Dorothy Salomonsky honored for 30 years of service
Jewish Family Service of Tidewater recently hosted an Employee Appreciation event, honoring the dedication and long-standing service of its staff and highlighting a landmark anniversary for both the agency and one of its most impactful programs.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of JFS’s Personal Affairs Management program, a unique and essential initiative that has grown into a statewide model of care and advocacy for vulnerable adults. At the center of this milestone is Dorothy Salomonsky, PAM’s program director, who was also celebrated for her 30 years of service with JFS.
Salomonsky founded the PAM program in 1995 with the support of Harry Graber, then JFS executive director. What began as a small-scale service has grown exponentially under Salomonsky’s compassionate and visionary leadership. Today, the PAM program serves more than 1,700 clients across the Commonwealth of Virginia, providing guardianship, conservatorship, and case management services for adults deemed incapacitated and unable to care for themselves.
The PAM program was created in response to the increasing exploitation, neglect, and abuse of elderly and vulnerable individuals throughout the community. Many clients, declared incapacitated by the courts, were found in tragic circumstances—abandoned, exploited, or simply forgotten. PAM became their safety net. Recognized by the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging as a Model Program, PAM ensures that every individual receives the dignity, advocacy, and oversight they deserve.
The event also honored the long-standing commitment of several other JFS team members:
- Lloyd Clements, PAM clinical director – 25 years
- Irina Kvitko, insurance and billing coordinator – 25 years
- Nikcole Gerhardt, community and client relations manager – 20 years
- Debbie Lubaton, banking and benefits supervisor – 15 years
- Brenda Parson, trusts & assets assistant – 15 years
- Gail Andrews, administrative assistant – 15 years
- Cara Vickers, state hospital relations manager – 15 years
- Diaka Keita, guardian representative – 10 years
- Regina Riddick, guardian representative – 10 years
- Lisa Hood, guardian representative – 5 years
- Fletcher Neville, human resources director – 5 years
These anniversaries represent more than just time served—they reflect the enduring commitment of a team that works tirelessly every day to uphold the JFS mission of compassion, care, and justice.
JFS staff go above and beyond throughout the year, providing critical services to some of the region’s most vulnerable individuals. Whether managing complex client needs, navigating court systems, coordinating care, or advocating for those without a voice, the JFS team stands as a beacon of support and humanity.