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# Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://jfsofhbg.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://jfsofhbg.org/?page_id=7686)
- [Dear Director: The Positive Childhood Experiences Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/09/25/dear-director-the-positive-childhood-experiences-edition/) - Relationships are healing and what you do with your child may seem insignificant but its messages are big. It tells them they are included and that you care. It counters the negative things they have felt and heard and experiences and the times they have been left out. So, no big changes are required. Just give them a little time, and let them in. Relationships are healing and what you do with your child may seem insignificant but its messages are big. It tells them they are included and that you care. It counters the negative things they have felt and heard and experiences and the times they have been left out. So, no big changes are required. Just give them a little time, and let them in.
- [Dear Director: Decoding Your Adopted Child's Words Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/08/27/dear-director-decoding-your-adopted-childs-words-edition/) - Dear Director, Our adopted son is 15 now and he has been with us almost his entire life: 12 years. All of a sudden, he is talking to us with such disrespect and sabotaging happy and fun family events. We understand that he came from a tough place with serious neglect, but we don't know what to do with this. Please advise, Confused Parents Dear Director, Our adopted son is 15 now and he has been with us almost his entire life: 12 years. All of a sudden, he is talking to us with such disrespect and sabotaging happy and fun family events. We understand that he came from a tough place with serious neglect, but we don't know what to do with this. Please advise, Confused Parents
- [What Your Adopted Child Would Like You To Know](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/08/27/what-youre-adopted-child-would-like-you-to-know/) - I am going to be so mean to you. I am going to say horrible things to you. I am going to act dreadful and come up with and use the most hurtful words ever to spew at you. I will find out what your soft spots are and dig into them with cruel verbal daggers. You see I am trying to get you to abandon me 'cuz I'm just not worth it. I am just a bad kid. That's why my first family left me of course. I am going to be so mean to you. I am going to say horrible things to you. I am going to act dreadful and come up with and use the most hurtful words ever to spew at you. I will find out what your soft spots are and dig into them with cruel verbal daggers. You see I am trying to get you to abandon me 'cuz I'm just not worth it. I am just a bad kid. That's why my first family left me of course.
- [The Exodus That is Happening Today in Central PA](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/05/02/the-exodus-that-is-happening-today-in-central-pa/) - Since 2017, through the generosity of our donors, Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg supported some of the most vulnerable members of our community through our Back on Track Initiative and Project Lift. Back on Track offers emergency financial support to individuals and families who run the risk of “falling through the cracks,” due to short term financial problems. These emergency problems can often be eliminated by a “lift” in the form of a minimal one-time offer of financial support.Project Lift connects individuals and families with JFS services as well as with those provided by other social service organizations. These services can benefit those who may already be in the JFS system as mental health therapy clients but could also benefit from a “lift” of additional social services
- [Dear Director: The Window of Tolerance Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/03/25/dear-director-the-window-of-tolerance-edition/) - Dear Director, Our 11-year-old adopted son gets really angry and irritable sometimes and acts sweet as pie others. We never know when he will fly off the handle. His therapist says he has a narrow window of tolerance due to his rough upbringing that included severe neglect. We are having trouble understanding exactly what she is talking about. I wish he would act consistently and not be so volatile. What do you think? - Confused Dear Director, Our 11-year-old adopted son gets really angry and irritable sometimes and acts sweet as pie others. We never know when he will fly off the handle. His therapist says he has a narrow window of tolerance due to his rough upbringing that included severe neglect. We are having trouble understanding exactly what she is talking about. I wish he would act consistently and not be so volatile. What do you think? - Confused
- [Strategies That Widen That Window of Tolerance](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/03/25/strategies-that-widen-that-window-of-tolerance/) - We are all capable of widening our window's of tolerance. We can become more accepting of hard emotions. The first step is awareness. Observing when you are in your window of tolerance and when you start to veer out of it. Noticing which direction your body typically moves when it becomes dysregulated is the next step. There are plenty more strategies to use to help you open your window of tolerance. Note that these techniques work for you, the adults and parents, and for you to teach and model for your children.
- [How Trauma Impacts The Window of Tolerance](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/03/25/how-trauma-impacts-the-window-of-tolerance/) - Learning how to regulate your brain and body is the key to staying within one's window of tolerance. When an individual experiences childhood trauma, as most adopted children do, it significantly impacts how wide their window of tolerance is. Another factor effecting your child's window of tolerance is how well they have resolved this trauma. Let's delve into each of these factors to truly understand how your child's past may still be influencing how they manage their emotions and natural stressors that come about in life. In other words, if you can understand how your child's window of tolerance has been shaped by their trauma, then you can meet them with empathy and understanding. To help your children increase their tolerance for distress, after you put on your compassion hat, you can then help them learn techniques to make positive change. That window of tolerance can absolutely be widened with skills and practice. Learning how to regulate your brain and body is the key to staying within one's window of tolerance. When an individual experiences childhood trauma, as most adopted children do, it significantly impacts how wide their window of tolerance is. Another factor effecting your child's window of tolerance is how well they have resolved this trauma. Let's delve into each of these factors to truly understand how your child's past may still be influencing how they manage their emotions and natural stressors that come about in life. In other words, if you can understand how your child's window of tolerance has been shaped by their trauma, then you can meet them with empathy and understanding. To help your children increase their tolerance for distress, after you put on your compassion hat, you can then help them learn techniques to make positive change. That window of tolerance can absolutely be widened with skills and practice.
- [Explaining The Window of Tolerance](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/03/25/explaining-the-window-of-tolerance/) - What is the window of tolerance exactly? Before you can learn to be aware of and actually regulate your window of tolerance, you need to understand what the window of tolerance actually is. It's a concept named by renowned psychiatrist Dan Siegel. He defines the window of tolerance as the optimal zone of "arousal" for a person to function in everyday life. When a person is operating in this window, they can effectively manage and cope with their emotions. What is the window of tolerance exactly? Before you can learn to be aware of and actually regulate your window of tolerance, you need to understand what the window of tolerance actually is. It's a concept named by renowned psychiatrist Dan Siegel. He defines the window of tolerance as the optimal zone of "arousal" for a person to function in everyday life. When a person is operating in this window, they can effectively manage and cope with their emotions.
- [Summer Camp Resources](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/02/27/summer-camp-resources/) - The kids with the most challenging behaviors and high levels of childhood trauma need camp the most. Research shows that developing healthy relationships with caring adults and time spent outdoors have the ability to heal the impact of childhood trauma. The kids with the most challenging behaviors and high levels of childhood trauma need camp the most. Research shows that developing healthy relationships with caring adults and time spent outdoors have the ability to heal the impact of childhood trauma.
- [Dear Director: The Summer Camp Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/02/27/dear-director-the-summer-camp-edition/) - Dear Director, Our 13-year-old daughter wants to go to our local camp this summer. I loved my time at summer camp when I was growing up but I didn't experience all the abuse and trauma that she did. I am worried that her past will interfere in her being able to actually participate in camp. She does well at school but gets support from the Emotional Support teachers. Please advise. Signed, Summer is Coming Dear Director, Our 13-year-old daughter wants to go to our local camp this summer. I loved my time at summer camp when I was growing up but I didn't experience all the abuse and trauma that she did. I am worried that her past will interfere with her being able to actually participate in camp. She does well at school but gets help from the Emotional Support teachers. Please advise. Signed, Summer is Coming
- [How to NOT Return Your Adopted Child](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/01/22/how-to-not-return-your-adopted-child/) - Parents do not like to admit it. All parents. Adoptive or biological. But sometimes our children trigger us so much that we imagine giving them away. This is normal human nature. We have all been there as parents. We do not like to even own this thought. And usually the thought passes. But what makes some adoptive families follow through upon this impulse and others not? What makes some families actually act on that invisible return label? Parents do not like to admit it. All parents. Adoptive or biological. But sometimes our children trigger us so much that we imagine giving them away. This is normal human nature. We have all been there as parents. We do not like to even own this thought. And usually the thought passes. But what makes some adoptive families follow through upon this impulse and others not? What makes some families actually act on that invisible return label?
- [Examining the Forever in Adoption: The Invisible Return Label](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/01/22/examining-the-forever-in-adoption-the-invisible-return-label/) - Adoption is a beautiful coming together; a connection; a ritual of pure love. If you have been lucky enough to be a present at an adoption, you know what I am talking about. Gives you goosebumps. Causes tears of joy. Reaffirms one's belief in the goodness of humanity. An adoption is plain and simple, So why is it that adoption disruptions still occur? I see this in my work as do my fellow Post Permanency peers. Not a lot. But just enough. What makes it so some families stay together yet others cannot? My thought is that there is this an invisible return label on adopted children. Some parents see it and others do not. Some families act upon it and others just don't. Keep reading to learn more about this idea of the invisible return label stuck to the adopted child.
- [Dear Director: The Invisible Return Label Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2024/01/22/dear-director-the-invisible-return-label-edition/) - Dear Director, I feel like a failure as an adoptive parent. I adopted Jules when he was 3. He is 15 now. For the past 4 years he has been in 3 different Residential Treatment Centers. Whenever he gets back home, all the old patterns of explosions, stealing, and utter chaos eventually continue. This time, his team is suggesting a different kind of placement where I remain his legal parent, yet he doesn't live with me. I just keep remembering when the judge said to me in all seriousness all those years ago at his adoption: "Do you understand that this boy is now your child with all the commitment and responsibilities as if he was your child by birth?" Jules doesn't want to live with me anymore and I recognize it just won't work. So why do I feel so bad? Signed, Weary and Sorrowful Dear Director, I feel like a failure as an adoptive parent. I adopted Jules when he was 3. He is 15 now. For the past 4 years he has been in 3 different Residential Treatment Centers. Whenever he gets back home, all the old patterns of explosions, stealing, and utter chaos eventually continue. This time, his team is suggesting a different kind of placement where I remain his legal parent, yet he doesn't live with me. I just keep remembering when the judge said to me in all seriousness all those years ago at his adoption: "Do you understand that this boy is now your child with all the commitment and responsibilities as if he was your child by birth?" Jules doesn't want to live with me anymore and I recognize it just won't work. So why do I feel so bad? Signed, Weary and Sorrowful
- [What is Equine Assisted Psychotherapy](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/12/21/what-is-equine-assisted-psychotherapy/) - Of course we all know about emotional support animals. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, or EAP, takes this to the next level. First of all, you need a horse. Then you need to be outside to engage all your senses and dive deep into the peace of the outdoors. Next, you need a trained Equine Assisted Psychotherapist. And of course a curious and willing client: your child perhaps?
- [Dear Director: The Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/12/21/dear-director-the-equine-assisted-psychotherapy-edition/) - Dear Director: Our adopted 8-year-old son goes from zero to one-hundred in a matter of seconds when he doesn't get his way. It is so hard for him to calm down. He can be upset for hours. Our Post Perm worker explained that his nervous system is always on high alert due to his past. She suggested we try Equine Assisted Psychotherapy to help him. I'm just having trouble understanding why he is still so reactive after living in our safe and loving home for the past 3 years. Signed, Troubled Dear Director: Our adopted 8-year-old son goes from zero to one-hundred in a matter of seconds when he doesn't get his way. It is so hard for him to calm down. He can be upset for hours. Our Post Perm worker explained that his nervous system is always on high alert due to his past. She suggested we try Equine Assisted Psychotherapy to help him. I'm just having trouble understanding why he is still so reactive after living in our safe and loving home for the past 3 years. Signed, Troubled
- [Lower Those Holiday Expectations](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/11/20/lower-those-holiday-expectations/) - You will save your family power struggles, meltdowns, and stress if you can just lower your family expectations. Then you can intentionally design your holiday celebrations that work best for your family. Nearly everyone can relate to the yearning for the perfect holidays that never turn out that way. The key to lowering your expectations is to include your children in a discussion of what you and they are expecting over the holidays. Call a family meeting and get everyone to write down their top 3 family events and/or traditions they they just can't live without. Once you have that list, see if there is anything you can let go of. Including your children in a discussion of their own holiday expectations and then choosing only the most important can create harmony over the holidays. You will save your family power struggles, meltdowns, and stress if you just lower your family expectations. Then you can intentionally design your holiday celebrations that work best for your family. Nearly everyone can relate to the yearning for the perfect holidays that never turn out that way. The key to lowering your expectations is to include your children in a discussion of what you and they are expecting over the holidays. Call a family meeting and get everyone to write down their top 3 family events and/or traditions they they just can't live without. Once you have that list, see if there is anything you can let go of. Including your children in a discussion of their own holiday expectations and then choosing only then prioritizing can create harmony over the holidays.
- [Why Holidays Are Tricky For Adopted Children](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/11/23/why-holidays-are-tricky-for-children-from-hard-places/) - Even if that first family was unhealthy, it doesn't matter. They never forget! Never underestimate the power the loss of the birth family has upon your children. Instead of ignoring or bypassing this fact, embrace it and help your child navigate through these hard feelings of previous broken family connections.
- [Now is the Time to Rise and Help our Afghan Refugees](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/12/15/afghan-resettlement-jfs-of-greater-harrisburg/) - JFS will be resettling between 25-50 refugees in our community in the coming weeks and we wanted to share information on the project and ways YOU can HELP to welcome our new neighbors.
- [What is Shame](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/10/26/what-is-shame/) - As Brené Brown says, shame is a negative experience for people yet it is an inevitable and necessary part of life. In fact, if handled healthily, shame can lead to personal growth and positive change as well as modesty, humility, and gratitude. Keep reading to learn more about this complicated and taboo word and how it impacts all of us. As Brené Brown says, shame is a negative experience for people yet it is an inevitable and necessary part of life. In fact, if handled healthily, shame can lead to personal growth and positive change as well as modesty, humility, and gratitude. Keep reading to learn more about this complicated and taboo word and how it impacts all of us.
- [Parenting That Shame](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/10/26/parenting-that-shame/) - #post_excerptOnce parents can acknowledge how shame shows up behind their children's icky behaviors, they can begin using a new parenting approach that is therapeutic and individualized. It's hard. It takes a ton of repetition. And time. And trust. And perseverance. Keep reading to learn real techniques to combat the negative effects of shame!
