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March/April 2014 Family Matters

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Read about the JFS Executive Luncheon featured speaker Archie Manning, read inspirational stories, get tips about bullying for students and seniors, and more!
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FAMILY Matters Volume 24, No. 2 • mARCH/APRIl 2014 A PuBlICATIoN oF KEEPING IT KOSHER TWO HOURS EVERY TWO WEEKS BULLYING IN THE SCHOOLS Program Spotlight page 6 JFS Homemaker page 8 Mental Health Matters page 10 Archie Manning Headlines Executive Luncheon April 30 See page 4
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Page 1: March/April 2014 Family Matters

FamilyMattersVolume 24, No. 2 • mARCH/APRIl 2014

A PuBlICATIoN oF

KEEPiNG iT KOSHER

TWO HOURS EVERy TWO WEEKS

BUllyiNG iN THE SCHOOlS

Program Spotlight page 6

JFS Homemaker page 8

Mental Health Matters page 10

Archie Manning Headlines Executive Luncheon April 30 See page 4

Page 2: March/April 2014 Family Matters

The Easter/Passover Denver Community Food DriveInvolving 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 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

2 FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014

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.

CEOFrom the

Yana Vishnitsky

Page 3: March/April 2014 Family Matters

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 [email protected] for further information. This program is made possible by a generous donation from the Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation of Colorado.

FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014 3

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.

ClEaN OUT yOUR ClOSETS to Help JFS!

FOllOW US! www.facebook.com/jfscolorado

www.twitter.com/JFS_Colo

Family Matters is published bimonthly by

Jewish Family Service of Colorado, 3201 S. Tamarac Dr. Denver CO 80231

www.jewishfamilyservice.org

SUmmER maGiC Is Back!

Harry Abramowitz and Sarah Goldstein at Summer Magic

Page 4: March/April 2014 Family Matters

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 Olivia raised their sons with

the philosophy that, “It’s the right thing to do, so do the right thing.” The result, which Archie

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 All-American 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!

4 FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014

Football Legend and Humanitarian aRCHiE maNNiNG Headlines JFS Executive Luncheon April 30

Archie Manning

Presented by

Page 5: March/April 2014 Family Matters

FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014 5

Presidential Sponsors

Chief Operating SponsorBrent and Julie Morse

Chief Financial SponsorJoyce Zeff

Executive Vice Presidential SponsorsColorado Real Estate JournalColorado State Bank and TrustCuvee VenturesD. H. Friedman PropertiesWill and Sheri GoldJack and Celeste GrynbergSteve and Elizabeth KrisRobert and Robyn NaimanOtten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti PCEric and Ellen Pollock

Vice Presidential Sponsors Berlin Investment Group HoldingsCoBiz FinancialTerry Fenner and Dawn RichardIzbiky & AssociatesJohn and Leslie Keith/ Harvard CommunitiesStuart and Janet Kritzer Family

FoundationOak Tree FoundationMichael Opatowski and Ruth

MalmanMile High Honda, Acura, MitsubishiQuiat CompaniesRichard and Michele Right

Associate Sponsors Asarch Center for Dermatology &

LaserDavid and Anna AsarchBarry and Gay Curtiss-LusherDenver Retirement PartnersDependable CleanersFeldman Mortuary, Inc.

Lezlie GoldbergBarbara GoldburgJohn and Sheryl GoodmanJoel and Janet KaufmanLippa & AssociatesRocky and Suzi MillerMorEventsNothing Bundt CakesChet and Louise SchwartzYana Vishnitsky and Jim Wolfe

Corporate Tables Alberta Development Partners, LLCRob and Sam BaumgartenBerkeley HomesModa Man on Larimer StreetStephan and Kerry ShelanskiGeorge and Mary SisselUMB BankThe Wenner Group, LLC/Transitions

Wealth Management, LLC

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

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 institu-tions 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, distrib-uting 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 [email protected] by April 9.

JFS VOlUNTEERS Lead Passover Seders for Seniors More Volunteers Needed to Help Make Seders Special!

