March/April 2014 Family Matters

FamilyMatters Volume 24, No. 2 • MARCH/APRIL 2014

KEEPING IT KOSHER

Program Spotlight page 6

TWO HOURS EVERY TWO WEEKS

JFS Homemaker page 8

BULLYING IN THE SCHOOLS

Mental Health Matters page 10

A PUBLICATION OF

Archie Manning Headlines Executive Luncheon April 30 See page 4

From the CEO The Easter/Passover Denver Community Food Drive Involving all, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, or faith

JFS has long been a lifeline of

support for vulnerable members of our community. We proudly provide services to all, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, or faith.

We have always been driven by values steeped in Jewish tradition, which is a fundamental reason why we exclude no one.

In that spirit, we are working on an exciting new initiative this spring that brings together a broad array of faith-based institutions and business community leaders. We are participating in a wonderful collaboration with our friends at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Mile High United Way on the Easter/Passover Denver Community Food Drive to benefit the Weinberg Food Pantry.

The food drive is scheduled to run April 7-13, 2014, and we hope to raise 20,000 pounds of donated food to feed the hungry Yana Vishnitsky at a time of year when food donations are traditionally low.

The food drive is engaging companies, churches, and synagogues throughout the Denver metro area to help us in this interfaith effort. The response to date is inspiring.

People from all walks of life are joining the effort, most of whom are not Jewish and have

no prior connection to the agency. They are human beings who simply want to help others and make our community a better place.

I’m moved that so many generous people are pitching in to support this program and the vulnerable people who rely on it. I’m certain that we will surpass our goal. What’s more, we are making new friends along the way.

The Weinberg Food Pantry serves all people. The only requirement is hunger.

We are the largest food pantry in southeast Denver and an important source of food and sustenance for people who have nowhere else to turn.

Thank you to our Mormon friends, Mile High United Way, and all the companies and congregations that are supporting this effort.

If you or your company would like to join in, please contact Shelly Hines at 720.248.4654 and we can set you up as a donation point and provide you with all the materials you will need to be successful. Look for more details about this food drive on our website and in our e-newsletter this spring.

JFS is guided by the Jewish principle of Tikkun Olam: the obligation to make the world a better place. I’m delighted that so many people share in that belief.

B’shalom,

Yana Vishnitsky, LCSW President & CEO

Jewish Family Service of Colorado (JFS) believes in strengthening the community by providing vital services to people in need. Every day, JFS helps people overcome life’s challenges to live fuller, more meaningful lives. Founded in 1872, JFS is a nonsectarian, nonprofit human services agency serving metro Denver and Boulder. JFS helps seniors live independently at home, provides quality mental health counseling, offers training and job placement to those with developmental disabilities and other barriers to employment, and provides food and financial aid to people in crisis. Every year, the agency benefits more than 23,000 people of all ages, faiths, incomes, and abilities.

For more information, call 303.597.5000 or visit www.jewishfamilyservice.org.

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Summer Magic Is Back!

Jewish Disabilities Network is planning Summer Magic

camp again this year! Children and young adults with disabilities are invited on exciting day trips to Shwayder Camp on Wednesday, July 2, and to JCC Ranch Camp on Monday, August 4. Contact Rita Singer at rocky2323@aol.com for further information.

This program is made possible by a generous donation from the Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation of Colorado.

Harry Abramowitz and Sarah Goldstein at Summer Magic

Clean Out Your Closets to Help JFS! An 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.

FOLLOW US! www.facebook.com/jfscolorado

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

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Football Legend and Humanitarian

Archie Manning

Headlines JFS Executive Luncheon April 30 Hear Archie Manning, a legend

in life, at the JFS Executive Luncheon on Wednesday, April 30! The luncheon will be held at the Grand Hyatt Denver, 1750 Welton Street, Denver. 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. For more information or for tickets, contact Dawn Richard at 720.248.4605 or visit www.jewishfamilyservice.org/luncheon.

Proceeds from the 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.

When you think of Archie Manning, football immediately comes to mind. But Manning’s appeal transcends his athletic achievements.

People worldwide have been inspired by his warm personality, humor, drive, and commitment to family and community.

Manning and his college sweetheart, Olivia, had three boys, Cooper, Peyton, and Eli. Archie and Archie Manning Olivia raised their sons with the philosophy that, “It’s the right thing to do, so do the right thing.” The result, which Archie

Presented by

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and Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton capture so clearly, is a tribute to the values that Americans hold dear: work hard, stand up for what you believe in, treat each person with respect, and be grateful for what you have and for what you have achieved.

The former NFL Pro Bowl quarterback and league MVP, Manning enjoyed a fabled football career, beginning at the University of Mississippi where he was named an AllAmerican Quarterback and was the only Ole Miss player to have his number retired. He was elected to the 50-Year All-South Team (1940– 1990), named one of the Top 25 Athletes of the Century in Louisiana, and he and his son, Peyton, were named among the 100 All-Time Greatest College Football Players.

