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At this year’s Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies annual conference held in early May, staff and board members of diverse faiths, identities, and lived experiences from Jewish Family Service organizations across North America gathered to learn and share successes and struggles.
In our host city of Pittsburgh, leaders shared their experiences in the wake of the most violent and deadly attack on a Jewish community in the United States in memory. Hate hit so close to home. The Tree of Life synagogue shooting took place during HIAS Refugee Shabbat in 2018.
We heard from the first responders who then led the community healing process. Their stories pierced my heart and gave me hope. Leaders retold how the community gathering the evening of the day the shooting took place. Local clergy were invited to step up to the front of the event. Over 150 clergy members from all different faiths stood with the Jewish community that day and continued to work together to bring healing and rebuild hope in their community, so close to home.
Read more here.
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Robin Mencher, Chief Executive Officer | |
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Staff Profile: Karen Lottman
Karen Lottman is a licensed clinical social worker, (LCSW) and the cornerstone of our community, having dedicated over 18 years to the JFCS East Bay team. Her journey began as a psychotherapist, where her background in psychotherapy and mental health services immediately shone through. Over the years, Karen's compassion and expertise have touched countless lives, particularly among seniors and individuals with disabilities, offering vital support during their most challenging times.
Read more here.
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Resilience Beyond Borders: A Journey of an Afghan Refugee Woman in the East Bay
An Afghan refugee woman was challenged to adapt to a new life in the East Bay by a husband who was accustomed to calling the shots. AS a result, she initially struggled to engage socially. Despite our support, her husband's interference hindered her progress. After persistent negotiation, she enrolled in ESL classes and support groups, but challenges persisted due to her husband’s nature. Eight months later, her husband made a trip back to Afghanistan, leaving her stranded without legal documents. Despite our efforts to provide support, she vanished, reappearing later after being served with divorce papers. Alone and betrayed, she began the daunting task of rebuilding her life.
With the help of a former JFCS East Bay client turned friend, she found temporary shelter. We provided assistance with program enrollment and gift cards donated by the community. Despite facing trauma and emotional challenges, she worked tirelessly at a restaurant, gradually advancing to better job opportunities.
Over time, she secured stable housing, obtained her driver's license, and purchased a car. Committed to improving her English, she regularly attended ESL classes, aspiring to reignite her engineering career from her home country.
Now settled in a lovely home, she aims to inspire other Afghan women facing similar struggles, showcasing the power of resilience and determination. Her journey embodies the transformative power of support and perseverance, highlighting the meaningful role that JFCS East Bay plays in clients' growth and empowerment.
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So Close to Home: Immigration Deportation Defense
This week, during our May “So Close to Home”, campaign we are fighting for immigrants who fled their homelands to make a new HOME in the East Bay, but now face deportation without representation.
In February 2024, a new Federal Immigration Court opened in Concord, speeding up immigration deportation cases and dramatically increasing the number of immigrants in our community seeking our legal representation. The new court is just blocks from our office. We need to increase our capacity NOW to serve the new surge of immigrants facing deportation without legal representation. Can you help us make this possible? This May a collective group of donors has generously pledged to match every unrestricted donation made, up to $36,000, so that we can provide legal consultations for deportation defense.
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Advocate: Call on our leaders to Restore Funding for Critical Asylum Programs
Every day in our work, we see how our asylum system is in crisis. Years of neglect and funding cuts have left thousands stranded and vulnerable, undermining our nation's moral standing and security. Draconian policies have weakened asylum protections, leaving vulnerable individuals at risk of exploitation and violence. Without proper support, asylum seekers face dire consequences, and America's moral integrity suffers. Join us to demand action from our elected officials to restore funding, reverse harmful policies, and uphold the integrity of the asylum process. Now is the time to raise our voices and demand change. Together, we can ensure that the United States remains a place of hope for those fleeing persecution in their own countries. Click here for more information.
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World Refugee and Immigrant Day
Join us as we partner with the East Bay Refugee and Immigrant Forum for the World Refugee and Immigrant Day Festival! The event will take place on June 15th from 12 PM to 3 PM at Clinton Park in Oakland (International Blvd & 6th Street). Come and celebrate the rich cultures of refugees and immigrants in our community. This is a free event, and everyone is welcome! Find out more information here.
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Check out our FY 2022-2023 Annual Report
We are excited to share with you the highlights and achievements of the past year in our Annual Report, now on our website. As we reflect on the challenges and triumphs of our FY23, we are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support and dedication of our community. Here’s a glimpse into the impactful work we’ve accomplished together.
Click here to check it out!
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You are Invited! Build community at one of these amazing upcoming events. | |
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