Page 6: March/April 2014 Family Matters

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-deliv-ered. 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

recommended daily nutrients for older adults. However, this program is about so much 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 rela-tionship 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 wheelchair-bound 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

6 FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014

Keeping It KosherSpace Available in Kosher Meals on Wheels Program!

PROGRam Spotlight

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

“Many clients develop a personal relationship with the driver and look forward to their daily visits.”—Buffy Fox

Page 7: March/April 2014 Family Matters

FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014 7

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!

Help Buy Food for Passover!

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 [email protected].

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

Page 8: March/April 2014 Family Matters

8 FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014

A little help from a JFS homemaker makes life livable for a senior in crisis

TWO HOURS Every Two WeeksIt 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 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. Evelyn and Phaleacha

Page 9: March/April 2014 Family Matters

FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014 9

I don’t have this sense of ‘how am I ever going to get this done?’ Plus, she’s the sweetest, kindest person I’ve met in a long 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

“Phaleacha puts the ‘family’ in Jewish Family Service.”—Evelyn Sullivan

AlbertsonsAmstarBeth Ami CongregationChurch of Jesus Christ of Latter Day

SaintsCongregation Beth EvergreenCongregation BMH-BJCongregation B’nai HavurahCongregation Har HashemCongregation Hebrew Educational

AllianceCongregation Rodef ShalomDenver AcademyDenver Business Journal

Denver Jewish Day SchoolEastern Star Masonic CenterEkar FarmHolland & Hart LLPJ & B RealtyJay’s Valet ParkingKing Soopers ReclamationMass Mutual ColoradoMonroe Group Ltd.MorEventsMurdock’s Grooming SalonNothing Bundt CakesPromontory Condo AssociationSafeway

Sagewood Middle SchoolSisterhood of Congregation EmanuelSisterhood of Congregation Rodef

ShalomSouth Denver Fencing AcademyTemple EmanuelTemple SinaiVisaWalgreen’sWestin Tabor CenterWhole Foods at Tamarac

THaNK yOU for Caring!IN-KIND DoNATIoNS DECEMBER 2013-JANUARY 2014

Page 10: March/April 2014 Family Matters

10 FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014

Bullying in the SchoolsmENTal HEalTH Matters

By Melissa LaLonde, LCSWKidSuccess 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 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

• miss or skip school

Parents, school staff, and other caring adults have an important role to play in preventing bullying. They can: • Help kids

understand bullying. Talk about what bullying is and how to stand up to it safely. Tell kids that bullying is unaccept-able 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 admin-istrators, 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 school-based 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.

Melissa LaLonde

Bullying can threaten students’ physical and emotional safety at school and can negatively impact their ability to learn.

Page 11: March/April 2014 Family Matters

By Laura Harter, MSW, LSWJFS 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 con-versation 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 of the community can be especially daunting. When a senior is making that transition and starts to feel bullied, it 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 relation-ships 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 profes-sionals in senior communities have helped

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 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.

FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014 11

SENiORS Matter Bullying Isn’t Just for Kids

Laura Harter

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

Page 12: March/April 2014 Family Matters

12 FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014

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 knowledge-able teachers, rabbis, and social workers, we learned how to engage clients in conversation and ideas for activities in which to engage them. 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

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 Inter-mountain 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

JFS Celebrates Volunteers in April – and Every Day

Audrey Friedman Marcus

Page 13: March/April 2014 Family Matters

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 feel comfortable, and she’s always ready with a joke or a hug. She leaves 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 organi-zation 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 [email protected].

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).

FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014 13

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

STaFFAnniversaries

“We are really like one big happy family.” —Lorri Stonbraker

Page 14: March/April 2014 Family Matters

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

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 ANNIVERSARIESArnold Kover Stephen and Cheryl CohenBernard and Roberta Naiman Cynthia Chapman Ruth Epstein Marlene WeinerJulius and Rose Pluss Norma Kurtz Mickey and Louann MillerArthur and Gerri Shenkin Gilbert and Jane HermannNeal and Myrna Tyson Cynthia Chapman

IN HoNoR oF THE BIRTH oF A BABYPorter Hillman The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of ColoradoMicah Issner Michael and Lani Kessler

IN HoNoR oF BIRTHDAYSMyndel Cohen Bernard and Leba MunishorSelma Friedman Ruth EpsteinEli Gien Adam and Malena JacksonBradley Greenwald Brett Miller and Heather TaussigSheila Gutterman Neal and Kathy Kimmel Pam Naiman Stanton and Jane E. RosenbaumRon Kempton Marvin TyorNeal Kimmel Peggy BernsteinCathy Kravitz Marvin TyorAmy Pogrebin Bremenstuhl Mark PogrebinStanley Rubel Helen BernsteinCharlene Loup Phyllis GoodmanDorothy Schwab Norman SchwabLisa Soicher Robert and Robyn LoupWendy Sturniolo Edward and Judith Rosenthal

IN HoNoR oF HANUKKAHMark and Gayle Eskanos Craig and Vicki Eskanos

IN HoNoR oF ENGAGEMENTSJosh Samet and Paula Mermelstein Michael and Harriet Greenstein

IN HoNoR oF GRADUATIoNSJon Futa Jane TannenbaumJeff Greenstein Michael and Harriet Greenstein

WITH WISHES FoR A HAPPY NEW YEARAlan Mayer Irene Mayer

IN HoNoR oF MARRIAGESWesley and Lisa Benoit Jon and Sheryl GoodmanTraci Lato Anonymous Donations

IN HoNoR oF THE KAL ZEFF BUSINESS LEADER AWARD RECIPIENTNorman Brownstein Peggy Goldman Stan and Sharon Marks Howard and Carol Torgove

IN HoNoR oF THE JACK SHAPIRo CoMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTSRabbi 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 JFSDavid Zucker David and Beth Lippa

IN HoNoR oFKen Bardach Anonymous Carla Bartell Jon and Sheryl GoodmanRabbi Eliot Baskin Jim and Linda Chalat Janet SlateNeal Bobrick Howard and Donna LutzLibby Bortz Brad Schuster and Patricia BortzWilliam and Elaine Bromberg David and Marilyn BrombergDeborah Bronstein Joseph KellyPaula Burger Harold and Marilyn LandeLin Carleen Stanley and Paula GudderFrances Cohen Illona WeimanJennie Creasey Susan Cable

Jeff Dunn and Family Geo and Genie HindallJeff and Cindi Dunn Bud and Teena SlatkinKatie Dunn Jeff Dunn Victoria NortonCathy Summer Doris Fasbender Rick Rohr and Ingrid Swords Jay Schusterman and Mary Lee SchustermanShawn and Alan Epstein Stanley and Paula GudderHollis Fasbender Elizabeth OttoJennifer Fenniman John and Susan FennimanSteve and Marion Fredman Stanley and Paula GudderMike and Cindy Friedman Jon and Betty HellerSteve and Lisa Friedman Michael and Mary FrankJoan Frumkin Martin and Jane FrumkinMark George and Pamela Eisenbaum Alison George BriscoeHerbert and Ruth Giller Roger and Jill GillerBrian Gold Robert and Marsha GoldDavid Gold Robert and Marsha GoldEric Gold Robert and Marsha GoldIda Goldberger Betty NasterPeter Gottlieb Perry and Della JultakCathy Grimm Arlen and Kathleen MeyersLotte Heimann Roberta BeachJean Heller Bette HellerHilton Herman Mina HermanJFS Accounting Department Daisy FlynnAranka Jonap Miguel and Aniko MogyorosJohn Keith Jerry and Marilyn SnyderArnold Kover Alan and Deborah LazaroffHoward Lutz David and Peggy MarksSandy Manheimer Stewart Gabel and Joan ManheimerEvan Meltzer Scott and Sharon SagelRuth Nicholson Gail PenningtonDaniel and Meg Quiat Melinda QuiatSteve and Dottie Resnick Dirk HansenSusan Rosen Joan Levine