- [Shame and Your Adopted Child](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/10/26/shame-and-your-adopted-child/) - Shame is one of the 7 core issues of adoption. As I mentioned, I keep seeing all the ways that shame shows up in the adopted children I support. Shame is a complex issue that is quite nuanced and can hide in many forms. For the adopted child who comes from hard places, their shame can be toxic. This basically implies that the way they see themselves is twinned with shame. Let's spend some time examining how shame shows up. Because if you don't know what's truly behind undesirable behaviors, you can easily misunderstand the way that shame keeps rearing it's ugly head. Shame is one of the 7 core issues of adoption. As I mentioned, I keep seeing all the ways that shame shows up in the adopted children I support. Shame is a complex issue that is quite nuanced and can hide in many forms. For the adopted child who comes from hard places, their shame can be toxic. This basically implies that the way they see themselves is twinned with shame. Let's spend some time examining how shame shows up. Because if you don't know what's truly behind undesirable behaviors, you can easily misunderstand the way that shame keeps rearing it's ugly head.
- [Dear Director: The Shame Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/10/26/dear-director-the-shame-edition/) - Dear Director, Our 16-year-old adopted daughter keeps lying and withholding information from us. It's even like she is keeping secrets intentionally. She didn't even tell me she got invited to the prom. Frustrating, surprising, and we just don't know what to do. We belong to a Facebook group for adoptive parents, and someone mentioned that this is her way of coping with her shame. I just don't get what that means or what to do about it. Signed, Trying to Understand Shame Dear Director, Our 16-year-old adopted daughter keeps lying and withholding information from us. It's even like she is keeping secrets intentionally. She didn't even tell me she got invited to the prom. Frustrating, surprising, and we just don't know what to do. We belong to a Facebook group for adoptive parents, and someone mentioned that this is her way of coping with her shame. I just don't get what that means or what to do about it. Signed, Trying to Understand Shame
- [JFS To Lead Afghan Refugee Resettlement in Harrisburg](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/11/20/jfs-og-hbg-afghan-refugee-resettlement-in-harrisburg/) - Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg is pleased to announce that we have officially been approved by the US State Department as a temporary Afghan refugee resettlement site.
- [All Things Respite](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/09/27/all-things-respite/) - Respite funds are available to adoptive families to help strengthen your family. This can mean spending some time away from your children and refilling your emotional tank. It can look like you attending parenting trainings so you can improve those skills. Sometimes families use this funding to help their child build self-regulation skills through certain activities. The bottom line is that as adoptive parents, you are entitled to respite funding to keep your family close and connected. Respite funds are available to adoptive families to help strengthen your family. This can mean spending some time away from your children and refilling your emotional tank. It can look like you attending parenting trainings so you can improve those skills. Sometimes families use this funding to help their child build self-regulation skills through certain activities. The bottom line is that as adoptive parents, you are eligible for respite funding to keep your family close and connected.
- [Post Perm What?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/09/27/post-perm-what/) - You may be surprised to learn that there is a formal system designed to support you after you adopt your child, are a formal kinship placement, or become a child's permanent legal custodian. This system is called Post Permanency services: Post Perm for short. The goal is to strengthen and stand by all of you on your family's journey. One of the best things about Post Perm services is that it is individualized for your unique family. Tailored to you! And even better, Post Perm services are FREE, funded by the Office of Children, Youth, and Families. You may be surprised to learn that there is a formal system designed to support you after you adopt your child, are a formal kinship family, or become a child's permanent legal custodian. This system is called Post Permanency services: Post Perm for short. The goal is to strengthen and stand by all of you on your family's journey. One of the best things about Post Perm services is that it is individualized for your unique family. Tailored to you! And even better, Post Perm services are FREE, funded by the Office of Children, Youth, and Families.
- [Dear Director: The Post Perm Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/09/27/dear-director-the-post-perm-edition/) - Dear Director, We just had our adoption day for our 2 children, siblings, aged 6 and 9. We are so delighted and have no real concerns. Our Resource Family Coordinator suggested that we sign up for Post Perm services now that the adoptions are finalized. But we are tired of people in our home, juggling our calendars to find time for the prep worker of the CYS worker, etc. On the other hand, we want to offer our kids the best life moving forward. Is it Ok to wait for problems to arise before we seek out these Post Perm services? Signed, New Adoptive Parents
- [The Relationship Between Trauma and Food](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/08/28/the-relationship-between-trauma-and-food/) - As parents, it is our innate and primary role to provide proper nutrition for our children. We are hard wired to feed our offspring. If this very natural process is in any way disrupted, as parents, we are stricken and cannot help but take it personally. For it is our job to keep our children well fed. So when our children don't eat well, eat too much, fight us about healthy food choices, collect food in their rooms and other trauma responses, we, as parents are unnerved.
- [Real Life Strategies: Responsive Feeding Works](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/08/23/real-life-strategies-responsive-feeding-works/) - Learn easy to implement strategies to help your child eat better, to decrease those inevitable power struggles over food, and to eliminate food hoarding and other complex food related issues.
- ["Felt Safety" Now, Vegetables Later](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/08/28/felt-safety-now-vegetables-later/) - When "felt safety" is present, we can be connect to our bodies and feel if we are even hungry or full. Without this, if your child is constantly in a fight or flight mode, they are not able to feel any connection within their bodies, besides fear. Often these children, when placed in a safe home, will gorge on food as they may be worried there won't be any tomorrow, or perhaps they do not feel the full signals from their bodies. Bottom line is first you connect to your child, help them to regulate, then you can truly help them learn how to eat well. All children need to feel safe. It is necessary for growth and development. Yet, it is hard to imagine being a young child and living in a home and not being or feeling safe. Unfortunately children live this reality more then we want to imagine. Karen Purvis, one of the most influential thinkers about attachment and adoption, coined the term "felt safety." She discovered that if parents created a warm, trusting home, that children could thrive. Without this sense of deep security, children cannot flourish, learn, or grow, and basic functions are disrupted. The very basic function of eating is one factor impacted by growing up in a home with abuse and/or neglect: one that clearly does not include "felt safety."
- [Dear Director: The Food Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/08/28/dear-director-the-food-edition/) - Dear Director, We adopted our now 9-year-old daughter when she was 5-years-old. She came to us from a neglectful home with 2 parents who unfortunately were addicted to drugs. We have such compassion for her biological parents and a true understanding of the trauma she endured. That being said, her behavior with food is confusing Dear Director, We adopted our now 9-year-old daughter when she was 5-years-old. She came to us from a neglectful home with 2 parents who unfortunately were addicted to drugs. We have such compassion for her biological parents and a true understanding of the trauma she endured. That being said, her behavior with food is confusing to us. Our daughter eats so fast, eats too much, and then sneaks and hoards food whenever she can. We continually reassure her that we will always make sure she has enough food. We have been doing this for the past 4 years and nothing seems to stick. We recently had to lock up all the cabinets and even the refrigerator due to her continually sneaking more food. Can you help us? Very Truly Yours, Caring and Confused
- [Thank you!](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/06/08/thank-you/) - On behalf of Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, donors, and guests for making Resilience, Survival & Hope: Life Lessons from The Daughter of Auschwitz a tremendous success.Thank you to Tova Friedman, for sharing your profound experience as a child Holocaust survivor with 280 community members and
- [Staycation](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/05/30/staycation/) - You can connect with your family, unwind from the daily grind, and feel rejuvenated by embarking on a STAYCATION. All it takes is some real planning and then shifting your point of view. A staycation actually can be just as wonderful as a proper vacation if you present it to your family in the right way. So go ahead and plan a big reveal to your family for your upcoming summer staycation. The great thing about a staycation is that there are no rules. You can develop a customized and of course, exciting plan that suits your family's unique needs and tastes.
- [Summer Family Activities](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/05/30/summer-family-activities/) - Check out this list of local PA family trips to insert some fun into your summer.
- [Dear Director: The Summer Fun Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/05/30/dear-director-the-summer-fun-edition/) - Dear Director, Summer is fast approaching. I am having such ambivalence about it. My two elementary school children and my two middle school ones will soon be under my feet 24-7. Don't get me wrong, I adore my kids, but sometimes it just gets too much. Please advise. Yours, Ambivalent
- [CONSIDER The BRAIN Strategies](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/04/26/consider-the-brain-strategies/) - If you made it this far, you are ready to throw your old strategies to the curb. This CONSIDER the BRAIN business sounds promising. Let me tell you none of this will be easy. Throwing away your usual ways of doing things is never easy. Getting the school on board is daunting. Learning how to see your child differently will be tough. But the rewards are endless. For your child is walking around feeling misunderstood. They often feel like they are a failure because certain areas are just too hard for them no matter what they do. They may be feeling like they are unlovable as they just keep getting trouble over and over again. This new approach can help! Read on to begin your CONSIDER the BRAIN parenting journey.
- [FASD: CONSIDER the BRAIN Explained](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/04/26/fasd-consider-the-brain-explained/) - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders are invisible disabilities. The majority of those with FASD show no facial features at all. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is a range of physical, emotional and developmental delays that affects a person when they were exposed to alcohol during pregnancy. Even 1 drink during pregnancy can cause FASD. When a mother drinks alcohol during pregnancy, it is passed from her bloodstream directly to the fetus' umbilical cord. The bottom line is this exposure to alcohol in utero causes harmful brain changes so severe that we call this brain damage. Hence FASD truly a brain disability: in fact FASD is the most prevalent brain-based disorder in the world. Thus we need to CONSIDER the BRAIN.
- [Dear Director: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/04/26/dear-director-fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder-edition/) - Dear Director, I adopted my wonderful 9-year-old daughter, Emma, when she was 3-years-old. I knew her mother drank during her pregnancy and Emma now has a FASD diagnosis. Recently we were at an Easter Egg Hunt at my sister's home and my daughter got so overwhelmed by all the people and different activities, that she ran screaming out of the house. Later I overheard my mother talking to my sister and called Emma a naughty little brat. I tried, yet again, to explain to my mother that her brain basically shuts down in certain settings and she is literally unable to control herself. My mother just looked at me and said maybe you should give Emma some consequences then. A Very Frustrated Mom
- [Blocked Care: What's a Parent To Do?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/03/27/blocked-care-whats-a-parent-to-do/) - If you have made it this far, you realize that you may be stuck in blocked care or know someone who is. Let's explore how to get you unstuck and back to enjoying parenting again, having fun with your child, and moving out of that self-preservation/survival mode. Taking the time to learn about the concept of blocked care and admitting you are in it is a huge first step. So congratulations for your honesty and integrity for making it to this point. Keep reading for very specific ways to get unblocked!
- [What Exactly is Blocked Trust](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/03/27/what-exactly-is-blocked-trust/) - Blocked trust happens when a child experiences early complex trauma, neglect and abuse, and in turn develops a brain that is wired for survival and mistrust of others. Typically those who with blocked trust have a difficult time connecting with all caregivers. The concepts of both blocked trust and blocked care were developed by Daniel Hughes and Jonathon Baylin in their book Brain Based Parenting.
- [Examining Blocked Care](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/03/27/examining-blocked-care/) - When I hear him walk down the stairs, my hairs stand on edge preparing for our next battle. I find myself not even liking my son. I walk around feeling like such a failure as a parent. I've lost all hope.
- [Dear Director: Blocked Care Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/03/27/dear-director-blocked-care-edition/) - Dear Director, I am done! I don't care about being a good parent to my 14-year-old adopted daughter anymore. It's impossible anyway. I've lost all hope. I adopted my daughter when she was 5 and she never really let me close to her. Prickly Porcupine is her nickname. In the last couple of years, we end up battling over every single thing. She repeatedly tells me she hates me. I end up feeling like such a bad mom because now I even cringe when she comes into the house. In my adoption support group, they say I am stuck in blocked care. I had never heard of this before. Please help. Desperate and Hopeless
- [Is This Adoption Trauma or My Teen Just Being a Teen?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/02/24/is-this-adoption-trauma-or-my-teen-just-being-a-teen/) - The teen years are always tricky; often fraught with push and pulls between parents and child as natural separation occurs. Gain insight from JFS' Teen Whisperer on how to help your adopted teen. Learn how to navigate normal teen angst versus more consequential trauma related behaviors. If professional mental health support is needed, find out specifically what to look for in choosing the right practitioner for your teen.
- [Trauma Responses Contribute to Mental Health Issues](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/02/24/trauma-responses-lead-to-mental-health-issues/) - Children who come from hard places riddled with trauma are so easily misunderstood. Explore what is behind your adopted child's tough behaviors. Buy into the concept that these are just leftover adaptive responses from before they came to you. True, our kids will get labeled with some form of mental health diagnoses or another. Trauma creates real changes in the brain which creates real symptoms. It remains our job to stand by our children through their struggles, teach and model healthier coping strategies, help them accept their mental health struggles, and learn to be proud of all their healing.
- [Labels: Shame, and Fear: Destigmatizing the Stigma in Mental Illness](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/02/24/destigmatizing-the-stigma-in-mental-illness/) - What comes to mind when you think of these three words: LABELING, SHAMING, AND FEAR? I would wager that we all know someone who suffers from mental illness, if not ourselves. Overcoming the stigma that society has placed on mental illness is an uphill battle. Continue reading to learn ways you can help your child if they are struggling with their mental health. After all, breaking down the stigma means accepting that mental health challenges are real and then working as a team to gather support for your struggling child.
- [Dear Director: Mental Health & The Adopted Child](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/02/25/dear-director-mental-health-the-adopted-child/) - Dear Director, We learned in our foster care training that kids who experienced early trauma may develop mental health issues later on in life. And sure enough it is happening to our 12-year-old adopted son, who is struggling at home and school with tantrums and nightmares. We just received the results from his Psychological Evaluation, and he has been labeled with Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. We are shocked, and really don't know how to understand these labels. We are also afraid they will follow him as he goes through adolescence and may change how other people see him. We love our son and fear for his future with these mental health disorders, help us understand. Sincerely, Worried Sick
- [An Unexpected Journey: The Story of Afghan Refugee, Hadiya](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/02/24/an-unexpected-journey-the-story-of-afghan-refugee-hadiya/) - My name is Hadiya Amini, and I was raised in a large family that included my grandmother, my uncle's family, my father, my mother, and my older sister in Wardak, Afghanistan. We moved to Kabul because there was no girls school in Wardak, and my father and uncle decided that we should be educated. After
- [Dear Director: The 10-Second Child in the 1-Second World Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/01/25/dear-director-the-10-second-child-in-the-1-second-world-edition/) - Dear Director, My 7-year-old adopted daughter and I fight every time it is time to go anywhere. She takes so long to get and be ready to go that it feels like she is stalling on purpose. My Post Perm worker told me she is a 10-second child in a 1-second world and needs more time to process information. I'm having trouble buying into this idea. After all, my daughter is 7 and very smart and capable. Please share your wisdom. Signed, Doubtful
- [A New Perspective](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/01/25/a-new-perspective/) - What a gift it is to figure out that all your child needs is more time. More time to think, to listen, to process, to answer, to respond. Tension at home and problems at school can dramatically decrease with this simple adaptation. It is you; the parent, the teacher, the adult who needs to change. Adapt a new paradigm. Change how you understand your child.. Change your expectations. Change how you communicate. Change your total perspective. If your child is that 10-second child in this 1-second world, your entire lens must shift! Now keep reading for specific adaptations that match this new perspective.
