Moving through life, everyone inevitably experiences the loss of people who have been integral along their journey — family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and members of the community. While those losses might be difficult, the memories that are carried can be a source of comfort, connection, and joy.

Jewish Family Service invites seniors to join Dr. Louise B. Lubin for Decades of Memories: Honoring the Loss of Our Peers and Friends. This special program, made possible through The Beth Sholom Village Foundation Grant, will offer an opportunity to talk about loss, share memories, and explore ways to remain connected and engaged.

A licensed clinical psychologist with more than 40 years of experience, Dr. Lubin will discuss the importance of acknowledging loss while finding healthy and meaningful ways to move forward. Participants will also have an opportunity to write down a favorite positive memory of someone they have lost—a simple way to honor a relationship and celebrate the impact that person had on their lives.

The program will touch briefly on Jewish perspectives on mourning and remembrance, while welcoming seniors of all backgrounds and faiths.
Most importantly, it will be a chance to come together, reflect and remember that even as lives change, connections to one another continue to matter.

To learn more, contact Julie Kievit at 757-321-2318 or jkievit@jfshamptonroads.org.

Jewish Family Service of Tidewater is partnering with JScreen to bring important genetic testing and education to Tidewater’s Jewish community. The event is an opportunity to learn more about genetic testing, understand inherited health risks, and take a proactive step toward protecting one’s health and the health of future generations.

JScreen is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing genetic diseases and hereditary cancers through genetic testing and education. JScreen began through Emory University’s Department of Human Genetics, with a focus on making genetic screening more accessible to the Jewish community. While its services are now available to people of all backgrounds, JScreen provides important screening for genetic conditions that are more common among people of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry.

Because of shared ancestry, people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent have a higher likelihood of carrying certain genetic mutations than the general population. For example, one in three to one in four Ashkenazi Jews carries a gene mutation associated with serious recessive conditions such as Tay-Sachs or Canavan disease. Most carriers have no symptoms, which means testing is often the only way to know. Genetic testing is also important when it comes to hereditary cancer. Ashkenazi Jewish populations have a higher prevalence of certain BRCA gene mutations, which are associated with an increased risk for hereditary breast, ovarian, and other cancers. Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this is an especially meaningful time to learn more about hereditary cancer risks and the role genetic testing can play in early awareness and proactive health management.

The event will focus on two primary types of testing. Hereditary Cancer Testing screens for BRCA1, BRCA2, and more than 60 other genes associated with inherited cancer risks. Reproductive Carrier Screening tests for Tay-Sachs disease, cystic fibrosis, and more than 260 other conditions that could potentially be passed on to children.

Registration for the event is required. Those who preregister for JScreen testing kits are encouraged to arrive early, beginning at 4 pm to pick up the kit and work with JScreen representatives to complete the steps for processing samples. Preregistering for a testing kit ensures a kit will be available and gives participants priority for having their sample processed that evening.

The program will include an educational presentation and panel discussion about genetic testing, inherited health risks, and the importance of screening at different stages of life.

Those who decide they want to pursue testing after attending the program may register for a JScreen testing kit that evening. Kits will be available for participants who register on-site, either before or after the main program; however, same-evening processing cannot be guaranteed for those registering at the event. JScreen representatives will be available throughout the evening to answer questions and assist with the testing process.

Testing is simple and can be completed at the event or at home. Those who prefer to complete the test at home can mail their sample using the provided prepaid mailer.

The event is not only for people who are planning to start a family. Genetic testing can be valuable for many reasons throughout life. People can learn about their hereditary cancer risk, understand whether they carry a genetic condition, or simply have more information about genetic health. Knowing risks can help with informed conversations with healthcare providers and proactive decisions about one’s health and family’s future.

The cost for the testing kit at this community event is $18. Laboratory processing will be billed through the participant’s insurance, depending on individual coverage. For those whose insurance does not cover the testing or who choose to self-pay, the total out-of-pocket cost will be no more than $249. Participants will receive information about their anticipated cost before moving forward with testing. JFS will also have limited financial assistance available for those who want to pursue genetic testing but may be unable to afford the expense. JFS is committed to helping ensure that cost does not prevent members of the community from accessing important healthcare screenings.

The registration link will be available in the next issue of Jewish News, on the JFS website, and on the JFS Facebook page.

A thriving Jewish community is one that cares for its members at every stage of life. By bringing JScreen to Tidewater, JFS is helping make important genetic health information and testing more accessible. This partnership reflects JFS’s commitment to education, prevention, and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

For more information about this event, financial assistance for testing, or other JFS programs and services, contact Julie Kievit, Jewish Community Relations manager at Jewish Family Service, at jkievit@jfshamptonroads.org or 757-321-2318.

