JFS/Jewish Family Service Volunteer Services Coordinator Bailey Pokres congratulates Ellie Kremer on being honored with the Volunteer of the Year Award at the agency’s annual meeting June 17, 2024.
MARGATE – Jewish Family Service of Atlantic and Cape May Counties hosted its annual meeting June 17, which provided an opportunity to hear about the state of the agency, install officers, and recognize donors, volunteers and staff.
“The annual meeting offers a wonderful opportunity to get staff together with Board members, donors and volunteers to celebrate accomplishments for their tireless dedication and service to the agency, which assists more than 13,000 people each year,” JFS CEO Andrea Steinberg said in a release.
Steinberg said the agency’s infrastructure, partnerships and staffing are integral components to the organization’s strategic plan and ability to expand resources to the Cape May County area. Tuition reimbursement for staff to earn advanced degrees and peer support groups and workshops engage and energize staff and help them focus on their overall wellness.
Attendees also got a sneak peek at the agency’s new website, which showcases a modern look, easier navigation to access programs and services, and new content, Steinberg said.
JFS President Matthew Simpson spoke about investing in the future of the community, enhancing the wellness of neighbors, and maintaining JFS’s position as the area’s leading advocate for services, nurturing staff, and securing programs sustainability.
Attorney Colin Bell was presented with the distinguished President’s Award for his commitment to the betterment of the community and the agency. Bell has served as a board member for five years, and is a member of the board’s Planning and Impact Steering Committee, and Strategic Partnerships Committee.
Sarah Rosenthal was sworn in as vice president of the board. Adam R. Steinberg will serve as treasurer and Aaron R. Sykes, secretary.
Linda Rubin will serve a one-year term on the board, and Susan Fowler Maven will serve as delegate to the Community Advisory Committee. Also, Jess Kane Berman, who recently completed a one-year term, was sworn in for an additional two years, and Charles Kramer was reinstalled for a three-year term. The agency also extended a heartfelt thank you to outgoing board members Robin Pincus-Shields and Lawrence Reich.
In addition, the JFS Fund Board welcomed two new members – Barry Goff and Samuel Goldstein. The fund serves as a major resource for agency emergency needs, provides seed money for new programs and supports innovative solutions to meet the needs of the community.
JFS Senior Director of Communications and Donor Relations Beth Joseph welcomed and thanked agency donors for their support.
The agency also recognized Ellie Kremer as its 2024 Volunteer of the Year.
“For more than eight years, Ellie has been volunteering at JFS on a weekly basis delivering grocery bags filled with food, baby products, basic essentials and more to people in need throughout the county,” Volunteer Services Coordinator Bailey Pokres said. “Previously, Ellie shared with JFS that she is grateful for what she has and feels that it’s her responsibility to help others. It’s a rewarding mitzvah.”
JFS/From left, Human Resources Coordinator Lisa Murrell, Heart and Soul Award winner Vickie Perry and Senior Director of Human Resources Greg Rosenblit.
Chief Operating Officer Ann Thoresen and Chief Impact Officer Laura Rodgers recognized the agency’s 175 employees and those celebrating anniversaries with the agency. Tallia Alexander-Schaab, Natasha Bettencourt, Darline Desamours, Sarah Dondero-Skeels, Erica Friedel, Iyana James, Susan Kotzen, Kyle Lee, Paola Luisi, Steve Marchiano, Rachael McInnes, Judy Rios, Leonard Smith, Jr., and Julie Zlotnick are celebrating five years. Kathleen Powell was recognized for 10 years, and Patrice Schleigh and Melissa Gustin were acknowledged for 15 years and 20 years of service, respectively.
Lastly, JFS Senior Director of Human Resources Greg Rosenblit announced community awards, as follows:
- Community Impact Award – Sherilyn Haddock
- Heart & Soul Award – Vickie Perry
- Outstanding Service Award – Eileen Boyer Durante
- Leadership Award – Lily Elsohn Whitcraft.
“There is no greater honor than being selected by those who truly understand the work you do and what it takes to do it well,” Rosenblit said.
For information on JFS programs, services or employment opportunities, see www.jfsatlantic.org. For information on volunteer opportunities, contact Bailey Pokres at [email protected].
JFS/Senior Director of Communications and Donor Relations Beth Joseph (right) presents Fox Rothschild Managing Partner Eileen Oakes Muskett with a gift of appreciation for the law firm being agency donor.
