Jewish Family Service - Cincinnati

09/03/2026

Such a meow of a good time! The Barbash Family Vital Support Center recently celebrated International Cat Day.

We made no-sew fleece cat toys to donate to Cincinnati Animal CARE.

When the party was over, our staff dropped off the toys and some extra treats for the staff of Cincinnati Animal Care including extra litterbox puddings and cookie catwiches. They were so appreciative!

09/01/2026

Today is International Day of Older Persons! Check out this introduction to the International Federation of Ageing:

The IFA says: "The world is ageing. Rapidly, unevenly, and with far-reaching implications for every sector of society. Longer lives are one of humanity’s greatest achievements. The question is whether our systems, institutions and communities are ready.

The International Federation on Ageing (IFA) exists to help societies adapt to this transformation, so that longer lives become a foundation for resilience, equity and sustainable development.

Founded in 1973 through a global collaboration of organisations led by AARP, the IFA was established at a time when population ageing was only beginning to be recognised as a major social and economic issue. For over five decades, IFA has played a catalytic role in shaping global frameworks, convening governments and stakeholders worldwide to drive policy and action on ageing."

SlideLonger Lives Are Becoming the Norm. Are We Ready?IFA’s 2026–2029 Strategy for Healthy Ageing and Longevity IFA’s 2026–2029 Strategy for Healthy Ageing and Longevity The world is ageing rapidly. The question is no longer if societies will adapt, but how. Learn how we are driving action a...

09/01/2026

Working with chai! At our Barbash Family Vital Support Center, we recently enjoyed working on our submission for the Mayerson JCC's Under One Roof Sukkot exhibit.

The theme this year is "chai" (which means life and whose letters add up to 18), in honor of their building's 18th anniversary.

We'll also take a trip to the JCC soon to see the exhibit in its full glory.

08/25/2026

One of the biggest jobs of childhood is learning how to be a person, and school is where kids get to practice that work every day. It’s the first week back—for kids, parents, and school professionals—and our job as adults is to create enough safety and support for young people to find their footing, practice walking the path themselves, and trust that we’ll be there when they stumble.

Our Youth Mental Health team is here to help kids, parents and professionals do just that. Counselors are available at our Blue Ash office and also on site at various Cincinnati schools.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash.

08/20/2026

"[Barbash Family Vital Support Center] helped me, and it's helped me to help others.... It's a good place for healing." Watch Rachel's story:

Rachel didn’t consider herself a survivor of domestic abuse, not at first. But she knew she needed help. She got it from Jewish Family Service’s Barbash Family Vital Support Center, and now is…

08/18/2026

Proud that Kristin Shrimplin, CEO of Women Helping Women and an active member of our board, has been named a 2026 Enquirer Woman of the Year.

"What makes Kristin exceptional is that she does not limit her service to a single organization or cause. She is a community builder who uses her leadership to strengthen the entire nonprofit sector. At her core, Kristin believes that every person deserves safety, dignity, and opportunity." –From announcement of the 10 women in the Enquirer Women of the Year Class of 2026

See the full article in first comment.

08/14/2026

Don't we look great surrounded by sun and lavender?! 🪻🪻🪻

A huge thank you to Cedar Ridge Trails for welcoming members of our Center for Holocaust Survivors and Russian Jewish Cultural Center!

From the moment we arrived, we were surrounded by the calming fragrance of lavender. We were able to create our own perfumes and relaxing sleep blends and harvest fresh lavender for beautiful bouquets.

“I have lived in Cincinnati for 28 years and had never visited this beautiful place before," said T.G., a participant. "Thank you for giving us the opportunity to travel a little, discover something new, and enjoy such a wonderful activity close to home."

The beautiful lavender fields, wonderful company, and unforgettable aroma of lavender will stay with us for a long time. Thank you to everyone who helped make this special day possible!

08/13/2026

Need help with "the full mess of aging"? This article explains why JFS's Aging Life Care Managers (linked in first comment), are so valuable:

And take a look at JFS's amazing experts in aging, linked in first comment, below.

Think of them as the human ‘control tower’ for doctors, caregivers, money, and housing when aging gets complicated.

08/06/2026

Yesterday, we had the honor of celebrating Liz Vogel's retirement as CEO of Jewish Family Service. For more than eight years, Liz led the organization with unwavering dedication, compassion, and vision.

Her leadership strengthened JFS for generations to come—doubling the organization's annual operating budget, expanding critical services to meet our community's growing needs, and positioning JFS for a strong and sustainable future.

While we are sad to see her go, we are grateful that she begins this next chapter knowing she has made a lasting impact on our community and leaves behind a stronger, thriving Jewish Family Service. We wish Liz all the best in a well-deserved retirement.

08/06/2026

. Our AgeWell Cincinnati team received this email from a family recently, “It is a Godsend to have you leading the way for care advocacy.”

Our goal: to help our community thrive, one older adult at a time.

Find out how we can help in the first comment.