JCFS Chicago Defining Moments Summer 2023

DEFINING MOMENTS

3 Letter from President & CEO

4 Who Are Refugees?

5 A New Life in a New Land

6 Donor Profile: Mitch Kaufman

8 Knapp School Highlights

10 Defining a Path to Success

11 The Power of the Pedal

12 A Striking Event

14 Back to Work and Play!

15 Ways to Give

NEWS

FROM JCFS CHICAGO

Joy Faith Knapp

Children’s Center

Esther Knapp Campus

3145 W Pratt Blvd Chicago, IL 60645

ACCESS TO HELP

855.275.5237 | JCFS.org

CONTACT

Marketing@JCFS.org

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Defining Moments print edition comes out once a year, but you can get updates, news, and events information in our monthly email version.

To subscribe, send your name and email address to Communications@JCFS.org or visit JCFS.org!

JCFS Chicago is a partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community. We embrace diversity. Our commitment to inclusivity is woven throughout our services, programs, and welcoming workplace. Licensed by the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services. Accredited by the Council on Accreditation.

At JCFS Chicago we believe that every individual deserves to lead a life of self-sufficiency and resilience. Sometimes, that requires some support from the community. In this issue of Defining Moments, we are proud to share the stories of children and adults who, with help from JCFS Chicago, are working to redefine what’s possible in their lives. Our work includes helping refugees acclimate to a new country, new language, new culture. We help job seekers find careers that provide meaning in addition to income. Our Virginia Frank Child Development Center partners with parents and pre-schools to help very young children who are struggling emotionally. We are proud to share highlights from our Knapp School and Yeshiva where our students build the skills they need for re-integration into their home school districts.

These successes rely on the resilience of those we serve. Indeed, building a resilient community is one of our central goals. We are proud to launch the Kaufman Wolf Center for Trauma and Resilience. Read more about how this initiative builds on our history of trauma informed care and trauma response to provide increased community education, short-term, and individual support, throughout Chicago and beyond.

Of course, none of this work would be possible without you - our donors, volunteers, and partners. You were instrumental in setting up a new apartment for a refugee family, celebrated with us at a Striking Event, and provided much needed financial support. Thank you for helping us lift every neighbor.

Stacey Shor President & Chief Executive Officer

WHO ARE

Imagine fleeing from your home country for fear of persecution because of your race, religion, nationality, or political beliefs, and having to leave your spouse, child, or parent behind. Imagine arriving to the United States with only a suitcase in-hand, feeling scared and isolated. That is what more than 32.5 million refugees around the world are experiencing, including the 211 refugees welcomed by HIAS Immigration & Citizenship since January 2022.

The decision to flee their homes and loved ones is a matter of life and death. Often having lived in refugee camps for decades, the transition to the United States is not easy. They go through years of rigorous vetting that includes screening by federal agencies such as the U.S. State Department, Department of Homeland Security, and the FBI, security database checks, medical screenings, and multiple in-person interviews before they can be admitted.

After being approved for refugee status, individuals and families can board a plane to the U.S. with hopes of a better life. However, everything is different for newcomers: the language, food, socially accepted norms. That feeling of alienation is compounded by great loss. A recent New York Times article “Missing the Home You Needed to Leave” talks about cultural bereavement. “It’s not a nation or a place and it’s not just that they miss the taste of food — it’s that all those things are essentially associated with a loss of an identity.”

Communication is a significant challenge and newcomers worry over their lack of English competency. As a result, they struggle to make friends or manage everyday tasks such as communicating with teachers, helping kids with

homework, going to the bank, making doctor appointments, or finding a job. Children often learn English more quickly than their parents and develop new roles as the interpreters. The parent-child role reversal can be a stressful dynamic.

Many people feel employment is the most difficult part of the resettlement process. By not speaking English, it is tough to get jobs, which can lead to frustration and discouragement. In some cases, their prior employment and educational accomplishments are not recognized by employers. It is no surprise that refugees report that they feel anxious, traumatized, and sad.

