March/April 2012 Family Matters Newsletter

FamilyMatters

Volume 22, No. 2 • March/April 2012

Family Matters is published bimonthly by Jewish Family Service of Colorado, 3201 S. Tamarac Dr., Denver CO 80231

Motivational Speaker and Author Christopher Gardner Headlines JFS Executive Luncheon May 8 Presented by:

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FS Executive Luncheon co-chairs Adam Agron, David Asarch, and Michele Right are excited about how closely Christopher Gardner’s story and successes tie in with the work JFS does to help thousands of struggling people achieve self-sufficiency each year. Did you see the blockbuster movie The Pursuit of Happyness starring Will Smith or read the book by the same name? Now you have a chance to hear Christopher Gardner, the man who wrote the poignant autobiography, speak at the eighth annual JFS Executive Luncheon!

The luncheon will be held Tuesday, May 8, at the Grand Hyatt Denver at 1750 Welton Street. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., and the program will start promptly at noon. Tickets are $150 and sponsorship packages start at $1,500.

Contact Lisa Mehl at 720.248.4633 or visit www.jewishfamilyservice.org for more information or to purchase tickets.

Conquering grave challenges to become a successful entrepreneur, Chris Gardner is a powerful motivational and inspirational speaker, addressing the keys to overcoming obstacles and breaking cycles.

The amazing story of Gardner’s life was published as an autobiography in 2006 and became a national best seller and the inspiration for the movie.

Gardner’s childhood was marked by poverty, domestic violence, alcoholism, sex abuse, and family illiteracy. He wrote the book out of a desire to shed light on these universal issues and show that they do not have to define you.

Gardner is an inspiration to anyone who ever thought their goals were impossible to reach. Thirty years ago, Gardner was a poverty-stricken single father who called an Oakland subway station bathroom home. Yet somehow, he never lost hope. His unwavering desire for success landed him several jobs on Wall Street before he launched his own successful firm, Chicago-based Gardner Rich LLC. All proceeds from this fundraising event will help support all programs of JFS, including mental health counseling, senior and adult in-home care, disability and employment services, and family safety net services. l Executive Luncheon sponsors page 3

Christopher Gardner

In This Issue Stories of Hope 2 Spotlight on Staff 4 National Volunteer Week 5 Para-Chaplain Training 5 Passover Services 6 The Gift of “Stretch” 7 Thank You for Caring! 8 Summer Magic Camp 11 Passport to Israel 11

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Stories of Hope

The Forn Family — Facing Adversity Head-On

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ife was good for Henrietta and Marvin Forn.

They had it all—a successful pest-control business, active lives, and a comfortable home.

They are both 53 years old and have been married for 35 happy years. They never imagined being in a position of need. In fact, Henrietta used to frequently volunteer her time at a local food pantry, helping others in need.

Ten years ago Marvin was diagnosed with kidney failure, and that’s when their lives turned upside down. His condition soon declined to the point that he could no longer work. He takes dialysis treatments three times a week, which exhaust him. He was also diagnosed with skin cancer, but fortunately that’s in remission. Today, he depends on Henrietta for everything.

On top of Marvin’s medical issues, the couple has the added responsibility of caring for their five grandchildren, who range in age from four to 16. The oldest Henrietta and Marvin Forn suffers from sickle-cell anemia and must be carefully monitored. It’s been a physical, emotional, and financial challenge—especially for Henrietta— but with a positive attitude, hard work, and a little help from Jewish Family Service, they are getting by.

Henrietta was forced to give up her teaching career to care for Marvin and the grandkids. Today, the family survives on Marvin’s social security disability benefit of just $1,204 per month. They were lucky to secure low-income housing through Denver Housing Authority. They also get $51 each month in food stamps, but that doesn’t begin to cover groceries for seven people.

Henrietta began “You do what you using the Weinberg have to do and Food Pantry almost make the best with three years ago what you have.” and has a JFS case manager to help her —Henrietta Forn manage and access additional services. Her case manager referred her to Project Angel Heart to provide meals for Marvin, which has been a tremendous help. Through referrals to other programs, JFS has also helped Marvin access the more than 15 different medications he takes every day.

During the summer, JFS has helped the family through its Lunch & Learning program, providing large bags of groceries to each child, including lunch meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy snacks. JFS also helped secure passes to the local swimming pool and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science to provide the children with safe and educational activities while Henrietta takes Marvin to his dialysis treatments and medical appointments.

For Henrietta, Jewish Family Service has literally been a lifesaver.

In spite of the support JFS provides, every day is still a challenge for Henrietta. She gets up each morning at 3:00 to begin preparing meals for the family. “There are many days that I don’t see daylight,” she says. “And I sleep with one eye open because I never know when we’re going to make a run for the hospital. I keep clothes at the ready and I’m always prepared.

