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REPORTERWINTER/SPRING 2018 Serving Stamford, Westport, Bridgeport and Upper Fairfield County An Evening of Mind Games with Schoke JFS Set for April 29th: Cocktails, Dinner, Honors, and a Mentalist By Lynn Saltz, Schoke JFS Marketing and Communications Coordinator he annual gala of the Elayne Leadership. At Schoke JFS, Jeri helps The Preservation Society of Newport and James Schoke Jewish run Kosher Food Pantry Fresh Produce County, the American Theatre Wing, TFamily Service, An Evening events, the Passover and Thanksgiving and UJA/JCC of Greenwich. Robb is with Schoke JFS, will be held on Sun- food and coat drives, and is a member a long-time supporter of Schoke JFS. day, April 29 at 5:30 PM at the Hilton of the An Evening with Schoke JFS He was instrumental in designing and Stamford Hotel. Schoke JFS will pres- Planning Committee. building the agency’s first website and ent the 39th Annual Mitzvah Awards GAIL G. AND STEPHEN online presence. to Jeri Appel and Gail G. and Ste- TRELL are lifelong members of the This year’s celebration will also wel- phen Trell and the 12th Annual Young Stamford Jewish community. Gail’s come Jon Stetson, the inspiration for Leadership Award to F. Robb Caster. philanthropic and volunteer causes the popular CBS series The Mentalist. JERI APPEL, a Stamford resident include Starfish Connection, the The audience will be awed by Jon’s per- Stamford JCC JumpStart program formance because he knows what you’re since fifth grade, is an active volun- for children with special needs, and really thinking. Jon has performed for Mitzvah Award Recipient Jeri Appel teer for many organizations including the Jewish Historical Society. In ad- three US Presidents, the King of Swe- Temple Sinai, Boy Scout Troop 15, dition, since 2010, she has also raised den and the Royal Family of Monaco. sponsored by the Jewish War Veterans, the spirits of thousands as a Health The evening’s events will be hosted and the Stamford Regional Agriscience and Humor Associates clown at Stam- by the Master of Ceremonies, Stam- and Technology Center. Jeri is also a ford Hospital. At Schoke JFS, Gail has ford’s own, Alan Kalter, the voice of graduate of UJF’s Behrend Institute for served on the Saul Cohen – Schoke The Late Show with David Letterman. JFS Lecture committee and as a board The evening is co-chaired by Liz Kitay member for the past four years. and Ronnie Sichel and the auction is Stephen and Vegas, the Trell’s stan- chaired by Sandy Speter. dard poodle, are frequent “friendly vis- Cocktails begin at 5:30 pm followed itors” to the Stamford JCC JumpStart by dinner. A live and silent auction program. Stephen has served as the featuring items such as dinners at Co- PAID

President of the Stamford Chamber of lumbus Park, Capital Grille, Barcelona, Photo: Alison Wachstein Photography Maller Photography Photo: Aviva PERMIT # 14 NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE HUNTINGTON, NY ORGANIZATION Commerce, President of the Stamford and BarTaco, tickets to several Broad- Mitzvah Award Recipients JCC, and on the Saul Cohen – Schoke way plays, a weekend getaway in New Gail G. and Stephen Trell JFS Lecture committee. Gail and Ste- York City, and tickets to the symphony phen are the recipients of the 2003 Jew- and sporting events. The “mind games” ish Historical Society Heritage Award will follow the auction and the evening and the 2013 Hyacinthe and Harold will conclude with a dessert reception. Hoffman Humanitarian Award. General tickets include cocktails, F. ROBB CASTER has always dinner, the performance and dessert been a “people person” with an entre- for $180. Show tickets will include a preneurial spirit. He is Vice President dessert reception for $65 per person. of Marketing for Building and Land Please visit www.ctjfs.org to reserve Technology, a privately held real es- your tickets. tate equity, development and property To discuss donations for the evening management firm that has completed through corporate sponsorships, jour- Harbor Point, a transformative, mixed- nal ads in recognition of the honorees, Photo: Alison Wachstein Photography use development in Stamford. or for local businesses, please contact Young Leadership Award F. Robb Caster Robb has enjoyed helping many orga- Lisa Rich, Schoke JFS Donor Rela- nizations, including Pacific House, the tions Coordinator at 203-921-4161 or Stamford Museum and Nature Center, [email protected]. • ON THE INSIDE • ON THE INSIDE • ON THE INSIDE •

Happening in Bridgeport and Beyond ... Page 3

ALEXA...Help Me? ...... Page 4

Saul Cohen – Schoke JFS Lecture ...... Page 5

It Takes a Village ...... Page 10 Jon Stetson, America’s Master Mentalist Jewish Family Service of Stamford, Inc. 733 Summer Street, Stamford, CT 06901 A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

hey say it takes a village to raise Who are you sustaining and nurturing? a child. What I know is that it ach year, Schoke Jewish Family Service asks our friends and Ttakes a dedicated Jewish commu- donors to support us through our Annual Friends Cam- nity with exceptional staff for Schoke JFS paign, and each year, we are overwhelmed by your generos- to accomplish the miracles it has over the E past 40 years. Schoke JFS donors, volun- ity. But why do people give to Schoke JFS? The answer is as varied as the individuals who donate. Some do it teers and staff are living the Jewish value of , making the world a better for altruistic reasons or a belief in tikkun olam. Some do it because tikkun olam their friends are donors and have inspired them to donate as well. place. Being a volunteer is a gift you give Some do it because they have benefitted personally from our ser- yourself and others. Volunteering is a great vices, and some do it because they know someone whom Schoke JFS opportunity to get involved in the com- has helped and they want to help too! munity, meet people, and do a mitzvah. By volunteering you are enriching the lives of those who are vulnerable in our community In my dream world, every one of our hundreds of donors fully and in need of help. understands and supports the mission of Schoke JFS: helping those in need guided by Jew- ish tradition, and not turning anyone away. The highlight of my week is delivering Shabbat meals. When a client opens the door, the look of appreciation and Shabbat Schoke Jewish Family Service provides that help even if our mission-driven services pro- wishes that greets me erase the everyday woes of life and fill me vide no revenue to the agency. Take Abe, for example, who lost his job, and after being with a sense of wellbeing. One client always gives me a few dol- evicted from his apartment, was living in his car. Abe needed Schoke JFS to help him find lars for tzedakah. It is her way of saying thank you and of giving a place to live and a job to support himself, which we did. Or Sharon, who upon receiving back to the community. Shabbat meals through our Kosher Food Pantry, said that the program had such a profound effect on her life and that of her son, Jon. She had wanted to develop a closer connection to Thank you to everyone who volunteers their time and donates her synagogue and having weekly Shabbat meals that she couldn’t otherwise afford afforded to Schoke JFS. If you are not yet involved or want to become her the connection she had been seeking. She and her son now sit down to a Shabbat meal more involved there are many volunteer opportunities available. every week and they have become active congregants at their synagogue. We need you and the community needs you. As I write this, we are approaching the holidays of Purim and Passover, two holidays that Schoke JFS has many options for volunteers, including short- stress compassion and caring for those in our community that have less than we do. On and long-term commitments. Ongoing volunteer opportunities include organizing, managing or working at the Kosher Food Purim, we are asked to give matanot l’evyonim, gifts to those who are lacking basic needs, and on Passover, we are asked to provide food to those without, and invite them into our Pantry, delivering food pantry items, delivering Shabbat meals homes. Schoke JFS is privileged to be able to fulfill these mitzvots with you, and because of provided by 613 restaurant or a package of produce from our you. Your generosity makes this, after all we do, possible. Fresh Produce Day, or making a friendly visit to a home-bound client. There are also one-time opportunities such as preparing Have a happy and healthy Passover! and distributing baskets of food for Jewish holidays and Thanks- giving or assisting the staff with event mailings or other adminis- trative tasks. Don’t see something that interests you or fits your skill set? No problem! Let us help you find a volunteer activity Matt Greenberg, CEO that will match your interests and available time. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Jonathan Fass at 203-921-4161 or email him at [email protected] or go to our Schoke JFS has expanded its reach website (www.ctjfs.org), click on “Volunteer” and complete the across the Greater Bridgeport online volunteer form. community, providing the same You can make a difference in someone’s life by just volunteering. critical services it offers in Stamford 733 Summer Street, Stamford, CT 06901 203-921-4161 Fax: 203-921-4169 from our Bridgeport Office: 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604 Beverly A. Stein, President 203-659-3601 3 Home Companion Aides and www.ctjfs.org CNAs for Stay-at-Home Care Lynn Saltz, Editor 3Counseling and Group Counseling EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President ...... Beverly Stein 3Case Management and Schoke JFS Vice Presidents ...... Marty Donner Paul Gordon Emergency Assistance Meryl Japha Caroline Temlock Teichman 3 Jewish Family Life Treasurer ...... Michael Stone thanks Secretary ...... Adam Batkin Education Programs Immediate Past Pres...... Edith Samers CEO ...... Matt Greenberg BRIDGEPORT OFFICE LOCATED AT: United Jewish Federation of Greater BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jewish Senior Services Stamford, New Canaan and Darien Michael Alexander Leon Hanna Saul Cohen Liz Kitay Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Campus Robin Fischel Carl Rosen 4200 Park Avenue, Third Floor Mark Frank Marvin Rosenbaum Federation for Jewish Philanthropy Avram Freedberg Laurence Sheinman Bridgeport, CT Alan Freeman Ronnie Sichel Linda B. Gornitsky Greta Solomon of Upper Fairfield County Paula Green Gail G. Trell For more information about how to PAST PRESIDENTS receive services through our Michael Alexander A Martin Manaly Bridgeport office, please call for their generous Marilyn Dale A Hilde Scheraga A R. Alex Goldman Laurence Sheinman 203.921.4161 or e-mail [email protected]. Linda B. Gornitsky A Sid Stern ongoing support A Marjorie Laff A – of blessed memory

