in the lives of our members and communities. Thank you, Kaiser Permanente, for your dedication to improving health and wellness for all.

Special shoutout to our gold level sponsor, ! With their unwavering support, we're bringing the magic of art and the essence of community together at our . Your commitment to primary care is not only essential for life but also aligns perfectly with our mission to celebrate the art of living well. Thank you for helping make our event possible!

Last-minute tickets available!

Join us for the 17th annual Art of Living Gala on April 14, 2024, hosted by JFCS East Bay. This year, we're honored to welcome Isabel Allende, literary legend and feminist icon. Don't miss out on an evening of wine, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, and captivating storytelling. Get your tickets now: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/KcJSSg?vid=1499yx

TODAY The Health and Human Services Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships will host a webinar recognizing the lived experience of Holocaust survivors and their families, as well as those supporting and serving these survivors. Through this webinar, they hope to honor how these survivors serve as guides and teachers inspiring and enabling us to better serve all older adults with a history of trauma. Join this collective effort to honor survivors and improve care for older adults with a history of trauma.

Friday, January 26 | 11:30 am EST
Link in bio

This Saturday, January 27, is , a global call for unity in honoring the six million Jewish victims and others persecuted by the N***s. Upholding the dignity of every human being - כבוד הבריות – K’vod Habriyot, the Torah reminds us that each person, young or old, vulnerable, and of every creed, is created in the divine image, deserving utmost respect and compassion.



https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_wZk_3pQFQ1-P07CW83w0eg #/registration

Join us TONIGHT on Zoom!

At JFCS East Bay, we believe in the power of community, especially during challenging times. Join us as we reaffirm our commitment to supporting and uniting our community. Gain valuable insights and tips for self-care and family support in these trying times.

🎙️ Speakers:
- Robin Mencher, CEO
- Fouzia Azizi, Director of Refugee Services
- Rita Clancy, Director of Adult Services
- Reena Arya, Director of Immigration Legal Services
- Dr. Allyson Holmes-Knight, Sr. Director of Clinical Services

What to Expect:
- Gain valuable insights on navigating challenging circumstances.
- Learn about proactive measures we're taking to address unique challenges within our community.
- Discover tips for self-care and supporting your loved ones during tough times.

📌 Advance Registration Required!
Secure your virtual seat by registering today. Don't miss this empowering event!



https://jfcs-eastbay-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_i0yeT0OgRXG-Avl8TsZrTw #/registration

https://conta.cc/3takUUD

Holding Our Community Virtual Gathering: REGISTRATION REQUIRED JFCS East Bay is here to support our community Holding Our Community; Holding Ourselves Join Us on Tuesday, December 5th, 2023 7:00-8:00 PM on ZOOM   Register Now   Advance Registration is Required f

Double Your Impact, Doubling the Joy

For Giving Tuesday, all donations to JFCS East Bay will be MATCHED, up to $10,000, thanks to Jessica Broitman of the Broitman Foundation. Let's make a lasting impact together!

Donate Now: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/JFCSGivingTue23

We are inspired everyday by our clients' kindness amid rising challenges. Join us in celebrating the universal language of giving. Your support makes a difference.

"Thanksgiving is a privilege. In 2015, JFCS East Bay helped me. Now, I'm giving back to support refugees." - Former client

Consider sponsoring a JFCS East Bay match day! Email [email protected] for details. Check if your employer offers matching. Your gift could have THREE times the impact!

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

Thank you for being part of our compassionate community. Together, we create positive change.

Great job, Sayed! And thank you, Rotary Club of Concord-Diablo.

In an incredible feat, our legal services team at JFCS East Bay achieved a significant milestone for our . Over two years of dedicated effort, we successfully navigated the complex process of humanitarian parole, securing approval for our client's family member to join him in the United States.

This accomplishment is nothing short of extraordinary. To put it in perspective, only 0.3% of humanitarian parole applications for Afghans were approved, out of nearly 45,000 submissions. Despite daunting odds, our client's story stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of Afghan nationals seeking lawful entry into the U.S. He played a vital role in Anti-Taliban efforts for the U.S. Military at Bay, showcasing the unwavering spirit of those facing significant barriers.

At JFCS East Bay, our commitment to and strategic efforts remains steadfast. We continue our work, striving for more victories that reunite families and provide a path to safety and security for those in need. Together, we can make a significant difference and create pathways to hope and opportunity.

Domestic Violence Awareness Workshop

At JFCS East Bay, we're partnering with organizations to strengthen our community outcomes for all. Join us for a crucial workshop on domestic violence awareness. Learn about different forms of abuse—targeting children, partners, and the elderly. Discover how to recognize signs and to support survivors. Let's unite to create a safer community together.

🌟 What: Domestic Violence Awareness Workshop
📅 When: Sunday, October 22, 2023
📍 Where: ZOOM

🤝 How to Participate: http://www.underonetent.org/event-details/the-silenced-abuse

JFCS East Bay October Newsletter Alert!
At JFCS East Bay, we collaborate closely with our clients, staff, and community to champion justice and facilitate the healing process. In our October , we dive into crucial topics that shape our world and bring us closer together:

1️⃣ Stand Against Hate: Addressing recent events and promoting unity.
2️⃣ Welcome Reena Arya: Meet our new member and join our growing family.
3️⃣ Isabel Allende Speaks: Don't miss this inspiring event on the power of storytelling.
4️⃣ Affordable Housing Success: Celebrate the signing of the Faith-Based Lands Bill.
5️⃣ Justice Prevails: Learn about the resolution of Afghan asylum cases.
6️⃣ 1K Volunteer Hours: A big thank you to our dedicated volunteers!
7️⃣ We’ve initiated a support group offering resources and guidance, empowering individuals to navigate crises..
8️⃣ Fall Appeal: Support positive change in our community. Your contribution counts.
9️⃣ Volunteer for Housing: Be a part of creating safe spaces for those in need.

Spread the Word: Share JFCS East Bay with friends and family. Thank you for your support in building a compassionate community. Let's make a difference together!

https://conta.cc/3typ4Wd

Welcoming the Fall: Advocacy in Action Catalyzing Change: Updates and Insights     DONATE NOW Dear Friends, Last week, we witnessed what US Antisemitism Envoy Deborah Lipstadt described as “heinous, barbaric terrorism against Israeli c

🕊 Our hearts ache for all impacted by the tragic violence in & the conflict with . At , we denounce all violence & stand by the principle of כל ישראל ערבים זה לזה – Kol Yisrael Arevim Zeh LaZeh, emphasizing our shared responsibility to nurture one another's body, mind, & spirit.

Explore resources for parents & educators from National Jewish Human Service Agencies. We're here for you.

jfcs-eastbay.org/trauma-support-resources

On this Indigenous Peoples' Day, JFCS East Bay stands in solidarity with Indigenous communities, acknowledging their invaluable contributions and honoring their resilience.

At JFCS East Bay, we are guided by our commitment to anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Today and every day, let's join hands in the spirit of unity, acknowledging the past, embracing the present, and building a future where every voice is heard, every culture is respected, and every individual is valued.