- [Easily Misunderstood: Easily Labeled](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/01/25/easily-misunderstood-easily-labeled/) - "If understood word being you that you angry to that understand up just down you a even don't parents frustrated not directions answering your give grades what going." This is what a person with a slower processing speed may hear when you talk to them: EVERY 3rd word. Now read that again without the missing words: "If you only understood every 3rd word that was being spoken to you, what would that look like? You may seem angry and defiant to cover up that you cannot understand and keep up. Perhaps you just plain shut down? Or maybe you say "yes" a lot or even better, "I don't know." Your parents would be frustrated with you for not following their directions or properly answering your questions. Your teachers would give you poor grades and question what is actually going on."
- [10-Second Child in a 1-Second World](https://jfsofhbg.org/2023/01/25/10-second-child-in-a-1-second-world/) - Being a **10-second child in a 1-second world simply means that the child has a slower processing speed. The concept implies an expectations mismatch between the adult speaker and the child. Our cultural assumption is that children are supposed to "process" information immediately and respond accordingly. But the 10 second child needs way more time! This idea can be applied to all differently-wired brains. If you've read the other Post Perm Newsletters, you are well aware that your adopted child most likely experienced trauma that changed their brain. These changes include processing speed. Keep reading to learn how your child may actually be one of those 10-second children in a 1-second world.
- [Advocacy Resources](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/12/28/advocacy-resources/) - The key to being the best advocate for your child is who you know, what you know, how much you know, who you can lean on, where you go for expert information, who you can ask, what you have access to, and then again who you know! Keep reading about ways to connect with all these who, what,where's so you can have resources upon resources to help you speak up for your beloved children.
- [How To Be Your Child's Best Advocate](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/12/27/how-to-be-your-childs-best-advocate/) - Advocacy is an art. How you approach conflicts, situations, and people makes a huge difference on how things work out. Advocacy demands that you are calm, intentional, and collaborative in every situation. You get more bees with honey is a saying worth remembering when advocating. In other words, no matter what, always be kind. How you make your child feel, their teacher, that doctor, their friends will dictate how well you are doing your job as an advocate. Being respectful and reasonable always works to make others feel good.
- [The Lorax](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/12/27/the-lorax-advocacy-barriers/) - I grew up kind of obsessed with the book The Lorax. This certainly served me well as it was the foundation from where I parented my special needs child. When you think of the word advocacy, you may think of legal and political issues. But I urge you instead to think about advocacy in term of the Lorax. As parents, we are our children's voices. Even in the most uncomfortable situations, we must put on the Lorax role, and speak up for our children.
- [Dear Director: The Advocacy Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/12/27/dear-director-the-advocacy-edition/) - Dear Director, Our 12-year-old adopted son has been acting out of it and spacey. This is the time of year when he was removed from his birth family. Out of the blue, at school yesterday, he ran out of the classroom and didn't respond to his name. He ended up in the school parking lot talking nonsense. By the time I arrived at school, he was pretty much back to normal but didn't recall what had happened. We had a scheduled appointment with his Psychiatrist the very next day. She was quite dismissive of this episode and the changes we had been noticing in our son. How can I get my son's Psychiatrist to listen to me? I heard this may be a trauma response, something called dissociation. I know my son best and the doctor should take my observations along with the school incident more seriously. Signed, Frustrated
- [Childhood Lead Poisoning](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/11/16/childhood-lead-poisoning/) - Learn all about Childhood Lead Poisoning from JFS's own Joe Studivant. Joe became an expert on this subject when his daughter contracted lead poisoning as a toddler. Read on to learn the valuable lessons Joe reveals.
- [DAPIM: An Effective Problem Solving Model for Tough Issues](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/11/16/dapim-an-effective-problem-solving-model-for-tough-issues/) - There is a step-by-step process to identify an agreed upon goal and provides a roadmap to create the steps to reach the desired outcome. This technique is called the DAPIM™ process: Define – Assess – Plan – Implement – Monitor.
- [Debunking Those Trauma Myths](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/11/16/debunking-those-trauma-myths/) - Trauma is a tricky concept. Susceptible to untruths or myths. Children who have been adopted all come from a place of trauma. How to parent these children is key to your whole family's overall well-being. Learn how your own misconceptions of trauma may be holding you back and impeding your children's overall development.
- [The Holidays are HERE: Come Prepared to Survive and Thrive](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/11/16/the-holidays-are-here-come-prepared-to-survive-and-thrive/) - It’s the time of the year where large holiday gatherings abound. For families parenting children with a trauma history, these gatherings can be stressful for both youth and adults. Here are five tips to help your family navigate turkey, gifts, and extended family successfully.
- [Building Healthy Sibling Relationships](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/11/16/building-healthy-sibling-relationships/) - As parents, it is normal to struggle inside when your children fight with each other. Fighting amongst siblings is normal; part of learning conflict resolution. Our Resource Family Coordinator spreads her wisdom in this piece about how to nurture healthy sibling relationships. She shares not only her professional expertise but her personal experience with her own brother.
- [10 Ways to Help Children in Foster Care](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/11/09/10-ways-to-help-children-in-foster-care/) - By Heidi Storey, Resource Family Coordinator Call me an optimist, but I firmly believe this to be true: people care about youth in foster care and want to help, even if they don’t feel they can welcome a child into their home. While the need for additional resource homes for youth is always acute (there
- [JFS Holds Successful Adoption and Foster Care Picnic](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/09/26/jfs-holds-successful-adoption-and-foster-care-picnic/) - By Rachel Kuhr, Jewish Family Service director of adoption and foster care services We were thrilled to hold our annual Jewish Family Service Adoption and Foster Care Picnic in person recently. Because of COVID-19, it was the first one we have been able to plan in three years. JFS staff joined with several families at
- [What is Special Education?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/10/24/what-is-special-education/) - It all starts with IDEA: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Basically IDEA makes sure that all children with disabilities have available to them a free appropriate public education that emphasizes special education and related services designed to meet their unique needs and prepare them for further education, employment, and independent living. Now that's a mouthful. Keep reading so you can help your child get what they need and deserve in school.
- [Educational Accommodations](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/10/24/educational-accommodations/) - Within your child's IEP or 504 plan, there will be a section listing very specific educational, behavioral, academic, and sensory strategies for your child. These are called accommodations, modifications, services, and specially designed instructions. Read on so you have a good understanding of which of these particular accommodations may best serve your student. Feel free to borrow and use any of the following list of strategies!
- [IEP or 504 Plan?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/10/24/iep-or-504-plan/) - Once your student qualifies for special education services in their public school, they gain a written plan that follows them through their schooling. This document is either an IEP, which stands for an Individualized Education Plan ,or a 504 Plan. Keep reading to learn about each of these wonderful ways to support your child in school.
- [Dear Director: The Special Education Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/10/25/dear-director-the-special-education-edition/) - We adopted a sibling group of 3 from foster care and they each came with an IEP. I heard that you only have an IEP if you have a disability. My kids don't look disabled. I mean, I know about their trauma background and all, but they can read and they can see and all that. But now I am worried and it's all so daunting.
- [Dear Director: The Value of Connecting to Other Adoptive Families](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/09/21/dear-director-the-value-of-connecting-to-other-adoptive-families/) - Dear Director: I was at back-to-school last night at my adopted daughter’s school. Boy, did I feel alienated and out of place. The other moms were all worried about picture day and being able to access their child’s grades. I am just happy when my 11-year-old daughter gets to the bus on time and has a day with no major behavioral incidents. I see now what everyone has been saying about the value of knowing other adoptive families. But I know none. I just don’t even know where to start meeting and connecting with other similar families. Please Help!
- [We Are Social Creatures](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/09/21/we-are-social-creatures/) - In today's modern society, it is so easy to forget that we are truly social creatures who need each other. We are hardwired to depend on others to survive. As busy as our world is, it's helpful to be reminded of the value in having meaningful connections with others outside of one's immediate family. It takes work to develop and maintain these connections to others. Adoptive families especially can benefit from knowing others who are in the same boat as them. Learn why sharing your unique lives with others in similar circumstances creates healthier, happier families.
- [How Do I Do I Even Meet Other Adoptive Families?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/09/21/but-how-do-i-do-i-even-meet-other-adoptive-families/) - If you have made it this far in the Newsletter... ...then something has resonated with you about needing and wanting to connect with other adoptive families. Although it may seem overwhelming to find a way to find such families, read on for various ways to connect virtually and in-person. The benefits of knowing other adoptive families are innumerable and far outweigh the efforts and fear of making yourself vulnerable.
- [How to Parent With This New Lens](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/08/29/how-to-parent-with-this-new-lens/) - Welcome to your new parenting lens: Now you know that your child is not malicious, bad, manipulative, and non-compliant when they show you their worst behaviors. Congratulations on considering this different point of view. The next step is to further dissect what is underneath these behaviors. Read on for more ideas of what may be triggering and contributing to your child exhibiting their worst self. Just understanding the why of behaviors can help you help them to improve. Compassionately appreciating what is behind the behavior can change how you react. And of course, you will need some new parenting strategies to match this new lens. Explore concrete parenting techniques you can use to help your child heal, learn to regulate, and grow! There may even be some advice about caring for your own mental and physical health tucked into then end. Keep reading...
- [Decoding Those Behaviors: What is Your Child Telling You](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/08/29/decoding-those-behaviors-what-is-your-child-telling-you/) - When a child has undesirable behaviors, there are a variety of ways to view that behavior. An "old-fashioned" view sees the child as being intentionally oppositional. A more reliable and helpful way to view their behavior instead is based on the idea that your child is dealing with a host of invisible factors resulting in such. Keep reading to identify some likely invisible sources that may cause such bad behaviors. Then you will start to see them as actual real responses within the child's body and brain and coping mechanisms leftover from their trauma.
- [Dear Director: Behavior=Clues Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/08/29/dear-director-behaviorclues-edition/) - Dear Director, We recently adopted 2 siblings, ages 7 and 9. They certainly had a rough upbringing, both emotionally and sexually abused. We are so thrilled to become their parents and to give them a wonderful life. Problem is we had to start working with a team of counselors as the 9-year-old is just terrible and unmanageable. She hates being told what to do and will have meltdowns if she doesn't get her way that can last all day. Additionally, she seems to freak out at the strangest times with no apparent reason. Our therapist says to look behind her behaviors; that her behaviors are a form of communication. We just don't believe that. She just seems manipulative, ungrateful, and controlling. Signed, doubtful about all this mumbo-jumbo about behaviors as clues
- [What is Your Child's Developmental Age: Impact on Meltdowns](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/07/25/what-is-your-childs-developmental-age-impact-on-meltdowns/) - Research now tell us that when a child experiences early and prolonged trauma, other parts of development are affected. Makes sense? If you are constantly on high alert for real danger in your home, you will have trouble paying attention. What about if you frequently go to bed hungry? Or what if you don't even have a stable place to live? Learning new things becomes a challenge. Social skills are not important to your brain as you are just trying to stay safe, fed, or housed. If you are 13 years old, people come to expect age-appropriate things from you: your parents, your teachers, and even your friends. If inside that 13-year-old body, certain areas about you are really only at an 8-year-old level, there will be a mismatch. You will get frustrated due to expectations that are too high. And because you are already stressed, a meltdown soon follows.
- [Co-Regulation Leads to Self-Regulation](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/07/25/co-regulation-leads-to-self-regulation/) - A typical infant and her mother play a game called serve and return. Learn why when this crucial games is missed, a whole host of problems arise. That infant never learned how to self-soothe or self-regulate. In other words, she goes straight to a meltdown when she is stressed or frustrated.
- [Dear Director: The Meltdown Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/07/25/dear-director-the-meltdown-edition/) - The wise director explains why some children never learned how to self-regulate due to trauma and neglect. She explains how to teach them this skill through co-regulation!
- [Trauma from Riverfront Park Fourth of July shooting scare is real](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/07/13/trauma-from-riverfront-park-fourth-of-july-shooting-scare-is-real/) - Originally published on Pennlive By Kay Broderick Thousands of people were at Riverfront Park in Harrisburg on July 4, celebrating the holiday and waiting for the traditional fireworks display. Then panic struck. People heard a shout of “gun!” That was followed by what sounded like gun shots causing terror and people to run. In the
- [Dear Director: The Podcast Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/06/21/dear-director-the-podcast-edition/) - It was my father who told me that if you are not learning, then you are preparing to die. He was a voracious reader, crossword-puzzle doer, lecture attender, conversationalist, and life-long learner. He seemed to know something about everything, except the trivia that was my mother’s job. They lived their life astounded by the new things that happened in their time on earth. You should too. You never know when the thing you really need was just figured out and someone is ready to teach you about it.
- [JFS Celebrates 50 Years of Kosher Meals on Wheels & Expanded Food Pantry](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/06/16/jfs-celebrates-50-years-of-kosher-meals-on-wheels-expanded-food-pantry/) - Click here for the full gallery of photos from the event! On a mild Spring evening last week, 225 community members were held spellbound by Chef Michael Solomonov candid, humorous and humble reflections on the role of Israel in his life, the future of Israeli cuisine and how he came to grips with his
- [Good Day PA: Jewish Family Service Celebrating 50 Years of Meals on Wheels](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/06/03/good-day-pa-jewish-family-service-celebrating-50-years-of-meals-on-wheels/) - June 2, 2022“Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg is celebrating 50 years of their Kosher Meals on Wheels Program that delivers fresh nutritious meals to seniors in Central PA. In addition they’ve expanded their food pantry, ensuring folks in need have a place to go for food. Learn more about their work and an upcoming
- [Who Are Those Hard-To-Parent Children?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/05/23/who-are-those-hard-to-parent-children/) - Parenting is hard work. Parenting children who experienced early complex trauma is even more difficult. By understanding that parent-child interaction is the first step to building trust and attachment that inevitably will make your parenting journey more full of ease and even joy!