In 1971, Manning was the second player chosen in the NFL draft, and the number one draft choice of the New Orleans Saints. He set Saints passing records, played in two Pro Bowls, and was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1978. His prowess on the field and his sterling character have earned him as many awards as he scored touchdowns.

Archie Manning concluded his 15-year NFL career in 1985.

Manning has since devoted his life to his family and to causes he believes in, supporting the Special Olympics, Boy Scouts of America, The Salvation Army, and the United Way, among others.

Thank you to Executive Luncheon cochairs David Friedman and John Keith for their leadership to make this a successful event!

Thank you to our current sponsors (as of February 13, 2014): Presidential Sponsors

Chief Operating Sponsor Brent and Julie Morse Chief Financial Sponsor Joyce Zeff Executive Vice Presidential Sponsors Colorado Real Estate Journal Colorado State Bank and Trust Cuvee Ventures D. H. Friedman Properties Will and Sheri Gold Jack and Celeste Grynberg Steve and Elizabeth Kris Robert and Robyn Naiman Otten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti PC Eric and Ellen Pollock

Vice Presidential Sponsors Berlin Investment Group Holdings CoBiz Financial Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Izbiky & Associates John and Leslie Keith/ Harvard Communities Stuart and Janet Kritzer Family Foundation Oak Tree Foundation Michael Opatowski and Ruth Malman Mile High Honda, Acura, Mitsubishi Quiat Companies Richard and Michele Right Associate Sponsors Asarch Center for Dermatology & Laser David and Anna Asarch Barry and Gay Curtiss-Lusher Denver Retirement Partners Dependable Cleaners Feldman Mortuary, Inc.

Lezlie Goldberg Barbara Goldburg John and Sheryl Goodman Joel and Janet Kaufman Lippa & Associates Rocky and Suzi Miller MorEvents Nothing Bundt Cakes Chet and Louise Schwartz Yana Vishnitsky and Jim Wolfe Corporate Tables Alberta Development Partners, LLC Rob and Sam Baumgarten Berkeley Homes Moda Man on Larimer Street Stephan and Kerry Shelanski George and Mary Sissel UMB Bank The Wenner Group, LLC/Transitions Wealth Management, LLC

JFS Volunteers Lead Passover Seders for Seniors

More Volunteers Needed to Help Make Seders Special!

Jewish Family Service will

carry on its long-standing tradition of hosting Passover Seders for socially isolated Jewish community members of non-Jewish long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities, a mental health center, and several correctional institutions beginning the week of April 14.

Thank you to dedicated JFS volunteer para-chaplains Paula Breese, Bob Epstein, Leland Huttner, Allan Kantrowitz, Elliott Magalnick, Allan Markman, Jay Miller, Robert Rottman, Dawn Spector, Sheldon Spector, and Michelle Stern for leading services at 16 senior communities in metro Denver.

Our para-chaplains can’t do it alone … they need your help to make these Seders

extra special for the senior residents!

Help create community and beautiful memories by visiting with seniors, distributing Haggadot, and serving food.

Seniors have also requested more music during these Seders. If you or your child (middle school or older) is musical, in a choir, or loves to sing, we’d love your help in adding this festive component to our services.

To learn more about volunteering or providing music at these Seders, please contact Beth Lippa at 720.248.4599 or blippa@jewishfamilyservice.org by April 9.

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PROGRAM Spotlight

Keeping It Kosher

Space Available in Kosher Meals on Wheels Program!

JFS currently has room in its

Kosher Meals on Wheels (KMOW) program for more seniors to receive kosher meals delivered to their homes. To receive meals, an individual must be at least 60 years old and assessed as homebound. He or she must be Jewish or have a spiritual need to receive kosher food. There is no cost to receive meals, but an optional monthly donation is appreciated.

A hot meal is delivered Monday through Friday and special meals are delivered prior to Jewish holidays, such as Passover and the High Holy Days. Clients get nonfat dry milk powder twice per month and a small emergency box of shelf-stable items in the fall. If JFS will be closed for a holiday, a frozen meal is pre-delivered. Each meal consists of an entrée and sides, such as vegetables, fruits, and breads, which are needed to provide at least one-third of the

The meals are prepared in Shalom Cares’ kosher kitchen and blessed by a rabbi.

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recommended “Many clients daily nutrients develop a personal for older adults. relationship with However, the driver and look this program is forward to their about so much daily visits.”—Buffy Fox more than food; it is also about reducing social isolation and increasing peace of mind. Buffy Fox, JFS care manager and KMOW coordinator, says, “The participants like that someone [the driver] comes to their home every day and that they have someone to talk to. There is also the comfort of knowing that someone is checking on them and that there is a support system in place. Many clients develop a personal relationship with their driver and look forward to the daily visits.”