2 ELAYNE AND JAMES SCHOKE HAPPENING IN BRIDGEPORT AND BEYOND SCHOKE JFS WELCOMES Schoke JFS Services Continue to Expand By Jonathan Fass, Chief Operating Officer NEW STAFF MEMBERS n December 2016, Schoke JFS moved Dr. Toby Lazarus, Schoke JFS into its new offices in Bridgeport, lo- Brain Fitness Coordinator Icated on the third floor of Jewish Se- nior Services, 4200 Park Avenue. This move Toby has resided in Stamford for the past came with the merger of the Jewish Fed- 19 years. Active in the BCDS parent’s asso- erations that served the twelve communi- ciation, the JCC Center Women board, and ties from Norwalk to Stratford. With this UJF’s Women’s Philanthropy Board, she and merger, Schoke JFS more than doubled its her husband have four children aged 13-19. catchment area and assumed responsibility Dr. Lazarus received her BA in psychology for serving thousands of additional families from The Johns Hopkins University and her across Fairfield County. PhD from the University of Chicago where she specialized in neuropsychology. She is excited to bring her neuro- In the past year, Schoke JFS has continued science expertise to the Brain Fitness program and hopes to grow its to expand its services through its Bridgeport individual and group programs. office. With expanded staffing, the core F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F programs of our agency are now offered Marc Frankel in his new home at Jewish Senior Ser- from this new address. Each week, older vices. His move was made possible through the Schoke Cindy Phelps, Home Companion adults participate in one of three weekly JFS Case Management department. Coordinator-Upper Fairfield County psycho-social support groups for successful Cindy joins Schoke JFS as the Home aging. We have partnered with local syna- ditional support for daily living. Our Case Companion Coordinator for Upper Fairfield gogues to provide bereavement counseling Management department coordinated his County. She has a BA degree in Gerontol- and offer parenting classes for families con- move and Marc is now successfully transi- ogy and Family Studies from University of sidering divorce. Individuals can now meet tioning to his new home. This was possible Connecticut and is a Certified Nursing As- with our therapists or psychiatrists for in- through the broader network of services and sistant. Cindy has worked for the Town of dividual counseling. Clients can now find community collaborations that our expan- Westport as their Senior Center Director the support services they need to find em- sion to the Bridgeport area provides. and Catholic Charities as the Director for the ployment, housing, emergency assistance or As the community continues to seek our state and federally funded Senior Nutrition Program during the past collect food from our Kosher Food Pantry services we are committed to providing twenty-seven years. With Cindy’s help, Schoke JFS looks forward to and Fresh Produce Day distribution sites. comprehensive, compassionate care. If you expanding Home Companion services in the greater Bridgeport area. Our Home Companion program, a home or someone you love needs assistance, please F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F healthcare referral service, now serves upper call our Bridgeport office at 203-659-3601, Fairfield County and can provide low-cost, reach out to us at [email protected], or go on- Taylor Ross, Jewish Twenties and quality, stay-at-home healthcare services for line to learn about all our services at www. Thirties Coordinator families in need. ctjfs.org. If you would like to support our Taylor is the new Jewish Twenties and Recently, Schoke JFS helped Marc Frankel efforts in the Bridgeport area, with either Thirties Coordinator. She is currently the to find new home at Jewish Senior Services. a donation or as a volunteer, please contact Corporate Relations and Special Events Restricted to a wheelchair, Marc needed to Jonathan Fass at 203-921-4161 or jfass@ Manager at the Westport Country Play- relocate to a facility that could provide ad- ctjfs.org. house. Having started at the playhouse in August of 2016 as the Development fellow and promoted in January to the Artistic and Brain Fitness Program Management Associate, Taylor has a strong background in planning special events. Previously, Taylor was per- Want to stimulate your brain? forming across the country with some of her favorite roles being Hair- The Schoke JFS Brain Fitness spray (Tracy Turnblad), Fatty Fatty No Friends! (Bully) and Urinetown Program offers games and (Little Sally). She studied at Italy’s Accademia dell’ Arte and gradu- puzzles in a casual, supportive ated from Muhlenberg College with a degree in theater and music. setting to inspire confidence and provide practical support to help you target your personal goals. Send a Schoke JFS Tribute Card Private and Individual sessions and dynamic group classes available. Tribute cards are a meaningful way to celebrate with friends and family members on their Bar or UPCOMING BRAIN FITNESS GROUPS: Bat Mitzvah, graduation, wedding, Monday, April 30 Monday, June 11 birthday or any other simcha or Memory and Recall Attention Skills special event. They can also be sent to family or friends in honor 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM @ Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Ave or commemoration of a loved one. Advance registration suggested. Light refreshments will be served. There is no fixed amount for a JCC Members $8 per session • Community $10 per session donation and the card will be sent

To register, please contact Connie Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or on your behalf. The inscription email at [email protected], or for additional information contact notes the purpose of your donation. Dr. Toby Lazarus, Schoke JFS Brain Fitness Program Coordinator at To make a tribute card donation, 203-921-4161 ext. 121 or [email protected]. go online to www.ctjfs.org or call 203-921-4161.

JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE 3 SENIOR SERVICES CLINICAL SERVICES ALEXA…Help Me? By Eve Moskowitz, LCSW, Director of Clinical Services HOARDING controversial topic for the times is the role of seniors in this technology obsessed soci- ety and how it affects their emotional connections and well-being. With the younger To Keep or Not to Keep? Agenerations tethered to their devices, there is little opportunity for dinner conversation or even weekly phone calls to “check in.” But the plight of the senior population and technol- By Sarah Elliott-Stowe, Home Companion Case Manager ogy is affected in many more ways than difficulty getting a live voice on the phone. With the shift from live and personal help to obtain an appointment, purchase a plane ticket or register ome days I look at my home and wonder why I keep stuff for a gym class, the senior population may find themselves at a disadvantage. Many seniors that my husband and son don’t need. In an attempt to keep become frustrated and anxious, having to wade through an audio voice response system or sign Smy home nice and neat, I discard “stuff.” I then hear from onto a web portal locked behind irretrievable usernames and ever changing passwords. The them, “Hey, I needed that,” or “I was saving that, just in case I lost feeling of being disconnected and incapable of managing daily activities can create anxiety and the original.” Striving to maintain less clutter is a problem that fear amongst those who already feel vulnerable to the process of aging or being “aged out.” everyone can relate to. Thankfully, this is not a hoarding situation. Baby boomers who were raised watching the Jetsons and Star Trek can hardly believe that cars According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of Amer- can drive themselves, phones access the face behind the voice and a thumb print replaces a name. ica, hoarding is the persistent difficulty of discarding or parting The Silent Generation, the demographic born between the mid 1920’s and 1940’s, are even with possessions, regardless of their actual value. The difference more awe struck. This generation remembers the home entertainment system being a radio and between hoarding and clutter is in a cluttered home you would a telephone with an operator to place the call. Their learning curve often feels insurmountable, still be able use the rooms in a purposeful manner. In a hoarding struggling to embrace the cloud, the App store, Alexa, and her nemesis Google Home. situation, items fill and block active living spaces so they cannot There are of course many seniors who have been able to “catch on,” and use recent technolog- be used, or use is hampered by the large amount of items. ical advances to enhance and strengthen their lives. The ability to FaceTime with relatives who The Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services live far away, the opportunity to access an online support group and countless other choices to says, for those who hoard, the quantity of their collected items connect to the outside world, and options for home delivery and online financial management sets them apart from other people. Commonly hoarded items are wonderful alternatives for those who can navigate the system. For others, however, the may be newspapers, magazines, paper and plastic bags, cardboard frustration of failure to master the choices that so many others use to their advantage creates boxes, photographs, household supplies, food, pets and clothing. sadness and fear, in a demographic that has so many other vulnerabilities to handle. This behavior usually has toxic effects – emotional, physical, There are many classes offered to help guide and teach those who were not weaned on a social, financial and legal. According to the website www.chil- computer keyboard, but the ever changing system, with continual upgrades, makes it difficult drenofhoarders.com, the emotional effects of hoarding include to maintain the learning curve. Just when one feels adept at negotiating the system, the system embarrassment about their parent’s home and frustration and re- changes and the intuitiveness of having to change with it is again lost in anxiety and fear of sentment towards the hoarder. Hoarders are at a greater risk of the unknown. falling, asthma, allergies, and social isolation. When pets are in So, what is the senior population who struggle with technology and all its complexities to the home, objects often get covered with animal waste and the do? As in all arenas of life that present challenge, pull on the coping skills of the past, when air quality becomes noxious. Financial trouble may arise when different life situations necessitated strong and adaptive coping skills. This is a generation that has survived life experience, who are in many ways more accomplished in their survival than the hoarders buy things they don’t need, overlook bill payments, or millennials, who rely on auto-correct and Siri for guidance. Take advantage of classes designed accumulate debt due to overspending. You can be evicted from a to help master a new skill, but be patient with the learning curve and always use breathing rental home and, if you own your own home, you may have issues techniques to keep stress at a minimum. with the fire department or zoning board. Additional legal action Computer classes are available at Schoke Jewish Family Service for one-session coaching on may be taken if you have young children or pets in the residence. how to use email or an eight-session course on Microsoft Word or Excel. For further informa- Children may be removed from a home because of unsanitary tion, please contact Elaine Mitchell at 203-921-4161, ext. 110. conditions such as bio-hazardous waste, rotting food, insects, or items that are piled too high and may cause injuries. When downsizing after retirement, some may be unable to part with belongings or to envision the more limited space they KICKIN’ IT WITH are moving into, overfilling their new environment. Some older persons develop hoarding behavior as a secondary symptom to TT ( Jewish Twenties & Thirties) has started the year off Jdancing away! Every month the group gets together for dementia and can no longer keep up with the organization nec- happy hour at a different bar in the area. Last month, we were at Rascal Flatts, where we par- essary to maintain order. ticipated in line dancing, laughter and more! Upcoming events will include the first meeting of The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that 13% of people over our JTT Giving Circle, JTT’s new tzedakah program, events centered around the holidays, and the age of 65 develop dementia; of these, approximately 20% ex- of course our regular monthly happy hours that always draw a crowd! JTT continues to grow hibit hoarding behavior. There is a higher prevalence of hoarding as a dynamic program connecting local Jews in their 20s and 30s through social, educational, behavior among those who are single and socially isolated. cultural, and volunteer events. For upcoming events and to learn more about JTT or the Giving According to U.S. News and World Report, those seeking to help Circle, search for the “Jewish Twenties & Thirties” group on Facebook. For more information loved ones with hoarding should recognize the difference between and to be added to our mailing lists, please contact Taylor Ross at [email protected]. hoarding and sentimentality, consider other reasons for hoarding behaviors, seek professional support, and not discard items with- out the cooperation of the hoarder. A number of treatment and intervention strategies have demonstrated some success. Be aware that everyone looks at their circumstances differently. If you feel that your situation may be overwhelming, please seek assistance. The professionals at Schoke Jewish Family Service can offer guidance to persons who may be exhibiting hoarding behaviors. Please contact Isrella Knopf, Director of Senior Services at isrel- [email protected]. Schoke Jewish Family Service also offers a home cleaning program through its residential cleaning service which is sensitive to hoarding situations. For more information about cleaning, please contact Jodi Maxner 203-921-4161 ext. 125 or Tova Feldstein and Ashley Mail Ariella Goldstein, Brett Hillsberg and Jessica Klein email [email protected].

4 ELAYNE AND JAMES SCHOKE 6TH ANNUAL SAUL COHEN – SCHOKE JFS LECTURE Bruce Feiler, Presenter - Sharing Secrets for a Happy Family n November 9th, with over 225 guests in the auditorium of the Fergu- son Library, Schoke Jewish Family Service presented the 6th Annual Saul OCohen – Schoke JFS Lecture. Bruce Feiler, the featured speaker, a New York Times columnist and bestselling author of twelve books, shared stories of his life and travels and the passion that motivates him to help families lead joyous lives. Titled The Family Today: Secrets to Stronger Relationships and Greater Hap- piness at Any Age, Bruce’s talk spoke about the themes of his most recent book, The First Love Story: Adam, Eve and Us and one of his most widely read self-help books, The Secrets of Happy Families. The lecture was offered through the generosity of Mimi and Saul Cohen. It is a gift they give annually to a grateful community at no cost. Prior to the community lecture, a Patrons’ Reception was held in the library to thank a group of generous donors for their support. A book signing and dessert buffet followed the community lecture. Thanks for a successful evening go to the steering committee: Betsy and Mike Stone, Sheila Romanowitz, Gail G. and Stephen Trell, and Joanna and Mark Frank. The greater Stamford community thanks Saul and Mimi Cohen for their gen- erosity and vision in supporting this annual and much anticipated lecture.

Photos by Aviva Maller Photography JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE 5 SCHOKE JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE THANKS OUR GENEROUS DONORS Period Covering January 1 – December 31, 2017