- [Dear Director: The Hard-To-Parent Child Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/05/24/dear-director-the-hard-to-parent-child-edition/) - Do you remember Spirographs? They are still out there, those silly cogs with the pen holes so you can make designs? I loved mine as a kid. I loved the shapes and colors and the designs. But mostly I loved how little change it took to get a whole new pattern. Just one cog tooth over and voila! Difference! So apply that same approach to parenting your daughter Violet when what you are doing is not working. Change how you respond, and she will change too, and pretty soon, voila! New pattern.
- [A New Parenting Toolkit](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/05/23/a-new-parenting-toolkit/) - If you gathered 5 parents in a room who all adopted children who experienced complex early trauma, they would each share almost identical challenging scenarios about their children. Tantrums are the most common issue, but not far behind are clingy children, and as these children grow, lying becomes the largest concern. The problem is traditional parenting does not work for these kids. As much as you may want to use time-out and punishment to teach your children, you will only alienate them more. These kids have a brain that is different than your neuro-typical ones. Read on for ideas on how to build a new parenting toolkit to encourage a peaceful home and to form a healing connection with your "hard-to-parent" child.
- [Why Self-Care is MORE Necessary for Adoptive Parents](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/04/26/why-self-care-is-more-necessary-for-adoptive-parents/) - Parenting is hard. No matter what, who, where, or when; it is the toughest job you will ever have. All children demand everything from us: they need to be cared for on every single dimension. Being a parent is a huge undertaking! Parenting adopted children can be even more challenging. Typically adopted children come from hard places and bring baggage along with them. Even more reason to ensure that you make time for self-care every day!
- [Dear Director: The Oxygen Mask Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/04/26/dear-director-the-oxygen-mask-edition/) - Dear Director, What's the big deal about self-care for adoptive parents. I cannot see the connection. Besides, I don't have time or money! Please shed light oh wise director Yours truly, tired and confused
- [What Self-Care Looks Like](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/04/26/what-self-care-looks-like/) - What does realistic and sustainable self-care really look like? Explore this idea with thought provoking and simple solutions to help you build a self-care regimen into your daily life.
- ["I Gotchu Son"](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/04/10/i-gotchu-son/) - JFS 'Adoption and Foster Care Program is thriving. We work with foster families, pre-adoptive families, children in the child welfare system, and adoptive families. Below is an inspiring story about one success story.
- [Update From JFS Executive Director 3.27.22](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/03/30/update-from-jfs-executive-director-3-27-22/) - March 27, 2022How To Help Jews in UkraineSteve Schauder, Executive Director, Jewish Family ServiceLike you, I have been captivated by the horrific images emerging from the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Families fleeing for their lives with only one bulging suitcase while innocent civilians are killed in the streets is almost too painful to watch. Watching
- [Examining Attachment](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/03/28/examining-attachment/) - How we connect with others is key to our mental health. Depending on our past experience, we all have a specific type of attachment style. What's key for all adopted children is that they were separated from their biological parent/s. This bond WAS disrupted. No matter how wonderful you are as a parent, this turmoil always impacts your children's everyday lives, behaviors, sense of self, ability to manage hard things, to name a few. As adopted parents, we must understand the interaction of early attachment to present day to become the best parent we can possibly be.
- [So Your Child Has Been Diagnosed with Reactive Attachment Disorder?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/03/28/rad-treatment-hope/) - Disorder or RAD is one end of the spectrum. Try not to get bogged down with hopelessness by this frightening diagnosis. Put your compassion hat on and learn more about how to live with and help your child to heal with RAD.
- [Dear Director: The Attachment Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/03/28/dear-director-the-attachment-edition/) - Parenting kids with trauma is tough. You took an oath when you adopted your child that you would parent him forever. Learn about options that can help when you are feeling defeated in your parenting journey.
- [Project Lift/Back On Track Annual Report: 2021](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/03/28/project-lift-back-on-track-annual-report-2021/) - Since 2017, through the generosity of our donors, Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg supported some of the most vulnerable members of our community through our Back on Track Initiative and Project Lift. Back on Track offers emergency financial support to individuals and families who run the risk of “falling through the cracks,” due to short term financial problems. These emergency problems can often be eliminated by a “lift” in the form of a minimal one-time offer of financial support.Project Lift connects individuals and families with JFS services as well as with those provided by other social service organizations. These services can benefit those who may already be in the JFS system as mental health therapy clients but could also benefit from a “lift” of additional social services
- [Ukraine Crisis: Message from our Director](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/03/21/ukraine-crisis-message-from-our-director/) - As the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, Steve Schauder, our Executive Director, shares his wisdom and concrete ways you can help. He answers community member's questions about the Ukrainian refugee crises and the role JFS can play in such.
- [Update From JFS Executive Director 2.21.22](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/02/23/update-from-jfs-executive-director/) - February 21, 2022 At a recent JFS Board meeting, I reminded our Board of Directors that JFS is doing so much more than just Afghan refugee resettlement. We helped facilitate four adoptions last week, including the adoption of three siblings from Texas who arrived in Central PA a few months ago. We are increasing our
- [Why Summer Camp?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/02/22/why-summer-camp/) - As Covid continues, it becomes more and more crucial to attend to our children's mental health. All the uncertainties and unknowns have burdened all of us over the past 2 years. Planning a summer full of fun, healing, structure, and with peers and activities that your child prefers is the perfect antidote.
- [Dear Director](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/02/22/how-to-help-your-child-be-successful-in-summer-camp/) - We are signing our 7-year-old son up for Summer Camp at our local YMCA. This will be his first time attending any camp at all. He is excited to go but we are nervous. Our question is how we do talk to the YMCA Camp staff, so they make the right accommodations for him to be successful this summer? We adopted our son at birth and know he was exposed to opioids in utero and has since suffered some negative effects. He gets mad so easily. Meltdowns are his norm. He does great at school as he is part of an Emotional Support Classroom, and they work wonders with him. Looking forward to your wisdom. Very truly yours, Nervous Parents
- [JFS Launches Virtual Grief Support Group](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/02/21/jfs-launches-virtual-grief-support-group/) - With so many community members having experienced losses over the past 2 years, JFS leans into this trend to offer an online Grief Support Group. A member of the community suggested this was a missing resource and JFS rose to the occasion. The grief group is designed for anyone who has lost a significant loved one recently.
- [Update From JFS Executive Director](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/01/30/update-january-27/) - January 27, 2022Though Afghan refugee resettlement is the priority of JFS at the moment, we are still providing vital services across each department. We continue to connect children to their forever families through our Adoption, Foster Care and Post-Permanency program, we are fielding calls each day from community members struggling to make ends meet and
- [Understanding Levels of Mental Health Care for Your Child](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/01/24/understanding-levels-of-mental-health-care-for-your-child/) - As parents, untangling all the different mental health options available and appropriate for your child is challenging to say the least. The available levels of care build upon each other and when one option has failed to help, your child moves onto the next. Each level of care becomes increasingly demanding, involved, and intense. Let's break this concept down.
- [Understanding all Those Mental Health Acronyms](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/01/24/understanding-all-those-mental-health-acronyms/) - It's daunting enough to look for services for your child who may have a mental health concern. Figuring out what all those mental health acronyms mean will alienate the bravest among us. Read on for a quick guide!
- [Dear Director](https://jfsofhbg.org/2022/01/24/dear-director-family-based-services/) - What is Family Based Services and how is different than other mental health programs. JFS' own Francina Fantauzzo eloquently explains why Family Based Services may be just what you need.
- [Mensch: A Person of Integrity and Honor: The Brenner Family Legacy](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/12/15/mensch-a-person-of-integrity-and-honor-the-brenner-family-legacy/) - It was not surprising that Sam, raised with this legacy of philanthropy, automatically knew what he was going to do with the 4 tickets to the Philadelphia Flyers game that he won at a corporate meeting. He immediately texted his friend Steve Schauder, Executive Director of Jewish Family Service Of Greater Harrisburg, and asked if he had a family to donate the tickets to. With great power comes great responsibility.
- [Holiday Expectations: A Recipe for Disaster](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/11/23/holiday-expectations-a-recipe-for-disaster/) - There's only one thing you must do with those pesky expectations: LOWER THEM! You will save your family power struggles, ugly meltdowns, and stress. Once you've changed what you expect over the Holiday Season, you can intentionally design the type of holiday celebrations that work best for your lovely family.
- [Dear Director: The Holiday Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/11/23/adopted-children-holiday-season/) - We adopted a sibling group of four, 2 years ago, all between the ages of six and twelve. Last Christmas, our first holiday with the kids, we went all out and got each of the kids exactly what they wanted. With 4 children, you can only imagine how many presents were under the tree. Our ten-year-old son destroyed all the toys we bought him. We are still perplexed by this as he specifically asked for those exact toys. We have heard the holidays can be challenging for adopted children. Can you advise us how to manage this year as Christmas is fast approaching? ~Perplexed
- [JFS Teams with Silver Academy To Provide Social-Emotional Learning](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/11/20/jfs-teams-with-silver-academy-to-provide-social-emotional-learning/) - As children return to in-person school, priority is placed on socio-emotional learning and support. Navigating the emotional health of our children is a priority for schools across America. The Silver Academy is no different. JFS has partnered with the Silver Academy to provide this meaningful and much needed service.
- [Dear Director: Resiliency](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/10/26/dear-director-resiliency/) - We don't get it. We adopted our 11-year-old identical twin daughters when they were 18 months old. We know they were exposed to the same trauma due to severe neglect. We see one struggling with trauma related issues so much more than the other. She always seems to need to be in control, gets easily upset, has difficulty sleeping, and has just started stealing from us. We have heard that some children can be more resilient than others. It's hard to understand though since they are identical twins. How can we help our struggling twin to become more resilient, like her sister?
- [Strategies to Build Resilience](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/10/21/building-resilience-parenting-strategies/) - Resiliency can be taught. No matter how much trauma your children experienced, as parents, you have the power to teach your kids how to build resilience. Additionally you can teach them concrete skills and strategies to help them thrive in their life's journey.
- [Ordinary Magic: The Power of Resilience](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/10/21/power-of-resilience/) - Resiliency is the ability to bounce back after hard things: failure, trauma, adversity, or any challenge. It is the process of managing different types of stress and then recovering.
- [Honoring Barry Stein: Important Life Lessons & a “Mystery Guest”](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/10/21/jfs-honoring-barry-stein/) - One of the highlights of the JFS event honoring Barry Stein on Sunday, October 10th was when the exceptionally talented interviewer, Michael Greenwald, told Barry that JFS had arranged a special message from his brother, Reuben. Reuben resides in Canada and was not able to visit his brother throughout Barry’s life-threatening battle with Covid-19. Expecting a laptop to be brought out, Barry’s eyes lit up when Reuben emerged from around a corner to hug the brother he had not been able to see in person for close to two years. But that was not the only highlight of the night. While we all learned about Barry’s accomplishments throughout his career, the real focus on the event was on the journey he went through overcoming Covid.
- [2021 State of the Agency: "Lives touched & Lives Transformed"](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/10/21/2021-state-of-the-agency-lives-touched-lives-transformed/) - Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg is pleased to report that it continues to meet the challenges presented by COVID-19 head on, and through the support of our many donors and volunteers, and the dedicated efforts of our board and staff, we have increased our services to the community over the past year. With the current mental health stresses touching all of our lives and with so many families facing financial uncertainty caused by the ongoing pandemic, JFS has been at the forefront of transforming the lives of individuals and families in the Greater Harrisburg area and helping everyone reach their full potential and achieve health, wholeness and stability.
- [“His Work is Not Done:” JFS to Honor Barry Stein and His Journey to Recovery from COVID-19](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/09/23/honoring-barry-stein/) - JFS is honoring Barry Stein on Sunday, October 10, 2021 at a free Zoom event where Barry will share the story of his journey to recovery after contracting COVID-19 in 2020.
- [Building the Bonds of Attachment by Daniel Hughes](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/09/28/building-the-bonds-of-attachment-by-daniel-hughes/) - Rachel Kuhr,the Director of Adoption and Foster Care at JFS, reviews Building The Bonds of Attachment. This is the formative and foundational text for adopted families regarding attachment. Rachel's regularly scheduled Dear Director column will return next month.
- [A Terrible Thing Happened: A Book for Children Who Have Experienced Trauma](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/09/27/childrens-book-trauma-library/) - Books can help children cope with tough experiences, their hard feelings, and help with your connection to them. A Terrible Thing Happened provides an easy to relate to character who lives through trauma. This book will be a welcome tool for families to help their children heal.
- [Not Exactly As Planned: A Memoir of Adoption, Secrets and Abiding Love](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/09/27/not-exactly-as-planned-a-memoir-of-adoption-secrets-and-abiding-love/) - Not Exactly As Planned, is a masterpiece about adoption, FASD, parenting, and many related and nuanced themes. It is a must read for any parent who is raising an adopted child, one with FASD, or really any struggles.
- [Healing Children From Hard Places](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/09/27/healing-children-from-hard-places/) - Learn how to heal children from hard places, based on the techniques from the book The Connected Parent. Parental connection can heal all wounds.
- [Financial Assistance at JFS](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/09/23/financial-assistance/) - Project Lift provides Financial Assistance to community members in need at the Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg.
- [Tribute List](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/09/23/tribute-donate-jfs/) - We are grateful to the following individuals and families who made contributions to JFS' Tribute Fund from January 2020 through August 2021.
- [Let’s Play Ball—Why JFS is Sponsoring Team Israel’s Visit to Harrisburg](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/06/29/lets-play-ball-why-jfs-is-sponsoring-team-israels-visit-to-harrisburg/) - The event, titled “Striking Out COVID: A Family Celebration,” will take place on Friday, July 16, 2021 at 10:00 am at FNB Field. JFS will use this event to celebrate those first responders who put the needs of others above their own during the Covid crisis and we wanted to let more people know about the important work that JFS did during the Covid crisis and on a day-to-day basis.
- [Jewish in America](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/07/27/jewish-in-america/) - The city: Rogers, Arkansas. Ever heard of it? I can’t say I would have been able to even tell you where Arkansas was on a map in 2009! (Rogers/Bentonville is in Northwest Arkansas – the home of Walmart.) The People: The Sherr family. We had to relocate temporarily due to my husband’s job. The Scene: Me panicking about leaving our friends, family, and Jewish community to live in the proverbial “Bible Belt.”