That is why the work of HIAS’ Refugee Resettlement program is so important. Newcomers with supportive networks can overcome these obstacles and have a smoother transition to selfsufficiency. It takes a village to create a movement of welcome, and our program is designed so that communities, in partnership with HIAS, walk alongside newcomers to welcome and support them as they courageously adjust to their new lives.

Learn how you can help welcome newcomers, as a team of friends, colleagues, community members, or as an individual. Email ElanaBoiskin@JCFS.org

IN A NEW LAND A NEW LIFE

Before Leonardo arrived in the United States, he was full of anxiety and scared. Coming from Colombia he did not know the language or culture, let alone anyone who lived here. Arriving in Chicago earlier this year through the Refugee Resettlement program, which is part of HIAS Immigration & Citizenship, Leonardo felt like he found a friend when he met Jamshid Daudzai, his case manager.

All refugees that HIAS helps resettle in the area are set up in an apartment with furniture, kitchen essentials, food, and other necessities. In addition to federal dollars, funds from generous donors who want to support those looking for a new life in a new land are used to make sure they have a place to call home.

Leonardo knew finding work would be hard, especially since at the time he only spoke Spanish. However, with help from Jamshid, he got a job cleaning airplanes at O’Hare Airport and began taking classes to learn English. The language barrier can have a significant impact on the well-being of refugees when facing legal issues, a job search, finding transportation, and even making friends.

Both from Colombia, Adri

Arango, an Outreach & Education Specialist for HIAS, and Leonardo have been talking since the beginning. While not part of her day-today job, Adri helps with translation for those people that only speak Spanish. “Working together has been special and I feel like I have always known Adri. Her kindness has been so meaningful,” Leonardo shared when asked about his experience with HIAS since settling in Chicago. The circumstances of his life in Colombia were hard, but Leonardo tries to see the positive in everything. Back in Colombia he co-founded a non-profit with a friend that helped single moms in need of extra support –Mujeres en las Manos de Dios, which means Women in the Hands of God. He feels like the good he did in his home country is why he is on the receiving end here.

“

Working together has been special and I feel like I have always known Adri. Her kindness has been so meaningful.”

Leonardo

MITCH KAUFMAN

Albany Park, pushkes, and praising his husband’s life are some of the influences that have impacted board member Mitch Kaufman to give generously to JCFS Chicago.

Mitch says he learned to give through osmosis. While growing up in Albany Park, he saw pushkes placed throughout Jewish homes and businesses. Those tzedakah boxes—a little can kept in the home, often in the kitchen—left a big impression on him. They were used to collect money that was designated for charities during a time when families in his Jewish neighborhood were struggling financially after World War II.

“I think families tried to relocate people and help them out or help them get started in business. People who were not very wealthy were philanthropic. Everyone in the community tried to help in some way,” Mitch explained.

While in high school, he met his late husband, Dan Wolf—who owned the Bagel Restaurant. Dan’s life experiences also influenced their benevolence. He was born in a Nazi concentration camp— Theresienstadt. After the war, HIAS (formerly known as Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, a national social service agency whose refugee resettlement program in Chicago is now part of JCFS) helped bring his family over to the United States from Germany. They were resettled in East Chicago, Indiana—a small steel town near Gary.

“I saw the house. We once drove there years ago. It was a coach house. It was all set up for them. It wasn’t anything fancy, but all the furniture was in it, beds, and silverware, just so they could start

living. His grandfather and father both got jobs at Goldblatt’s, a now shuttered department store chain.”

It was a tightknit Jewish community at the time, and everyone looked after each other—a Jewish philosophy that Mitch and Dan very much lived by. The impact of HIAS on Dan’s life is what influenced them to donate to JCFS over the years. It’s also what prompted Mitch to make a legacy gift in honor and memory of his dear husband, who was the 2020 recipient of the JCFS What’s Possible Award.

