This article was written by Belinda Lasky, Director of Volunteer Leadership at Alpert Jewish Family Service

Volunteer.  The word alone evokes the image of a noble individual who gives his or her time to help others, shares expertise in a field, and serves as an active member of a community.  Nonprofit organizations like Alpert Jewish Family Service and Levine Jewish Residential Family Service rely on the dedication of volunteers to support others and act as agency representatives.

Studies have shown that volunteering can improve your psychological and physical health, by offering a chance to become involved in a program you really care about, as well as an opportunity to meet people from all walks of life.  Perhaps best of all, you have the opportunity to try something different while experiencing the benefits and gratification derived from helping others.

Whether you want to work with children, adults, seniors, or persons with disabilities, Alpert JFS is the place for you.  For example, you might choose to become a special friend to a senior through our Friendly Visitors or Enhanced Companion programs.  As you socialize with an older adult, you’ll hear their fascinating life stories and tell your own.

If you’d love to demonstrate your hobbies, interests and life experiences, we’ll engage you in the Talents & Skills program to meet people in the JRFS residential program. Golf, arts & crafts, creative writing, and jewelry making are just a few examples of hobbies that our wonderful cadre of volunteers have shared.

Looking to make a difference in the life of a child? Being a positive role model to children is the hallmark of the Judith & Jack Rosenberg Mentoring 4 Kids program.

Through all of these volunteer experiences, you will build one-on-one relationships with our clients. Volunteers truly enhance our capacity to make a difference in the lives of the people our agency serves.

You might also consider volunteering to assist with events and fundraising.  Each year, we raise substantial funds to help operate the services of the agency.  Volunteers help organize fundraising events and educational outreach programs that assist in developing the financial resources of the organization.

At Alpert JFS, our philosophy is that there is no “one size fits all” approach to volunteering.  Our professional staff personally meet with each volunteer to match people with the program best suited for them.  In many cases, we’ve created unique opportunities for individuals too! We provide flexible volunteering schedules based on your availability.

Alpert JFS and Levine JRFS always welcome new volunteers to join our family.  Want to find out how you can share your unique skills or learn new ways to connect to the community? Please be in touch with Belinda Lasky, Director of Volunteer Leadership, at [email protected] or 561-713-1893.  You can also visit our dedicated webpage here:  https://www.alpertjfs.org/volunteer/

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