$25,000 & ABOVE $1,000 - $2,499 Betty and Dan Roberts Operations Inc. Marvin Rosenbaum Susan Plutzer Estate of Sheila Carmine Anonymous Sherri and Allen Rosenthal Risa and Steven Raich Mimi and Saul Cohen Anonymous Gayle and Howard Rothman Amy Ralston Seife Grecia Gross Claudia Albicocco Linda and Leonard Russ Sandy and Mark Rappaport Renee Samson Jeri and Mark Appel Wendi and Ed Schechter Carina and Henry Rascoff Joan and Joel Smilow Gordon Arnold Monica and Michael Schlessinger Miriam and Michael Schechter Barbara and Ron Ashkenas Betsey and Arthur Selkowitz David Scheraga $10,000 - $24,999 Stephne and Kerrin Behrend Marian and Arthur Shulman Ilyse and Dean Schuckman Carol and Andrew Boas Beit Chaverim Ronnie and Steven Sichel Sheryl and Mark Schwartz Rhoda and Avram Freedberg Beldotti Bakeries Meryl and Hank Silverstein Barbara and Nolan Schwartz Nancy and Richard Freedman Dina and Paul Berger Brenda and Bruce Smith Myrna and George Sessa Gibor Charitable Foundation Susan and Martin Berkoff Greta Solomon Marsha Shendell Audrey and Joe Speter Walter Shuchatowitz Leslie Gold and Brian Gold Beth and Russell Berkowitz Sarey and Sam Bernstein St. John’s Community Foundation Lisa and Larry Siebert Nan and Paul Gordon Stamford Hospital Y Susan and Jonathan Beyman Richard Silver Joan Zinbarg and Irwin Hochberg Jodi and Richard Boxer Janet Welkovich and Jeff Trell Stamford Federal Credit Union Meryl and Ronald Japha Callari Auto Group Alison and Robert Wachstein Stamford Ford Lincoln Lapine Charitable Trust F. Robb Caster Linda Gornitsky & Harvey Weber Rhoda and Arnold Steiger Ellie and Mort Lowenthal Benjamin Chalfin Westport Auction Stop & Shop B.L. Manger Foundation Malerie Yolen-Cohen and Barbara and Richard Whitcomb Shelley Taylor and David Swerdloff Old Oaks Foundation Jeffrey Cohen Penny and Ira Wolff Julie and Rabbi Jay TelRav Edith Samers and Edward Smith Gerald Cohen Temple Sinai Sissy and Gary Stein Marsha Colten and Robert Cohen $500 - $999 Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home Cohen and Wolf P.C. Ricky Arbron Gail G. and Stephen Trell $5,000 - $9,999 Conservative Synagogue Atria Stamford View Entertainment Anonymous Cross Insurance Bankwell Sandi and Stuart Waldstreicher Adrienne and Michael Alexander Marilyn and Lew Dale Katy Meyers and Marc Bennett Ellen and Richard Weber Stefanie and Winthrop Baum Ellen and Gary Davis Stephen Berni Barbara and Art Wernicke Meryl and David Gordon Elaine and Bob Erichson Charlotte and Manfred Birnbaum Barbara and Kenneth White Susan and Len Mark Eversource Energy Foundation Barbara and Gary Bloom Wofsey, Rosen Jessie and David Brand Navah and Naftali Wolfe Kori and William Meyers Sharon and Michael Feldstein Robin and Jason Fischel Eileen and Robert Breakstone Alfred Wolfsohn Terry Newman and David Rubin Stephanie and Howard Fogel Cynthia and Stephen Chaplin Gail and Jack Abrams Jessica and Laurence Sheinman Rita Appel and Jon Fraade Cirone Friedberg Reba and Howard Sitzer Joanna and Mark Frank Tracy and Nahum Daniels $250 - $499 Eileen and Fred Springer Lois and Michael Friedman Linda and James Darling Gail and David Audibert Beverly and David Stein Donna and Edward Fuhrman Robert Davis David Beck Betsy and Michael Stone Audrey Gaelen Lois and Neil Dreyer Maureen Dewan and Stuart Belkin The Claire Helsing Foundation GenRe Rita Edelston Darona and Harold Bernstein Leslie Gold Suzanne and Jon Ellenthal Regina and Ted Bobroske $2,500 - $4,999 Kirsten Hohmann and Geoffrey Erickson Daniela Russo and Anonymous Amiel Goldberg Lee Fanwick Christopher Carbonell Jessica and Adam Batkin Mel Goldstein Regina and Jonathan Fass Jennifer Carter Susan and Michael Berkoff Paula and Benjamin Green Michael Fedele Chessco Industries Judith Block Pam Ehrenkranz and Matt Greenberg Beverly Ferber Stella and Isaac Cohen Amy and Henry Bubel Barbara and Ed Guttman Madeline and Sol Field Lee Combrinck-Graham Central Auto Auction Haebler Capital Linda Hurwitz and Richard Fine Congregation Beth El Elise Sosnow and Steven Cohen Kayla Mazer and Leon Hanna First County Bank Joan and Stuart Danoff Glenna and Andrew Freeman Julie Epstein Andrea and David M. Cohen Hanna & Mazer Dental Group Dale and Stephen Hoffman Lynne and Steven Frenkel Louise and Robert Fass Congregation Agudath Sholom Robert Howard Rhonda and Larry Ginsberg Maryellen and Ed Feeley Helen and Martin Donner IBM Corp Marilyn and Irving Goldblum Esta and Jay Feinsod Connie and Alan Freeman Shara and Rabbi David Judith and Howard Goldstein Charles Feuer Ellen and Arthur Gerstein Maria Jacobson Hoffman Investment Partners Flossy and Sam Fischel Joyce and Larry Haber Monica and Eric Jankelovits Inter County Bakers David Frank Kamal Haron Amy and Neil Katz Maruja and Allon Ivri Audrey Frankenberg Rachel Goldstein and Jay Jubas Rita and Howard Lerner Jewish Community Foundation Lester Freundlich Elizabeth and Marc Kitay Shari and Harold Levy of Hartford Martha and Carl Friedman Sharon and Jeffrey Lewis Senator and Mrs. Joseph Lieberman JJ Lavery Electric LLC Laura and Harry George Marguerite and Kenneth Neuhaus Ana and Albert Lilienfeld Margery Wiesenthal and Herb Kahan Lonnie Germaine Maria and Glenn Reicin Martin Lipset Kolbrenner & Alexander LLC Marilyn Gochberg Esther and Harvey Rein Angus and Leslie Littlejohn Sam Kravitz June and Jon Gold Claudia and Howard Rimerman Maria and Frank Lovello Lampe-Batkin Associates, LLC Robin Frederick and Michael Gold Carol and Erwin Riven Judy and Mark Lowenstein Kathy and Michael Lazarus Risa and Jeff Goldblum Arlene and Carl Rosen Susan Rich and Mitchell Mailman Dean Lederfeind Kathy and David Golub Ruth Krauss Foundation Rebecca MarkY Shelly Leibowitz Shari Goodstein Lois Stark and Gary Lessen Lillian and Sanford Shapiro Barbara and David Messer Michelle and Howland Gordon Cynthia Hoffman and Stan Miller Carol and Peter Lilienthal Myra and John Graubard Caroline Temlock Teichman and Shani Cohen and Gil Orbach Faye Manger Eileen and David Heckerling Marc Teichman Plaza Realty & Management Corp Jamie Morvitz & Matt Miller Audrey and Billy Heller Temple B’Nai Chaim Caryl and Peter Poser Barbara Miller Robin Treidel and Mike Himelstein Ronnie and Michael Wiederlight James Prince Alan Neigher Zeena Hine Neda Khaghan and Melissa Marlowe and Brett Reiner Irwin Niedober Insurance Auto Auctions Robert Yaghoubian Denise and Lee Rizzuto Sandra and David Oberhand Dena Kaplan Y Of blessed memory

6 ELAYNE AND JAMES SCHOKE SCHOKE JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE THANKS OUR GENEROUS DONORS Period Covering January 1 – December 31, 2017