 More than a meeting, the occasion was a celebration of JFS’s decades-long commitment to caring for individuals and families across Hampton Roads through the enduring Jewish values of chesed (loving kindness), tzedakah (justice through giving), and tikkun olam (repairing the world).

 One of the meeting’s highlights was the installation of Steve Brown as the new president of the JFS board of directors. Brown will serve a two-year term, helping guide the organization as it continues to meet the changing needs of the community with compassion and dignity. The organization also recognized Stephanie Peck, outgoing board president, for her dedication and leadership. Peck served as president from April 2024 through June 2026, and her commitment helped strengthen JFS’s mission of serving others with respect, responsibility, and heart.

 Kelly Burroughs, JFS CEO, presented the Distinguished Community Service Award to Lawrence Steingold in recognition of his many years of dedicated service to Jewish Family Service. Steingold has served as a board member, board president, and treasurer. His leadership reflects the Jewish principle of avodah, sacred work done in service of others. Steingold’s long-standing commitment has helped JFS grow, adapt, and continue providing care to people who need it most.

 The Distinguished Community Partner Award was presented to St. Stephen Martyr Catholic Church for its generosity and dedication to clients in the Public Adult Guardianship program. Each Christmas, members of the church ensure that every client receives a thoughtful gift, reminding them that they are remembered and cared for during the holiday season. This partnership is an example of neighbors coming together across faith traditions to uphold the shared values of dignity, compassion, and care for the vulnerable.

 Rabbi Pinchas Zimmer shared an inspiring D’var Torah, offering words that connected the day’s celebration to the deeper responsibility of community: to see one another, to care for one another, and to pass that responsibility from one generation to the next. 

 Guests enjoyed a delicious Mediterranean lunch catered by Charlie’s Mediterranean.

 Over the past year, JFS has continued to make a difference throughout Hampton Roads. In 2025, JFS provided 362 medical transports for seniors, delivered 7,458 meals to homebound individuals, assisted 346 Jewish individuals with food and financial support, delivered 984 holiday gifts to seniors, and provided court-appointed guardianship services to 1,333 adults. Behind each number is a person, a family, and a moment when help arrived with dignity. Together, these services reflect not only a year of impact, but a legacy built over decades of showing up for the community in times of need, transition, celebration, and uncertainty.

 One of the most meaningful parts of the afternoon was seeing so many generations of the JFS family together in one place. Former leaders, current board members, staff, volunteers, donors, and long-term supporters gathered to honor the organization’s past while looking toward its future. Their presence reflected the Jewish value of l’dor v’dor, from generation to generation, reminding everyone that the work of JFS is both an inheritance and a promise: to preserve what has been built, to strengthen what is needed today, and to ensure that compassionate care continues for generations to come.

 The Biennial Meeting was a celebration of leadership, service, and community, as well as a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helps Jewish Family Service continue making a difference every day. For decades, JFS has stood as a trusted source of support, compassion, and practical assistance. Guided by Jewish values and sustained by the dedication of its community, JFS will continue to provide care, dignity, and hope for individuals and families now and for generations to come.

Julie Kievit is Jewish Community Services manager at Jewish Family Service.

To support Tidewater’s growing Jewish community, Jewish Family Service of Tidewater is partnering with JScreen to host a life-saving educational event this fall. Whether planning a family or looking to understand personal hereditary cancer risks, proactive screening and access to preventative genetic testing can help secure healthier futures.

Centuries of shared ancestry mean that people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent face significantly higher genetic health risks than the general population. Consider:

• One in three to one in four Ashkenazi Jews carry a gene mutation for serious recessive conditions such as Tay-Sachs or Canavan disease. This is 10 times higher than the general population.
• No symptoms. Most carriers show zero symptoms. Testing is the only way to know one’s status.
• A 25% risk. If both parents carry the same recessive gene, there is a one-in-four chance their child will inherit the disease.
• Cancer risks. Ashkenazi populations also face a much higher prevalence of BRCA gene mutations, which are linked to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.
  The event offers affordable genetic testing, emphasizing that knowledge is a key tool in early prevention and proactive health management. Attendees will gain insights into two primary screening options:

1. Hereditary Cancer Testing: Screens for BRCA1, BRCA2, and more than 60 genes associated with inherited cancer risks.
2. Reproductive Carrier Screening: Tests for Tay-Sachs, cystic fibrosis, and more than 260 other conditions passed to children.
   

