Congratulations to JFSGNH Adoption Coordinator Amy Rashba, LCSW, and David Ottenstein, a member of the JFSGNH Board of Directors on recently being named the 2015 Family Champions for Jewish Family Service of New Haven. The pair were celebrated by the Connecticut Council of Family Service Agencies during a reception June 8th at the Trumbull Marriott. This award recognizes one staff member and one board member who have gone above and beyond. Please continue reading for the bios for each champion.

Amy Rashba – Who would have thought in 1986 that a second year MSW student would make such a difference to the staff and clients at JFSGNH? Now, 28 years later, Amy Rashba is one of the most dedicated staff members at JFSGNH. Hired upon graduate school, Amy has been an important part of JFSGNH in all aspects of the agency and especially the adoption program. From providing searches for those seeking information regarding their birth families, to helping those wishing to start or expand their families through adoption, Amy guides clients in the major issues of their life and adoption. Amy particularly enjoys helping birth parents who are contemplating an adoption plan.