Judi Koffsky Sid Binder Steven Grushkin Brenda Piskin Rabbi & Mrs. Eli Kohl Terry Blank Fran and Carl Harnick Judy and Sy Pomper Lorraine and David Kweskin Nancy and Bruce Blasnik Rachel and Dan Haron Randi and Craig Price Helen and Edward Kweskin Susan and Richard Blomberg Lee Ann and Bruce Heller Beth and Jay Rand Holly Lesser Sheila Brody Barbara and Harvey Hennes Rapid Press Jane and Philip Levene Emily and Harvey Caney Jackie and David Herman Rosa and Saiid Rastegar Jason and Melissa Leventhal Bette and Jack Chachkes Ilse and Joachim Herz Robin and Rick Redniss Wendy and David Lewis Jay Chadwick Karen Holzman Louis Reens Lisa and Seth Linzer Donald Charlamb Honda of Westport Rina Eidelberg & Mitchell Reichgut Mike Lombardo Audrey and Aaron Charling Hope Pizza Florence and David Resnick Nina and Norman Lotstein Joyce and Barry Chavkin Robert Hurwitz Sonya and Alan Rich Lynn and Jeffrey Lowin Classic Business Solutions Susan and Jed Isaacs Joyce and Jay Riemer Rhonda Schaffer-Maron and Roberta and Alan Cohen Charles Judd Agnes and Lawrence Roberts Jeffrey Maron Carolyn and Gary Cohen Peggy and Alan Kalter Evie Shapiro and Alan Rosenberg Maria and Michael McNulty Joan and Jeffrey Cohen Helene and Harvey Kaminski Mr and Mrs Martin Rosenberger Sondra and Jared Mehl Judith and David S. Cohen Elissa and David Kaplan Wendy Rosenblum Sherry and Jeff Mosenkis Lorraine Cohen Lori Kaplan Jennifer and Edward Rosenfeld Caryn Moss Stephen B Cohen Sharon and Douglas Karp Margo A Rosenfeld Miriam and Gideon Pell Karen and Lawrence Cowit Judith and Sheldon Katz Nofie and Mark Rosovsky Linda and Larry Rezak Randie Katz and Larry Cryer Amy Katz Robin and Robert Rothenberg Lisa and Harry Rich Florence and Paul Danzer Keough’s Paint and Hardware Sally and James Rothkopf Sheila Romanowitz Zimra Gordon and Steven Danzer Nancy Kitay Joan and Robert Rubinstein Elaine and Gerald Rosenberg David’s Catering Sandy and Eric Koehler Sandra Samuels Gail and Ross Rudolph Susan Devol Norine Krasnogor Sharyn and Rick Sarner Jessica and Jason Rutherford Meg Tocantins and Mark Diamond Jennifer and William Krasnor Irma and Joseph Schacter Sadec Financial Services Binnie Ditesheim Joan Kuriansky Toby Schaffer Daisy Schaeffer Donald A. Rich Interiors & Antiques Abigail and Joshua Kurtz Audrey and Ed Schechter Helen and Sheldron Seplowitz Frances and Robert Dorf Ruth Kwartin Barbara and Greg Schindler Nancy and Jeffrey Serkes Alix and David Eben Holly Lapine Marcia and Kenneth Schlechter Diane and Steven Shaby Michelle and Peter Ebstein Janet Lenhart Twody and Bob Schless Suzanne and Philip Sharlach Eleanor Ehrenkranz Tamara and Lev Levin Sidney Schnoll Melissa and Alon Shein Bette and Joseph Epstein Jamie and Steven Levine Marcie Schoenfeld Carol and Howard Shiffman Susan and Alvin Epstein Judith and Andrew Levine Anna Pankratov and Len Schwartz Mary and Alan Silberman Tina Epstein Ronnie and Gary Lilien Kenneth Schwartz Jeanne Simon Bobbe and Ben Evans Rabbi and Mrs. Mark Lipson Debra Emery and Richard Schwartz Susan and Gary Singer Taly and Trevor Farber Liz Sue Bagels Season’s Catering Gloria and Randy Skigen Cori SaNogueira and Adam Farstrup Nancy Heller and Roger Lob Darrel Seife Spaulding Landscape Architects Fashion Nails & Spa Ilene and James Locker Ethel Seife Sandy and Moshe Speter Karen and Mark Feder Dorothy Luft Selleck Street Pizza Laura and James Sugarman Ronnie and Edward Fein Arielle and Jeremy Luksberg Harriet and Bob Selverstone Amy Essenfeld and Ken Temple Helen Felder Elizabeth and Andrew Lustbader Sandra and Morton Semel Temple Israel Betty and Alan Feldman Joan and Stuart Madison Shelly and Mel Senator Lynne Weinberg Anna and Paul Felix Janet and Dennis Magid Shelley and Edward Senker Marian Weinberg Finescape & Sons Susan Manashel Frieda and Eugene Shapiro Barbara and Arthur Wernicke Guta Fischel Renee Manger Shelley and Don Sherer Sharon and Simeon Wohlberg Wendy and John Fitzgerald Roselyn Mangot Janis and Michael Siegel David Zizmor Miriam and Ira Flatow Oleg Margolin Rosalind Siegel Eric Frank Dinah Miller and Seth Marlowe Bracha and Jerome Silber $100 - $249 John Frattaroli Mayor David Martin Sherry Steiner and Marc Silver Rachel Aaron Cindi Freedman Susan Merzon Beck Jane Silverman Debbie Goodman & David Abbey Phyllis Freeman Lois and Richard Miller Paula Simon Marjory and Robert Abrams Maxine and Jay Freilich Helen and Boris Miloslavsky Stephanie Simon Andrea Goodman and Paul Furrow Beth and Tony Miranda Judith and David Singer Jeffrey Ackerman Harvey Gaberman Joseph H Mittel Joyce and Lewis Slayton Marlyn and Richard Agatstein Miriam and Joe Gelb Isabel and Stephen Moskowitz Diane and Elliot Sloyer Johanna and Selim Akyuz Caroline and Gary Geller Rona and David Moskowitz Shirley Zajdel and Arthur Smith Leeam Aldouby Raisa and Vladimir Gershman Karen and Gary Neems Sorrento Pizza & Restaurant Gayle and Geoff Alswanger Fran and Gerry Ginsburg Edith Neidle Bobby Valentines Sports Academy Lesley Apt Tracy Koehler and James Giordano Shirley Nelkin Stamford Toys Carmine Aquino Roz Fleisher and Roz and Merritt Nesin Linda and Stephen Stein Irina Aronson L. Morris Glucksman New Wave Seafood Lauren Steinberg Jocelyn Sherman & Ron Avidan Phyllis Gofstein Newfield Green Cleaners J. Victor Stern Rabbi Vicki Axe Anna and Ronald Gold Noble Salon Harriet Sternlicht Sari and Ed Backer Debby and Jack Goldberg Nathan Norkin Heather and Ben Susman Bonnie Slyn and David Ball Suzanne Goldman Northeast Exterminating Steven Swerdlick Melissa and Adam Barkin Gold’s Delicatessen Suzanne and Craig Olin T.R. Molgano Janet and Alan Barr Adele and Robert Goldsmith Jodi Olinsky Sheila and Bernard Teig Lawrence Barron Sandra and Robert Goldstein Allison and Jonathan Ostroff Laura and Seth Tobin Burton Benjamin Sandy and Fred Golove Barbara and Norman Ostroff Camille Tomasello Larry Berger Rabbi & Mrs Mark Golub Parkway Diner Lyudmila and Aleksandr Tovshteyn Ellen Berger Eyal Grauer Rabbi Ita Paskind Janet Trager Lila and Larry Berger Robert Gray Irma and Allan Paull Sharon and Jeffrey Turshen AJ Beson Samuel Green Roz and Alec Perlson Virginia Vaccaro Deena and David Bessaleli Spencer Green Peter Suchy Jewelers Anna Ventsias Melissa and Mark Bildner Carolyn and Gary Greene Polina and Zak Pishnov Helene and Len Vinnick Y Of blessed memory JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE 7 SCHOKE JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE THANKS OUR GENEROUS DONORS Period Covering January 1 – December 31, 2017