JCFS’ newest program, the Kaufman Wolf Center for Trauma & Resilience, grew out of the Highland Park shooting last July. It is designed to support the ability of individuals, organizations, and communities to build resilience, recover, adapt, and grow in the face of adversity, big or small. Ultimately, the Center aims to prevent those impacted by trauma from developing more significant mental health issues, while creating clinical capacity so those that do can access mental health care. The comprehensive “steppedcare” model includes emergency response, community resilience education and support, and direct care. It builds on the deep experience of our agency to deliver trauma-informed care.

“When Dan died, I wanted to be able to honor him at least as long as I’m still alive, so that was really the impetus,” Mitch explained. “Frankly, my greatest hope is that at some point the center can be closed, and its assets, if there are any left, diverted to something else, but I think at this

point there is so much healing that’s needed in our community.”

For nearly ten years, Mitch has served on the JCFS Chicago Board of Directors. “It’s been a learning experience for me. I think I’ve gotten a lot more than I’ve given. The cohort that I’ve met, my fellow directors, officers-everyone is all in and embodies the mission.”

Mitch is proud that the agency’s programs have evolved to meet the needs of the community. He said he has been uplifted and educated. His outlook has been broadened by spending time working alongside JCFS leaders, and he encourages others in the community to do the same. “I think if you have the time or the resources to get involved, you’ll find it one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.”

Over 80% of the adult U.S. population have experienced some traumatic event in their lifetime (WHO, 2015) and more than two-thirds of children report the same before age 16 (SAMHSA, 2022). The effects of such exposure, like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety, often go untreated.

We know now that prevention, early intervention, and treatment are essential to foster the ability to cope with traumatic experiences. Our history of providing support to individuals and communities impacted by trauma led JCFS Chicago to create the Kaufman Wolf Center for Trauma and Resilience.

The Center will be led by Megan Lerner, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive training in various trauma specific interventions. Megan has worked as an outpatient therapist at both Children’s Memorial and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

Supported by a two-year grant from the JUF Mental Health Initiative, The Center intends to strengthen our ability to respond to a crisis by offering services focused on preventing those who have been exposed to trauma from developing more significant mental health issues and providing care to those who are facing the residual effects.

Dan Wolf, Mitch’s late husband

Photo by Allen Bourgeois

Frankly, my greatest hope is that at some point the center can be closed, and its assets, if there are any left, diverted to something else, but I think at this point there is so much healing that’s needed in our community.”

Mitch Kaufman

HIGHLIGHTS

As we get ready for a new school year to begin, we want to take a moment to celebrate the Knapp School & Yeshiva students and staff.

SUCCESS

Financial stability, confidence, focus –that is what Ethan achieved after working with his career counselor at JVS Career Services. A few months ago, Ethan was at a crossroads, working a retail job and pursuing acting on the side, and uncertain of his financial situation. Having an acting degree, Ethan wanted to explore the business side of certain jobs.

Ethan spent time with his counselor building his resume, strengthening his interview skills, and eventually became more confident in expressing his thoughts. This opened the door to a new job opportunity that helped give Ethan a solid financial and emotional foundation. JVS supplied him with clothes, shoes, and a work uniform, which helped

him save money. Soon after, Ethan was able to purchase a studio apartment and improve his work/life balance. With a changed attitude and more focus, Ethan is maintaining his networking skills and continuing to make new connections, while keeping up with his acting performances.

“After working with my counselor, I feel more prepared and confident. He gave me clarity and feedback on the life choices I was making,” said Ethan. “I am really thankful for the services JVS offers.”

“We empower and support job seekers, like Ethan, to help discover their skills and strengths, to walk confidently into their new careers,” said Ambria Williams, Supervisor of JVS Career Services.

OF THE

THE POWER PEDAL

Bikes for refugees help foster independence and integration

We recently connected with Bikes & Music, a Palatine-based nonprofit focused on giving children the opportunity to enjoy bicycling and music to serve the development of body and mind for happiness and well-being. Many recent arrivals were requesting bikes to get around the city, so Bikes & Music delivered 30 bikes to be distributed. Be sure to look for the full story about this new partnership in our digital September issue of Defining Moments.