Participants will receive genetic test kits to provide and submit a sample directly at the event. The kits can also be mailed from home using a prepaid mailer. Once submitted, Jscreen’s partner, Myriad Genetics, will provide a personalized cost estimate for the test. Since some insurance carriers do not cover the cost of the test, participants can self-pay a flat rate of $249. JFS will have limited financial assistance to cover the cost of testing for participants who cannot afford the fees.

Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools when it comes to protecting one’s personal health and supporting future generations. Bringing JScreen to Tidewater gives individuals and families access to information that can truly save lives.

And, since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this is the perfect time to make the commitment to dive into this important information. An $18 subsidized event entry fee covers case review and physician test order. The standard fee is $49.

Pre-registration is highly encouraged so testing kits can be prepared in advance. On-site registration will also be available.

For additional information, contact Julie Kievit, Jewish Community Relations Manager at JFS of Tidewater, at jkievit@jfshamptonroads.org.

For more information about Jewish Family Service of Tidewater or to support its mission, visit JFSHamptonroads.org. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Julie Kievit, Jewish Community Relations manager, at jkievit@jfshamptonroads.org.

Jewish Family Service of Tidewater will hold its 67th Biennial Meeting at a luncheon that will welcome new board members, install Steve Brown as incoming board president, and recognize Stephanie Peck for her dedicated service as outgoing president. The program will also honor individuals whose contributions have strengthened JFS and the broader community, celebrating the organization’s continued growth and impact.

Over the past year, JFS has continued its core mission of serving the community through vital programs and services. In 2025 alone, JFS provided 362 medical transports for seniors, delivered 7,458 meals to homebound individuals, and assisted 346 Jewish individuals with food and financial support. In addition, 984 holiday gifts were delivered to seniors, and 1,333 adults received court-appointed guardianship services.

These numbers represent more than statistics—they reflect thousands of lives touched. From countless counseling hours to hundreds of neighbors leaving the food pantry with their arms full, to Jewish children receiving Hanukkah gifts, JFS remains deeply committed to meeting the needs of the community with compassion and care.

The Biennial Meeting offers an opportunity to reflect on this impact, celebrate those who make the work possible, and look ahead to the future.

To RSVP, contact Julie Kievit, Jewish community relations manager, at jkievit@jfshamptonroads.org or 757-321-2318.

 This year’s theme was travel, which made the room feel fun and welcoming. The little touches, such as globes and mini suitcases that tied into the theme, gave everyone something light and enjoyable to talk about while also taking time to appreciate their meaningful work.

 Many different volunteer groups are involved at Jewish Family Service of Tidewater, so it was special to have them all together in one place. Some volunteers help with PAM filing, while others are Meals on Wheels drivers who deliver food to those who need it, along with food pantry volunteers who make sure families have access to groceries, as well as knitters, quilters, and crocheters who create handmade items with care. Tax preparers even donate their time and expertise to help others during tax season.

 JFS depends on its volunteers. The organization truly could not run without them. Along with the generous donations from the Jewish community, the volunteers are what keep everything going and allow JFS to support so many individuals and families in need.

 The luncheon was not fancy, but it didn’t need to be. It felt genuine and heartfelt, which made it meaningful. People had the chance to connect, share stories, and just feel appreciated for what they do.

 The event took place at the Reba and Sam Sandler Family Campus, which continues to be a central place for Jewish life in Tidewater.

Anyone who is interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more about Jewish Family Service, can contact Julie Kievit, Jewish Community Relations Manager, at 757-321-2318 or jkievit@jfshamptonroads.org. Giving even a little bit of time can make a big difference.

Jewish Family Service’s Run, Roll & Stroll returns to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront next month. The 5K race and 1-mile fun run will begin at 24th Street Park. 

“We are thrilled to return oceanside and once again offer a true race-day experience,” says Kelly Burroughs, JFS CEO.

 This event is about more than just running—it is a celebration of community. Whether participants run, walk, roll, or simply come out to cheer, there is a place for everyone. This year’s event will also feature a variety of fun activities for all ages, including free fairy hair, balloon animals, glitter tattoos, and more, making it a perfect outing for families.

  “We are so excited to be back at the oceanfront!” says Kelly Burroughs. “I am personally so looking forward to seeing all the kids and Team Tiger out there running, Cheering them over the finish line is always my favorite part!” 

 As the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, Run, Roll & Stroll plays a vital role in sustaining JFS programming such as the JFS Food Pantry, home delivered meals, Embrace counseling, and support services. Every dollar raised goes directly back into helping individuals and families in Tidewater when they need it most.