Wagner’s Luggage and Gifts Norma Dworetzky Cindy and Gary Katz Shayle Robins Audrey Waldstreicher Freda Easton Sylvia Kaye Laurie Rogoff Cindy and Steven Warren Marilyn Wolpin and Paul Ellis Susan Switkin Kaye and Barbara and Jerry Rose Barbara and Harry Webski Wendy Engel Stephen Kaye Tami Amiri and Richard Rosenfeld Phyllis and Richard Weisberg Dorothy and Lawrence Engel Sally Kelman Benjamin Rosenthal Suzanne Weiser Paula Eppinger Sherry and Bennet Kfare Harriet and Martin Roth Robin and Fred Wexler Laura Epstein Lyudmila and Leonty Khromov Mila and Joseph Rubbak June Eichbaum and Kenneth Wirfel Judith and Gerald Falbel Anna and Felix Klebanov Elizabeth Rubin Women’s Health Connecticut Elizabeth Feldman Isrella and Gerald Knopf Linda and Henry Rubinstein Joey Zach Tova Feldstein Jill and Alejandro Knopoff Gail Ruder Cathy and Steve Zales Irving Fins Joan and Jerry Kranz Sally and Allan Sacks Gila and Joseph Zelazny Rosalea and Richard Fisher Lester Krasnogor Tatyana Novikova and Stephanie and Dan Zelazny Jeanette and Harold Fishkow Liz Krebs Yevgeniy Sagalchik Renee Zinn Judy and Gerald Fishman Jesse Krinsky Raema Salmon Sheila and John Zito Claire Fishman Olga Larin and Martin Kuhr Carol and Willy Sander Chani and Rabbi Oran Zweiter Susan and Mel Forman Linda Lambeck Rabbis Liz Rolle & Philip Schechter Michael Fortgang Shlomo Landa Eunice and Sanford Schoen UNDER $100 Dorothy and Bernard Frank Lieba and Steven Lander Randy Schulman Anonymous Leslie Frankel Galina and Vladimir Landres Marilyn and Solomon Schwartz Harriet and Edmond Abel Gina and Steven Frederick Roni and Allan Lang Tara and Richard Shapiro Donna Adelglass Sarah Friedson Samuel Lazinger Phyllis and Martin Shapiro Rhoda and Ted Adler Estelle Fruchtman Muriel Lefsetz Elaine and Lester Sharlach Ruth and Nelson Alpert Ellen and Arthur Gang Esther and David Lester Sharon Franklin American Express Company Salomeya and Herman Gavronsky Wayne Levin Moshe and Leah Shemtov American Institute for Foreign Study Amanda Geffner Carol Levine Harriett Sherman Diane Ash Lesley and Dennis Gehr Andrea and Marty Levine Robert Shubs Sam Bader Polly and Harry Geller Helen LeVine Robin and Andrew Siegel Marilyn and Mervyn Balsam Susan Baldwin and Gary Gepner Amanda and Jasper Lewitton Hedy and Maurice Siegel Keith Barber Marcy Bick and Stan Gershman Judy Liebeskind Beth Siegelbaum Fred M Barr Arline Gertzoff Sarah and Avi Lipsker Miriam and Eliezer Silverman Elizabeth and Philip Bauer Paula and David Giver Sheri London Lynn Marie and Barry Skalka Myrna Baye Nancy Glater Dori and Sid Lorsch Noelle Smith Amy Fishkow and Jim Benjamin Sara and Philip Glick Nelly Makovoz Millie and Stuart Sobel Debra and Seth Berger Liliya and Anatoliy Glusker Lori and James Marcus Debbie and Ben Soifer Debbie and Stanley Berger Sondra and Leo Gold Madeline Mark Miriam and Steven Sosnick Louise and Jerry Berkman Renee and Richard Gold Daniel Martz Donald Spiegelman Samantha Berman Charlotte and Albert Goldblatt Rabbi Richard Mayer Rebecca Staiman Marcie Berson Cheryl Bader and Steve Goldblum Adrian Mcclafferty Louise Stern Joni Usdan and Frederick Bitsky Michale Goldfarb Danette B Meigel Cahr Ruth SternY Dorothy and Richard Blank Ellen and Kenneth Goldman Mark Melnick Roberta Stiel Fran Blaustein GoodSearch Arline and Harvey Melzer Ora and David Taub Amy and Melvin Bloomenthal Zahava Gordon Rochelle Merbaum Elinor Taylor Judy and Joel Blumberg Ellen and Bruce Gordon Jennifer and Harris Meth Hildi and David Todrin Roberta and Gary Bologna Mr Gordon Janice and Jacob Meyer Julie and Eric Tolkin Maureen Bonello Loralee and Philip Granowitz Lisa Michelson Ann and Alfred Treidel Marcia and Mark Braunstein Diane and Hank Green Vivian and Norman Milefsky Monique Vietorisz Elaine Braus Gloria Green Jane Milligan Jane Voroba Joan and Howard Breslow Jason Greenberg Ellie Mirne Jacob Voytovich Wendy and Joel Brest Dee and Steve Greenberg Elaine and Louis Naturman Adelaide Waring Phyllis Brodsky Marsha and Edwin Greenberg Stanley Nayer Naomi and Bernard Warmflash Frederic Brody Madeleine and Edward Grossman Debbie and Robert Neiman Kenneth Warren Sheryl Brown Judi and Len Haber Elaine Nessim Ellen and Joel Wasserman Pat and Marty Butensky Charles Halasz Barbara Novak Kandi Wasserman Rita and Michael Butterman Gladys Handelman Donna Ormond Beth and Sanford Weinberg Marjorie Campbell Sue and Mark Hariton Stacey and Todd Palker Susan and Norman Weinberger Jackie and Frank Cangelosi Charles Haskes Alison Patnick Jen and Murray Weingrad Laraine Caplan Karen Hayworth Sari Pearson Jeremy Weiser Roslyn Capp Gail and Harvey Hecht Tyler Pepe Andre Weiser Joanie and Stanley Carp Margaret Heffler Anne Peskin Alisa and Jeremy Weisser Judith and Robert D Chessin Phyllis and George Heller Robin Peterson Robin Welling Helen and Stephen Chodroff Naomi Hersh Rhea and Paul Plotnick Minnie Wilkov Susan and Martin Clarke Naomi and Hal Hessel Marina Sapir and Alexander Podelko Ellen and Austin Wolf Lenore and Michael Cooper Sarah and Phil Heyman Susan Pomerantz Steven Wolfe Stacy Cooper Henry Hofflich Mary and Albert Popot Madelyn Yale Judy Lynn and Alan Cooper Susan and Lawrence Holzman Diana Portna Arnold Yelin Paula and Reid Daitzman Fran and Leon Hyman Tatyana and Mikhail Portnoy Steve Yellen Rebecca Darst Olga Ivenskaya Sarah and Gregory Puhy Roberta and Eugene Zinbarg Edith and David Davidson Dorothy Jaiven Cantor Sidney Rabinowitz Nina and Fridrikh Zubarev Rachel and Nimrod Dayan David Jelen Carol and Robert Rabinowitz Eleanor Dinitz Ronny and Ira Kaplan Margaret Sapir and Mitch Rapoport Hillel Disraelly Polina Kaplin Peter Rathman Beth and Michael Dorfsman Susan Katz Lois Ravage-Mass Robin and Greg Druckman Joy and Larry Katz Karen Resnick Alan Dubrow Joan Katz Rebecca and Michael Richards Harriet and Fred Dulaney Anita Katz Michelle Ritzo

8 ELAYNE AND JAMES SCHOKE SCHOKE JFS THANKS OUR SUPPORTERS FOR THEIR SPECIAL TRIBUTES Period Covering January 1 – December 31, 2017