Sandy, a KMOW recipient, says, “Cheryl [my driver] is wonderful. I love seeing her smile every day. She really cares how I am doing and always helps if I need it.”

KMOW has an important safety component. Drivers never leave meals outside; he or she must deliver it to the client personally. If the client doesn’t answer, the driver calls the emergency contact. “In most cases, the senior doesn’t answer because he or she is asleep,” says Buffy. “However, we have had a few cases where someone had fallen and our driver was able to help.”

Ann, a spousal caregiver of her wheelchairbound husband, says the KMOW program “takes away the stress. Especially when we have a hard day getting him showered and dressed and ready to go, it’s nice to know I don’t have to make lunch, too.”

Those who are not assessed as homebound but need kosher meals and want to socialize with other seniors, can go to the Volunteers of America (VOA) kosher lunch program each

weekday at 11:45 a.m. at the JCC for a recommended donation of $2.50.

This program is a collaboration of Volunteers of America (VOA), Jewish Family Service (JFS), Shalom Cares, and JEWISHcolorado.

For more information or to sign up for Kosher Meals on Wheels, please contact Buffy Fox at 720.248.4665 or bfox@jewishfamilyservice.org.

A JFS driver, Cheryl (right) picks up the meals she will deliver that day from Shalom Cares’ employee Mela.

Help Buy Food for Passover!

As you prepare to celebrate Passover,

please join us in helping people in our community who are struggling to put together a Seder. This year, you can help us make sure that everyone can participate in this holiday tradition.

Through the Community 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-for-Passover items.

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 60 families, which means we need to raise more than $5,000.

Please donate online today at www.jewishfamilyservice.org/passover or mail your check in the enclosed envelope 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 Wednesday, April 2.

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

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TWO HOURS Every Two Weeks It takes JFS homemaker

Phaleacha Shinault about two hours to whip a dusty, dirty home into sparkling show-home condition. It means scouring bathrooms from top to bottom, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and dusting. There’s wiping down counters, taking out the trash, and cleaning out the fridge.

It’s hard work, but she’s a study in efficiency and attention to detail.

Everyone likes a clean house and JFS client Evelyn Sullivan is no exception.

Evelyn and Phaleacha

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A little help from a JFS homemaker makes life livable for a senior in crisis Evelyn is 63 years old and has had her share of challenges lately. After a long career as a pharmacist, Evelyn was forced to go on disability because of an illness and now has a limited fixed income. A few months ago, she broke her foot—badly—and still can’t put any weight on her knee-high cast, which means that she can’t drive. She suffers from severe asthma. And, on top of all that, she is the sole caregiver for her 97-year-old live-in mother, who is blind, hard of hearing, and has her own health issues.

Evelyn was in over her head. She physically couldn’t manage her life, and certainly not her home. After she spent a few months in a cast, her house had become a shambles. It was filthy and unsafe for Evelyn and her mother. A social worker from another agency visited the home to check on Evelyn’s mother and recommended that Evelyn contact Jewish Family Service for help.

A JFS care manager visited the Sullivan household and immediately arranged for a homemaker to come to the rescue. With Evelyn’s fixed income, JFS was able to provide housekeeping services at a rate she could afford. She assigned Phaleacha to work at Evelyn’s house for two hours every two weeks.

It may not seem like much, but for Evelyn it’s everything.

“Phaleacha walked in and immediately took control,” says Evelyn. “After her first visit, I could see my reflection in my kitchen cabinets. I could see out my kitchen window for the first time in months! The housework had been neglected for so long and the mess was stressing me out. I have always kept up my house, but now I simply can’t do it. My mother is my only priority.

“Having Phaleacha come in every couple of weeks lifts a big burden off my shoulders.

I don’t have this sense “Phaleacha puts of ‘how am I ever going the ‘family’ in to get this done?’ Plus, Jewish Family she’s the sweetest, kindest person I’ve met in a long Service.”

—Evelyn Sullivan time.”

Evelyn is extremely grateful for JFS homemaker services, which are intended to give seniors the little bit of help they need to remain living independently. She also appreciates the sliding-fee scale. “I couldn’t afford this service on my limited income,” she admits. ”But I’m glad I can pay something so I don’t feel like a charity case.”

Phaleacha loves her work with JFS. “It’s all about the relationships I build with my clients,” she says.

“I get joy from making a difference in people’s lives.

I do the simple things that Evelyn can’t do right now and I know it’s making such a difference to her. Evelyn thanks me constantly, but she really doesn’t need to.

I can see in her smile that she appreciates me. I love coming here. Evelyn is such a special person, and I adore her mother.”

“Phaleacha is family,” declares Evelyn. “She puts the ‘family’ in Jewish Family Service, at least for me.”

Evelyn with her dog Brooklyn

THANK YOU for Caring!

