Jewish Family Services

Katherine Schwartz worked with Russian-speaking Holocaust survivors in Jewish Family Services (JFS)’ KAVOD group in preparation for and at JFS’ 2018 Legal Aid Clinic. As an Associate Attorney and a fluent Russian speaker, Katherine was able to help Russian-speaking seniors understand the opportunities that would be available to them at the Legal Aid Clinic by facilitating an info session in Russian. She then continued her volunteering at the clinic as a translator. As a result, 22 Russian-speaking seniors (compared to six in 2017) received help with creating a will, appointing a power of attorney, and creating a living will and/or other advance directives.

My family and I immigrated to the United States from the former USSR almost 27 years ago, and Jewish Family Services (or the equivalent at that time) as well as the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis played a crucial role in welcoming us and helping us establish ourselves in a new country. This organization assisted countless other families in similar situations, and its widespread impact endures to this day. JFS’ continued dedication to serving vulnerable populations inspires me to give back to an organization that has enriched my life and that of so many others, and I am thankful for the opportunity to do so.

JFS provides an incredibly diverse array of services, ranging from nutritional support (Popsie’s Pantry) to estate planning (Legal Aid Clinic). I was especially pleased to learn about KAVOD, as a great need exists for such a program and the essential services it offers. It’s imperative that Holocaust survivors receive maximum care and support from our community, and I applaud JFS for offering this program.

One of the magical aspects of JFS and programs like KAVOD is the sense of community it generates. Whether it entails volunteering for Adopt-A-Family or participating in a KAVOD outing to BRICS, each event creates a feeling of purpose and belonging to those in attendance.

Visit jewishindianapolis.org/jfs to read more about Katherine’s JFS experience!

Fill a bag to support an individual, elderly couple, or a large family! Drop off donated items to Popsie’s Pantry (6905 Hoover Rd.) or one of the alternate locations listed above by Friday, April 12.

Visit bit.ly/passover19 or call 317-259-6822 for the shopping list or more information.

Thank you!