Inside This Issue
MEETING THE MOMENT Innovation. Expansion. Endowment.
fter nearly a decade of planning, and thanks to the generous support of our Meeting the Moment campaign donors with the lead gift from Karl a and Larry Steinberg, we purchased a new building and celebrated the start of renovati ons with a groundbreaking ceremony in September 2024, where our Society of Life Members w ere able to take a peak inside the building during the Society of Life reception.
The new 100,000-square-foot campus will consolidate all cu rrent operations from our Arapaho office and PLAN Program while enabling the expansio n of nearly all of JFS’s vital services including Primary Medical Care and the Food Pantry. These upgrades will allow us to better meet community needs, serve more clients, improve w orking conditions for staff, and accommodate a growing population. There are few age ncies in North Texas that offer all of these services under one roof, and JFS Dallas will lead t he way.
Designing the spaces for the new building has been a collaborative and dynamic process. Informed by client and staff input across all depar tments and partner agencies, and guided by our team of architects from GFF Design, we worked t o determine architectural and design features that promote a dignified, welcoming, and e ffective environment for clients while supporting staff in delivering high-quality service s.
We envision this new building as a long-term home f or our operations. Unlike many organizations that outgrow their spaces within a fe w years, we have accounted for future growth. The facility includes ample room for expansion, alo ng with 19,000 square feet available to lease to mission-aligned organizations, further enhancing its impact on the community.
Securing the building is just the beginning. The Me eting the Moment Campaign is ongoing and will need support from the entire community to buil d the foundation for the future. You can learn more at www.jfsdallas.org/MeetingTheMoment.
LEADERSHIP LETTERS FROM WHO TO REACH
To our Society of Life Members, As Board Chair, I am proud to be part of the JFS family during this milestone year. The way our community has grown, and the way JFS responds to each individual need, is truly inspiring.
I believe in JFS's mission, which is why, like all of you, I contribute to the agency as a Society of Life donor. It is my honor to give my time and my heart to help ensure JFS continues to provide compassionate, whole-person care to those who rely on us.
As we celebrate 75 years of significance, I look forward to what we can accomplish together — expanding our impact, strengthening our programs, and building a future where JFS can continue to meet the moment for generations to come.
Julie Gothard Board Chair
Dear Society of Life Members,
This year, JFS celebrates 75 years of providing compassionate care and vital resources to our community. As a Society of Life Donor, you hold a special place in this milestone year. Your generosity has not only sustained our mission but has helped us grow to meet the evolving needs of those who rely on us.
Because of you, we are building a stronger future—whether by laying the foundation for our new building, expanding access to primary medical care, or ensuring those in crisis receive immediate support. Y our impact is felt every day by the tens of thousands of individuals and families who find selfsufficiency and stability through JFS.
We are deeply grateful for your commitment to JFS and the people we serve. Thank you for being part of this extraordinary year and for continuing to shape the future with us. We look forward to celebrating this milestone together.
Cathy Barker President & CEO
STAFF DIRECTORY
Cathy Barker President & CEO cbarker@jfsdallas.org
Deizel Sarte Chief Operations Officer dsarte@jfsdallas.org
Steve Brown Chief Financial Officer sbrown@jfsdallas.org (469) 206-1640
Dr. Heather Esquivel Chief Medical Officer heatheresquivel@jfsdallas.org (972) 437- 5396
Leah Guskin Senior Director of Philanthropy and Community Relations lguskin@jfsdallas.org (469) 206-1690
Chris Walters Director of Development cwalters@jfsdallas.org (469) 206-1675
Cheryl Scaglione Contributions Manager cscaglione@jfsdallas.org (469) 206-1664
Maya Lefkovits Capital Campaign & Events Manager mayalefkovits@jfsdallas.org (469) 496-2575
Michelle Cannon Volunteer Engagement Manager michellecannon@jfsdallas.org (469) 461-1240
Diamond Anniversary Gala: Celebrating 75 Years of JFS Dallas with an Evening of Elegance & Impact
ince 1950, Jewish Family Service has impacted hundr eds of thousands of lives. From aiding refugees who arrived in Texas after World War II, to providing natural disaster relief, career tr aining, and primary medical care, we are deeply proud of our 75-year legacy of service. JFS has stood as a cornerstone of the community, serving as a philan thropic institution, a service organization, and a leadership training gro und. Rooted in Jewish values, we serve as an open door to all in need reg ardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or ability to pay. None of this would ha ve been possible without the generations of support from our community.