In-Kind Donations DECEMBER 2013-JANUARY 2014 Albertsons Amstar Beth Ami Congregation Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Congregation Beth Evergreen Congregation BMH-BJ Congregation B’nai Havurah Congregation Har Hashem Congregation Hebrew Educational Alliance Congregation Rodef Shalom Denver Academy Denver Business Journal

Denver Jewish Day School Eastern Star Masonic Center Ekar Farm Holland & Hart LLP J & B Realty Jay’s Valet Parking King Soopers Reclamation Mass Mutual Colorado Monroe Group Ltd. MorEvents Murdock’s Grooming Salon Nothing Bundt Cakes Promontory Condo Association Safeway

Sagewood Middle School Sisterhood of Congregation Emanuel Sisterhood of Congregation Rodef Shalom South Denver Fencing Academy Temple Emanuel Temple Sinai Visa Walgreen’s Westin Tabor Center Whole Foods at Tamarac

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MENTAL HEALTH

Matters

Bullying in the Schools

By Melissa LaLonde, LCSW KidSuccess coordinator

According to the National

Association of School Psychologists, more than 160,000 students miss school each day due to fears of being bullied.

Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time.

Bullying includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and excluding someone from a group on purpose. It can threaten students’ physical and emotional safety at school and can Melissa LaLonde negatively impact their ability to learn.

Kids who are bullied are more likely to experience: • Increased feelings of sadness and loneliness • Changes in sleep and eating patterns • Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy • Health complaints • Decreased academic achievement • Missing, skipping, or dropping out of school Kids who bully others are more likely to: • Abuse alcohol and other drugs in adolescence and as adults • Get into fights, vandalize property, and drop out of school • Engage in early sexual activity • Have criminal convictions and traffic citations as adults Kids who witness bullying (bystanders) are more likely to: • Use tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs • Have increased mental health problems, including depression and anxiety 10

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• Miss or skip Bullying can school threaten Parents, school students’ staff, and other physical and caring adults have an important role to emotional safety at school and play in preventing bullying. They can: can negatively • Help kids impact their understand ability to learn. bullying. Talk about what bullying is and how to stand up to it safely. Tell kids that bullying is unacceptable and make sure students know how to get help.

• Keep the lines of communication open. Check in with kids often, listen to them, know their friends, ask about school, and understand their concerns.

• Encourage kids to do what they love. Special activities, interests, and hobbies can boost confidence, help kids make friends, and protect them from bullying behavior.

• Model how to treat others with kindness and respect.

Whether your child is a bully, victim, or bystander, you should expect school administrators, teachers, and staff to take bullying problems seriously and enforce written school policies and rules against bullying, harassment, and intimidation.

Melissa LaLonde, a licensed clinical social worker, coordinates the JFS KidSuccess schoolbased counseling program. She has counseled children, youth, and families in a variety of settings, including public schools, outpatient treatment settings, and residential treatment and crisis centers.

SENIORS

Matter

By Laura Harter, MSW, LSW JFS Senior Solutions care manager

Bullying is a hot conversation

topic these days, especially when it comes to school-aged children and the effects that bullying can have on their lives. Bullying is a serious problem in schools today, but the conversation rarely goes outside of that age group.

In reality, bullies can affect a person at any age, and the senior population is no exception.

For seniors in a new community, whether it is a new living situation or a new social group, making connections and feeling like a part Bullying of the community can affect can be especially a person at daunting. When a any age, and senior is making that the senior transition and starts population is to feel bullied, it no exception. can quickly lead to feelings of depression and isolation. If you are a senior feeling bullied, there are several ways you can cope with this challenging situation: • Go easy on yourself. Change is especially hard later in life and building relationships takes time. Don’t get down on yourself if you don’t click with people right away.

Remind yourself of ways you’ve coped with hard situations in the past.

• Slowly build and maintain positive relationships with other community members. If someone seems nice and invites you for tea, say yes! Having a positive relationship, even if just an acquaintance, can help you feel less alone.

• Connect with a professional in the community, like an activity director, social worker, or program coordinator. The professionals in senior communities have helped

Bullying Isn’t Just for Kids other new people adjust in the past and they can certainly do so for you!

• If you’ve moved into a new living community, develop a routine to nurture both your private life and your social life.

Get involved in activities and outings, but also devote time to being in your new home and engaging in activities you’ve always enjoyed like reading a book or telephone calls with family.

• Reach out for help. If the situation has escalated and you are concerned for your safety, contact a professional or the police immediately.

Each stage of life, including the senior years, has its own challenges. If you need support, JFS Senior Solutions can offer care management and Laura Harter counseling services to help in times of transition. As seniors make changes and adjustments in later years, it can help them to know that support is just a phone call away! Call us at 303.597.5000 or visit www.jewishfamilyservice.org/services/ senior-solutions for more information.

Laura Harter, a licensed social worker, provides care management and counseling in the JFS Senior Solutions department. Laura has worked with individuals and families across the lifespan, but has enjoyed the vibrancy and thoughtfulness that seniors personify. Laura loves hearing the life stories and memories that senior clients share.