“Caring for everyone can get a little overwhelming at times,” she confides. “Sometimes I need to escape and go for a drive to the park so I can cry it out. I don’t want the kids to see me break.”

Before his diagnosis, Marvin was working four jobs, and giving all that up has been extremely difficult for him. “He gets depressed, but I help him deal with it,” she says. “It’s okay. We used to have everything, and now we don’t have much,” says Henrietta. “But as long as the food comes in and we have a roof over our heads, I’m happy. And we have

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each other. I can’t complain. It’s the little things that matter. This is where G-d put us right now. We are blessed to have what we have,” she says. “It may not be much, but we’re grateful for it.”

Henrietta is the youngest of 10 children and was raised by a single mom who taught her to be selfsufficient. “My mom took care of us very well,” she says. “She taught me the importance of providing for your family and that’s what I must do. It’s work, but I can hold my head up high.”

The family is getting by on Henrietta’s resourcefulness and determination. Sometimes that means

making a meal out of a bag of rice or a can of beans.

“I have to feed these kids. They depend on me. You do what you have to do and make the best with what you have.”

Henrietta has one wish for the future: for Marvin to get a kidney. He’s been on a waiting list for years and she is optimistic that this is the year.

“I want him to be here for his grandkids and to live a healthy productive life,” she says. “It’s been a long road and it’s hard to see Marvin get depressed. I have to be strong and hold our family together.” l

JFS Executive Luncheon Sponsors Thank you to our current event sponsors (as of February 8, 2012): Presidential Sponsors Denver Business Journal Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck Chief Operating Sponsors Will and Sheri Gold Rose Medical Center Chief Financial Sponsors The Chotin Foundation The Denver Post Community Green Manning & Bunch Ltd. Katzson Brothers — Richard and Michelle Right Steve and Elizabeth Kris Naiman Co., LLC Eric and Ellen Pollock Andrew and Jonathon Right

Executive VP Sponsors Alberta Development Partners, LLC Berlin Investment Group Holdings Colorado State Bank & Trust Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard First Western Trust Bank David and Michelle Friedman Guaranty Bank & Trust Alan and Peggy Mayer Morevents — Gareth Heyman and Betsy Mordecai Heyman Sherr Puttmann Akins Lamb PC Melvin and Elaine Wolf Foundation

Associate VP Sponsors David and Anna Asarch Asarch Center for Dermatology and Laser Atlantic Trust Private Wealth Management — Cary Chapman CCFIN INC. — Proprietary Capital LLC Enstrom Candies Feldman Mortuary, Inc. Jon and Sheryl Goodman Heitler Development Monroe Group Ltd. Michael and Devra Ochs Rebecca Rosen Enterprises, Inc. Robinson Waters O’Dorisio

Help JFS With Some Spring Cleaning!

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n easy way to help JFS serve those in need is by cleaning out your closets!

Your donation of gently used clothing, shoes, and household items through Healing Minds generates funds that support the mental health programs at JFS and subsidize the cost of counseling services for our clients. Schedule a home pickup online at www.healingmindspickup.org or by calling 303.232.4483. l

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Spotlight on Staff

Beth Lippa, Senior Solutions Volunteer Coordinator

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eth Lippa, Senior Solutions volunteer coordinator, joined JFS in June 2011. In this part-time position, Beth is responsible for recruiting Friendly Visitor and para-chaplain volunteers, matching volunteers with senior clients, conducting para-chaplain and Friendly Visitor volunteer trainings, and serving as the liaison among nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and volunteers. Beth also helps with outreach to numerous volunteer groups in the community, such as synagogue havurot, college students, and other community groups that come to JFS to volunteer.

Beth has taken on some exciting new projects, including hosting “lunch and learn” workshops for Beth Lippa volunteers to educate them about various issues that come up when working with seniors and to help build community among volunteers who work one-on-one with clients. The volunteer department is also working on a pilot program at an assisted living facility this spring in which para-chaplains will lead discussion groups with the seniors about current events and other topics. “We hope the seniors will feel less isolated and enjoy some stimulating conversations,” says Beth.

With the help of several para-chaplains, Beth’s goal is to revise all of the holiday service booklets that are used in senior residences for Passover, Shabbat, High Holidays, and Hanukkah. “Our focus is to make the “I am humbled by the care and concern booklets more senior friendly. We will our Friendly Visitors simplify the services, include good liturgy, contemporary and relevant and para-chaplains artwork, make them colorful and show for the seniors attractive, and include large print,” Beth explains. Last year, para-chapthey work with.” lains conducted 74 holiday services at —Beth Lippa 45 different senior facilities, serving 810 individuals. In addition, these

volunteers led 280 Shabbat services.