We are proud to invite the community to the Diamond Anniversary Gala— an evening of impact and elegance, 75 years in the making. This unforgettable celebration will feature live music b y the Jordan Kahn Orchestra, dancing, an open bar, delicious food sta tions, a silent auction, and nearly $30,000 in raffle prizes. This event bri ngs us closer to achieving our $40 million Meeting the Moment campaign goal, a llowing us to expand our reach and ensure our impact continues for years to come.
THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025
Doors open at 6:30pm
ANATOLE 2201 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, Texas
Photo by Jordan Kahn Orchestra
BY THE NUMBERS
Guided by our Jewish values, Jewish Family Service takes a holistic approach to serving our community, offering comprehensive health services that address physical, emotional, nutritio nal, and financial well-being—recognizing that all areas of life are connected. In the 2024 fiscal year, we served 26,000 individuals. In just the past six months, as our community faces gr owing needs, we have already served 16,912 people. Below is a breakdown of the number of clients serve d by department from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.
1,300 students received school based services
16,912 Individuals received services at JFS in the past 6 months
354 clients received chaplaincy services
289 individuals received family violence intervention
2,067 individuals attended group career & financial coaching seminars
231 clients utilized one-onone financial coaching
1,236 clients received one-onone counseling & therapy
6,898 individuals received healthy groceries from the Food Pantry
ANNUAL CHECK UP
Dr. Esquivel’s Notes: The first 12 months of The JFS Northpoint Health Center
The clinic opened its doors in March of 2024 Since then, we have served 301 unique patients. In the past 12 months, we have provided 545 total appointments.
We have offered no-cost health screenings for adults and children at 12 community events, including health fairs, senior expos, and backto-school events.
We have built connections with nearly 60 community groups through clinic tours and meetings with our clinic staff.
The JFS Northpoint Health Center is located just 5 miles from the main JFS Arapaho office. There is currently one Primary Care Provider, one N urse Practitioner, and one Behavioral Health Clinician on-site. All patients are welcome regardless of age, race, r eligion or ethnicity. We accept most insurance payers includin g those with Medicare or Medicaid.
DEMOGRAPHICS: PATIENTS BY GENDER
Learn more about primary medical services at www.jfsdallas.org/HealthCenter
DEMOGRAPHICS: PATIENTS BY RELIGION
DEMOGRAPHICS: PATIENTS BY AGE
Honoring Tradition, Embracing the Future
Susser Bank Becomes JFS’s New Financial Home and Title Sponsor of Diamond Anniversary Gala
by Deb Silverthorn
From the time Sam L. Susser was a little boy, in Corpus Christi, he learned the lessons of giving to and caring for others. The example set by his parents, Pat and Sam, he of blessed memory, Susser and his Susser Bank, Jewish Family Service’s financial home, are standing behind the agency as title sponsor of JFS’ 75th Annual Gala on May 8 at the Hilton Anatole.
No telling when the spirit of “reach out and connect” hit JFS’ CEO Cathy Barker (née Brunkenhoefer) but she has perfected the art and, when she and Susser crossed paths, and she gathered their shared Corpus Christi roots, she delved right in.
Jewish geography - ish.
The two met, Susser did his due diligence and quickly understood Barker to be wellregarded and at the head of a first-class organization with a strong board of directors.