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JFS Celebrates Volunteers in April – and Every Day

By Audrey Friedman Marcus

April 6-12, 2014, marks the 40th

National Volunteer Week. For Jewish Family Service, the week provides an opportunity to recognize, praise, celebrate, and thank the 836 volunteers who are helping the agency make a huge difference to the Jewish and general communities of Denver and Boulder.

I grew up in a home in which volunteering was a priority, so when I moved to Denver in the 1950s, I became involved in a number of organizations, and before long I was elected to the board of Jewish Family Service.

It was immediately clear to me that I was serving an outstanding and worthwhile agency, and I quickly became a committed JFS volunteer.

Some years later, I learned that JFS was seeking para-chaplains to visit hospitals and retirement facilities.

Intrigued, I enrolled in the mandatory orientation class. From knowledgeable teachers, rabbis, and social workers, we learned how to engage clients in conversation and ideas for Audrey activities in which to engage them.

Friedman Marcus There was valuable information about the elderly population, Jewish attitudes on aging, information on privacy issues, how to introduce Judaism and prayer, and much more. After completing the course, I felt ready for the challenge, and for a number of years visited several amazing elderly women.

Today, in addition to volunteering as a freelance writer for JFS, I’m a member of their Holocaust Advisory Committee. All of the volunteer jobs I’ve held have been exciting and worthwhile. Not only have I learned an enormous amount, but I always feel esteemed and appreciated by the professional staff. They are consistently warm and friendly, as well as 12

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approachable and helpful. While it’s clear that they are aware of the huge monetary value of volunteers to the agency, they never lose sight of the human equation. Not surprisingly, this assessment is shared by other JFS volunteers. I recently spoke to two of them.

Bernie Papper, a new JFS volunteer, recently retired after 26 years at the Intermountain Jewish News and decided to seek an opportunity to give something back to the community. Because he knew many individuals who had been helped by JFS, he made an appointment with Nancy Benyamin, Volunteer Services director at JFS. She suggested he make thank-you calls to donors on behalf of the development department.

Bernie is enjoying this responsibility so much that he’s looking to do even more for the agency. “All the volunteers feel very valued,” states Bernie. “It’s an incredible place doing incredible work. The dedicated staff is like a family—and I get lots of hugs from them all whenever I go there.”

After the sudden death six years ago of her 48-year-old daughter, Lorri Stonbraker knew she needed to develop an interest—something that would engage her mind and give her a renewed interest in life. Retired from a stressful job, she wanted to be involved in something low-key where she could make a difference.

The JFS Weinberg Food Pantry turned out to be the perfect fit. For six years, Lorri has loyally shown up once a week for a worthwhile, hands-on experience that she says is always interesting. She helps clients shop, hands

out food, answers questions, soothes ruffled feelings, and helps in any way she can.

The clients are a diverse group— Ethiopians, Arabs, Russians, and—of course—Americans. Some dress up as if for an outing when they come. Others, who have lost everything, including their pride, are embarrassed to be there—and sometimes even burst into tears. Lorri sees it as part of her job to help everyone “We are really feel comfortable, and she’s always like one big ready with a joke happy family.” or a hug. She leaves —Lorri Stonbraker each time with a feeling of worth, and the challenge takes her mind off her own sorrows. It’s a cause that’s easy to believe in, she says.

Those on Lorri’s shift have become very close, which provides a social aspect to the task. They help each other, calm those who are upset or ill, explain how to prepare certain foods, dry tears, and tell the women who are dressed up how nice they look.

Lorri can’t say enough good things about the hardworking, friendly staff at the Weinberg Food Pantry. “They don’t take us for granted,” she says. “They’re considerate and respectful and show their appreciation at every turn. They want us to be content in our jobs and always back us up. They’re so kind, gentle, and sweet. We are really like one big happy family.”

Because of her positive experience, Lorri is a persuasive recruiter, and has brought several friends on board as JFS volunteers.

Nancy Benyamin, the knowledgeable JFS Volunteer Services director, delights in meeting with prospective volunteers to discuss their talents and availability, and seems to have an instinct for the ideal placement for each. She is generous with

her praise and encouragement. “Jewish Family Service began as a volunteer organization many years ago,” states Nancy, “and volunteers are still a vital part of the agency today. We are so grateful for all the help they provide to our programs. We simply couldn’t do all we need to do without them!”

If you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities at JFS, please contact Nancy Benyamin at 720.248.4642 or nbenyamin@jewishfamilyservice.org.

Audrey Friedman Marcus is a volunteer writer for JFS. She was founder and executive vice president of A.R.E. Publishing, Inc. for 30 years before retiring in 2001. She also founded the annual Fred Marcus Memorial Holocaust Lecture and authored the book Survival in Shanghai: The Journals of Fred Marcus 1939 to 1949 (Pacific View Press).