THE STAFF AND BOARD OF PAT AND MARTY BUTENSKY JUDITH AND HOWARD SANDY AND ERIC KOEHLER SCHOKE JFS In memory of Doris Freundlich GOLDSTEIN In honor of Sharon and Jeff Lewis In memory of Charles Meyer, father In memory of Stella Mostel, In honor of Lionel Fisch’s 93rd of Linda Meyer wife of Arthur Mostel birthday JOAN AND JERRY KRANZ In memory of Joan Zinbarg In memory of Arthur Ladds, In honor of Jim Schoke’s 93rd EMILY AND HARVEY CANEY MERYL AND DAVID GORDON husband of Pauline Ladds birthday In honor of Sarah and In honor of Sarah and Eli In memory of Milton Wunsch Greenberg’s marriage In memory of Samuel Fogel, Eli Greenberg’s marriage husband of Frieda Fogel In honor of the birth of Charlotte NORINE KRASNOGOR Mae Slen, granddaughter of Lisa and In memory of Ruth Stern JACKIE AND FRANK In honor of Isrella Knopf CANGELOSI Abraham Slen In memory of Marshall Cohen, In memory of Irving Griffler father of Shani Cohen In honor of the marriage of Zev DEAN LEDERFEIND Newman and Becca Meiner In honor of Michael Alexander In memory of Leon Gleicher, ROSLYN CAPP father of Esther Rein In memory of Mildred Kaplowitz, In honor of Frank Saffran mother of Jan Kaplowitz and David HOLLY LESSER Wishing a speedy recovery to Kaplowitz In honor of Mr. and Mrs. Maxwell Saul Cohen JACK CHACHKES Lesser’s wedding In honor of Bette Chachkes’ 80th In honor of Gabby Greenberg’s JASON GREENBERG birthday Bat Mitzvah In memory of Fred Hirshler SHARON AND JEFFREY LEWIS In memory of Frances Brodie, In honor of Avi Freedberg’s 70th mother of Rabbi Colin Brodie CYNTHIA AND STEPHEN birthday CHAPLIN PAM EHRENKRANZ & Wishing a speedy recovery to In honor of Sandi and Stuart In honor of Pam Ehrenkranz and MATT GREENBERG Sissy Stein Waldstreicher Matt Greenberg In memory of Joan Zinbarg In honor of the birth of In memory of Marshall Cohen, In honor of Gordon Arnold Lee Fanwick’s great-grandson ELISE SOSNOW AND father of Shani Cohen Wishing a speedy recovery to STEVEN COHEN In memory of Leon Gleicher, father ILENE AND JAMES LOCKER Susan Mark In memory of Avi Greif, husband of of Esther Rein In memory of Rose Rubin In memory of Morris Iren, brother Rhonda Greif In memory of Kurt Hermann of Kamal Haron Haendler, father of Tommy Haendler DOROTHY LUFT In memory of Joan Zinbarg MIMI AND SAUL COHEN In memory of Dr. Eric Boxer, father IN HONOR OF In memory of Joan Zinbarg of Richard Boxer TALIA RAICH’S BAT MITZVAH DANIEL MARTZ RACHEL AND NIMROD DAYAN In memory of Aliza Meiteles, In honor of Jordan Socaransky’s Jocelyn Sherman & Ron Avidan mother of Larry Meiteles Samantha Berman In honor of Matt Greenberg 40th birthday Julie Epstein In honor of Michael Isaac Mark’s Maryellen and Ed Feeley NORMA DWORETZKY engagement to Sarah Alexander Harris ARLINE AND HARVEY MELZER Sheri and David Jacobson In honor of Bette Chachkes’ 80th In honor of the birth of Maruja and In memory of Leon Gleicher, father Lori Kaplan birthday Allon Ivri’s daughter of Esther Rein Holly Lapine Angus and Leslie Littlejohn CORI SANOGUEIRA & STEVE AND DEE GREENBERG ROCHELLE MERBAUM Beth and Tony Miranda ADAM FARSTRUP In memory of Fred Hirshler In memory of Irving Griffler Shani Cohen & Gil Orbach In honor of Talia Moss’ Bat Mitzvah Robin Peterson CHARLES HASKES SHANI COHEN & GIL ORBACH Susan Pomerantz ELIZABETH FELDMAN In honor of Jonathan Fass In honor of Andrew Reicin’s Bar Craig and Randi Price In honor of Beverly Stein Mitzvah Tara and Richard Shapiro NAOMI HERSH Stephanie Simon SHARON AND MICHAEL In honor of Amy Friedman’s JAMES PRINCE Kenneth Warren FELDSTEIN wedding In honor of the birth of Kyle Stephanie and Dan Zelazny In memory of Pearl Segal, wife of In honor of Daniel and Leah’s Beckett and Avery Izabella Zalman Segal engagement ARLENE AND CARL ROSEN IN MEMORY OF In honor of David Gordon JEANNE ZITO FLOSSY AND SAM FISCHEL In honor of Eve Moskowitz In honor of Mily and John’s Paul Furrow In honor of Michael Mark’s In honor of Linda Gornitsky Joan Katz engagement engagement Jane Milligan In honor of the birth of Lenore and GAIL AND ROSS RUDOLPH DENA KAPLAN Michelle Ritzo Michael Cooper’s grandchild In honor of Rebekah Kanefsky Noelle And Justin Smith In memory of Gerald Kopel In honor of the Bildners Camille Tomasello In honor of Rochelle and Harold In honor of the Broydes SANDRA SAMUELS Virginia Vaccaro Schwartz In memory of Charlie Stobbie In honor of Lily Fanwick’s Bat Monique Vietorisz In memory of Minerva Kweskin In memory of Joan Zinbarg Mitzvah Sheila and John Zito In memory of Michael Rosmarin, ROSALEA FISHER husband of Carol Rosmarin ELAINE AND LESTER GORDON ARNOLD SHARLACH In honor of Jeffrey Lewis In honor of Caroline Temlock In memory of Michael Turner, Teichman husband of Phyllis Turner In memory of Gloria Lotstein MAUREEN BONELLO In memory of Mildred Schifreen In memory of Bernice Fogel CONNIE AND ALAN FREEMAN RONNY AND IRA KAPLAN In memory of Shirley Melnick, In memory of Leon Gleicher, father In honor of Caroline Temlock mother of Gloria Zwibel JOAN AND HOWARD of Esther Rein Teichman BRESLOW In memory of Anna Seaver, mother MS. SHARON FRANKLIN In memory of Helene Rosenthal, of Carol Krim SUSAN KATZ In honor of Jonathan Fass grandmother of Robin Himelstein In memory of Joan Zinbarg

JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE 9 SCHOKE JFS THANKS OUR SUPPORTERS LEGACY DONATIONS FOR THEIR SPECIAL TRIBUTES j Period Covering January 1 – December 31, 2017 Schoke JFS extends our deepest appreciation to the following people JESSICA AND LAURENCE In memory of Leon Gleicher, and their families for their support of JFS through a legacy gift: SHEINMAN father of Esther Rein In memory of Samuel Fogel, In memory of Paul Levi Adrienne And MichAel Judy And AdAM rin AlexAnder husband of Frieda Fogel Wishing a speedy recovery to hilde scherAGAY Saul Cohen The esTATe of sheilA cArMineY elAyneY And JAMes schoke EDITH SAMERS & In honor of Gabby Greenberg’s MiMi cohen JessicA And lAurence sheinMAn EDWARD SMITH Bat Mitzvah sAul cohen In honor of Gail and Jack Abram’s Beverly And dAvid sTein anniversary In honor of Lizzie Alexander’s The esTATe of lindA B. GorniTsky And engagement ThoMAs GilMArTin In memory of Bob Fields, Y hArvey WeBer husband of Joan Fields Meryl And ron JAphA renee Zinn BARBARA STRAUSSMAN In memory of Bob Landress, nAn And pAul Gordon In honor of Bette Chachkes’ 80th husband of Dorothy Landress GreciA And ron Gross Of blessed memory birthday Y Y In memory of Joan Zinbarg In memory of Sol Goodstein, ELINOR TAYLOR father of Shari Goodstein In memory of Pat Rosenstein A special thank you to all who contrib- In memory of Sol Young, A BIG uted and increased their gift towards the husband of Betty Young ANN AND ALFRED TREIDEL Matching Challenge Incentive. In memory of Stella Mostel, In honor of Nate Himelstein’s This years’ annual campaign has been a Bar Mitzvah wife of Arthur Mostel THANK great success and we owe it all to YOU! Wishing a speedy recovery to Saul Cohen NAOMI AND BERNARD Your gift allows Schoke JFS to continue WARMFLASH YOU to provide support and services to indi- Wishing a speedy recovery to In memory of Marvin Weinberg Sissy Stein viduals and families in our communi- to all our ty who are faced with difficult life LYNNE WEINBERG challenges and often have no- REBECCA AND SARAH In honor of Jim Schoke’s 93rd BENSON birthday donors! where else to turn. In honor of Aviva Moss’ birthday If you have not yet made a ROBERTA AND EUGENE donation and would like to, BEVERLY AND DAVID STEIN ZINBARG please call Lisa Rich at 203- In honor of birth of Meryl and In memory of Joan Zinbarg Ron Japha’s granddaughter 921-4161 or go online to In honor of Naomi Hanna’s www.ctjfs.org. Bat Mitzvah It Takes a Village! SAVE THE DATE!