“People speak so highly of her and everything I heard is true,” Susser said. “She leads an amazing group of directors and executives who practice good governance, doing the right things the right way. I learned more about the mission, how goals of the mission are truly being met by the professionals and lay leadership, and I wanted our family and Susser Bank to help.”
And help Susser is doing.
“We are beyond thrilled to welcome the Susser family to our Jewish Family Service family,” said Barker, who is proud to have seen the relationships flourish and for Susser to be JFS’ banker and partner in JFS’ future homebase.
“Everything that the generations of this family have stood for is so much about the work we do here every day.”
A graduate of Richard King High School and then the University of Texas, Susser is
the brother of Sherry (Michael) Thum and Stephen Susser. He and his wife Catherine are the parents of sixth-generation Corpus Christi natives Sophie, Sammy and Eli - the family’s roots in the coastal town are 170 years strong.
The Susser family, whose l’dor v’dor work ethic and sharing to its community began with Susser’s grandparents Birdie and Sam Maltzman and Minna and Sam Susser, all of blessed memory.
Raised at Temple Beth El and B’nai Israel Synagogue, which ultimately merged to become Congregation Beth Israel, Susser sat on the search committee for a rabbi which resulted in the hiring of Rabbi Kenneth Roseman, of blessed memory, taking to the pulpit until his passing in 2020.
For three generations, the Sussers have supported their home city’s JCC, their legacy to the children there through the Sam Susser Playground Fund as wellas support for highly regarded preschool and kindergarten.
The family has long supported Jewish agencies in Corpus Christi, in his mother’s home city of San Antonio as well as numerous general community organizations. The founders of Susser Petroleum Partners, Susser’s grandfather, father and uncle were the backbone of the family’s Susser Holdings Corporation. Working in the family business since 1988, Susser helped grow from two filling stations to five stores, then to 640 as a Fortune 500 $6.7 billion company, with more than 12000 employees which he ultimately led as chairman of the board.
The company was sold in 2014 and Susser went into the banking business.
From left: Sam L. Susser, his uncle Jerry Susser, a nd father Sam J. Susser, at one of their Stripes stores.
Now, with son Sammy joining the company and Eli headed there after college and training, the concept of the family business carries on. The family hopes Sophie, now engaged at a New York private equity firm, joins them someday.
Supporting boards and committees around the state since settling in Dallas, the Susser’s fingerprints are serving numerous local organizations as he sits on boards including the Dallas Citizens Council, the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum Board, the Southwestern Medical Foundation Board and the Edwin L. Cox School of Business Executive Board.
Catherine, a CPA and past president of the Corpus Christi Independent School District Board of Trustees and past chair of the Governor’s Commission for Women, serves on the UT Southwestern President’s Advisory Board and on the Board of Temple Emanu-El where the family are members.
“Our family had the privilege of leading 12,000 hard-working, salt-of-the-earth, hourly folks who are very stretched every day to make ends meet.
We know that despite the great economic success in Texas, there are millions of citizens who are nutrition-challenged and have difficulty accessing healthcare and counseling services,” said Susser. “We consider the sponsorship and involvement with JFS to be a great honor. Their mission is completely aligned with our values and priorities.
“Our family has been blessed, and we’ve prioritized giving of our time and our resources to organizations regarding education and children’s health and JFS does that through so many avenues for so many,” he said. “Among the relationships we’ve been honored to build since we’ve made Dallas our home is this jewel which helps so many across the Metroplex and we are committed to helping them do just that.”
SHARE YOUR JFS MOMENT
In honor of JFS's 75th anniversary and the Meeting the Moment campaign, we invite the community to share their ‘JFS Moments’.
Whether it’s a testimony of a service you or a loved one received, a memory from volunteering, the inspiration behind your donation, or any moment in between, we’d love to hear it.
Your story can inspire others to support JFS and encourage those in need to reach out for assistance.