STAFF Anniversaries Congratulations to the following staff members celebrating their anniversaries in March and April: 25 years: Anthony Montoya, SHALOM Denver driver/maintenance 20 years: Ann Veenstra, administrative services director 10 years: Shelly Hines, Family Safety Net director

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THANK YOU for Caring!

The following donations reflect tribute gifts received from December 1, 2013 to January 31, 2014. 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.

IN HONOR OF ANNIVERSARIES Arnold Kover Stephen and Cheryl Cohen Bernard and Roberta Naiman Cynthia Chapman Ruth Epstein Marlene Weiner Julius and Rose Pluss Norma Kurtz Mickey and Louann Miller Arthur and Gerri Shenkin Gilbert and Jane Hermann Neal and Myrna Tyson Cynthia Chapman IN HONOR OF THE BIRTH OF A BABY Porter Hillman The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado Micah Issner Michael and Lani Kessler IN HONOR OF BIRTHDAYS Myndel Cohen Bernard and Leba Munishor Selma Friedman Ruth Epstein Eli Gien Adam and Malena Jackson Bradley Greenwald Brett Miller and Heather Taussig Sheila Gutterman Neal and Kathy Kimmel Pam Naiman Stanton and Jane E. Rosenbaum Ron Kempton Marvin Tyor Neal Kimmel Peggy Bernstein Cathy Kravitz Marvin Tyor Amy Pogrebin Bremenstuhl Mark Pogrebin Stanley Rubel Helen Bernstein Charlene Loup Phyllis Goodman Dorothy Schwab Norman Schwab Lisa Soicher Robert and Robyn Loup Wendy Sturniolo Edward and Judith Rosenthal IN HONOR OF HANUKKAH Mark and Gayle Eskanos Craig and Vicki Eskanos IN HONOR OF ENGAGEMENTS Josh Samet and Paula Mermelstein Michael and Harriet Greenstein

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

IN HONOR OF GRADUATIONS Jon Futa Jane Tannenbaum Jeff Greenstein Michael and Harriet Greenstein WITH WISHES FOR A HAPPY NEW YEAR Alan Mayer Irene Mayer IN HONOR OF MARRIAGES Wesley and Lisa Benoit Jon and Sheryl Goodman Traci Lato Anonymous Donations IN HONOR OF THE KAL ZEFF BUSINESS LEADER AWARD RECIPIENT Norman Brownstein Peggy Goldman Stan and Sharon Marks Howard and Carol Torgove IN HONOR OF THE JACK SHAPIRO COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS Rabbi Steven and Senator Joyce Foster Daniel Bennett and Devorah Uriel Mike Boxer Ronald and Roni Brown Richard and Andra Davidson Sheldon and Janet Fisher Kenneth and Judy Friednash Peggy Goldman Edward and Dianne Green Lee and Barbara Mellman Davis Fund Ron Leff Jay and Lois Malawsky Stan and Sharon Marks Howard and Carol Torgove Barry and Randie Winograd IN HONOR OF VOLUNTEER EFFORTS AT JFS David Zucker David and Beth Lippa IN HONOR OF Ken Bardach Anonymous Carla Bartell Jon and Sheryl Goodman Rabbi Eliot Baskin Jim and Linda Chalat Janet Slate Neal Bobrick Howard and Donna Lutz Libby Bortz Brad Schuster and Patricia Bortz William and Elaine Bromberg David and Marilyn Bromberg Deborah Bronstein Joseph Kelly Paula Burger Harold and Marilyn Lande Lin Carleen Stanley and Paula Gudder Frances Cohen Illona Weiman Jennie Creasey Susan Cable

FAMILY MATTERS MARCH/APRIL 2014

Jeff Dunn and Family Geo and Genie Hindall Jeff and Cindi Dunn Bud and Teena Slatkin Katie Dunn Jeff Dunn Victoria Norton Cathy Summer Doris Fasbender Rick Rohr and Ingrid Swords Jay Schusterman and Mary Lee Schusterman Shawn and Alan Epstein Stanley and Paula Gudder Hollis Fasbender Elizabeth Otto Jennifer Fenniman John and Susan Fenniman Steve and Marion Fredman Stanley and Paula Gudder Mike and Cindy Friedman Jon and Betty Heller Steve and Lisa Friedman Michael and Mary Frank Joan Frumkin Martin and Jane Frumkin Mark George and Pamela Eisenbaum Alison George Briscoe Herbert and Ruth Giller Roger and Jill Giller Brian Gold Robert and Marsha Gold David Gold Robert and Marsha Gold Eric Gold Robert and Marsha Gold Ida Goldberger Betty Naster Peter Gottlieb Perry and Della Jultak Cathy Grimm Arlen and Kathleen Meyers Lotte Heimann Roberta Beach Jean Heller Bette Heller Hilton Herman Mina Herman JFS Accounting Department Daisy Flynn Aranka Jonap Miguel and Aniko Mogyoros John Keith Jerry and Marilyn Snyder Arnold Kover Alan and Deborah Lazaroff Howard Lutz David and Peggy Marks Sandy Manheimer Stewart Gabel and Joan Manheimer Evan Meltzer Scott and Sharon Sagel Ruth Nicholson Gail Pennington Daniel and Meg Quiat Melinda Quiat Steve and Dottie Resnick Dirk Hansen Susan Rosen Joan Levine