- [I Am the Daughter of a Holocaust Survivor](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/01/22/i-am-the-daughter-of-a-holocaust-survivor/) - JFS' Bryna Sherr shares thoughts and experiences as the daughter of a Holocaust Survivor.
- [Adolescent Development](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/01/20/adolescent-development/) - Understanding normal teen development is key to being the best parent you can be. Without this foundation, parents can go astray, lose perspective, and disrupt their connection to their teenagers. Adolescents must figure out who they are. This is the largest developmental task to complete to successfully get them to adulthood. The only way to
- [Dear Director](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/01/25/dear-director/) - Dear Director, My 15-year old is always lying to me, I cannot trust a word that comes out of her mouth. She says she has no homework when she does. She says she is at her friend’s house when they were seen by my mother in town eating pizza. She says he’s not her boyfriend
- [Why Adoption Informed Therapy?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/02/17/why-adoption-informed-therapy/) - If you are reading this, then you realize how crucial therapy is for a family with adopted children. WHY is that? Because all adopted children have experienced a unique set of circumstances with inter-connected harmful consequences: loss, grief, and trauma. The first is the loss of their original family. Next, comes grief. Grief, the feeling
- [Dear Director](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/02/17/dear-director-2/) - Dear Director,
- [How to Interview That Adoption Informed Professional?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/02/17/how-to-interview-that-adoption-informed-professional/) - Use this to guide you in finding the right adoption informed therapist. Included are questions to ask a potential counselor. This "preliminary vetting," so to speak, is crucial, worth it, and can make all the difference in your family's healing. What is your degree and and in what field? Acceptable areas include psychology, social work,
- [The Challenge of Screen-Time](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/05/25/the-challenge-of-screen-time/) - During Coronavirus, screens became our lifeline to the outer world: school, work, friends, and family. Now it is time to renegotiate or reset your children's relationships with their devices. A daunting task. But it can be accomplished with creativity, compromise, and collaboration.
- [Demystifying Oppositional Defiant Disorder?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/06/03/demystifying-oppositional-defiant-disorder/) - In an effort to help parents understand their differently wired kids, we are going to tackle common labels these kids earn. By examining their meanings, we learn strategies to support such kids. Today we start with Oppositional Defiant Disorder
- [Schedule, Schedule, Schedule](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/05/25/schedule-schedule-schedule/) - Summer is upon us. The Pandemic is sort of resolved. More things are open then last summer. Summer camp is a possibility. A real family vacation becomes an option. Our kids are ready for a break! How do you manage creating the summer you and your children need after the last "Covid informed" 15 months? The answer is one word: Schedule. Create a schedule with your child that you can utilize the whole summer long which sets clear expectations, boundaries, rules, and ultimately allows for fun and rejuvenation.
- [There is Hope](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/06/28/there-is-hope/) - If your child has been diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Dr. Ross Greene must be your guru. He is the author of The Explosive Child. Isn't the word defiant already 100 times better then the word oppositional? That is just a glimpse at his magic. Even if your chid doesn't carry an ODD diagnoses, I urge you to purchase, read, and then practice his program outlined in his book. Greene's website, Lives in Balance, will also guide you on your parenting journey whether your child is ornery, grumpy, non-compliant, angry, argumentative, prickly, hard to get along with, or even has an ODD diagnoses. And no, I do not know Dr. Greene, and he didn't pay me to write this.
- [Dear Director: The ODD Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/06/28/dear-director-the-odd-edition/) - We adopted our 8-year-old son when he was 2, knowing he had a rough past full of neglect. But we never could have imagined he would be so hard to get along with and even more difficult to parent. He is our 4th son so we are seasoned parents but nothing we do seems to work. He fights both me and his dad on every request we make of him. Almost worse then that, he is constantly bickering with, picking fights with, and all out annoying his 3 brothers. He was just diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder. What is going on?
- [Back-To-School](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/07/22/back-to-school/) - This year's "Back-To-School" will be unique and different than any other in our lifetime. With the Pandemic waning and vaccines available in the United States, most children will return to in-person school in the Fall. It will not just be about the trip to Target to get notebooks and backpacks and pencils and pens. It will not only be about a trip to the mall to obtain the perfect first day of school outfit. As parents we are faced with the tricky task of emotionally guiding and leading our families back to school after months upon months of isolation.
- [Beyond School Supplies: Tips and Strategies for Returning to School](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/07/22/beyond-school-supplies-tips-and-strategies-for-returning-to-school/) - Transitioning back to school after the summer months can be tough with new schedules and routines. But this Fall, families will be faced with an even bigger transition as most children ease back into actual brick and mortar school buildings. The best way parents can mange these changes and best support their children include preparation and practice, research, communication and support, and trusting the schools.
- [Dear Director: The Back To School Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/07/23/dear-director-the-back-to-school-edition/) - Dear Director, My 12-year-old son is acting strange whenever we talk about returning to school at the end of this month. He used to love school, he had friends, and was an A/B student, who played on the soccer team. He has spent the last 18 months learning through his iPad and has seemed OK. I notice he plays more video games than ever now that summer is here and turns down offers to get together with his friends. But I thought everything was fine. Suddenly, he started asking me if he can go to cyber-school instead of returning to his regular 8th grade classroom. He even said he's quitting the soccer team. Every time I try to get him to talk to me about what's going on, he slams the door, pulls the shades, and crawls into his video games. I know Covid is/was rough on us all, but I thought my son would be thrilled to go back to school. Is this because he's adopted? Signed, Perplexed Mom
- [Dear Director: ADHD or Trauma?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/08/20/dear-director-adhd-and-trauma/) - Our 8-year-old adopted daughter is doing a terrible job of following directions and staying on task at school. Her pediatrician is convinced it must be ADHD and wants to put her on meds for that, but I am concerned because what if that’s not the problem. We adopted her when she was 2 and she unfortunately did experience physical abuse and severe neglect before she came to live with us. I have heard that trauma can look like ADHD, and I want to make sure this is what's going on before we give her any medicine. Please advise.
- [Defining ADHD and Trauma](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/08/20/defining-adhd-and-trauma/) - Knowing about the connection and overlap between ADHD and trauma makes all the difference in assessing and treating ADHD and trauma. If your child has an ADHD diagnoses, takes meds, but something just doesn't feel right and they are not responding to the meds, listen to your gut. Although ADHD and trauma may both be playing a part in your child's life, a customized approach is the key to helping them live their best lives.
- [My Experience As an Intern at Jewish Family Service](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/08/25/my-experience-as-an-intern-at-jewish-family-service/) - Julia Chlaifer, a student at Penn State Harrisburg, spent the summer interning with the Adoption and Foster Care Team at Jewish Family Service. Because JFS is such a small agency, she was able to discover the nuances about each department. Julia shares her experiences and insights from this wonderful opportunity.
- [Looking Forward is Looking Back](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/08/25/looking-forward-is-looking-back/) - Steven Schauder, our mighty Executive Director, shares his wisdom about the Jewish High Holidays. Steve's interpretation and insights offer us a modern way to relate to and approach both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Read more to be inspired to achieve your best self this new year.
- [ADHD Treatment? Trauma Treatment?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/08/26/adhd-treatment-trauma-treatment/) - Determining exactly what is underneath the behaviors of concern is key in the ADHD/trauma dance. Depending on the answer, treatment looks different. For each child, an individualized intervention is imperative. As parents there are several factors to consider.
- [A Free Spirit](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/08/25/a-free-spirit/) - Compassion. That is how her mother describes her. Being the youngest of 3 siblings, she grew up around values of kindness, giving back to the world, sprinkled with strong Jewish traditions. It is no wonder then that Rena Cheskis chose to do her Bat Mitzvah project supporting the Libby Urie Kosher Food Pantry at JFS.
- [Meet the JFS Board: Interview with Rosette Roth](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/04/21/meet-the-jfs-board-interview-with-rosette-roth/) - Meet and learn more about JFS Board Member Rosette Roth!
- [Foster Care Helps Children Grow Into Adults of Tomorrow](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/05/26/foster-care-helps-children-grow-into-adults-of-tomorrow/) - May is National Foster Care Month, so let’s start with an inspirational quote from one of the loudest and most profound voices in the world of Foster Care and Adoption, that of Dr. Bruce Perry: “The more healthy relationships a child has, the more likely he will be to recover from trauma and thrive. Relationships are the agents of change and the most powerful therapy is human love.”
- [Jewish Family Service Presents Striking Out COVID: A Family Celebration](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/05/25/jewish-family-service-presents-striking-out-covid-a-family-celebration/) - Jewish Family Service (JFS) of Harrisburg is pleased to announce that we will be partnering with the Harrisburg Senators to sponsor a game between the Israel National Baseball Team (Team Israel) and the Cal Ripken All Stars.
- [In Thanks: A Letter To the Campus of the Jewish Home](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/05/26/in-thanks-a-letter-to-the-campus-of-the-jewish-home/) - On behalf of the Board and the Staff of Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg, we wanted to take a moment and express our deepest thanks to The Jewish Home for its' unmatched dedication to serving seniors in our community
- [Child Abuse Prevention Month](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/04/15/child-abuse-prevention-month/) - April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and this is the perfect time to raise awareness to help prevent child abuse. This year's child abuse prevention month's theme is "Thriving Children and Families: Prevention With Purpose.” At JFS we are continually working to prevent child abuse.
- [Connecting Family Activities](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/04/16/connecting-family-activities/) - Trauma impacts children and as parents, can leave you feeling hopeless. Do not despair. Attachment is a healing balm. It is only through relationships that true healing can take place. Never under-estimate the power or true connection to un-do damage and help the brain learn new healthier pathways. Check out some of these activities to connect with your children.
- [What is Play Therapy?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/04/21/what-is-play-therapy/) - Imagine that you are a six-year-old girl who has been seeing a counselor to help you cope with your family situation. Both of your parents have serious mental health issues, and you are being raised by your grandparents. Of course, you have lots of emotions about all of this – sadness, fear, confusion, anger, relief, feeling torn between the adults in your life. But what people see is your behavior.
- [Dear Director](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/04/28/dear-director-4/) - Learn about how your adopted child's chronological age may not match their biological age. Trauma effects development. There is hope: read about techniques that can help your parenting.
- [Childhood Trauma Does What?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/04/21/childhood-trauma-does-what/) - The intersection of adoption, trauma, and the brain is highly intricate and inter-dependent. Trauma is a complex subject. This Newsletter will dig into exactly how childhood trauma changes your child. Once again, we are going to start with the brain.
- [Real-Life Implications of Childhood Trauma](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/04/20/real-life-implications-of-childhood-trauma/) - You have wrapped your parental head around this idea that maybe your adopted child actually has experienced trauma. Next you realize that perhaps their night-waking and meltdowns could be about that early mistreatment. Let us explore the areas that seem to be most effected in their brains that truly impacts their everyday lives. This translates to how you child acts socially, behaviorally, and emotionally.
- [Dear Director: The Summer Edition](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/05/25/dear-director-the-summer-edition/) - Dear Director: The summer is around the corner and with Covid numbers going down, I am feeling like my kids should be gearing up for outdoor and group activities. They were so focused on online activities/school, their phones, and tv shows for so long. What can I do to convince them to get them up and out now that the weather is getting better? Signed, Overwhelmed with the Transition to Summer
- [Local Family Activities](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/05/21/local-family-activities/) - One of the keys to helping your family have a fun and relaxing summer is to get creative and resourceful when developing your schedule. Central Pennsylvania has a wealth of family activities you can include in your posted summer schedule. Remember to gather your child's input about activities so they will be invested, follow screen-time rules, and feel like a valued member of your family. Don't forget the most important thing: HAVE FUN!
- [What is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/03/24/what-is-fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder/) - One in ten children in foster care and adoption will be diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. If you think about it, that is a huge number, and merely includes those who have been diagnosed. The topic of FASD is crucial because with the proper diagnoses you can markedly improve your child's life. I have
- [Dear Director](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/03/24/dear-director-3/) - Dear Director, We welcomed our beautiful daughter into our home as a foster child when she was 3 months old, after her biological mother lost custody due to neglect. We adopted her when she was two. Now our daughter is in 3rd grade and she seems to be really struggling in school. Her attention span
- [What Parents Are Really Saying About FASD](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/03/24/what-parents-are-really-saying-about-fasd/) - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is a brain-based disability. Although you, as a parent, never want your child to have a disability, digging your head in the sand will do more harm then good. As parents, the most important gift you can give your child is to advocate for them. This means that if you wonder
- [Passover, the Miracle of Adoption and Finding our Way to Freedom](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/03/23/passover-the-miracle-of-adoption-and-finding-our-way-to-freedom/) - In approaching the Passover story with new perspectives, we can also find new meanings this year in the themes of subjugation, suffering, liberation and freedom that underpin the Passover narrative.
- [Resilience through Awareness and Imagination—Safe Space as a Lived Meditation](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/03/23/resilience-through-awareness-and-imagination-safe-space-as-a-lived-meditation/) - JFS Family-Based Therapist Francina Fantauzzo, MA, ATR-P, leads us in safe-space meditation with this personal story and how-to.
- [Meet the JFS Board: Interview with Robyn Chotiner](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/03/23/meet-the-jfs-board-interview-with-robyn-chotiner/) - Learn about why JFS Board Member Robyn Chotiner got involved with JFS and enjoys giving back!
- [That Sacred Journey](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/02/22/that-sacred-journey/) - The question I get asked most often by my clients is: “How do you listen to people’s problems all day?” This always makes me smile as I have never viewed my role as a psychotherapist in that way. Click to read more!
- [Meet the JFS Board: Sanford Krevsky](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/02/22/meet-the-jfs-board-sanford-krevsky/) - Meet JFS Board Member Sanford Krevsky!
- [Meet the JFS Board: Jill Henig](https://jfsofhbg.org/2021/01/22/meet-the-jfs-board-jill-henig/) - Meet the community members that help lead Jewish Family Service - starting with this interview with JFS Board Member Jill Henig!
- [10 Ways to SURVIVE this Latest COVID Surge](https://jfsofhbg.org/2020/12/28/10-ways-to-survive-this-latest-covid-surge/) - Here we go again. New lockdowns and surging numbers. Do not despair. There is a light at the end of the tunnel: VACCINES are coming. In the meantime, read on for practical strategies to keep your mood balanced and your stress to a minimum.