Sam L. Susser (in middle) with two of his children, Sam (left) and Eli (right)
Renovations for the new space are set to begin in 2025, with JFS aiming to move in early in 2026. The following information reflects the most up-to-date renovation goals and digital renderings but is subject to change. If you are interested in making a contribution or learning more about the Meeting the Moment campaign, please visit www.jfsdallas.org/MeetingTheMoment.
CAREER & FINANCIAL SERVICES
The Career and Financial Services (CFS) department will occupy 3,270 square feet in the new building, featuring dedicated training rooms and the AT&T Connected Learning Center— a multipurpose computer lab and workspace.
The space will also include private offices for JFS’s skilled Career and Financial Coaches to provide one-on-one coaching on topics such as budgeting, resume building, job skills training, interview practice, ESL classes, and more. This expanded space will offer additional resources to better support CFS clients.
CONFERENCE CENTER & TRAINING ROOM
The Conference Center and Training Room is a versatile, wheelchair-accessible space on the first floor, designed to accommodate up to 200 people in a theater-style setup. Featuring modular tables and chairs for flexible arrangements, it can also be divided into two separate rooms for smaller gatherings. Equipped with a state-of-theart AV system, including projectors, it’s ideal for hosting events, meetings, seminars, and all-staff trainings. With 10 large windows providing ample natural light, the space offers a welcoming environment for community organizations and members to use for their own events.
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
The new building will expand Behavioral Health Services with over 40 private spaces for individual therapy for adults, families, case management, and support groups. These spaces will feature large windows, bringing in natural light and views of lush trees to promote feelings of wellness and tranquility.
An accessible area for our Older Adult Programs will continue to host our comprehensive services for older adults and their caregivers, including assessment and care coordination, individual and group therapy, community chaplaincy, and Holocaust Survivor Care. Our Kosher Home Delivered Meals program will have a designated area for meal packing and coordinating delivery to home-bound individuals.
The Children’s Services wing will include a diagnostic testing room to assess special needs and learning differences. It also will feature five play therapy rooms, doubling our current number. A state-of-the-art sensory gym will be built to support children with processing challenges and special needs in developing their sensory processing skills. Sensory gyms have been proven to help improve fine motor skills, selfesteem, social skills, communication, balance, physical control, and tolerance for different textures in children.
*Digital rendering
PRIMARY MEDICAL CARE
In March 2024, JFS opened its first primary medical clinic, the Northpoint Health Center, on Greenville Avenue. With our new building, a second medical clinic will be introduced, which will include 13 exam rooms and can accommodate four providers in a 7,730-square-foot space. The clinic will offer comprehensive primary care services, including annual physicals for adults and children, vaccines, sick visits, medication management, chronic disease management, and more.
As with the JFS Northpoint Health Center, most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, will be accepted, as well as patients who are uninsured. Once it achieves Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) status, the clinic will provide a sustainable funding model for JFS’s primary and behavioral health services.
Additionally, 2,960 square feet of space will be reserved for JFS’s first ever dental clinic, scheduled to open in 2028.
THE PLAN PROGRAM
The PLAN Clubhouse and Connections programs, currently located in a standalone building in Richardson, will move into the new JFS building, occupying a newly designed 6,650square-foot space.
This accredited Clubhouse program supports adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and chronic PTSD by offering meaningful work and social opportunities. Members can access career skills training, social programs, and volunteer opportunities. They will have a fully equpt kitchen as well as maintain a vegetable garden and other plants throughout the 100,000square-foot building.
Additinally, the Clubhouse members have access to the PLAN Connections program where they can access peer-support specialists, who use their own lived experiences to support others who are who are working hard to improving their lives.
The PLAN program takes members from isolation to activation, and serves as a launching pad for members to work on their goals.
FOOD PANTRY
The JFS Food Pantry is currently the only food pantry in Dallas with a designated kosher selection.
In our new building, the pantry will double in size, featuring expanded shopping and storage areas. As a client-choice model food pantry, individuals will be able to walk the aisles and select the groceries and hygiene items that best meet their family’s needs, preserving dignity and promoting healthy choices.
