JFSGNH Announces New CEO

Amy G. Rashba, LCSW, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Jewish Family Service of Greater New Haven (JFSGNH). “We are thrilled that Amy has accepted this leadership role,” says Linda Caplan, JFSGNH Board President.  “Her energy and devotion to JFS is inspiring.”

Rashba’s career at the agency began in 1986 when she came to JFS as a MSW student.  Shortly after joining JFS, Rashba developed the Shalom Group, offering educational enrichment and social interaction to developmentally disabled Jewish adults.  During her 30-plus years with the agency, she has created new programs, helped families adopt children and provided counseling services throughout our community to children, families and aging adults and takes great pride in directing both the adoption and mental health programs. “Having spent my entire professional career here, it’s a privilege to lead JFS, an agency I am passionate about,” says Rashba. “I’m grateful to the staff and Board for their support and look forward to many years of collaborating on the future of our beloved JFS.  I am humbled to have made a difference in the lives of those in our Jewish community.”

“Amy’s ability to develop and cultivate relationships with staff, board and community makes her a natural to lead JFS”, says Caplan.  “She has a unique combination of approachability and positivity and is well-respected by clients, peers and community members.”

Rashba’s local Jewish roots run deep.  A Hamden native, she attended the New Haven Hebrew Day School, and her father owned the renowned Glick’s Delicatessen in New Haven.  She and her husband Steve were married at B’nai Jacob and their children attended local preschools- daughter Ilana at Yeladim, and son Jordan at Temple Beth Sholom.  The family has been members of Temple Beth David of Cheshire for over 20 years.

A summa cum laude graduate of Quinnipiac College, Rashba earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Southern Connecticut State University. Upon being named CEO, she said, “It is my honor to be leading the amazing staff at JFS who all work hard every day to provide quality services to our community- protecting children, creating families, feeding the hungry and healing hearts.”

Amy Rashba looks forward to bringing more awareness of JFSGNH’s many programs and services to the Greater New Haven region.

To contact her: arashba@jfsnh.org

 

 

JFS Launches Ken’s Closet Program for Community

Jewish Family Service of Greater New Haven (JFSGNH) is excited to launch a new program called Ken’s Closet, clothing for men and women. This program honors the memory of the late Ken Sperling, who had passion for JFSGNH, as well as a clear understanding of how looking presentable positively affects self-esteem.

Through Ken’s Closet, JFSGNH will supply work-ready clothing to clients who need help navigating the challenges of the job market — with employment as their goal; in addition to other life situations/circumstances. Prospective Ken’s Closet clients will be screened through JFSGNH programs such as Social Work Outreach Services, Mental Health & Counseling and the Food Assistance.  To schedule an appointment with a social worker, please contact Rachel (ext. 109) or Liz (ext. 117) at 203-389-5599.

Stay Home During the Food4Kids Non-Event Fundraiser

You can Stay Home in Support of Food4Kids New Haven this November!  Food4Kids is hosting a “Non-Event” fundraiser this month allowing you an evening to do whatever you like.  We hope this evening will include a donation to this vital kids feeding program.

Food4Kids New Haven provides weekend supplemental food to 354 children in the New Haven school system.  For as little as $211, you can sponsor one student for a full academic year.  To sponsor a child or to make a donation to this program, please click here.    Be sure to choose Food4Kids in the drop down menu on the donation page.

JFS Honors Adoptive Families During National Adoption Month

JFS honored adoptive families on Sunday, November 4th at the JCC in Woodbridge as part of National Adoption Month. JFS Adoptive families were treated to family friendly activities including the play scape, rock wall, crafts, games and an ice cream party!  The event was organized by Liz Davenport, MSW, and Marissa Gonsalves, JFS Student intern.  Pictured are just some of the fun events during this celebration.  National Adoption Month is recognized each year as a time to acknowledge and celebrate families formed through adoption. It is a time to encourage others to adopt and increase awareness of the adoption process.  For more information about the JFS Adoption Program, please call Liz Davenport, MSW, at (203) 389-5599, ext. 117.