Before retiring from a 17-year teaching career last year, Beth started volunteering as a citizenship teacher at JFS. “Volunteering was a great way for me to be more connected to JFS after I retired, and when this job opened up, I jumped at the chance to work here,” Beth says enthusiastically. She continues to teach citizenship classes in her spare time. She loves working at JFS and says the staff is the most sincere, dedicated, focused group of people she has ever worked with. She jokes, “Plus, there’s always good food in the office!” On a more serious note, Beth says of her job, “In my interactions with our volunteers, I am humbled by the care and concern our Friendly Visitors and para-chaplains show for the seniors they work with. It’s an honor to be a part of the services that JFS provides for the people who need it most in our community.”

After working as a reading teacher in elementary schools for nearly two decades, Beth finds that working with adults in this new position is a breath of fresh air. “It’s like doing a good deed every day,” Beth says. “I am extremely grateful to work at JFS and appreciate all the kindness that’s been shown to me.”

A native of Denver, Beth is happy that her 23-year-old son and two grandchildren live in town.

When she’s not working or volunteering, she enjoys taking watercolor classes, golfing, cross-country skiing, and reading. l For more information about the para-chaplain training in April or becoming a Friendly Visitor volunteer, please contact Beth Lippa at 720.248.4599 or blippa@ jewishfamilyservice.org.

Congratulations to Lisa Womack, administrative assistant to the Refugee Mental Health department, and Yaroslav Martynyuk, Kosher Meals on Wheels driver, who are celebrating their fifth anniversaries with JFS in April!

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Volunteer Corner Thank You to Our Volunteers for Being Important Links in the Chain Reaction of Good

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n honor of National Volunteer Week, April 15–21, we want to celebrate and thank all of our volunteers. They are the backbone of JFS and we could not provide services to more than 21,000 people each year without their invaluable support.

Nearly all volunteers who walk through our doors have a story to share about how their lives were touched by JFS — either here in Colorado or elsewhere — or by another nonprofit that provided help to their family. We’ve had volunteers whose families were resettled by JFS, who adopted children through our agency (or were themselves adopted), who received in-home care or case management for an elderly parent, or who obtained food from our pantry in a time of need. Others learned the value of giving back from their parents and sought out JFS to volunteer their time.

In each of our volunteers’ lives, an act of kindness stuck with them and made them want to give back—to be part of the chain reaction of good!

Our volunteers truly exemplify the Jewish values that are universal principles of living and that guide this agency: • He who saves one life, saves the entire world. — Pikuach Nefesh.

• The obligation to make the world a better place – Tikkun Olam.

• Social justice, the obligation to act justly toward people in need — Tzedakah.

• Acts of loving kindness — G’milut Hassadim.

• Every human being is equal in the eyes of G-d — Tselem Elohim.

We are so grateful that last fiscal year, 629 volunteers contributed more than 22,400 hours to this agency, a total value of $479,340. While what these volunteers provide is immeasurable, they make an incredible difference — both in enhancing people’s lives and in helping the agency’s bottom line.

JFS has a variety of volunteer opportunities to fit anyone’s interests or time commitment.

Learn more and view the list of opportunities by visiting www.jewishfamilyservice.org/volunteer, or contact Nancy Benyamin, director of volunteer services, at nbenyamin@jewishfamilyservice.org or 720.248.4642. l JFS has a variety of volunteer opportunities to fit anyone’s interests or time commitment. Learn more and view the list of opportunities by visiting www.jewishfamilyservice.org/volunteer, or contact Nancy Benyamin, director of volunteer services, at 720.248.4642 or nbenyamin@jewishfamilyservice.org.

Sign Up Today for Para-Chaplain Training!

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eminder: The 2012 para-chaplain training is fast approaching! If you want to help create a warm Jewish connection for isolated members of the Jewish community, we urge you to sign up for the Bikur Cholim (Visiting the Sick) Para-chaplain Program.

The training will be held April 25, May 2, May 9, and May 16 from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. at JFS. As a para-chaplain, you will visit seniors or conduct holiday services in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, prisons, or hospitals. In order to be a para-chaplain, you must be Jewish, but you do not need to have an extensive Jewish education. If you wish to lead services, a deeper understanding of Jewish traditions is desirable.

For more information or to sign up for the training, please contact Beth Lippa at 720.248.4599 or blippa@jewishfamilyservice.org. l

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Volunteer Corner

JFS Conducts Passover Services in Denver and Boulder

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ewish Family Service will carry on its long-standing tradition of hosting Passover services for socially isolated Jewish community members in April throughout metro Denver and Boulder. Services are planned for Jewish residents of non-Jewish long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities, a mental health center, and several correctional institutions.