The expanded pantry will include a private area where shoppers can meet with a nutritionist and case managers, participate in educational sessions, and learn about healthy cooking, exercise, and health literacy. Additionally, improved client navigation will make it easier for individuals to access and learn more about the all the services JFS offers.
The food pantry is expected to distribute 1.4 million pounds of food each year.
*Digital rendering
*Digital rendering
*Digital rendering
Legacy Midtown Park Residents Craft Purpose and Community Through Legacy Cares Bracelet Project, Benefiting the JFS Food Pantry
Aremarkable fundraising initiative has blossomed at Legacy Midtown Park, where a group of ten residents came together to raise funds for the JFS Food Pantry and express solidarity with Israel. The project, which they named Legacy Cares, began in September with a simple flyer calling on residents to participate in making and selling bracelets.
The bracelets featured blue beads and words like Israel, Peace, Love, and Brave, symbolizing the residents' hopes and values. The group crafted 25 bracelets, raising $250 to purchase an array of personal hygiene products that they planed to donate to the JFS Food Pantry, which are consistently in high demand.
Creating the bracelets became a shared experience filled with purpose and connection for everyone involved. Residents with varying abilities worked together to bring the project to life. For some, stringing beads was a welcome challenge. For others, selecting bead patterns and meaningful words was a chance to express their creativity.
“Our residents were not only proud to support JFS but also felt empowered to take a stand for peace amidst the ongoing IsraelGaza conflict,” said Jennifer Dolan, Assisted Living Lifestyle Coordinator at The Legacy.
“This project gave them a sense of purpose and the joy of knowing they were making a tangible difference.”
A group of four Legacy residents personally delivered the donations to JFS, where they had a chance to stock the shelves, tour the building, and learn more about how JFS supports the community. Seeing the Food Pantry shelves stocked with their contributions was an emotional and rewarding experience.
Sarah Yarrin, former president of the Dallas Jewish Historical Society and current Legacy president, has faced physical limitations in recent years and had begun to doubt her ability to contribute meaningfully.
Witnessing the success of the initiative, she turned to staff and said, “Thank you. I am useful again.”
The success of Legacy Cares is a testament to the generosity of Legacy Midtown Park residents. Many have a lifelong history of volunteering and giving to charity. This project showed them that their ability to make a difference remains strong, regardless of age or physical challenges.
“Projects like these remind us that giving to others knows no age or limitation,” said Stephane McGrady, Lifestyle Manager. “They reinforce the dignity and purpose of our residents while benefiting the greater community.”
You can purchase a bracelet for $10 by emailing: Jennifer Dolan, jdolan@thelegacymp.org OR Stephane McGrady, smcgrady@thelegacymp.org
Residents of The Legacy Midtown Park dropping off t heir donations of hygiene items to the JFS Food Pantry
Holiday Market Delivers the Magic of the Season With Support from Volunteers and Donors
This December, JFS brought holiday magic to life with the launch of the Holiday Market. The Food Pantry was transformed, with shelves once filled with groceries now brimming with colorful toys, cozy gifts, and treasures for all ages. Snowflakes hung from the ceiling, twinkling lights glowed, and festive decorations filled the space. Over three days, families and individuals stepped into this winter wonderland to choose brand-new gifts for their loved ones at no cost.
The idea for the Holiday Market came from listening to the voices that matter most: our clients. Previously, JFS ran a program called “Embrace-a-Family,” where gifts were selected and distributed by volunteers. While well-meaning, many clients found the experience impersonal and disconnected. They wanted more choice—gifts that truly reflected their families’ needs and personalities. This feedback inspired Volunteer Engagement Manager Michelle Cannon to create a more meaningful, dignified holiday shopping experience.
