ABOUTSERVICESCONTACTEVENTS EVENTS AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION JUNE 2025 JFS VOICES At Jewish Family Services, every person who walks through our doors has a story to tell. JFS Voices is a monthly letter that brings those stories to life—through the words of the people who make our mission possible. From staff and volunteers to newcomers and longtime clients, each edition will highlight the real, personal impact of JFS’s work in our community.  Join us as we share moments of resilience, kindness, and transformation. These are the voices of JFS—stories of hope, dignity, and the power of human connection. Thank you for being part of our journey.  Marina's Story I was born in Armenia, which was part of the Soviet Union when I was growing up. In the summer of 1995, just ten days after our wedding, my husband and I moved to the United States so he could pursue his PhD at the University of Iowa. It was a thrilling but overwhelming experience. I didn’t speak English, and we had no family or friends nearby. My husband worked long hours, seven days a week, leaving me alone to navigate a new culture, a new language, and a new life—at just 21 years old. We couldn’t afford English classes, so I taught myself. The early years were incredibly difficult, filled with challenges that I worked hard to overcome.  When I joined JFS in October 2012, I had little knowledge or understanding of social work or the nonprofit world. My background was in Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising, and I had been working in retail—a field I truly enjoyed. However, retail can be a difficult industry for a mother. At the time, my two sons were young and needed my full attention. They have always come first, so I made the decision to leave my job and focus on raising them. While I stayed active and volunteered, I still felt something was missing. I longed for meaningful work—something part-time, where I could make a difference in people’s lives.   That opportunity came when I applied for a transportation coordinator position at JFS. I still remember my first visit to the agency. Back then, JFS occupied only the basement level of the building. As I sat in the waiting area before my interview, I looked around and immediately felt something special. The space felt warm, welcoming, and peaceful. It felt like home. That moment marked the beginning of my journey with JFS.    Shortly after joining JFS, I became the New American Club (NAC) Coordinator, working primarily with Russian speaking older Jewish adults from various parts of the former Soviet Union. With my shared cultural background and fluency in Russian, I was able to quickly build strong, trusting relationships with my clients—relationships rooted in mutual respect and understanding. I love working with them. Every time I solve a problem or see a smile on someone’s face, my heart fills with joy. Some have told me I am doing a mitzvah—and thanked me for it. It is truly my honor to do a mitzvah every day. I’ve found my calling, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.    Thank you, JFS, for allowing me to be part of this incredible family.    Marina Sarafian  Specialized Programs Manager & Community Health Worker  Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County    JOIN US TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE TODAY! SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2025 2:00-5:00 P.M. BURNS PARK ELEMENTARY 1414 WELLS ST., ANN ARBOR Walking in solidarity with refugees who have endured the unimaginable, we recognize the strength it takes to begin again. By walking together at Walk a Mile in My Shoes, we send a powerful message: we see you, we welcome you, and we will not stop providing support to those who need us. Your participation helps JFS continue to provide essential resources— housing, employment support, and community connections—so that every newcomer, no matter when they arrived, has the opportunity to thrive. Meet Alef, former JFS client, JFS staff member, and now, local business owner! We are still actively serving resettlement clients, as assistance does not stop after 90 days of resettlement and placement, but often extends to years of service. HELP US BRIDGE THE GAP AND CONTINUE PROVIDING ESSENTIAL SERVICES TO OUR NEIGHBORS IN NEED. Join us by registering to WALK a mile in our clients shoes and by fundraising along the way! CLICK FOR MORE EVENT INFO THANK YOU 2025 SPONSORS Join this list of sponsors! Click the button to learn more, or contact Gabby at [email protected]. CLICK TO VIEW SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION VIRTUAL SUPPORT GROUPS CAREGIVER CONVERSATIONS Join us for connection, sharing and ideas around caregiver issues as we navigate our lives during challenging times. The group will include educational content, is facilitated by a licensed JFS Social Worker, and is open to anyone who cares for someone aged 60+. REGISTER SPOUSAL CAREGIVER SUPPORT Join us for connection with others in a similar situation to your own, sharing ideas and experiences around caregiver issues that arise while caring for a spouse or significant other. The group will include educational content, is facilitated by a licensed JFS Social Worker, and is open to anyone who cares for their spouse or significant other. REGISTER GRIEF SUPPORT Join us for connection with others navigating the challenges of experiencing  grief. The group will include educational content, is facilitated by a licensed JFS Social Worker, and is open to all who have lost a loved one REGISTER Cooking Up Success: JFS Launches Food Business Training with Support from Bank of America  At Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County (JFS), food is more than a meal — it’s a mission. With support from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, we launched a pilot food business training program aimed at helping local entrepreneurs—especially immigrants and underserved community members—build their futures in the food industry.   CLICK HERE TO READ MORE WISE SENIOR CENTER AT THE J WISE at the J is a congregate lunch meal program that takes place at the JCC on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The event is organized by JFS of Washtenaw County. All are welcome! REGISTER HERE NEW DATE AND TIME FOR MISSION TOURS AT JFS Last Wednesday of the month at 12:00 p.m. One Hour to See, Learn, and Make an Impact! Experience the heart of our community at Jewish Family Services (JFS)! We're thrilled to showcase the incredible range of services we provide to support and uplift our neighbors. From essential basic needs like food and transportation for older adults to our cutting-edge out-patient behavioral health clinic for individuals and families, JFS is here to make a difference. Discover how you can become an integral part of our mission.  REGISTER NOW  We’re Cooking Up Comfort — and We Need Your Help! Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? The JFS Nourish Food Pantry & Kitchen is seeking compassionate, reliable volunteers to help us prepare nutritious meals for individuals and families in need.   Volunteering just a few hours of your time each week can make a big difference in someone’s day.   Volunteer Details: Role: Prep Meals for Delivery — chop, portion, and package meals for clients who rely on us for nourishment and care. When: Weekdays (Monday–Friday) Shift Length: Just 2 hours Where: JFS Nourish Kitchen and Pantry– Ann Arbor Current Need: We have openings every weekday but are especially looking for Friday volunteers!   Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just want to lend a helping hand, your time helps us bring comfort, hope, and dignity to those who need it most. SIGN-UP NOW  JFS Made at Ypsi Farmer's Market All Summer Long! 9 A.M. - 1 P.M. Every Saturday CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO  COMMUNITY CORNER [email protected]734.769.0209www.jfsannarbor.org