 One of the most special aspects of the event is the way it brings people together. Individuals, families, and local organizations are encouraged to participate, and in past years, teams have added an extra layer of energy and connection to the day.

Whether by participating in the race, forming a team, sponsoring, or simply coming out to cheer, everyone’s involvement makes a difference. 

 Registration is open and sponsorship opportunities are available, offering meaningful ways to support the community while gaining visibility for organizations. 

For more information on registration and sponsorship, see the links below and contact Brooke Rush at brush@jfshamptonroads.org or 757-321-2238.

Registration: runsignup.com/jfsrunrollstroll

Sponsorship: jfshamptonroads.org/spring-into-healthy-living-sponsorships/

 Purim is a holiday filled with joy, costumes, laughter, and of course, mishloach manot — gifts of food shared with friends and neighbors. JFS wanted to be certain those gifts also reached area seniors who may not have family nearby or who are unable to participate in community celebrations.

 To include as many people as possible in this effort, JFS partnered with two congregations and welcomed volunteers to its offices to assist.

During B’nai Israel’s Purim carnival, between the games and festivities, children and families created handmade cards and wrote notes to include in mishloach manot baskets. Watching little hands carefully decorate cards and write messages such as “Happy Purim” and “We are thinking of you” was a beautiful reminder of what Jewish Tidewater is all about.

 At Ohef Sholom Temple’s Purim carnival, JFS staff spoke about the meaning of tzedakah and the important ways Jewish Family Service helps the community every day. JFS staff spoke about how it supports seniors, feeds families facing food insecurity, and cares for the most vulnerable. They also shared how community members can partner with JFS — through volunteering, donating, and acts of kindness — to make a difference in someone’s life.

 At JFS’s office, volunteers assembled the baskets. Tables were filled with hamantaschen and other treats, and the room buzzed with conversation and laughter as community members packed each basket. Every package represented more than just holiday goodies — it carried warmth, kindness, and connection.

 The celebration didn’t stop there. Many dedicated volunteers helped deliver the baskets to seniors throughout Tidewater. For some recipients, the visit was just as meaningful as the treats. Smiles, stories, and even a few tears were shared at doorways and in common rooms.

 Purim reminds of the importance of community, generosity, and taking care of one another. This year, those values came to life in tangible ways. From the children who made cards, to the volunteers who packed and delivered, Jewish Tidewater ensured that no one was forgotten.

Julie Kievit is Jewish Community Services manager for Jewish Family Service.

 Stephanie Peck, JFS president, welcomed guests and set the tone for a gathering centered on gratitude, remembrance, and community pride. From the very beginning, it was clear that this was not only a look back at history, but a celebration of values that continue to guide Jewish life today.

 At the heart of the program was honoring Dorothy Spitalney and Linda Samuels, the last two remaining members of Hebrew Ladies Charity Society. They were presented with tzedakah boxes, a symbol of a lifetime devoted to caring for others. The boxes represented not only their personal commitment, but the countless acts of charity carried out by generations of women who quietly ensured that those in need were never forgotten.

 The room was filled with thoughtful details, such as the tin cans and mason jars filled with flowers and historic photographs that symbolized Jewish Family Service’s long-standing work feeding the hungry, a mission rooted in the same values championed by the Hebrew Ladies Charity Society.

 Each attendee received a white handkerchief as a keepsake, representing the white handkerchiefs the original Hebrew Ladies used to collect spare change to help community members. This powerful symbol reflected the creativity, humility, and determination of the women who found ways to care for others with whatever resources they had.

 The program also included a D’var Torah by Cantor Jen Reuben, grounding the gathering in Jewish tradition and reinforcing the values of tzedakah and communal responsibility that defined the Hebrew Ladies Charity Society from its founding.

 Ellen Hundley gave the keynote address. She spoke about her family’s heritage, sharing the story of her great-grandmother, Fanny Brenner, the first member of Hebrew Ladies Charity Society in 1902 – bringing the organization’s history to life through a personal lens.

 “My great-grandmother didn’t see this as charity—she saw it as responsibility,” Hundley said. “These women showed up for their community in quiet, powerful ways, and their work reminds us that caring for one another is how Jewish life has always been sustained.”

 While the luncheon honored the past, it also looked ahead. Guests were reminded that the Hebrew Ladies Charity Society’s work continues today through Jewish Family Service, and that the legacy of caring for one another lives on through volunteering, generosity, and community involvement.

 To volunteer with Jewish Family Service, donate, or leave a legacy gift, contact Brooke Rush, director of development, at BRUSH@jfshamptonroads.org.

Julie Kievit is Jewish Community Services manager for Jewish Family Service of Tidewater.