The Holiday Market came to life thanks to our generous community. Gifts were donated by individuals, corporate volunteer groups, local businesses, and retail partners like Davis Street Mercantile, Intergem, and Kelli’s Gift Shop Suppliers. The JFS Student Impact Board went above and beyond by hosting a toy drive and shopping for donations. Thanks to their collective efforts, the market offered something for everyone— LEGO sets, makeup kits, baby play mats, self-care items, and more.
The market was about more than just presents. For 105 families, it provided the chance to holiday shop without the financial burden. Clients browsed the market, selected gifts, and wrapped them at the onsite gift-wrapping station.
Gift cards for Walmart or Target were given to homebound older adults and Holocaust survivors, ensuring everyone felt the warmth of the season.
The impact of the Holiday Market was felt by all. Many clients were moved to tears by the generosity they experienced, and the 123 volunteers shared how meaningful it was to be part of the event—from setting up the market to helping families choose gifts.
“It felt like we were creating more than just a holiday moment,” one volunteer said. “We were building connections and showing people they’re not alone.”
This year’s Holiday Market reflected the community, kindness, and dignity that define JFS. It’s proof that when we listen and work together, we can create something truly magical!
If you’re interested in donating or becoming involv ed with the 2025 Holiday Market, please reach out to Michelle Cannon, Volunteer Engagement Manager, michellecannon@jfsdallas.org
From left: Bobbie Repp, Tobe Goldberg, Gerri Gordon , and Jo Coleman
From left: Bailey Fisher, Merle Gallant, Erica Prag er, Susan Mars, Katelin Gildersleeve, Aditya Saran, Allison Schwart z, Tom Gildersleeve
From Real Estate to Real Change
The Pinkus Family’s Gift to JFS and the Dallas Community
by Deb Silverthorn
Muriel and Ralph Pinkus, both of blessed memory, hav e deep roots planted in so many ways. As longtime JFS supp orters, the couple who was honored at the agency’s 2009 “For th e Love of Family” event, made numerous “in the moment” gifts and othe rs that define “patience is a virtue.”
The Pinkus’ investment portfolio included a number of land parcels throughout North Texas. One such piece, a 27-acre s pot on Lake Lavon which was purchased more than 30 years ago and donated to Jewish Family Service in 2007, recently sold for many time s its original purchase price. In the coming year, those monies wi ll support the renovations being made to JFS’ new building, slated to open in January 2026.
“The Pinkuses had the very best in mind for Jewish Family Service but never could have known the true impact their gift w ould provide,” said Cathy Barker, JFS’ president and CEO. “Sometimes, w e can’t realize how planting a seed - literally or figuratively - w ill change the lives of thousands. The choices we make absolutely affect th e future and the Pinkus’ gift is a prime example of that.”
The founders of North Haven Gardens, Muriel and Ral ph were masters of the garden who planted themselves in their commu nity. Native New Yorkers who spent their early years as a couple wor king in Guatemala, made Dallas their home in 1950 and until their pass ing, he in 2013 and she in 2016, were committed to supporting the Jewis h and greater Dallas communities.
They were affiliated with AIPAC, the Anti-Defamatio n League, the Boy Scouts, the Christian - Jewish Forum of the Texas C onference of Churches, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden , the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, the Interfaith Counci l of Thanks-Giving Square, the League of Women Voters, the North Dalla s Chamber of Commerce, its education committee and the Goals for Dallas for higher education.
The Pinkus’ family tree continues to blossom, and t he family’s commitment to helping those around them through the ir sons David (Carol) and Jon (Lillian) their grandchildren Tami (Ken) Horn, Justin Pinkus, Jared (Samantha) Pinkus and Aaron (Pamela) Pinkus, and their great-grandchildren Hunter and Hudsyn Horn, D ylan and Jake Pinkus and Chandler and Tara Pinkus.
“My parents believed like Hillel that ‘If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I and, if not now, when,” said Jon. “Their parents had fled the pogroms of Ru ssia, they came to the States in the early 1900’s and they worked so h ard. For my parents, their lives were about supporting the Jewish commun ity but also about fostering compassion and about working with others. Their sense of responsibility led them to help all those in need.