Metro Denver Passover services will be led at 17 senior facilities by Rabbi Eliot Baskin, JFS Jewish community chaplain, and JFS volunteer para-chaplains Paula Breese, Barb Cashman, Bob Epstein, Deb Fowler, Leland Huttner, Allan Kantrowitz, Elliott Magalnick, Allan Markman, Jay Miller, Bob Rottman, Sheldon Spector, Michelle Stern, Andy Thangasamy, Leslie Tjarks, and Anita Wenner.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the services and bring a sense of community to the senior residents. If you are interested in volunteering in Denver, please contact Beth Lippa at 720.248.4599 or blippa@jewishfamilyservice.org.

Boulder JFS is planning to hold Passover services at seven local senior residences.

If you can help with any of the services, please contact Ingrid Swords at 303.415.1025 or iswords@jewishfamilyservice.org. This is a great opportunity for families! l

We Need Your Help for Passover!

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s you prepare to celebrate Passover, please join us in helping the growing number of people in our community who are struggling to put together a Seder during these difficult times. This year, you can help us make sure that everyone can participate in this holiday tradition.

Through the Passover program, Jewish Family Service and the Synagogue Council of Greater Denver will provide families in need with a kosher chicken as well as other necessary kosher-forPassover items, such as matzo, matzo meal, grape juice, borscht, gefilte fish, macaroons, cake mix, eggs, fresh produce, and candles.

Follow JFS on: www.facebook.com/jfscolorado www.twitter.com/JFS_Colo

Give the community a “chai five” by donating at least $90 for this program—the cost to purchase food and nonperishable items needed to make the Seder complete for a family of four. This year, we expect to serve at least 75 families, which means we need to raise more than $7,000.

Please donate online today at www.jewishfamilyservice.org/donate and indicate “Holiday Food” in the “Tribute Text” section or mail your check by March 22 to JFS, 3201 South Tamarac Drive, Denver, CO 80231, with “Holiday Food” in the memo line.

If you would prefer to donate nonperishable kosher-for-Passover food items including matzo, matzo meal, grape juice, borscht, gefilte fish, macaroons, cake mix, and candles, please drop them off at JFS by March 22.

With your help, we can ensure that every family in our community can celebrate Passover this year! l

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The Gift of “Stretch”— a Gift of Thanks

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omething wonderful happened at the January 30 meeting of the Jewish Family Service Board of Directors. As the meeting commenced, some unfamiliar faces were introduced. Karen and David Brass, along with Karen’s father, David Zauder, had come to present a special gift to JFS and recognize a member of the staff who has deeply impacted their lives.

There on the boardroom table, wrapped in a blanket and ready to be unveiled, was their gift. David Brass is a renowned Colorado sculptor who works in marble and stone. Under the blanket was “Stretch,” a beautifully rendered reclining frog in green marble.

The work was commissioned by Karen’s father, David Zauder, in appreciation for all that JFS staffer Inna Ermakov has done for their family.

David Brass spoke of the challenges his family faces trying to raise two children with special needs.

Their oldest daughter, Shannah, 11, has a litany of medical challenges, including crossover toes, severe scoliosis of the spine, a port-wine stain tumor on her leg, and learning disabilities. Their son, Adam, 10, suffers from cerebral palsy, sensory processing disorder, and reactive airway disorder, a type of asthma. He also has Asperger’s syndrome and spina bifida, a malformation of the vertebrae.

The obstacles faced by the Brass family have been tremendously challenging, and at times overwhelming. They recognized in 2007 that they needed help. Karen had volunteered with the JFS in Ohio and that’s how she came to call JFS of Colorado, hoping for some help. She was connected to Inna Ermakov, who manages the Jewish Disabilities Network, a collaborative program that provides case management and help to those with special needs and their families.

“It was difficult to ask for help in the beginning,” confesses Karen. “But instead of passing judgment, Inna thanked us for coming forward and told us that we were brave to do so. She has been there to support us as our advocate ever since.”

Inna helped connect the Brass family to all kinds of resources, including a scholarship for Adam for a much-needed therapy that was not approved

by insurance. Shannah was able to attend a special summer camp for children with similar disabilities, which helped to build her self-esteem immeasurably. Most important, Inna has been there to provide moral support when the Brasses faced seemingly insurmountable difficulties in navigating the system.

“Inna is a personal gift to our “He who saves a life family,” says Karen. “Her actions embody the Jewish ideal of Pikuach saves the entire world.”

Nefesh—‘He who saves a life saves the entire world.’ Inna has saved two precious lives in our family and has been an indispensable resource.”

Inna was visibly humbled to receive the honor and thanked the Brasses for their thoughtfulness.

“Thank you for letting me enter the holy ground of your everyday life,” she said. “Thank you for teaching me how to fight with dignity when the gravity of the loss and sorrow can seem overwhelming. And thank you for giving me the ability to see that the wings of children with special needs do touch heaven — just at different times and in different ways.”