James Sachs Moussa and Mahassen NajjarJen Sarche Cynthia ChapmanDon Schlesinger Jim and Linda ChalatMirella Schreiber Illona WeimanJoel Schwartzman Lawrence and Lisa JacobsJulie Shaffer Leslie KimerlingSHALoM Denver Employees W. Scott and Elizabeth CarsonBud Slatkin Jeff DunnMarvin Stein AnonymousBob and Janet Warren Joshua and Jennie FeigerYana Vishnitsky Tsesarsky Family Philanthropic FundJaqueline Sprinces Wong Mark and Tina Harrop

IN MEMoRY oFShelley Altman Jerry AltmanRay Anzman Jerry Gordon and Laura GoffEsther Aronowski Harvey MilzerRalph Auerbach Donn and Eileen SpectorAgnes Badion Steven Goldstein and Amy WrightSylvia Baumgarten Gary Baumgarten and Kathy BrauerAnne Bernstein Douglas and Jennifer FriednashHarold Blitt Lois BlittMarjorie Moch Aaron and Ellen Bregman Marlene SiegelElaine Bromberg David and Marilyn BrombergEdward Bronstien Yury and Corinne Ablin Alan and Karen SteinDeborah Burger Susan GrauerAvery Clayton Richard and Bonnie HorwitzBarbara Coffee Stuart TurgelElsie Cohen Daniel and Margo JacobsonHarold Cohen David CohenShirley Cohen David CohenHelga Cooper Al AxelrodAlma Crowell Sheryl NovenDiane Dinner Steve and Patti Coffin Eckhardt Farms, Inc. Stan and Sharon Marks

14 FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014

Page 15: March/April 2014 Family Matters

FAmIlY mATTeRS mARCH/APRIl 2014 15

The Striker FoundationLouis Duman Herbert and Doris RothenbergMarion Eichberg Cynthia Chapman Terry Fenner and Dawn RichardLee Engbar Lawrence and Rhoda CoBen Howard Eiseman Mark and Rachel SalimanJerry Feld Harvey and Judith Cohen Bernard and Leba Munishor James Wolfe and Yana VishnitskyBetty Finesilver The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of ColoradoAlan Fishman Louis FishmanJoyce Freeman Ellin KeeneRonald Freund Irene FreundJean Glaser David and Mary GlaserRabbi Daniel Goldberger Betty NasterSamuel Goldblatt Hank and Sherrie BrandonMary Goldman Larry and Debra JacobsDavid Goldstein Bob and Rosey GodshawJudy Eisen Goldstein Stan and Sharon MarksKenneth 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 VishnitskyLena Gordon David and Gayle Ann WeinsteinLeonard Gordon Selma GordonGerald 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 VishnitskyHoward Greinetz The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado Ronald and Roni Brown Bernard and Leba Munishor James Wolfe and Yana VishnitskyMartin Gross Debra HerzGerald Hein Marvin and Jackie Cooper Craig and Vicki Eskanos Stephen and Celeste Gorden Barton and Marci Rivkin Sandra SimonsMorris Hein Elliott and Gloria Husney

Hannah Heinberg Barry and Ruth HermanSusan Higgins Arnold and Karen SteinBurt Hobson Alice GansfieldMarilyn Huttner Donn and Eileen SpectorSheldon Hyatt Eileen HyattIboyla Illes Ronald Colson and Karen PaulLynn Karelson Pesia LencznerGerald Kessel Howard EisemanBasia Kononov Dmitry Kononov and Olga TitovaAlan Laff Lisa LaffSharon 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 SteinAl Leebow Jon and Sheryl GoodmanEmilie Lellouche Mireille KeyAdele 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 VishnitskyHarold Letman Howard and Susan LichtIda Letman Howard and Susan LichtAlan Levine Vitaly and Jill Vishnitsky James Wolfe and Yana VishnitskyDorinda Levy Justin and Cari Levy Bradley and Sara NiederIna Mason Nancy Alterman Justin and Sharon RothAbby Meisterplass Eudice LewkowitzManya Milzer Harvey MilzerIsaac Milzer Harvey MilzerNatalie Mintz Richard and Bobbe CookGerhard Nebel Linda MoeryGertrude Nemirow Marvin BerkowitzAmi opat Walter and Joy SpitaAlbert Eli “Yonny” Pepper Trude BershofCindy Powell Rudolph Jon and Sheryl Goodman