Mu riel and Ralph Pinkus
Mu riel and Ralph Pinkus
“How they lived is what Jewish Family Service is ab out every day, for so many,” he added. “The organization devoid of politics, only about support. From my parents, we learned tha t we are all responsible for one another and none of us are born with rights over another.
David recalls visiting the JFS-gifted property with his father over the years and remembers conversations about how the value of real estate can increase significantly over time.
Case in point, the Pinkus’ gift having sold - and t he proceeds in action. “Our folks gave so much through the years, this gif t is just one of many,” he said. “They led with commitme nt of their time, money and other resources - always setting th e example for the next generations to do the same.
Bill Roth, a longtime friend of the Pinkuses, was p resident of JFS’ board of directors when the couple made the propert y donation.
“Ralph and Muriel had a vision, they knew JFS’ work and they saw the agency’s mission played out over the years, ” he said. “That their gift of decades ago has since appreciat ed to a value that will exponentially benefit the organization, i ts clients and our community in general, is spectacular.
“The Pinkuses led by example and I hope that others in the community will consider such donations of real esta te, personal collections and other perhaps less expected holding s, as contributions to JFS,” said Roth. “The significant support that came from their original gift will be meaningful fo r generations.”
TOP 50
VOLUNTEERS
None of the work at JFS would be possible without the dedication and hard work of our volunteers. We are proud and grateful that 80% of our devoted volunteers not only give their time to the agency, but also contribute financially to support our community and the vital services of JFS. Whether you’ve volunteered one time or a thousand times, your time and effort changes lives in our community. Below is a list of our top 50 volunteers, ranked by the number of shifts worked in the past six months.
Merle Gallant 1.
Bradley Rossel 2.
Sylvan Rothschild 3.
Michael Malakoff 4.
David Intebi 5.
Susan Mars 6.
Jay Tobin 7.
Marlene Intebi 8.
Dennis Rice 9.
Robert Baron 10.
Roger Sellers 11.
Jack Atkin 12.
Judith Cordell 13.
Emily Davidson 14.
Lee Vasa 15.
Gerri Gordon 16.
Debbie Scheinberg 17.
Harriet Sebert 18.
Nina Goodman 19. Robert Nussbaum 20.
Jim Warner 21.
Jan Watson
Larry Krasner
David Chortek
32. Max Lefeld 33. Sarah Lerner 34. Robbyn Lewin
35. Deborah Dubsky 36. Jonathan Herskovitz
37. Judy Segal 38. David Weiss
Simma Weiss
Terry Abel
Scott Butnick
Kathie Holt
Melanie Morris
Mu riel and Ralph Pinkus
The Impact of The JFS Foundation
When you make a gift to the JFS Foundation, you help preserve the legacy of Jewish Family Service. The Foundation supports the long-term viability of JFS’s mental health and social services through planned giving and endowments.
While annual contributions are essential for JFS to meet the growing demand for services, a gift to the JFS Foundation offers a unique opportunity to sustain your name and lasting commitment to JFS and the community we serve.
By establishing or contributing to a fund in memory or honor of a loved one, your gift ensures ongoing support for specific programs and services that will continue to grow for years to come.
2025 FUND BALANCE
BY PURPOSE
*The Foundation may direct funds held for General Operations to the JFS service areas that need the most assistance at any given time.
The L’Dor V’dor Society
This exclusive society recognizes those who generously support both the JFS Foundation and Jewish Family Service annually at $1,800+
Carol and Harold Colvin
Cindy and Irv Munn
Robin Sachs and Bob Farkas
Barbara Schwarz
Meri-Kay Star
You can see all current funds at the JFS Foundation by going to www.jfsdallasfoundation.org
IMPACT REPORT JFS FOUNDATION
Meet JFS Foundation Board Vice Chair, Donor, Volunteer, and Fundholder: David Chortek
David Chortek’s commitment to volunteerism was inspi red by his father-inlaw, who, after retiring, single handedly rebuilt t heir Rabbi’s house at their synagogue. Following this example, David integrated community service into his own life, starting on the HOA board, eventually bec oming president, and later serving on the Dallas Board of Adjustment. He also initiated a program at work where employees had the opportunity to tutor underp rivileged students.