There wasn’t a dry eye in the JFS boardroom that day. The Brasses’ story was inspiring and brought home the importance of the JFS mission: to restore well-being to the vulnerable in our community.

“Stretch” will be proudly displayed for years to come—in honor of Inna Ermakov and her dedication to the vulnerable she serves. l

From left, David Zauder, grandfather; David Brass, sculptor and father of the children; Inna Ermakov; Karen Brass, mother

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Thank You for Caring!

The following donations reflect tribute gifts received from December 1, 2011, to January 31, 2012. Due to space limitations, we are only able to list tribute gifts received during this time, but all contributions are greatly appreciated.

Please accept our apologies for any omissions or errors.

WITH GRATITUDE FOR Jill Miller Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Cathy Grimm Arlen and Kathleen Meyers Buzz and Shelley Krovitz Allison Greenstein Mirella Schreiber Ilona Rosenschein IN HONOR OF ANNIVERSARIES Rose and Julius Pluss Gary and Joyce Lozow Kathryn and Leon Rubin Gary and Joyce Lozow Loren and Andrea Weinstein Michael and Lisa Schatz IN HONOR OF BAR MITZVAH Mr. Kameron Warnecke Keith and Kathy Warnecke IN HONOR OF BAT MITZVAH Sammy Ginsberg Cyndi Silver Addie Stearns Lisa Slater Benjamin and Amie Valore-Caplan

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hank you for your generosity! Your support makes our life-transforming work possible.

IN HONOR OF BIRTHDAYS Chava Levy Richard and Rae Negreann Max Appel Burt and Claire Seiden The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service Miriam Goldstein Richard and Rae Negreann Larry and Kathy Greenberg Richard and Rae Negreann David Kaufman Ed Wiener and Celia Menaker Weiner Harold Lande Robert and Barbara Guttsmann Cecille Silverberg Mr. Joe Lefkowitz Judd Shader and Kathleen Allman Charlene Loup Harold and Marilyn Lande Marvin and Shirley Leff Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Linda and Rick Mishkin’s Birthdays David and Gayle Ann Weinstein Marguerite Oxman Ronald and Roni Brown Dan and Ginger Dinner Linda Weiss Stanton and Jane E. Rosenbaum IN HONOR OF ENGAGEMENT Debra Reinhard The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service IN HONOR OF GENEROSITY Dianne Green Jim and Ruth Sharon

IN HONOR OF BIRTHS

IN HONOR OF GRADUATION

Camdyn Neuman Howard and Donna Lutz Dan and Ann Veenstra David and Nancy Benyamin Julieta Zalcman Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard

Allison Greenstein Jeff Greenstein and Gail Krovitz

Arnold and Susan Greenberg Kenneth Greenberg and Anna Maria Menza Bernie Greenberg Kenneth Greenberg and Anna Maria Menza Sandy and Andrew Greenberg Kenneth Greenberg and Anna Maria Menza Al and Judy Levin Kenneth Greenberg and Anna Maria Menza Austin and Jennifer Linglebach Kenneth Greenberg and Anna Maria Menza Cherie Linglebach Kenneth Greenberg and Anna Maria Menza Dylan and Priya Linglebach Kenneth Greenberg and Anna Maria Menza Lois and Jay Miller Elaine Miller Alex and Tiana Smith & Family Kenneth Greenberg and Anna Maria Menza The Zuckerman Family A.J. and Jan Gest HAPPY HOLIDAYS John and Margaret Gest A.J. and Jan Gest IN HONOR OF MATCHING GIFTS Judy Altenberg Rose Community Foundation Sheila Bugdanowitz Rose Community Foundation Jennifer Atler Fischer Rose Community Foundation Lezlie Goldberg Rose Community Foundation IN HONOR OF

Happy Hanukkah Barbara Dey Kenneth Greenberg and Anna Maria Menza

Linda and Rick Mishkin Seth and Rivka Weisberg Ari Meltzer Scott and Sharon Sagel Barb Mellman Rick and Sheila Bugdanowitz Bobbi Furer and Linda Sherrer James and Kim Morse

Carole Pitzitz Robin Grey David and Kami Schneider Myra Schneider Elijah Fisher Adam and Malena Jackson Erik and Zachary Madison Jonathan and Sharon Madison Evan Meltzer Scott and Sharon Sagel Mark Velat & Judy Campbell Linda Wiener Matt Neumann David and Beth Lippa Max and Thelma Heit Matthew and Regina Heit Rabbi Yechial Erlanger Larry and Debra Jacobs Sheldon Speita John and Marjorie Berman Tallie and Clark Manahan Jon Heller The JFS Group Home Scott Friedman Mike Altenberg and Libby Bortz Willard Rowland and Susan Tannenbaum Viola Barela Patricia Barela Rivera Rabbi Eliot Baskin Jim and Linda Chalat Alan Brandt Jennifer Feinberg Adam and Shannah Brass Daniel Courney Callae Brownstein Norman and Sunny Brownstein Jim and Polly Deutelbaum Roger and Jill Giller Debra Duke Linda Redstone Kelly Dunkin The Colorado Health Foundation Hollis Fasbender Doris Fasbender Dr. Ralph Fisch’s Book John and Vicki Partin Ida Goldberger Betty Naster Marion Goldstein Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Bill Green Edward and Dianne Green Jean Heller Bette Heller