- [New Year’s Means New Beginnings](https://jfsofhbg.org/2020/12/28/new-years-means-new-beginnings/) - A New Year carries both consideration for the year that was and anticipation for the year that will be. 2020 challenged all of us in unprecedented ways and hopefully, we have found reservoirs of appreciation and gratitude that we had not previously been aware of. Read to learn about all the things that JFS Executive Director Steven Schauder is grateful for as we head into 2021.
- ["Looking For the Helpers"](https://jfsofhbg.org/2020/12/04/looking-for-the-helpers/) - In times of national crisis or tragedy, Mr. Rogers would turn to his young television audience and share a lesson from his mother. “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers,’” he recounted. “’You will always find people who are helping.’” We are living through a once in a century pandemic, and while the hopes of a vaccine seem on the horizon, the long-term stress and anxieties placed on individuals and families is unprecedented.
- [Mitch Albom Tells Story of Finding Chika](https://jfsofhbg.org/2020/03/21/mitch-albom-tells-story-of-finding-chika/) - Mitch Albom, best-selling author, sports writer, and humanitarian, gave a moving program about his latest book, Finding Chika: A Little Girl, An Earthquake and the Making of a Family, during a program presented by Jewish Family Service.
- [How Does Telehealth Therapy Work](https://jfsofhbg.org/2020/07/16/how-does-telehealth-therapy-work/) - MyndWorks is now providing our counselling services through telehealth. It is an easy and effective way to see a therapist without having to leave your home So how does it work?
- [JFS Legacy Testimonial: Stan Lewin](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/11/26/jfs-legacy-testimonial-stan-lewin/) - Stan Lewin moved to the Harrisburg area in 1978. As a community – minded medical doctor, he quickly saw the importance of the services and programs that Jewish Family Service offered to both Jews and non-Jews in Harrisburg. Read on to learn more about Stan and his commitment to JFS.
- [JFS Fights COVID-19](https://jfsofhbg.org/2020/03/25/jfs-fights-covid-19/) - Update 4/7/2020: Amid the Coronavirus crisis, JFS offices are closed, but we are still operating normal business remotely. If you are in need of items from the food pantry or experiencing financial difficulties, please contact the office at 717-233-1681 or email us at info@jfsofhbg.org and we will respond within 24 hours. In the past
- [A Message from JFS President Bob Wolff](https://jfsofhbg.org/2020/04/21/a-message-from-jfs-president-bob-wolff/) - JFS is continuing to serve our community, and the most vulnerable and needy in it, at this especially trying time. However, the impact of the pandemic forced JFS to change its model to adapt to the new socially-distanced world we live in today.
- [The Year That Was: A Look Back and a Glimpse Forward](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/12/18/the-year-that-was-a-look-back-and-a-glimpse-forward/) - We have a great deal to be proud of even though it took a while to get there. Here are some of the highlights of 2018.
- [Lifebooks Program Engages Adoption Families at JFS](https://jfsofhbg.org/2020/02/24/lifebooks-program-engages-adoption-families-at-jfs/) - Everybody has a story. Some use their story to tell a bit about themselves to strangers or to give a timeline to their life. But for children in adoption and foster care programs, those stories can mean a whole lot more.
- [The Public Health Fight of Our Lives](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/04/11/the-public-health-fight-of-our-lives/) - By Dr. Rachel Levine, Pennsylvania Secretary of Health The opioid crisis is the largest public health issue of our time. While the crisis has affected the entire country, Pennsylvania has been hit particularly hard. In 2017, more than 5,400 people died from an overdose. That is more than 13 people dying from this crisis each
- [Jewish Family Service Welcomes New Members to Board of Directors](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/11/26/jewish-family-service-welcomes-new-members-to-board-of-directors/) - Jewish Family Service is fortunate to have the support of community members who share their expertise in various areas to assist us in furthering our mission. We are pleased to welcome new members to our 2019 - 2020 Board of Directors
- [JFS Presents An Evening with Mitch Albom](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/12/20/jfs-presents-an-evening-with-mitch-albom/) - Jewish Family Service of Harrisburg and presenting partner GIANT are excited to welcome best-selling author Mitch Albom for a discussion and book signing of his newest book, Finding Chika: An Earthquake, A Little Girl, and the Making of a Family at Beth El Temple Harrisburg on Tuesday, February 25 at 7pm.
- [JFS Legacy Testimonial: Bob Wolff](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/12/20/jfs-legacy-testimonial-bob-wolff/) - Bob Wolff says "JFS is an agency of good deeds. They are dedicated to doing good works and repairing the world and making it a better place to live in, not just for Jews, but for everyone. That is 100% JFS’ mission. "
- [Thousands of PA Children Looking for Forever Homes ](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/11/14/thousands-of-pa-children-looking-for-forever-homes/) - There are about 14,000 children in foster care in Pennsylvania alone in 2018, half over age thirteen. Each of these children needs a forever home.
- [Challenge Grant Enhances JFS Fundraising](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/10/17/challenge-grant-enhances-jfs-fundraising/) - Bob and Gail Gaynes' challenge grant has helped to enhance fundraising efforts at JFS. Learn more about the Gaynes and their gift.
- [JFS Welcomes New Director of Family Based Mental Health Therapy](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/10/17/jfs-welcomes-new-director-of-family-based-mental-health-therapy/) - Jewish Family Service is excited to introduce Pam Haddad, our new Family Based Mental Health Therapy Program Director. Pam brings decades of experience working with parents and children to the table.
- [JFS Legacy Initiative: Ed & Esther Beck](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/09/18/jfs-legacy-initiative-ed-esther-beck/) - “We think the Legacy Program helps insure the future of these important services for those who follow.” Read more about Ed & Esther Beck's participation in the Legacy program with Jewish Family Service.
- [Welcome JFS' Newest Therapist, A.Jay Horowitz](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/08/23/welcome-jfs-newest-therapist-a-jay-horowitz/) - JFS is pleased to welcome its newest therapist, A.Jay Horowitz, to our community. Read more about A.Jay's skills and expertise.
- [Day of Pampering Recap - 2019](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/07/08/day-of-pampering-recap-2019/) - It is common in our culture for caregivers to give so much to their loved ones with special needs that they become depleted of energy and emotionally drained. To honor these men and women in our community, the Day of Pampering for Caregivers was created 6 years ago.
- [JFS Intern Reflects on Time at JFS](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/05/29/jfs-intern-reflects-on-time-at-jfs/) - Maleah Keller, age 17, has been spending time at JFS this school year. As part of her senior project at Cedar Cliff High School, she has the opportunity to do an internship related to her intended career. Maleah wanted to know what play therapy is all about!
- [JFS Hires New Finkelstein-Cohen KMOW Coordinator](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/05/29/jfs-hires-new-finkelstein-cohen-kmow-coordinator/) - JFS is pleased to announce that it has hired a new Finkelstein – Cohen Kosher Meals on Wheels program coordinator, longtime JFS volunteer, John Jantos. John first got involved with JFS more than a decade ago when he started volunteering through the Two’s Company program. “I have a soft spot for the elderly,” says John.
- [Collaboration and Reaching Out:  Creating Change in Harrisburg](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/03/26/collaboration-and-reaching-out-creating-change-in-harrisburg/) - Recently, I was asked to reflect on a recent collaboration with Brethren housing association. Brethren Housing Association (furthermore referred to as BHA) is a transitional housing program for homeless single mothers working to get out of poverty. Its methods are behaviorally solid in terms of how to help individuals make long-term changes in their lives. I believe these answers also shed light on the powerful important work we do at Mynd Works counseling, as well.
- [JFS Lifts Community Up Through Case Management Program](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/03/12/jfs-lifts-community-up-through-case-management-program/) - When a single Jewish mother named Beth needed help in paying for school supplies and clothing for her children, she turned to Jewish Family Service.
- [DBT Starting at JFS on April 1](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/03/12/dbt-starting-at-jfs-on-april-1/) - DBT Skills Group will be held weekly on Mondays from 9:30am to 11:30am starting April 1, 2019. Learn more about this evidence-based therapy!
- [JFS Volunteers, Friends Make Impact](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/02/21/jfs-volunteers-friends-make-impact/) - As a small agency with a big impact, JFS often has more work than it can manage. We rely heavily on volunteers to help us in accomplishing our goals. Here's the story of two friends who are making a big impact through their work as volunteers.
- [Back on Track Fund Moving Community Members Forward](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/02/21/back-on-track-fund-moving-community-members-forward/) - Nearly 80% of United States workers say they live paycheck to paycheck, meaning an illness, higher-than-usual utility bill, or car trouble can be enough to set a responsible person on a precarious path. Part of Jewish Family Service’s mission is to help individuals and families meet life’s challenges. We have been able to do so in a new and exciting way over the past year, thanks to the Back on Track Fund, which was made possible through the generosity of the Geduldig Family.
- [New JFS Therapist Helps Clients on the Edge](https://jfsofhbg.org/2019/01/23/new-jfs-therapist-helps-clients-on-the-edge/) - There are certain types of people that are often pushed to the sidelines or even out the door. They may engage in self-harm. They might have Bipolar or other mood disorders. Maybe they are in and out of the hospital and jail. These are the people that Alyson Fogle, LPC, engages, working to help to
- [Social Butterflies Offers Social Skills for Kids!](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/12/27/social-butterflies-offers-social-skills-for-kids/) - Our new therapist, Alyson Fogle, will be taking over as director of the Social Butterflies program at Jewish Family Service. Although all children can benefit from Social Skills Training, the Social Butterflies is a Social Skills Training Group for kiddos ages 5-8.
- [Life and Legacy : JFS Board President Marty Rogoff](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/12/04/life-and-legacy-jfs-board-president-marty-rogoff/) - “I look at JFS as the tikkun olam arm of our community. Through the work of the terrific people at this Agency, the greater community witnesses a priority of the Jewish people: to make a difference in people’s lives through service –for Jews and non-Jews alike.”
- [JFS Renovation and Haverim Grant](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/04/02/jfs-renovation-and-haverim-grant/) - Jewish Family Service is pleased to announce that we have begun a renovation project to improve our facilities, further empowering us to serve our clients and community. Read more about the project.
- [JFS to Enhance Online Marketing Efforts through Lipsett Grant](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/04/02/jfs-to-enhance-online-marketing-efforts-through-lipsett-grant/) - JFS is pleased to announce the award of a $3,000 Grant from the Jewish Community Foundation of Central PA Lipsett Fund for our SeniorLinks Program. Through this grant, JFS is implementing modern marketing techniques (like Google Adwords and Search Engine Optimization of our website) to reach older adults and their care giving families.
- ["We Give to Organizations That Do Good": Siegels Support JFS Through  Words and Action](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/11/05/we-give-to-organizations-that-do-good-siegels-support-jfs-through-words-and-action/) - It is not often that you come across philanthropists as active as Connie and Gail Siegel. Their support of the Jewish community spans multiple sectors, centuries, and countries. Read more about the Siegels' contributions to JFS.
- [National Caregivers Month: Top 5 Tips for Caregivers](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/11/01/national-caregivers-month-top-5-tips-for-caregivers/) - November is National Caregiver Month! Caregivers play an important role in the lives of people across all walks of life. Here are our top 5 tips for caregivers.
- [Making a Difference with Compassion and Generosity – An Interview with Michael and Ellen Geduldig](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/01/22/jfs-geduldig-financial-assistance-operating-fund/) - Jewish Family Service is pleased to announce that, as of January 2018, it now has the capacity to have a greater impact in this regard, following the establishment of the Geduldig Financial Assistance Operating Fund. This Fund fulfills the lifelong goal of Michael and Ellen Geduldig to help people overcome short-term financial challenges by significantly increasing the amount of discretionary dollars that JFS has available to meet their needs.
- [New Board Members Installed at 2018 Joint Agency Annual Meeting](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/10/16/new-board-members-2018/) - Thank you to all who attended the Joint Agency Annual Meeting where we honored our award winners and installed our new board members. We welcome our new board members and look forward to their ideas and expertise as we work to maintain and improve our services to the community. You can learn a little bit
- [To Be or Not to Be? - Reflections on Completing Advanced Directives for Your End-of-Life Health Care](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/08/03/to-be-or-not-to-be-reflections-on-completing-advanced-directives-for-your-end-of-life-health-care/) - Your end-of-life wishes can change as your circumstances change. I was reminded of this fact when I recently saw my doctor for a physical exam and he asked me if I had completed a health care proxy with advanced directives. “Yes indeed,” I answered without hesitation. “But I have no idea where it is. Regardless,” I went on, “perhaps the time has come for me to rethink my own end-of-life outlook.”
- [Best Laid Plans: Lessons Learned from an End-of-Life Journey](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/04/27/best-laid-plans-lessons-learned-from-an-end-of-life-journey/) - "Throughout my adult life, I knew what Marvin’s end-of-life wishes were. He was passionate about life and wanted all measures taken to keep him alive. When appointing a health care proxy, he was reluctant to let me fulfill that role. I assured my uncle that I would respect his wishes even though my own philosophy on palliative care was quite different. "
- [Announcing the Renaming of the Kosher Meals on Wheels Program](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/07/26/announcing-the-renaming-of-the-kosher-meals-on-wheels-program/) - Jewish Family Service is pleased to announce a generous gift by Edward S. Finkelstein in support of the Kosher Meals on Wheels program, which will infuse KMOW with funds on an annual basis. In recognition of Mr. Finkelstein’s generosity, as well as a previous gift by Edward Cohen, the program is being renamed as the Finkelstein-Cohen Kosher Meals on Wheels Program.
- [What is Stigma and How Does it Affect Mental Health?](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/07/11/what-is-stigma-and-how-does-it-affect-mental-health/) - “No one would ever say that someone with a broken arm or a broken leg is less than a whole person, but people say that or imply that all the time about people with mental illness.” Elyn R. Saks
- [Time To Get Moving!](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/06/11/time-to-get-moving/) - After a long winter and chilly spring of staying indoors and hibernating, it’s time to get your body moving. As we age, our bodies can get de-conditioned very easily and quickly, which can exacerbate health conditions and make us more prone to injuries. Physical issues aside, our mental health can benefit greatly from exercising either alone or with others.
- [Having Family Conversations About End-of-Life](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/04/27/having-family-conversations-about-end-of-life/) - In recent years, advancements in hospice and palliative care have given new meaning to the importance of end-of-life conversations. Due to the Jewish imperative on “Choosing Life,” we, as observant Jews, sometimes jump to the conclusion that hospice and palliative care can never be reconciled with halachic (Jewish legal) mandates. And yet, it is not so black and white.