James Sachs Moussa and Mahassen Najjar Jen Sarche Cynthia Chapman Don Schlesinger Jim and Linda Chalat Mirella Schreiber Illona Weiman Joel Schwartzman Lawrence and Lisa Jacobs Julie Shaffer Leslie Kimerling SHALOM Denver Employees W. Scott and Elizabeth Carson Bud Slatkin Jeff Dunn Marvin Stein Anonymous Bob and Janet Warren Joshua and Jennie Feiger Yana Vishnitsky Tsesarsky Family Philanthropic Fund Jaqueline Sprinces Wong Mark and Tina Harrop IN MEMORY OF Shelley Altman Jerry Altman Ray Anzman Jerry Gordon and Laura Goff Esther Aronowski Harvey Milzer Ralph Auerbach Donn and Eileen Spector Agnes Badion Steven Goldstein and Amy Wright Sylvia Baumgarten Gary Baumgarten and Kathy Brauer Anne Bernstein Douglas and Jennifer Friednash Harold Blitt Lois Blitt Marjorie Moch Aaron and Ellen Bregman Marlene Siegel Elaine Bromberg David and Marilyn Bromberg Edward Bronstien Yury and Corinne Ablin Alan and Karen Stein Deborah Burger Susan Grauer Avery Clayton Richard and Bonnie Horwitz Barbara Coffee Stuart Turgel Elsie Cohen Daniel and Margo Jacobson Harold Cohen David Cohen Shirley Cohen David Cohen Helga Cooper Al Axelrod Alma Crowell Sheryl Noven Diane Dinner Steve and Patti Coffin Eckhardt Farms, Inc. Stan and Sharon Marks

The Striker Foundation Louis Duman Herbert and Doris Rothenberg Marion Eichberg Cynthia Chapman Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Lee Engbar Lawrence and Rhoda CoBen Howard Eiseman Mark and Rachel Saliman Jerry Feld Harvey and Judith Cohen Bernard and Leba Munishor James Wolfe and Yana Vishnitsky Betty Finesilver The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado Alan Fishman Louis Fishman Joyce Freeman Ellin Keene Ronald Freund Irene Freund Jean Glaser David and Mary Glaser Rabbi Daniel Goldberger Betty Naster Samuel Goldblatt Hank and Sherrie Brandon Mary Goldman Larry and Debra Jacobs David Goldstein Bob and Rosey Godshaw Judy Eisen Goldstein Stan and Sharon Marks Kenneth Gordon The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado Cynthia Chapman Jon and Sheryl Goodman Franz Huber and Karen Sugarman Huber Scott and Andrea Stillman James Wolfe and Yana Vishnitsky Lena Gordon David and Gayle Ann Weinstein Leonard Gordon Selma Gordon Gerald Gray Cynthia Chapman Sheldon and Ellen Friedman Jon and Sheryl Goodman Stephen and Celeste Gorden Bev Harrison Elliott and Gloria Husney David and Beth Lippa Gary and Joyce Lozow Libby Marcus Arnold and Gwen Schatz Alan and Karen Stein Arnold and Karen Stein Vitaly and Jill Vishnitsky James Wolfe and Yana Vishnitsky Howard Greinetz The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado Ronald and Roni Brown Bernard and Leba Munishor James Wolfe and Yana Vishnitsky Martin Gross Debra Herz Gerald Hein Marvin and Jackie Cooper Craig and Vicki Eskanos Stephen and Celeste Gorden Barton and Marci Rivkin Sandra Simons Morris Hein Elliott and Gloria Husney