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Nicolas Huber Myriam Weinstein Steven Kris Melvyn and Roberta Klein Alan and Peggy Mayer Irene Mayer Jordon and Essie Perlmutter Shell and Lisa Cook Neal and Michele Price Rita Morris Donna Regan Ronald and Rhoda Resnick Jeff Reiman Tracey and Ellen McVicker Dawn Richard Harold and Marilyn Lande Jane E. Rosenbaum’s commitment to the community Betty Lehman Micah Rosenbaum Marty and Melissa Rosenbaum Evan Silverman David and Nancy Benyamin Lisa Soicher Steve and Dottie Resnick Susan Weinberger Andrea Stillman Steven and Debra Weinstein Cathy Summer Mark and Linda Loewenstein Bruce and Rhonda Wildman Jonathan Suson David and Connie Suson Yvonne Sylvan Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Stan Oliner Dee Trasen Richard and Anita Fricklas Yana Vishnitsky Harvey and Carol Karsh Seymour Rubenstein and Charlene Loup Michele Weber Gerald and Linda Sigman Linda Weiss Seth and Rivka Weisberg RECEPIENT OF KAL ZEFF BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD Harvey and Sue Allon Lee and Barbara Davis Stephen and Melissa Elken Lee and Barbara Mellman Davis Fund Tom and Maren Plisko Jeffrey and Stacey Robinson Mark and Mona Spitz

Sandra Vinnik Dennis Blum and Lynn Waterman-Blum Hal and Susan Jacobson Gunar and Shay Tande RECIPIENT OF JACK SHAPIRO COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD Ken and Rebecca Gart Michael Dowling Stephen and Melissa Elken Alan and Katherine Fox Lori Fox Harry and Kay Freyer Paul Gillis Eric Resnick Jeffrey and Stacey Robinson John and Lisa Robinson Sandra Vinnik WITH WISHES FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY David Benyamin Don and Linda Neuman Ida Garnek Howard and Tilly Rollin Marian Gelfand Les and Estelle Levitt Lynda Goldstein The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service Yana Vishnitsky and Jim Wolfe Zelda Greene Stanton and Jane E. Rosenbaum Martin Gross Fred and Maxine Davine Jack Grynberg Kristi Dinner Sara Leeper Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Alan Mayer Maxine Reiff Elaine Millman Les and Estelle Levitt Robyn Naiman Howard and Carol Torgove Sam Okner Fred and Maxine Davine Philip Stahl Fred and Maxine Davine Marvin Stone Stanton and Jane E. Rosenbaum IN MEMORY OF

Max and Rita Ace Howard and Susan Licht

Juanita Alterman Neil and Lois Alterman Penny Berenbaum Ely Birnbaum and Shirley Londer Arthur and JoAnn Boss Ronald and Roni Brown Barbara Cook Ruth Epstein Sol and Dorothea Flax Stephen and Celeste Gorden Bonnie Horwitz Marvin and Shirley Leff Leslie Levine Rocky and Suzi Miller I. Bernard and Leba Munishor Pam Naiman Marguerite Oxman Julius and Rose Pluss Sherman and Lois Rich Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Richard and Michele Right Patti Robinson Stanton and Jane E. Rosenbaum Justin and Sharon Roth Arnold and Marlene Siegel Philip Stahl Richard and Terri Strauss The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service Yana Vishnitsky and Jim Wolfe Ronald and Ellen Wedgle Marcia Yoches Jerry Arenson Wayne Wesler Melvin Aronoff John and Debra Aleinikoff Robert Barela Patricia Barela Rivera Hilda Baum Sam Baum Selina Begun Roz Begun Peter and Irene Bein Jeff and Lisa Hainline Joseph Bernstein Feggy Bernstein Ethel Bernstone Loren Tarmo Harold Blitt Lois Blitt Calvin Chappell Buzz and Shelley Krovitz Allan and Susan Lackner Wells, Anderson & Race, LLC Bob and Selma Cohen Don Koplen and Barbralu Cohen Shirley Cohen David Cohen Phil Colman Herbert and Irma Rubin

