5 Things I Love About Our Volunteers
By Michelle Klecner, Volunteer & Events Manager
There’s nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer. My job is fun and rewarding because of the volunteers at Jewish Family & Career Services. Our volunteers should not be underestimated for their influence on the culture and work of JFCS. Since being in the Volunteer & Events Manager role for a little over a month, I have appreciated every volunteer that has stepped through our doors and made me feel welcome. I know each staff member appreciates all the volunteers that expand possibilities for all.
So, to spread the love this month, for Volunteer Appreciation Month, I listed 5 things that I love about JFCS volunteers.
Respectful of JFCS (Kavod)
I am proud to say that some of our best volunteers have referred amazing new volunteers to the organization. I am looking forward to onboarding new volunteers and growing the volunteer opportunities with JFCS. Our volunteers are amazing at promoting JFCS and our volunteer opportunities!
Empathetic (Chesed)
Our volunteers are compassionate about serving our clients. I cannot emphasis how dedicated our volunteers are within the Sonny & Janet Meyer food pantry, shabbos friends, Pledge 13, telephone reassurance, friendly visitor programs, and events. The connection the volunteers feel to the community through connecting with clients is powerful.
Welcoming to the Community (Kehilah)
JFCS is a welcoming place for everyone. You do not have to be Jewish to volunteer or a client at JFCS. Everyday when I come into JFCS, I feel a sense of community through our volunteers’ smiling faces. Their perspective and way of giving helps create a safe space that allows everyone to feel welcome.
Unbiased in serving others (Tzedek)
We have a diverse community of volunteers that have different opinions, cultures, traditions and customs. They recognize that every lens and worldview are important and contribute to the diversity that makes Louisville stronger.
Helpful (Avodah)
Our volunteers expand the possibilities of JFCS in a way that would not be possible without their support. The help and time they give to JFCS is invaluable and allows us to make lasting impact in the community. There are always opportunities to make an impact and our volunteers find those ways!
JFCS’ core values are Kavod (Respect), Chesed (Compassion), Kehilah (Community), Tzedek (Justice), Avodah (Service). These Jewish words guide volunteers, JFCS Board of Directors, and the JFCS Staff as we serve people of all backgrounds in the Greater Louisville community. If you are interested in volunteering with JFCS, please email me at MKlecner@jfcslouisville.org or fill out this link here.
You are welcome here. Your family is loved here.
At Jewish Family and Career Services one of our core values is Kehilah (Community) which means connections that strengthen individuals and build community. We believe that the opportunity to go through life with others and share stories, struggles, and successes is what brings meaning to individuals and communities.
Our support group is for parents and caregivers raising transgender, non-binary or otherwise gender-expansive children and teens. We hope to provide a safe space to share experiences, ask questions, and receive guidance and support from others who understand your situation. This population face unique challenges that require sensitive and supportive care. As parents or caregivers, it can be difficult to navigate these challenges on our own, which is why this support group is an invaluable resource.
As a parent or caregiver, you may be grappling with complex emotions and concerns about your child’s safety, well-being, and future. This support group provides parents with valuable information about how to best support your child. You may also be navigating unfamiliar territory when it comes to medical, educational and legal issues.
The main thing we want you to know is: YOU ARE NOT ALONE. These groups provide you with the opportunity to connect with others, share experiences, and feel the comfort of a supportive community.
You can join this free, virtual support group that meets on the third Monday evening of every month by registering below. The group is facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker.
This week we are highlighting JFCS Staff and Board of Directors and what Black History Month means to them. See below for our first highlight.
For myself, Black History Month is a personal time of reflections, as I think about the numerous sacrifices and accomplishments of those close to me. My late parents, both successful educators, devoted their life to helping black Americans through their teachings and instilling the confidence of strength and perseverance to hold to their beliefs and life dreams. I’m SO grateful for my ancestors, mentors and the many individuals who have stood and currently stand, fighting against racism and oppression. Throughout my newspaper career and now at JFCS, I recognize the role of my work and its impact to reduce barriers and provide the opportunities that should be available and accessible to all. The only barrier to opportunity (if any) should be determined by the individual, not by structural and intentional racism.
Every day, but especially each February, I pay tribute and celebrate Black talent and influence – past, present, and future!
Valecia Quinn
JFCS Navigate Director
JFCS CEO, David Finke, Ph.D. talks about what Black History Month means to him:
Black History Month, to me, is the opportunity it provides me personally and professionally as the leader of JFCS to further live out our values of justice, community, and respect. I see Black History Month as a reminder to once again look back upon our nation’s history, thinking about the systemic wrongs that have been inflicted on black members of our community. Equally important, I see Black History Month as the chance to acknowledge and celebrate the resilience of black Americans, who, despite systemic racism and historic barriers to success, have succeeded and continue to create a community where they and all of us can live with dignity and purpose.
While we focus on Black America this month, it is important to remember that the established and accepted practices of racism that were implemented by whites in our country and continue to reverberate centuries later, can have a similar deleterious effect to all marginalized communities. Freedom from persecution and violence because of who you are, what you look like, how you identify, or from where you originate, is an ongoing struggle in our culture. To me, the significance of Black History Month is that, only by recognizing and fighting to change our history of systemic racism and acknowledging the strengths of those it has impacted, can JFCS fulfill its vision of a Louisville where all live with dignity and purpose.
This month, we will highlight individuals who have paved the way and are currently fighting for the liberation of Black Louisvillians. We will also be promoting ways you can celebrate in Louisville through festivals, activities, and how you can support Black businesses in Louisville.