- [KMOW Volunteer Larry Freedman Gives Back in Big Way](https://jfsofhbg.org/2018/04/27/kmow-volunteer-larry-freedman-gives-back-in-big-way/) - After three years as a volunteer, Larry, along with his wife, Lanie, decided to contribute in a new way: through the establishment of the Larry and Lanie Freedman JFS Endowment Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation of Central PA.
- [JFS Pilot Program Addresses Mental Health of Harrisburg](https://jfsofhbg.org/2017/12/19/jfs-pilot-program-addresses-mental-health-harrisburg/) - For nearly a year, Jewish Family Service has geared up its focus on improving mental health and overall emotional well-being. The organization has taken the lead in holding mental health intervention trainings, programs related to mental health awareness, and, perhaps most importantly, by launching a pilot program to help people access financial and supportive resources to achieve greater self-sufficiency. The interventions offered through the pilot program are provided by Elaine Strokoff.
- [JFS Honors Volunteers as Part of JAAM](https://jfsofhbg.org/2017/11/14/jfs-honors-volunteers-part-jaam/) - On October 19th, JFS participated in the 3rd annual Joint Agency Annual Meeting (JAAM) at the JCC. The event included a dessert reception, Kol Haneshama performance, and awards for honorees from JFS, Jewish Community Foundation, Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg, Jewish Home, and The Silver Academy.
- [Syrian Refugee Initiative Update - Remarks by Vivian Blanc](https://jfsofhbg.org/2017/11/29/syrian-refugee-initiative-update-remarks-vivian-blanc/) - The following remarks were given by JFS Board Member Vivian Blanc on September 14th during an event sponsored by Progressive Jewish Voice in conjunction with the Syrian Refugee Initiative, featuring a screening of the documentary film "Salam, Neighbor." Please read Vivian's powerful remarks below: Resilience. (Fear). Courage. (Struggle) Tenacity. …These words are among the ones
- [Elder Abuse Workshop](https://jfsofhbg.org/2016/10/28/elder-abuse-workshop/) - November 3, 2016, 3:00pm-5:00pm - For Financial, Legal, Health Professionals & Clergy - Lecture, Breakout groups by profession, and Discussion of vignettes.
- [JFS Welcomes New Board Members for 2017-2018](https://jfsofhbg.org/2017/11/14/jfs-welcomes-new-board-members-2017-2018/) - Please join us in welcoming the following community members to the JFS Board of Directors for 2017-2018:
- [Mental Illness and the Role of the Faith Community](https://jfsofhbg.org/2017/05/01/mental-illness-and-the-role-of-the-faith-community/) - Stephen Fried, co-author of Patrick Kennedy’s book, A Common Struggle, award-winning journalist and Harrisburg native will present a lecture on Mental Illness and The Role of the Faith Community. This event is FREE to the entire community. Dessert reception follows the presentation. Sponsorships may be available.
- [June 2016 - Shavuot 5776 Agency News and Events](https://jfsofhbg.org/2016/06/01/june-2016-agency-news-and-events/)
- [August 2016 Agency News and Events](https://jfsofhbg.org/2016/08/01/august-2016-agency-news-and-events/)
- [September 2016 Agency News and Events](https://jfsofhbg.org/2016/09/01/september-2016-agency-news-and-events/)
- [October 14, 2016  Agency News and Events](https://jfsofhbg.org/2016/10/14/october-14-2016-agency-news-and-events/)
- [October 28, 2016  Agency News and Events](https://jfsofhbg.org/2016/10/28/october-28-2016-agency-news-and-events/)
- [November 18, 2016  Agency News and Events](https://jfsofhbg.org/2016/11/18/november-18-2016-agency-news-and-events/)
- [December 2, 2016  Agency News and Events](https://jfsofhbg.org/2016/12/02/december-2-2016-agency-news-and-events/)

## Pages

- [Home](https://jfsofhbg.org/) - Our Doors & Our HeartsAre Open To All View Services Stay Connected We Welcome You with Open Arms Adoption, Foster Care and Post Permanency Learn More » CEO Blog The Exodus That is Happening Today in Central PA Read More » Our Impact is Driven By Compassion Lives Touched Lives Transformed Each year, JFS transforms
- [Adoption, Foster Care and Post Permanency](https://jfsofhbg.org/adoption-foster-care-and-post-permanency/) - Adoption, Foster Care and Post Permanency Adoption and Foster Care Services Adoption is a lifelong journey. Through the following Adoption and Foster Care Services, we support families and children from first thinking about how to build a family through foster care and adoption, through placement, post-adoption support, and assistance to find services all along the
- [Privacy Policy & Terms and Conditions for SMS Communications](https://jfsofhbg.org/privacy-policy-terms-and-conditions-for-sms-communications/) - Privacy Policy Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg (JFS) respects your privacy. When you opt in to receive text messages from us, we collect and store your mobile phone number solely for the purpose of sending you updates, reminders, and information related to our programs, events, and services. 1. Information We Collect We collect
- [Staff](https://jfsofhbg.org/staff/) - Staff This group of thoughtful, committed individuals are uplifting and empowering the Greater Harrisburg Community. Leadership Team Kevin Keefer CEO Full Bio Bio to come. Email Donna Butler Chief Operations officer Full Bio Bio to come Email Tricia Rollins Director of mental health services Email Rachel Kuhr, MSW, LCSW Director of child welfare services Full
- [Food Assistance](https://jfsofhbg.org/emergency-financial-and-food-assistance/) - Food Assistance Jewish Family Service is committed to providing food support and other needed services to those individuals and families who are struggling physically, mentally, and financially. Libby Urie Food Pantry The Libby Urie Food Pantry provides food assistance to all who are in need, regardless of race, income, gender, age or religion. On an
- [Coach Bruce Pearl](https://jfsofhbg.org/brucepearlevent/) - “Every Child A Champion” Luncheon with Coach Bruce Pearl on May 31, 2024 Join us for the 60th anniversary of Jewish Family Service and the 30th anniversary of our Adoption and Foster Care department. Our keynote speaker for 2024 is Coach Bruce Pearl. May 31, 2024 | 11:30 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. | $100 for one ticket/
- [Clinical Counseling and Therapy](https://jfsofhbg.org/counseling/) - Clinical Counseling and Therapy Now more than ever, we know how important it is to reach out for help if you need it. If you are going through a difficult time and feel overwhelmed or simply want to make improvements, why not take the first steps to sit down and talk to someone? MyndWorks Counseling
- [Contact](https://jfsofhbg.org/contact/) - Contact JFS We are here to answer any questions you may have aboutJewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg. Feel Free to Reach Out LinkedInThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) PhoneHow can we help you?(Required) Contact JFS 717-233-1681 717-234-8258 Location & Hours 2994 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA
- [Older Adult Services](https://jfsofhbg.org/older-adult-services/) - Older Adult Services Jewish Family Service can help you effectively meet the challenges of aging With all of the gifts of aging, also come challenges. For older adults and seniors, this very special time of life is often marked with major transitions, loss of loved ones, health issues and anxiety about what the future holds.
- [Financials](https://jfsofhbg.org/financials/) - Financial Information & Annual Report JFS is dedicated to full transparency as we work to meet the needs of all individuals throughout the life cycle, and we continually refine our programs to adapt to the changing needs of our clients. Financial Statements 2021 Financial Statement 2020 Financial Statement 2019 Financial Statement 2018 Financial Statement Annual
- [Volunteer](https://jfsofhbg.org/volunteer/) - Get Involved Volunteer for Jewish Family Service Volunteers have always been the heart and soul of JFS, and one of the main ways we can make our services available to so many people in our community. We have many gratifying opportunities to volunteer. Here’s how you can help: Here's How You Can Help: Volunteer Application
- [Board](https://jfsofhbg.org/board/) - Board of Directors Below are the 2022 - 2023 Board of Directors of JFS Officers Frank Fleishman President Dr. Robyn Chotiner Vice President Stephen Tambolas Treasurer Sandy Krevsky Secretary Dr. Jordan Klein Resource development Dr. Dara Bourassa Program committee Directors Sam Brenner Jill Henig Dr. Rachael Miller Mary McGrath Rosette Roth
- [Community Conversations In Response To The Crisis In Israel](https://jfsofhbg.org/community-conversations/) - How To Receive Support During The Crisis In Israel We at Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg are heartbroken and horrified at the news of the situation in Israel. The loss of human life, both soldiers and civilians is staggering. We pray for the safe return of the all the hostages, and we mourn all
- [Elementor #8083](https://jfsofhbg.org/elementor-8083/) - Community Conversations In Response To The Crisis In Israel We at Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg are heartbroken and horrified at the news of the situation in Israel. The loss of human life, both soldiers and civilians is staggering. We pray for the safe return of the all the hostages, and we mourn all
- [Volunteer Application](https://jfsofhbg.org/volunteer-application/) - Volunteer Application Volunteer Application Name(Required) First Last Address(Required) Street Address City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code Phone(Required)Email(Required) Cell / WorkDate of Birth(Required) MM slash DD slash YYYY Emergency Contact(Required) First Last Relationship to You How did you find out about volunteers at JFS?Areas of volunteer interest(Required)Mark all that apply Kosher Meals
- [Family-Based Mental Health Services](https://jfsofhbg.org/family-based-mental-health-services/) - Family-Based Mental Health Services (FBMHS) (Dauphin County) This intensive team-based counseling is offered to families with children or adolescents who are at risk for removal from the home due to severe emotional or behavioral problems. This program also assists families to transition children and adolescents back into the home. Enrollment in Family-Based Mental Health Services
- [Child and Family Services](https://jfsofhbg.org/child-and-family-services/) - Child and Family Services Whether your child or your family is facing a personal crisis, trouble at home, or questions that require real expertise, JFS is here to help. The family and our children are at the heart of what we do—empower, support and aid our community’s children, teens and families so that each can
- [KMOW 50th Anniversary Gala Sponsorships](https://jfsofhbg.org/kmow-50th-sponsorships/) - 50th Anniversary Celebration of Central PA's Kosher Meals on Wheels Sponsorships Join us in recognizing 50 years of sustaining our community by providing meal delivery to homebound seniors in Central Pennsylvania. This celebration recognizes one of the many critical services that JFS provides to over 1,300 people annually, and marks the significant milestone of having
- [KMOW50](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/50-years-of-caring-featuring-chef-michael-solomonov-tickets-314546245287)
- [Sitemap](https://jfsofhbg.org/sitemap/) - PagesPrivacy Policy & Terms and Conditions for SMS CommunicationsCoach Bruce PearlCommunity Conversations In Response To The Crisis In IsraelElementor #8083KMOW50SitemapKMOW 50th Anniversary Gala SponsorshipsDonateHonoring Barry SteinTestimonialsTribute CardsFamily-Based Mental Health ServicesAdoption, Foster Care and Post PermanencyFinancialsFood AssistanceCareer OpportunitiesChild and Family ServicesVolunteer ApplicationCalendarContactStaffBoardOlder Adult ServicesFood DonationVolunteerCar DonationTree of LifeDonate StockLegacy GivingHomeClinical Counseling and TherapyMissionCategories Refugee Resettlement Post-Permanency
- [Donate](https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=R546Q4SNWSNCC)
- [Honoring Barry Stein](https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUocuCuqzkiHtP5lVH4V8VlUcOIWjDm43Cb?fbclid=IwAR3N2e4GtQGNgFqR4ApadKqVRrtmrL8ySCGq8gHkxVd2hffI-7u-b2OURqo)
- [Legacy Giving](https://jfsofhbg.org/legacy-giving/) - Planned Giving Leave a Legacy No matter what the size of your estate, you can ensure that JFS is able to meet the needs of our community today and for many tomorrows to come. Planned giving helps to strengthen the JFS “Family” and may also provide you with significant tax advantages. Sign Your Letter of
- [Calendar](https://jfsofhbg.org/calendar/) - Outreach, Events and Community Programs Category Fundraiser Gala Special Event Support Group Volunteer Session Monthly List Grid No event found! Our Services Each year, JFS transforms the lives of thousands of community members. See All Services
- [Testimonials](https://jfsofhbg.org/testimonials/) - Testimonials "Our family is happier and emotionally healthier because we received post permanency services through JFS! Lana learned how to process and explain where her biological and adoptive family stand in her life. She proudly displays her life book and references it often." - Margo Stanton (Pictured: Lana Stanton) I began seeing Malinda during an
- [Tribute Cards](https://jfsofhbg.org/tribute-cards/) - Tribute Cards Tribute Cards are a beautiful way to recognize someone you love and help JFS at the same time. Tributes can be used for special occasions such as birthdays, bar and bat mitzvahs and anniversaries, or to honor or memorialize a friend or relative. Just call us at 717-233-1681, and we’ll even mail it
- [Food Donation](https://jfsofhbg.org/food-donation/) - Libby Urie Food Pantry The Libby Urie Food Pantry provides food assistance to all who are in need, regardless of race, income, gender, age or religion. On an annual basis, we distribute close to 10,000 lbs. of food to local community members who struggle to put food on their tables. We are the only food
- [Mission](https://jfsofhbg.org/mission/) - About Us Since 1964, Jewish Family Service has helped individuals and families in the Greater Harrisburg area reach their full potential and achieve health, wholeness and stability. What We Do We provide essential social and human services with compassion, respect and dignity to all members of our community without regard to age, race, religion or
- [Career Opportunities](https://jfsofhbg.org/career-opportunities/) - Outpatient Psychotherapist, LCSW, LPC or LMFT More Details Family Based Mental Health Therapist More Details
- [Car Donation](https://jfsofhbg.org/car-donation/) - Car Donation Donating Your Car Is Easy! A wonderful and easy way to support Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg is through our car donation program. If you are disposing of your present vehicle, don’t trade it in, donate it to JFS! You will be supporting vital programs and services for families, children, and older
- [Tree of Life](https://jfsofhbg.org/tree-of-life/) - Tree of Life A Symbol of Strength & Hope The Tree of Life in the lobby of JFS symbolizes the strength and hope that we offer to all in need of assistance. Celebrate a special person’s birthday, anniversary, bar or bat mitzvah, the birth of a grandchild, an outstanding achievement, or memorialize the loss of
- [Donate Stock](https://jfsofhbg.org/donate-stock/) - Donate Stock Donating Stock Makes Sense When you donate stock to JFS, you are helping people in need and receiving tax advantages at the same time. There is great value in giving appreciated stocks instead of cash, and some financial planners say that it is the best way to give gifts over $1,000. You should

## Job Openings

- [Outpatient Psychotherapist, LCSW, LPC or LMFT](https://jfsofhbg.org/jobs/outpatient-psychotherapist-lcsw-lpc-or-lmft/) - Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg is a well-established, highly respected, growing, and diverse social services agency serving all members of the Greater Harrisburg area. Our mission is to help all community members meet life's challenges and our staff is as diverse and inclusive as our programs. We are a forward-thinking mental health and social
- [Family Based Mental Health Therapist](https://jfsofhbg.org/jobs/family-based-mental-health-therapist-2/) - Join our Team and Make a Difference! Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg is a great place to work! We are well-established, highly respected, growing, and diverse social services agency serving all members of the Greater Harrisburg area. Our mission is to help all community members meet life's challenges and our staff is as diverse Join our Team and Make a Difference! Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg is a great place to work! We are well-established, highly respected, growing, and diverse social services agency serving all members of the Greater Harrisburg area. Our mission is to help all community members meet life's challenges and our staff is as diverse

## Events

- [Saving Lives: A Father's Story of Tragedy, Determination, and the Value of Life](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/saving-lives-a-fathers-story-of-tragedy-determination-and-the-value-of-life/) - At age 18, Gila Hammer died by suicide. Join us as her father, Rabbi Shalom Hammer, shares Gila’s tragic story and imparts lessons about suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
- [Erasing The Stigma of Mental Illness: Together We Can](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/erasing-the-stigma-of-mental-illness-together-we-can/) - Join us for a delightful afternoon with members of the Me2/ Orchestra, the world's only orchestra for people living with mental illness. You will enjoy a performance by a world class String Quartet, watch exclusive clips from the award-winning documentary "Orchestrating Change," and engage in a Q & A with conductor/founder Ronald Braunstein and the musicians. Your ticket also includes a VIMEO link
- [Celebrate Family Day at Keystone Kidspace](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/celebratefamilydayatkeystonekidspace-268/) - Sunday, November 3, 2024 12 to 4 P.M. JFS Adoption and Foster Care is thrilled to announce a FREE event tailored for children and youth at Keystone Kidspace. Come learn about the ways you can impact the community by volunteering with JFS. Join us at Keystone Kidspace for a day filled with laughter, exploration, and
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtualfostercareandadoptioninformationsession-may28/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtualfostercareandadoptioninformationsession-may22/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtualfostercareandadoptioninformationsession-may13/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtualfostercareandadoptioninformationsession/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [“Every Child A Champion” Luncheon with Coach Bruce Pearl](https://jfsofhbg.org/brucepearlevent/#new_tab)
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/adoptionfostercareinformation-feb27/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Foster Care and Adoption Night](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/fostercareandadoptionnight/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/adoptionfostercareinformation-638/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/adoptionfostercareinformation/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Bereavement Support Group](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/bereavement-support-group/) - Starting October 2 5:30 - 7:00 P.M. Jewish Family Services of Greater Harrisburg offers a supportive and education group for all who are experiencing the grief from the loss of a loved one. You can join through the third week of support group. Afterwards, it will be closed.