George Cook Ron and Andi Linkow Noel Cunningham Caz Matthews Jean Daman Betty Steinmann Milton Davidson Cynthia Chapman Ilse Diamant Dick and Barbara Finke Gregg and Karen Hayutin Betty Heller Richard and Elaine Ricklin The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service Karen Williams Josie Eskanos Lawrence and Rhoda CoBen Jackie and Marvin Cooper Jodi Cooper Gloria Fine Lorayne Rosenfeldt Lynn Finer Karlson Pesia Lenczner Myles Feldman Michael and Lani Kessler Madelon Fladerman Ron and Andy Linkow Milton and Lucille Frank Nanette Timbel Benjamin Fried Gary and Janet Friedland Aaron and Ellen Bregman Richard and Michele Right Ruth Wolff Arthur Gabel Gilbert and Jane Carnathan Frances Garber Harriet Joseph Marguerite Oxman Morty Gart Benjamin Newman & Marcee Gordon Newman Marla Gilson Jeffrey Levy and Della Levy Larry Grunfest Oscar and Selma Sladek Ruth Gumbiner Helene Hoffman Richard Heller Bette Heller Al Hoffman Jennifer Hoffman Dee Isaacson Sherrie Brandon Scott and Andrea Stillman

continued on page 10

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Thank You for Caring! continued from page 9 Norma Katz Neil and Lois Alterman Jackie and Marvin Cooper Richard and Rae Negreann Don and Linda Neuman Donna Paul Ronald Colson and Karen Paul Melvin King Ron and Andi Linkow Joel Kline Ben and Robyn Friedman Donald and Henny Kaufmann I. Bernard and Leba Munishor Anna Koladicki Lisa Freimann Basia Kononov Dmitry Kononov and Olga Titova Marilyn Kopelman’s Brother Harvey and Judith Cohen Florence Fishbein Kuper Richard and Linda Albert Alan Laff Lisa Laff Betty LeMaster Burt LeMaster Ida and Harold Letman Howard and Susan Licht Betty Levin David and Nancy Benyamin Don and Linda Neuman The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service Cindy Levitt Carolyn and Bill Pierini Ken Levy Lorayne Rosenfeldt Donna Licht Howard and Susan Licht Elizabeth and Louis Licht Howard and Susan Licht Goldye Lieberman David and Michelle Lieberman Ben Locke Mark and Carol Zaitz Sadie Marians Ken and Carol Buckspan Harold and Shirley Miller Barbara R. Miller Gerhard Nebel Linda Moery Arlon Nelson Ron and Andy Linkow

Lorraine Nissen Amelia Schwartz Helen Pailet Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Justin and Sharon Roth The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service Yana Vishnitsky and Jim Wolfe Albert Pearlman Dianne Iannarino Irwin Pepper Penny Berenbaum Aaron and Ellen Bregman Fred and Maxine Davine Melvin and Diane Dinner Eileen Eller Gerald and Linda Kernis Les and Estelle Levitt David and Beth Lippa Gary and Joyce Lozow I. Bernard and Leba Munishor Bart and Jill Miller Burt and Claire Seiden Philip Stahl Nancy Steiner Scott and Andrea Stillman Estelle Stine Ethel and Benjamin Pinkowitz Maida Deborah Joseph Primack Rhonda Naylor Edith Prostkoff Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service Sol and Jean Radam Ruth Ann Quick Leo Reichman Joshua and Jennie Feiger Gary Rosenbaum Ronald and Roni Brown Mollye Rosenblum Kristi Dinner Elizabeth Sadwith Linda Roberts Zinn Stuart Sagel Jill Henden Scott and Sharon Sagel Bernard Schaffner Penny Berenbaum Barbara Cook Justin and Sharon Roth

Robert Schulein Nancy Schulein David James Schwartz Amelia Schwartz Jean Seeman Sharon Seeman Elaine Singer Ronald and Roni Brown Gary and Joyce Lozow Justin and Sharon Roth Harry Son Steve and Loraine Summer Alan Steine Pablo Weltman and Merceditas Geimenz Don Strause Academy Acres Kennels Isadore Sunshine David and Gayle Ann Weinstein Donald Teter Leonard Samson Joseph Tyor Marvin Tyor Beverly Veig Barbara Shulman Rowena Weinstein David and Gayle Ann Weinstein Sam Weinstein David and Gayle Ann Weinstein Marshal West Sherrie Brandon Winifred Delon Jennifer Hoffman Scott and Andrea Stillman Jack and Marguerite Williams Scott and Trina Reisch Leonard Wolpa Barbara Cook Jackie and Marvin Cooper Ben and Robyn Friedman Harold and Marilyn Lande Rocky and Suzi Miller Richard and Michele Right Abe Wolpo Frances Wolpo Sylvia Zacker Betty Heller Jaime Zajd Sharon Boatright Sidney Zemel Gary and Joyce Lozow Ruth Epstein