After David's retirement in 2017, he was searching for meaningful volunteer opportunities and found his calling at JFS. He bega n by volunteering in the Food Pantry and unloading pallets of food, and ultimatel y found his perfect fit in Kosher Home Delivered Meals (KHDM), where he enjoys delivering meals and offering a friendly conversation to the homebound o lder adults who receive them. Over the years, David has dedicated 331 hours acros s 248 shifts delivering KHDM.
David believes it is essential to instill the value of community service in the next generation. He often brings his grandson along to v olunteer, showing him firsthand the impact of giving back. Through these shared experiences, he hopes to inspire a lifelong commitment to service, just a s his own family influenced him.
David’s passion for JFS goes beyond volunteering. B oth he and his daughter, Madelyn Eisenberg, have served on the boards of JFS and the JFS Foundation. Madelyn served two terms beginning in 2020, while D avid joined in 2023 and was recently appointed Vice Chair. He also established a fund at the JFS Foundation this year. David’s dedication to giving back reflec ts a personal legacy of service and a strong commitment to the community!
Dear Friends,
As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with immense gratitude for each and every one of you. Your generosity and commitment have helped strengthen not only our community but also the financial foundation upon which our vital work is built.
Through financial and strategic stewardship, thoughtful philanthropy, and long-term planning, our Foundation is ensuring a stable and sustainable future for JFS, especially as the Agency celebrates its Diamond Jubilee and prepares to move into its new home. Your support allows us to provide essential resources today while securing the financial resources necessary for the generations to come. Together, we are not just meeting immediate needs -- we are building an enduring legacy of strength, resilience, and impact for the future.
While we have tackled a lot this past year, there is still a lot of work ahead. I am inspired by all that we have planned as we continue to grow and strengthen the foundation in support of our shared mission.
Thank you for being part of this journey. May we go from strength to strength.
With deep appreciation,
Clive Miskin
Clive Miskin Board Chair, JFS Foundation
14
David Chortek with his grandson Jack Eisenberg (age 4) picking up Kosher Home Delivered Meals from JFS to deliver to homebound individuals in the community.
SAVE THE DATE SAVE THE DATE
National Volunteer Week
April 20-26, 2025
Last year, over 950 people volunteered their time w ith JFS. If you’ve been looking for a sign to start volunteering, this is a the perfect time to get involved! We have a variety of exciting volu nteer opportunities available year-round for individuals of all ages, a s well as group opportunities. Learn more and sign up at www.jfsdal las.org/volunteer.
Diamond Anniversary Gala
Thursday, May 8, 2025 | Doors open at 6:30pm
The community is invited to this ticketed event at the Hilton Anatole. The Diamond Anniversary Gala will celebrat e 75 years of elegance and impact at JFS, featuring live music, d ancing, an open bar, food stations, a raffle, and a silent auction. Read more on p. 4.
Community Impact Celebration
Thursday, June 12, 2025 | 6:30pm
This special event will highlight the current state of JFS and plans for the future as we close our Meeting the Moment c ampaign, introduce our new board members, and honor our incr edible volunteers with well-deserved awards. Hors d’oeuvre s and desserts will be served. More information coming soon!
Society of Life Reception
Thursday, October 23, 2025 | Exact details TBA
The Society of Life is our donor society for those who give $1,800 or more annually. Each year, we honor these generous d onors and their families at the Society of Life Reception, where th ey enjoy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, receive exclusive updates o n plans for our new building, and hear remarks from our CEO and spe cial guests.