- [A Safe Space for People With Family in Israel](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/safespaceforisrael/) - Wednesday, October 18 | 6:30 - 8:00 PM This In-Person safe space is designed for people with family members in Israel. Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg is creating a safe space for community members that have family and loved ones in Israel to express their feelings. This safe space is for fellowship and discussion
- [Community Conversations In Response to the Crisis in Israel](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/communityconversationsoct16/) - Monday, October 16 | 6:00 - 7:00 PM We at Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg are heartbroken and horrified at the news of the situation in Israel. The loss of human life, both soldiers and civilians is staggering. We pray for the safe return of the all the hostages, and we mourn all the
- [Community Conversations In Response to the Crisis in Israel](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/communityconversationoct19/) - Thursday, October 19 | 1:00 - 2:00 PM We at Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg are heartbroken and horrified at the news of the situation in Israel. The loss of human life, both soldiers and civilians is staggering. We pray for the safe return of the all the hostages, and we mourn all the
- [Celebrate Family Day at Keystone Kidspace](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/celebratefamilydayatkeystonekidspace/) - Sunday, November 12, 2023 12 to 4 P.M. JFS Adoption and Foster Care is thrilled to announce a FREE event tailored for children and youth at Keystone Kidspace. Come learn about the ways you can impact the community by volunteering with JFS. Join us at Keystone Kidspace for a day filled with laughter, exploration, and
- [Unpacking Mental Health Diagnoses](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/unpackingmentalhealthdiagnoses-588/) - November 7 6 - 7:30 P.M. Join JFS in learning about mental health diagnoses through this multi-course series catered to adoptive and foster families. This series is taught by experts in the field. These will take place virtually, so there is no need to travel! This session discusses: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: FASD Adoption and
- [Unpacking Mental Health Diagnoses](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/unpackingmentalhealthdiagnoses/) - October 24 6 - 7:30 P.M. Join JFS in learning about mental health diagnoses through this multi-course series catered to adoptive and foster families. This series is taught by experts in the field. These will take place virtually, so there is no need to travel! This session discusses: Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder: DMDD. Adoption and
- [Unpacking Mental Health Diagnoses](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222-228-211-682-958-472-484-887-983/) - September 26 6 - 7:30 P.M. Join JFS in learning about mental health diagnoses through this multi-course series catered to adoptive and foster families. This series is taught by experts in the field. These will take place virtually, so there is no need to travel! This session discusses: Is it Reactive Attachment Disorder: RAD: Exploring
- [Unpacking Mental Health Diagnoses](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222-228-211-682-958-472-484-887-983-549/) - October 10 6 - 7:30 P.M. Join JFS in learning about mental health diagnoses through this multi-course series catered to adoptive and foster families. This series is taught by experts in the field. These will take place virtually, so there is no need to travel! This session discusses: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: PTSD. Adoption and
- [Yoga and Relaxation](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/yogaandrelaxation/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222-228-211-682-958-472-484-887/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222-228-211/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222-228-211-682-958-472-484/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222-228-211-682-958-472/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222-228-211-682-958/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222-228-211-682/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Back to School Bash](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/back-to-school-bash/) - August 14, 2023 4-7 P.M. Location: 324 W Market St York,17401 Join JFS and Friend's Salon 24 for a fun, low key kick off to the school year. Free backpacks with school supplies will be given away to the first 100 students in attendance (student or student's ID must be present). Learn more about how
- [Ukrainian Wellness Event | Незвичайна Велнес-подія](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/ukrainian-wellness-event/) - July 28, 2023 | 28 липня 2023 5-7 P.M. | 17:00-19:00 ** RAIN LOCATION: 3211 N. Front st. HBG 17110, office Suite #201 Join JFS to celebrate summer and learn how to incorporate nature into your wellness routine! There will be games, activities, drinks, snacks, and prizes! Святкуємо літо разом із JFS, вчимося поєднувати
- [Ask the Lawyer: Guiding Ukrainian Newcomers | Запитайте юриста: Керівництво для Українців які щойно приїхали](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/saving-lives-a-fathers-story-of-tragedy-determination-and-the-value-of-life-255-435-393-467-566-501-336/) - Join us for an informative Q&A session with a Lawyer through COMPASS Immigration Legal Services.
- [Women's Support Group | Група п�дтримки ж�нок-Середа](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/saving-lives-a-fathers-story-of-tragedy-determination-and-the-value-of-life-255-435-393-467-566-501/) - Topics discussed to provide & gain support, share experiences, and build on skills for wellness, such as resilience, and coping strategies.
- [Women's Support Group | Група п�дтримки ж�нок-Середа](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/saving-lives-a-fathers-story-of-tragedy-determination-and-the-value-of-life-255-435-393-467-566/) - Topics discussed to provide & gain support, share experiences, and build on skills for wellness, such as resilience, and coping strategies.
- [Women's Support Group | Група п�дтримки ж�нок-Середа](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/saving-lives-a-fathers-story-of-tragedy-determination-and-the-value-of-life-255-435-393-467/) - Topics discussed to provide & gain support, share experiences, and build on skills for wellness, such as resilience, and coping strategies.
- [Women's Support Group | Група п�дтримки ж�нок-Середа](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/saving-lives-a-fathers-story-of-tragedy-determination-and-the-value-of-life-255/) - Topics discussed to provide & gain support, share experiences, and build on skills for wellness, such as resilience, and coping strategies.
- [Women's Support Group | Група п�дтримки ж�нок-Середа](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/saving-lives-a-fathers-story-of-tragedy-determination-and-the-value-of-life-255-435/) - Topics discussed to provide & gain support, share experiences, and build on skills for wellness, such as resilience, and coping strategies.
- [Women's Support Group | Група п�дтримки ж�нок-Середа](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/saving-lives-a-fathers-story-of-tragedy-determination-and-the-value-of-life-255-435-393/) - Topics discussed to provide & gain support, share experiences, and build on skills for wellness, such as resilience, and coping strategies.
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222-228/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458-222/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session-458/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption Information Session](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/virtual-foster-care-and-adoption-information-session/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Virtual Foster Care and Adoption](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/tea-gathering-a-wellness-workshop-for-ukrainian-newcomers-618/) - Join this free, no obligation information session to learn more about becoming a foster or adoptive parent from Central PA's most experienced and passionate agency!
- [Tea Gathering : A Wellness Workshop For Ukrainian Newcomers | Збір чаю : ОЗДОРОВЧА МАЙСТЕРНЯ ДЛЯ НОВОПРИБУЛИХ УКРАЇНШІВ](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/tea-gathering-a-wellness-workshop-for-ukrainian-newcomers/) - Please Join Us for Tea, Cookies, and Coffee. Enjoy games, fun activities for the entire family, & learn about self-care from a therapist and professionals at JFS.
- [Celebrate Family Day at Messiah University!](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/celebrate-family-day-at-messiah-university/) - Sunday, May 21, 2023 1 to 4 P.M. Join JFS for a fun, free afternoon at the Oakes Museum of Natural History and learn more about how to help children in our community waiting for a family! The event includes free museum admission, scavenger hunt, crafts, snacks, live animals, and more! The Museum is located
- [JFS Presents Resilience, Survival, and Hope Featuring Tova Friedman](https://jfsofhbg.org/tova-friedman/) - Monday, June 5, 2023 11:30 A.M. to 1 P.M. Join us for a luncheon event in understanding how mental health counseling heals trauma and supports victims of acts of hate, from child Holocaust survivor, Tova Friedman. We will be joined by mental health therapist and New York Bestselling Author of "Daughter of Auschwitz", Tova Friedman.
- [JFS Gala: The 50th Anniversary Celebration](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/jfs-gala-the-50th-anniversary-celebration/) - The 50th Anniversary Celebration of Central PA's Kosher Meals on Wheels with special guest, four-time James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Solomonov Interested in becoming a sponsor? BUY TICKETS NOW Join us in recognizing 50 years of sustaining our community by providing meal delivery to homebound seniors in Central Pennsylvania. This celebration recognizes one of
- [A Conversation on Immigration](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/a-conversation-on-immigration/) - Presents a Living Room Conversation discussing: Immigration Immigration has become a flash point in our politics. It is highly personal for a wide variety of reasons. This conversation is an opportunity to just listen to each other’s experiences around this issue, with an introduction from HIAS’ Rebecca Kirzner, Senior Director of Grassroots Advocacy & Organizing.
- [Volunteer Informational Sessions: Afghan Refugee Resettlement](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/volunteer-informational-sessions-afghan-refugee-resettlement-599-426-289/) - JFS is planning multiple Volunteer informational sessions for the Afghan Refugee Resettlement program, where you can learn more about this life saving project. All sessions will be done on Zoom and you must pre-register to attend. Click to register for one or more sessions: Tuesday, March 1 at 10:00 AM Tuesday, March 1 at 7:00
- [Volunteer Informational Sessions: Afghan Refugee Resettlement](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/volunteer-informational-sessions-afghan-refugee-resettlement-599-426/) - JFS is planning multiple Volunteer informational sessions for the Afghan Refugee Resettlement program, where you can learn more about this life saving project. All sessions will be done on Zoom and you must pre-register to attend. Click to register for one or more sessions: Tuesday, March 1 at 10:00 AM Tuesday, March 1 at 7:00
- [Online Grief Support Group](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/online-grief-support-group/)
- [Volunteer Informational Sessions: Afghan Refugee Resettlement](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/volunteer-informational-sessions-afghan-refugee-resettlement/) - JFS is planning multiple Volunteer informational sessions for the Afghan Refugee Resettlement program, where you can learn more about this life saving project. All sessions will be done on Zoom and you must pre-register to attend. Click to register for one or more sessions: Wednesday, February 2nd at 1:00 pm Wednesday, February 2nd at 7:00
- [Volunteer Informational Sessions: Afghan Refugee Resettlement](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/volunteer-informational-sessions-afghan-refugee-resettlement-599/) - JFS is planning multiple Volunteer informational sessions for the Afghan Refugee Resettlement program, where you can learn more about this life saving project. All sessions will be done on Zoom and you must pre-register to attend. Click to register for one or more sessions: Wednesday, February 2nd at 1:00 pm Wednesday, February 2nd at 7:00
- [Honoring Barry Stein](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/honoring-barry-stein/) - Info Coming Soon
- [Striking Out COVID: A Family Celebration](https://jfsofhbg.org/events/striking-out-covid-a-family-celebration/) - Jewish Family Service (JFS) of Harrisburg is pleased to announce that we will be partnering with the Harrisburg Senators to sponsor a game between the Israel National Baseball Team (Team Israel) and the Cal Ripken All Stars. The event, titled “Striking Out COVID: A Family Celebration,” will take place on Friday, July 16, 2021 at

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## Categories

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- [Post-Permanency Newsletter](https://jfsofhbg.org/category/post-permanency-newsletter/)
- [JFS Newsletter](https://jfsofhbg.org/category/jfs-newsletter/)
- [CEO Blog](https://jfsofhbg.org/category/ceo-blog/)
- [Refugee Resettlement](https://jfsofhbg.org/category/refugee-resettlement/)

## Tags

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## Categories

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- [Fundraiser](https://jfsofhbg.org/mec-category/fundraiser/)
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