IN KIND All Pro Auto Repair Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado Congregation Bnai Chaim Beacon Country Day School Birthright Israel NEXT Colorado Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP Builder Realty Council of Denver Cherry Creek High School Colorado Independent Wellness Consultants Congregation B’nai Chaim Denver Academy Denver Academy of Torah El Jebel Shrine Feldman Mortuary, Inc. Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill Graland Country Day School Greenwood Elementary Book Club Hebrew Educational Alliance Preschool Holland & Hart King Soopers - Monaco King Soopers Reclamation KRG Capital Partners LLC Lockheed Martin Meritage Energy Company Mizel Museum – Winter Camp Group Pizza Hut at Leetsdale Popchips Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers Safeway SHALOM Denver Sisterhood of Congregation Emanuel Sunflower Market Temple Emanuel Temple Sinai We Don’t Waste Westin Denver Downtown Westword Whole Foods at Tamarac Whole Foods at Cherry Creek

FA M I LY M A T T E R S M A R C H / A P R I L 2 012

Cremation or Burial: A Jewish View

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oin Feldman Mortuary, Jewish Family Service, Chabad of Highlands Ranch, Chayet & Danzo, LLC, Hebrew Educational Alliance (HEA), Shalom Cares, Temple Sinai, and The Jewish Experience for a lively discussion, “Cremation or Burial: A Jewish View” on Monday, March 12, 7:00 p.m., at HEA, 3600 South Ivanhoe Street in Denver.

Doron Kornbluth, the best-selling Israeli author of Raising Kids to LOVE Being Jewish and Why Be Jewish?, will speak about this sensitive subject and objectively discuss both sides of the issue. Kornbluth has developed a very positive way of discussing a controversial subject that resonates with all Jews, no matter their backgrounds or beliefs. His next book is entitled Cremation or Burial: A Jewish View and will be available soon. He is a wonderful educator and this is the only book available that deals with this topic.

For questions, please contact Jamie Sarché at Feldman Mortuary, 720.404.6772 or jamie@feldmanmortuary.com. l Doron Kornbluth

Save the Dates: June 19 and July 23 for Summer Magic Camp!

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lans are in the works for this year’s Summer Magic Camp presented by the Jewish Disabilities Network.

Young people with special needs (ages 21 and under) and their teen buddies will make new friends and enjoy activities on day trips on June 19 to Shwayder Camp near Idaho Springs and on July 23 to JCC Ranch Camp near Elbert. We are seeking campers and buddies for fun adventures! The fee is $20/day; no fee for buddies.

More details will be announced soon. Please contact Rita Singer, 720.335.0854 or rocky2323@aol.com, for more information or to sign up. l

JFS at the JCC Hosts Passport to Israel Program April 10

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n a collaboration spearheaded by JFS at the JCC Colorado Senior Connections, several nonprofits and synagogues in the Denver area are bringing education, celebration, and conversation to Jewish seniors. In a yearlong series called Passport to Israel, programs feature different enrichments and experiences centering on Israel.

Join JFS at the JCC for an Israeli dance demonstration with an opportunity to try the dance steps, discussion of the origins of Israeli dance and music, and snacks on Tuesday, April 10, at 10:15 a.m. at the Robert E. Loup Jewish Community Center, 350 South Dahlia Street. There is a suggested donation of $5. Please RSVP to Suzi Malman at 303.316.6358. Transportation is available from Allied Jewish Apartments and Temple Emanuel for $3 round-trip. Call Allied Jewish Apartments at 303.399.1146 to sign up for transportation. l

Support JFS While Shopping at King Soopers!

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aising funds for JFS is as easy as going grocery shopping. Simply purchase a reloadable King Soopers gift card from us for $20. Take your gift card to your King Soopers store and load more money on it before you start shopping, then swipe your gift card like you would a credit card to pay for your groceries. It’s that easy! Every time JFS supporters reach $5,000 or more in reloads (as a group, not just you individually), we will receive a rebate check for 5% of the total amount.

Learn more and purchase a card by visiting www.jewishfamilyservice.org/KingSoopers! l

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NON PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID DENVER, COLORADO PERMIT NO. 1217

Joyce and Kal Zeff Building 3201 South Tamarac Drive Denver CO 80231-4394 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED tel: 303.597.5000 fax: 303.597.7700 www.jewishfamilyservice.org Beneficiary Agency of Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado and Mile High United Way

Break Passover with Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill and JFS. Talk about a satisfying meal!

Saturday, April 14, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. & Sunday, April 15, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill 2466 South Colorado Blvd.

Denver, CO 80222

Bring this flyer to Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill and they will donate 25% of the proceeds to Jewish Family Service.

For more information about Jewish Famiy Service, please visit www.JewishFamilyService.org