Hannah Heinberg Barry and Ruth Herman Susan Higgins Arnold and Karen Stein Burt Hobson Alice Gansfield Marilyn Huttner Donn and Eileen Spector Sheldon Hyatt Eileen Hyatt Iboyla Illes Ronald Colson and Karen Paul Lynn Karelson Pesia Lenczner Gerald Kessel Howard Eiseman Basia Kononov Dmitry Kononov and Olga Titova Alan Laff Lisa Laff Sharon Lasky Marlene Adam Mark and Susan Barter Marvin and Jackie Cooper Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Marion Goldstein Allan and Suzan Markman Irene Morita Don and Linda Neuman Robert Rottman Max Silverman Alan and Karen Stein Al Leebow Jon and Sheryl Goodman Emilie Lellouche Mireille Key Adele Lerman The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado Peggy Brody Chapman & Roth, LLC Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Arleen Gershen William and Sheri Gold Burton and Lee Levy Lynn and Lisa Taussig Richard Wedgle and Susan Mason James Wolfe and Yana Vishnitsky Harold Letman Howard and Susan Licht Ida Letman Howard and Susan Licht Alan Levine Vitaly and Jill Vishnitsky James Wolfe and Yana Vishnitsky Dorinda Levy Justin and Cari Levy Bradley and Sara Nieder Ina Mason Nancy Alterman Justin and Sharon Roth Abby Meisterplass Eudice Lewkowitz Manya Milzer Harvey Milzer Isaac Milzer Harvey Milzer Natalie Mintz Richard and Bobbe Cook Gerhard Nebel Linda Moery Gertrude Nemirow Marvin Berkowitz Ami Opat Walter and Joy Spita Albert Eli “Yonny” Pepper Trude Bershof Cindy Powell Rudolph Jon and Sheryl Goodman

Annette Preece Donald and Janet Frank Jack and Celeste Grynberg Gilbert and Jane Hermann Lester Probst Alyson Probst Jean Radam Ruth Ann Quick Sol Radam Ruth Ann Quick Bob Radetsky Albert and Janice Dinner Dan and Ginger Dinner Jon and Sheryl Goodman Debra Herz Donald and Arlene Shwayder Beverly Sigman Ann Robicoff Schiffman Marvin and Jackie Cooper Dorothy Robins Stan and Sharon Marks Herbert Rose Ron and Gale Kahn Francine Rosenberg Harold and Marilyn Lande Adrian Rosenfelder Arnold and Karen Stein Aaron Rosenthal Jon and Sheryl Goodman Debra Herz Bertram Rothschild Deborah Rothschild Marilyn Rothschild Deborah Rothschild Bertha Rubin Gerald and Kathy Berenstein The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado Terry Fenner and Dawn Richard Neal and Kathy Kimmel Herb and Jill Lee Gary and Joyce Lozow David and Peggy Marks Doug and Marty Meitus Partners in Pediatrics, P.C. Roger and Linny Pretekin Dean Prina Marlene Weiner James Wolfe and Yana Vishnitsky Hubert Safran Ronald Colson and Karen Paul Debra Herz Dick and Toby Meyer Buzz and Nancy Neusteter Ronald and Rhoda Resnick Donald and Arlene Shwayder Paul Saliman Mark and Rachel Saliman Linda Schatz Leon Sherman Eugene Sherman Betty Silverman Meyer and Judith Sussman Louis Silverman Meyer and Judith Sussman Benny and Phyllis Silvestain Cheryl Sanders Phyllis Stern Fishman Otten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti, PC Burton Sternburg Fred and Lauren Sternburg Mildred Sternburg Fred and Lauren Sternburg Evelyn Sunshine David and Gayle Ann Weinstein Isadore Sunshine David and Gayle Ann Weinstein

Albert Sussman Meyer and Judith Sussman Beatrice Sussman Meyer and Judith Sussman Gary Swenson Cynthia Chapman Josephine Tanzer James and Janis Anderson Milton Tanzer James and Janis Anderson Annette Tarlie Ina Cherington Lyn Taylor Mark Pogrebin Joseph Tyor Marvin Tyor Julia Verderber Evie Verderber Isadore and Grace Wedgle David Gesundheit and Honey Wedgle-Gesundheit Heinrich and Maria Weinberg Adriana Weinberg Carl Weinberger Miriam Weinberger Rowena Weinstein David and Gayle Ann Weinstein Sam Weinstein David and Gayle Ann Weinstein Lillian Weisbly Donald and Ginni Freedberg Marshal West Mark and Susan Barter Jack Williams Scott and Trina Reisch Margurite Williams Scott and Trina Reisch Michele “Mikki” Wolf Nancy Alterman The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado Libby Marcus Lorayne Rosenfeldt Jorge and Francine Topelson James Wolfe and Yana Vishnitsky WITH GRATITUDE FOR Beryl Tesler Cynthia Chapman WITH WISHES FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY Debra Aleinikoff The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado James Wolfe and Yana Vishnitsky Sue Miller Werner and Gilda Kaplan Donald and Arlene Shwayder Lee Feldman Arthur and Lee Feldman Ellen Friedman Libby Marcus Tammy Goldstein Robert and Toni Schiff Frances Kessler Michael and Lani Kessler Robert Loup Jon and Sheryl Goodman Diane Morris Harold and Marilyn Lande Robert Silber David and Nancy Benyamin David and Beth Lippa In Kind Donations, page 9

FAMILY MATTERS MARCH/APRIL 2014

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NON PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID

Jewish Family Service of Colorado 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 JEWISHcolorado and Mile High United Way

Social services for Jewish Nazi victims have been supported by a grant from The Conference of Jewish Material Claims Against Germany.

DENVER, COLORADO PERMIT NO. 1217