History and Background

The Sarasota Jewish Community expanded very rapidly in the early 1970's. With that growth came the need to provide social services. A group of dedicated volunteers, many of whom were retired social workers, directed their energies to "helping the elderly." As the needs of the community enlarged, it appeared that a more comprehensive organization was needed.

In the early 1980's a committee led by Sidney Berkowitz, a retired executive Director of a social service agency, began the process of studying the feasibility of a local full-fledged family service agency. With the need demonstrated, Jewish Family Service became an autonomous agency with its own independent Board of Directors replacing the existing Jewish Federation Advisory Committee. Jewish Family Services was chartered, by-laws were developed, and Officers and Board Members were officially elected in July 1986. The first office for Jewish Family Services consisted of two offices totaling 250-sq. ft. of rented space.

While still struggling to meet community needs, Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) approached the volunteer group to help in their settlement of Soviet émigrés. The challenge was taken up by a group of skilled and concerned people. This Resettlement Program continues to date, with more than 350 refugees from the former Soviet Union successfully resettled in the Sarasota-Manatee area.

On June 3, 1996 our name was changed to Jewish Family & Children's Service and a department for children and adolescents was officially launched.

In 1997, the Board of Directors undertook its first major capital campaign to build a permanent home for Jewish Family & Children's Service. The agency moved into its new facility in August 1999.

In its short lifespan, Jewish Family & Children's Service has more than proven and met the needs of the community. Both Jewish and non-Jewish clients continue to benefit from its many programs.

Jewish Family & Children's Service is a multi-function family agency serving Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The services are based on the premise that personnel trained in understanding the behavior and environments of individuals, can help them with crises, problems, and growth issues to improve the quality of their lives.

The following is a list of the Past Chairpersons of Jewish Family & Children's Service who have provided the lay leadership to guide the organization over the years:

Sidney Berkowitz* Although not a Past Chairman, Sid facilitated the development of Jewish Family & Children's Service of Sarasota-Manatee, Inc.during the early to mid 80's

Gerald Engman* 1984 - 1987
Norma Gordesky* 1987 - 1989
Raymond Brown* 1989 - 1990
Mace Levin 1990 - 1992
Eugene Friedmann 1992 - 1994
Richard Blumenthal 1994 - 1996
Alice Taich 1996 - 1998
Stacey Gillman 1998 - 2000
Eve Kommel 2000 - 2001
Charles Ackerman 2001 - 2003
Barbara Brizdle 2003 - 2005
Sue Jacobson 2005 - 2007
Bob Black 2007
Judy Abroms 2008 -

* Of blessed memory