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JFS dedicates inclusive art installation in Margate boardroom

  • Margate

JFS board member and retired Superior Court Judge Mark Sandson speaks to more than 70 JFS staff, board members, volunteers and special guests at the agency's Anti-Racism Committee staff recognition wall unveiling on Oct. 19 at the Margate office.

MARGATE Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties welcomed staff, board members, community partners and supporters to its Margate location Oct. 19 to dedicate a wall art installation in the boardroom.

Inspired by the agency's Anti-Racism Committee, the design was created to showcase the staff and the work they do in support of JFS's core value, tikkun olam, which means healing the world. The core value is written in seven languages and the wall displays three large screens highlighting staff, community and business supporters, volunteers, events and awards. The dedication demonstrates in the agency's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

The JFS Anti-Racism Committee, co-chaired by staff members Vickie Perry and Fatimah Archie, works under the guidance of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. The ARC was formed as a proactive step to foster an environment of learning, compassion and understanding for the struggles and challenges of diverse communities working to effect positive change. The ARC will continue to innovate and educate staff and the community about the ever changing environment, which will be reflected on the wall display, a release states.

I would tell anyone who needs assistance to reach out to JFS, client Maria Delgado said. They are definitely good at helping people and will treat you as a person trying to better themselves regardless of your circumstance. With JFS, I know that I'm on a better life path.

With more than 70 attendees, guests enjoyed presentations by JFS board member and DEI committee member Mark Sandson, ARC Co-Chair Vickie Perry, clients Maria Delgado and David Wirtz, and DEI Chairwoman Nina Stolzenberg. Following the presentations, guests enjoyed food from local restaurants offering a variety of multicultural fare.

Today, we are here to celebrate the JFS staff, our partners, community members, volunteers, and those we serve, retired Superior Court Judge Mark Sandson said. The dedicated artwork showcases an authentic representation of all of us.

For more information on JFS programs and services or to view the staff recognition wall, contact 609-822-1108, ext. 1.