A STRIKING EVENT

The Rotering Family

Allie, Gregg, Debbie, Jodi, Danny, and Rebecca Newmark

Guests enjoyed the party on the rooftop

Rachel Ferber presents the What’s Possible Award to Jodi Newmark

Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering and Jodi Newmark with their awards

Photos by Nijole Shuberg

Liz Roberts Turnipseed presents the Irving B. Harris Leadership Award to

Rabbi Isaac Serotta and Celianne Libber

Bellene Kaish and Leticia Cardoso

THANK YOU

for making A Striking Event a stellar success! We are grateful for the opportunity to highlight the inspirational work of JCFS Chicago and recognize Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering and Jodi Newmark for their tireless leadership and significant impact on our community.

Your generosity ensures that JCFS Chicago can continue to provide expert, individualized services to over 25,000 children, adults, and families seeking emotional well-being and self-sufficiency.

Thanks to our sponsors and generous supporters; we raised over $274,000 to lift up our neighbors.

A Striking Event Co-Chairs Todd Grayson and Emily Keith, JCFS CEO Stacey Shor, and Board Chair Michael Capone

Estella Levin and Rebecca Shuman

Debbie and Harry Seigle

Marshall Pred, Gayla Brockman, and Lois Wander

Maddie Karamagianis, Dean Karamagianas, and Vince Everson

Louis Robinson, Lauren Grossman, and Jackie Robinson

Lonnie and Risa Nasatir with Ellen Sternweiler

Rose Jagust and Patti Frazin

BACK TO WORK and play!

“It felt really great to have kids back in the building,” says Linnet Mendez, Associate Director of Outpatient Behavioral Health Services and Director of the Virginia Frank Child Development Center (VFCDC), a nationally recognized program in the field of family-centered child development. After a two-year hiatus during the pandemic, the preschool socialization groups offered by VFCDC were one of the first JCFS Chicago counseling programs to return to inperson work.

And the socialization groups are still going strong with great success—there are three current sessions and another one starting in the fall. “It’s what we do best,” adds Linnet. “Our robust team of clinicians focus on young children’s emotional health as an effective means of building strong foundations for lifelong learning.”

Social interactions help children develop their self-esteem and build resilience towards the unknown and in turn, create connections that make new social interactions less scary. The therapeutic socialization groups operate on a modified preschool schedule, with a focus on building a child’s ability to self-regulate in a group and negotiate peer relationships and play, while using grown-ups for support in times of challenge or conflict. They are targeted to 3–5-year-olds with emotional and behavioral challenges and run for 8-10 weeks throughout the year.

The groups are also an expedient way to train new staff on VFCDC’s relationship-based model of working with children. Every clinician takes a turn running the group, implementing the framework focused on attachment relationships.

In addition to the socialization groups, an expressive arts therapy group for 6–8-year-olds who identify as girls is offered through the VFCDC. The girls are encouraged to use art, drama, and play to express themselves and connect with one another in a small group. A similar group for children who identify as boys is in the works.

“These groups are important to our community, and parents appreciate our work,” said Linnet. “We are here to help families, whether it’s through the groups, or individual and family counseling, or parent support sessions, we encourage children to reach their potential while promoting a strong parent-child relationship.”

Our robust team of clinicians focus on young children’s emotional health as an effective means of building strong foundations for lifelong learning.”

Linnet Mendez

WAYS TO GIVE

$500

Pairs job seekers with employment specialists that provide mock interviews, resumé review, professional networking, and career counseling.

$250

Supports two weeks of counseling for an adult struggling with their mental health.

$100

Helps purchase household items for a refugee family.

$50

Provides Knapp School students with special incentives to encourage them to achieve their academic and behavioral goals.

3145 W Pratt Blvd. Chicago, IL 60645

JCFS.org

The mission of JCFS Chicago is to provide help, healing, and caring services infused with Jewish values to strengthen lives in the community.

DEFINING MOMENTS

Joy Faith Knapp Children’s Center Esther Knapp Campus