Annette Preece Donald and Janet Frank Jack and Celeste Grynberg Gilbert and Jane HermannLester Probst Alyson ProbstJean Radam Ruth Ann QuickSol Radam Ruth Ann QuickBob Radetsky Albert and Janice Dinner Dan and Ginger Dinner Jon and Sheryl Goodman Debra Herz Donald and Arlene Shwayder Beverly SigmanAnn Robicoff Schiffman Marvin and Jackie CooperDorothy Robins Stan and Sharon MarksHerbert Rose Ron and Gale KahnFrancine Rosenberg Harold and Marilyn LandeAdrian Rosenfelder Arnold and Karen SteinAaron Rosenthal Jon and Sheryl Goodman Debra HerzBertram Rothschild Deborah RothschildMarilyn Rothschild Deborah RothschildBertha 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 VishnitskyHubert Safran Ronald Colson and Karen Paul Debra Herz Dick and Toby Meyer Buzz and Nancy Neusteter Ronald and Rhoda Resnick Donald and Arlene ShwayderPaul Saliman Mark and Rachel Saliman Linda SchatzLeon Sherman Eugene ShermanBetty Silverman Meyer and Judith SussmanLouis Silverman Meyer and Judith SussmanBenny and Phyllis Silvestain Cheryl SandersPhyllis Stern Fishman Otten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti, PCBurton Sternburg Fred and Lauren SternburgMildred Sternburg Fred and Lauren SternburgEvelyn Sunshine David and Gayle Ann WeinsteinIsadore Sunshine David and Gayle Ann Weinstein

Albert Sussman Meyer and Judith SussmanBeatrice Sussman Meyer and Judith SussmanGary Swenson Cynthia ChapmanJosephine Tanzer James and Janis AndersonMilton Tanzer James and Janis AndersonAnnette Tarlie Ina CheringtonLyn Taylor Mark PogrebinJoseph Tyor Marvin TyorJulia Verderber Evie VerderberIsadore and Grace Wedgle David Gesundheit and Honey Wedgle-GesundheitHeinrich and Maria Weinberg Adriana WeinbergCarl Weinberger Miriam WeinbergerRowena Weinstein David and Gayle Ann WeinsteinSam Weinstein David and Gayle Ann WeinsteinLillian Weisbly Donald and Ginni FreedbergMarshal West Mark and Susan BarterJack Williams Scott and Trina ReischMargurite Williams Scott and Trina ReischMichele “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 FoRBeryl Tesler Cynthia Chapman

WITH WISHES FoR A SPEEDY RECoVERYDebra Aleinikoff The Board & Staff of Jewish Family Service of Colorado James Wolfe and Yana VishnitskySue Miller Werner and Gilda Kaplan Donald and Arlene ShwayderLee Feldman Arthur and Lee FeldmanEllen Friedman Libby MarcusTammy Goldstein Robert and Toni SchiffFrances Kessler Michael and Lani KesslerRobert Loup Jon and Sheryl GoodmanDiane Morris Harold and Marilyn LandeRobert Silber David and Nancy Benyamin David and Beth Lippa

In Kind Donations, page 9

Page 16: March/April 2014 Family Matters

Joyce and Kal Zeff Building3201 South Tamarac DriveDenver Co 80231-4394

ReTuRN SeRVICe ReQueSTeD

tel: 303.597.5000fax: 303.597.7700

www.jewishfamilyservice.org

Beneficiary Agency of JEWISHcoloradoand Mile High United Way

NoN PRoFIT oRG.

uS PoSTAGe

PAID

DeNVeR, ColoRADo

PeRmIT No. 1217JeWISH FAmIlY SeRVICe oF ColoRADo

Social services for Jewish Nazi victims have been supported by a grant from The Conference of

Jewish Material Claims Against Germany.


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