Disrupt Aging in your Community June 6, 2018 • 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

he work of Schoke JFS couldn’t happen without our dedicated Stamford Jewish Community Center volunteers and staff! During our annual Thanksgiving Food and 1035 Newfield Avenue, Stamford, CT Coat Drive, our volunteers provided Thanksgiving meals to fam- T In an effort to engage the public in transforming attitudes about ilies across the community, while clients had the opportunity to “shop” for coats and outerwear. A few weeks before, students from Temple Beth aging, Schoke Jewish Family Service, the Stamford JCC and AARP are El participated in our annual High Holiday food drive at Stop and Shop. partnering to present a 90-minute program entitled Disrupt Aging In December, Schoke JFS staff contributed to our annual adopt-a-family in your Community, which is designed to bridge the gap between program, providing over thirty families with holiday gifts. The following generations. This interactive session focuses on aging from an day, we celebrated the graduation of a new group of Home Companion intergenerational perspective, offering thought-provoking discussion aides, who will help the elderly and ill to remain at home with quality care. and activities. Details to follow at www.ctjfs.org.

10 ELAYNE AND JAMES SCHOKE CASE MANAGEMENT Schoke Jewish Family Service A CLIENT’S PERSPECTIVE Ongoing Programs By Rebekah Kanefsky, LPC, Director of Case Management Brain Fitness Group Monday, April 30th, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM n the past, I have shared research, statistics, updates Then, there was a magical moment when I received a call at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Avenue and information about the unmet needs across our from the Case Management department, informing me that Icommunity and how the Schoke JFS Case Manage- there would be an opportunity to secure new housing with- Want to stimulate your brain power? The ment department helps clients to rebuild their lives. For out the long list, if my father submitted all of the required session will focus on memory and recall with this issue, I felt that a letter from a current client would information immediately. For most of the previous year, my practical support to help reach personal brain best show the work of the Case Management depart- father had been unable to follow-through on nearly all the fitness goals. Advance registration suggested. ment. Meet Marty and Jordan, a father and son who personal goals which would help him move out of my house. Light refreshments will be served. came to SJFS at a critical moment and how our agency With this new-found motivation, he filed for Social Security, JCC Members: $8 per session. could help. The letter below was addressed to Matt got a CT photo ID, and completed the application process on Open to the community at $10 per session. Greenberg, our CEO: time. Within a short period, we were informed that he was Optional lunch following the session accepted and could have a new home by the start of February. Dear Mr. Greenberg, $9 (under 60), $4 suggested (over 60). As of this weekend, my father has moved out of my house To register, contact Connie Cirillo Freeman I would like to express my deepest gratitude to your staff to start the next chapter of his life. I know that we are not at 203-487-0983 or email for assisting me and my family when we were in times of done with all that is needed for my father to fully come to [email protected] need. terms with how lucky he is. With more therapy there is more Back in July, I started working with the Case Manage- hope. We know that we cannot fully change him, but just the For additional information, contact Dr. Toby ment department to get my father’s and my life back on fact that he is now back in communication with his siblings Lazarus, Schoke JFS Brain Fitness Program track. When I first reached out to Schoke Jewish Family Ser- and has a closer connection to our family is a good beginning. Coordinator at 203-921-4161 vice, my father Marty was homeless, bouncing back and forth I would like to thank your team for doing such wonderful or [email protected]. between my basement and that of my sister in New York for work in helping our family at its toughest times. nearly one year. It had gotten to a point where the situation Sincerely, Let’s Talk… was creating breakdowns in my marriage, my relationship Jordan with my sister and other involved family members, and even Seniors talk about common interests issues with my children. But worst of all, it was creating This is but one of many successful case management and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke what appeared to become an irreparable rift with my father. stories. Though Jordan and Marty were able to find the Jewish Family Service counselor. We started off with some individual counselling for me to help they needed, how many more will find themselves …in Stamford • Tuesdays, 11 :00 AM, Free be able to come to terms with what my needs would be. We overwhelmed and incapable of getting back on their at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Avenue then moved to father and son sessions so that we could fully feet? Thankfully, Schoke JFS is there when you need Contact Sheila Duggan at 203-921-4161 express our feelings toward one another. Our therapist was them. If you know of someone who could use our case or [email protected]. very aware from the start as to what type of person my father management services, please have them contact us at was and kept our sessions focused. (203) 921-4161. All services are kept confidential. …in Westport • Thursdays, 1:00 PM, Free at the Westport Senior Center, 21 Imperial Avenue, Westport. EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING Contact Sheila Duggan at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. …in Fairfield • Mondays at 12:45 PM HOW SCHOKE JFS HELPS: at the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities, 100 Mona Terrace, Fairfield. Contact Amanda Geffner at 203-921-4161 or Filing for CT Unemployment [email protected] choke JFS has an experienced staff with an excel- online but they also told me that I would have to go to the lent working knowledge of the options available for Bridgeport office as well (not the case). Spousal Bereavement Group Solder persons who are seeking career opportunities I attempted to enroll online. The website seemed clear, so I Gather to share feelings and exchange ideas or enrolling for unemployment benefits. While working completed my enrollment without any difficulty. However, in a non-judgmental environment that one-on-one with clients to assess their skills, establish I found the second section for filing weekly unemployment provides emotional, practical, and spiritual goals, and monitor their progress, the professionals in claims unclear, with some of the key wording confusing and support for grieving the loss of a spouse or the Employment and Training department can help in- very similar to the enrollment section. significant other. Contact Amanda Geffner, dividuals back on the road to full employment. Feeling frustrated and a bit stymied, I eventually reached Schoke JFS Therapist at 203-921-4161 The following is a letter from a recent client of Schoke out to the Schoke JFS Employment and Training program. or [email protected]. JFS Employment and Training services: The staff worked with me, patiently taking me through the Mondays at 10:30 AM online enrollment and unemployment claims process step by I am a septuagenarian, Connecticut resident who recently at Congregation B’nai Israel, step. With this guidance, I successfully navigated the CT De- filed for unemployment benefits for the very first time in partment of Labor unemployment system. 2710 Park Avenue, Bridgeport my life. It was close to two weeks from the time my unemployment Fridays at 10:30 AM As a computer-savvy marketing analytics specialist for my began until finally, with Schoke JFS’s guidance, I was able at Stamford JCC, entire career, I found applying for unemployment benefits to successfully register and file the first and second week’s un- 1035 Newfield Road, Stamford an experience surprisingly and unnecessarily complicated. At employment claims without a hitch. virtually every step in the online process, from logging into the site, to navigating the forms and enrolling in the online All is well now. I just wish I had gone to Schoke JFS Not Enough Money for Food? sooner! website, my frustration increased with every attempt. Schoke JFS provides information and At the beginning of my process, I was incorrectly told by If you need assistance in your search for employment eligibility assistance for financial help to friends already receiving unemployment benefits to go to the or navigating unemployment benefits, please contact purchase food. For a consultation, please local Department of Labor (DOL) office in Stamford. At Jodi Maxner, Job Developer at Schoke JFS at 203-921- contact Rebekah Kanefsky, Schoke JFS the DOL Bedford Street location, the customer services staff 4161 or email at [email protected]. Case Manager at 203-921-4161 or email were polite and helpful. They did tell me that I could enroll [email protected].

JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE 11 Mitzvah Baskets Add Tzedakah to Every Occasion! When you order a beautifully designed Mitzvah Basket for your celebration, the proceeds go directly to the Schoke JFS Kosher Food Pantry which provides food to thousands of individuals and families in our community. Mitzvah Baskets and centerpieces are uniquely designed and custom ribbon colors can be used to fit the décor of your event. The decorative baskets are filled with “faux food,” symbolic of the food that is donated to the kosher food pantry. To order a Mitzvah Basket for your next event, go to www.ctjfs.org or call 203-921-4161.

Rhoda Freedberg Lic. R.E. Broker Director’s Council Let us help you make your home sparkle! [email protected] Schoke JFS’ Residential Cleaning Service can help you get the t: 203.329.8801 job done. Trained and supervised cleaners provide regularly c: 203.321.9638 scheduled and seasonal cleaning. f: 203.968.0744 Prices are competitive or slightly lower than the competition. halstead.com Revenues generated help us provide quality social services to those in need, in addition to offering employment to unem- ployed individuals in our community. For additional information, please call Jodi at 203-921-4161 or email Licensed Real Eastate Broker • Halstead Connecticut, LLC [email protected] 1099 High Ridge Road Stamford, CT 06905