HISTORY REVISITED INSIDE: Tour of Old Detroit Sparks Memories for Seniors. Strictly Business Celebrates 20 Years. JOIN Shapes Future Leaders

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1 Fall 2017 F o u n d e d i n a s J e w i s h V o c a t i o n a l S e r v i c e HISTORY REVISITED Tour of Old Detroit Sparks Memories for Seniors PAGE 7 INSIDE: Strictly Business Celebrates 20 Years JOIN Shapes Future Leaders PAGE 5 Past Honorees Mark Long-Term Success PAGE 1 PAGE 10

2 Over 650 business and community leaders attended JVS s Strictly Business Networking and Awards Luncheon at MotorCity Casino on June 13. Marking its 20th anniversary, Strictly Business raises funds for JVS programs that help metropolitan Detroiters build their lives and careers. Tom Wilson (second from right) of Olympia Entertainment, honorary chair and keynote speaker, is welcomed by (from left) Paul Blatt, JVS executive vice president and COO; Leah Rosenbaum, JVS president and CEO; and Aaron Chernow, chair of the JVS Board of Trustees. Emcee Murray Feldman (left), WWJ News Radio business editor, congratulates (from left) George Baldwin, Tina Rusas and Diane Bryant on their successes since first being honored as JVS Employees of the Year. Co-chairing Strictly Business, which drew more than 650 attendees, are Randy Rubin (left) and Jeffrey Tischler. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Strictly Business are Barbara Nurenberg (second from right), past JVS president and CEO, along with founding co-chairs (from left) Dan Medow, Dorie Shwedel and Ken Eisenberg Representing Detroit Labs, the firm winning the 2016 Business Leadership Award, Paul Glomski (left) presents the 2017 award to Joel Pearlman (center) and Rob Dube, partners at imageone, a document/print management company in Oak Park. Steve Weiner of Edw. C. Levy Co. and Jacci Woods of MotorCity Casino chat during the reception. 1 At the Kenwal sponsor table, (from left) Stephen Eisenberg, Frank Jerneycic, Cindy Elrod and Marlene Czarkowski enjoy a special presentation to Ken Eisenberg, a founding co-chair of Strictly Business. Michael Tobin (left) and John Jacobs, who served as event co-chairs in 2013, reminisce during the reception.

3 THE LATEST IN JVS NEWS AND EVENTS FEATURED ARTICLES Fall 2017 Leah D. Rosenbaum President & CEO Paul J. Blatt Executive VP & COO JVS Board of Trustees OFFICERS George L. Stern Chair Joshua Eichenhorn Vice Chair Mindi K. Fynke Vice Chair Kristen R. Gross Vice Chair Roberta P. Granadier Secretary Jared Rosenbaum Treasurer 3 Mitch Albom Charities Support JVS Produced by the JVS Development, Marketing & Communications Department Kim Graziosi, APR Marketing and Communications Director Marla Janness Communications Associate 4 George Stern Named JVS Board Chair Funding Update In The News Outcome Measures Future Leaders Senior Service Corps What s the Buzz JVS Success Business Leadership Award Annual Fund Donors Contributions 9 Recharge! Inspires Encore Career Seekers CONNECT WITH JVS ONLINE! Visit to like us on Facebook, connect with us on LinkedIn, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr and view our videos on YouTube. If you receive more than one copy of this newsletter, please contact Marlee Shifman at (248) or mshifman@jvsdet.org. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Aaron Chernow* John E. Jacobs Donald M. Lansky* Eva E. Shapiro Michael H. Simmons Adele Weisler TRUSTEES Nora Barron* Dennis S. Bernard* Hadas Bernard* Roselyn K. Blanck Stuart S. Brody Jeffrey F. Budaj Robert Canvasser Carol Craine Sandra Muskovitz Danto Beth Davidson David DeVine David Foltyn* Steven Frank Stuart Goldstein* Beth S. Gotthelf Elizabeth Kanter Groskind* Robert S. Hertzberg* Lee A. Hurwitz* Dennis S. Kayes* John Kessler Linda Klein* Carolyn Koblin Jodie Krasnick Jeremy Lewis Brian Meer* Anne Mendelson Ryan L. Mollen Benji Rosenzweig Adam Rothstein Leslie Ruby Linda Schlesinger-Wagner Paul Schwarzbaum Michael H. Simmons Jeffrey K. Tischler Denise Tobin NEXTGEN LIAISON Daniel Dolgin EX-OFFICIO Stephen A. Bromberg* Stacey A. Deweese* Eugene Driker* Dean J. Gould* Arthur James Rubiner* Bruce Thal* William M. Wetsman* *Past Presidents

4 JVS FUNDING UPDATE INnews THE JVS Welcomes Two Executives to Management Team Mitch Albom, founder of S.A.Y. Detroit, presents a check to Leah Rosenbaum, JVS president and CEO, in support of a JVS career program for students with disabilities in Detroit Public Schools. MITCH ALBOM CHARITIES/ S.A.Y. DETROIT JVS was among 20 local charities to receive generous checks from donations raised at Mitch Albom s fifth annual S.A.Y. Detroit Radiothon. The funds will be used to support the JVS Career Start program, which provides career exploration and job opportunities to students with disabilities in the Detroit Public Schools Community District. A generous grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation supports the JVS Springboard 3.0 program. Designed to meet the needs of female job seekers, Springboard provides a full spectrum of computer skills training, financial education, career counseling and job search support to help participants achieve economic mobility. DETROIT EMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS CORP. (DESC) In partnership with DESC, JVS received matching funds from the Department of Agriculture for employment services provided to individuals in the JVS Bridging the Gap program. This important program helps individuals successfully transition from unemployment and homelessness to self-sufficiency. 3 JVS Matters Fall 2017 Leah Rosenbaum, JVS president and CEO, is pleased to welcome David Charlip and Sandra Schuster to the agency s executive management team. Charlip was named to a new position of chief administrative officer and is responsible for human resources, new business development and corporate compliance. As part of his portfolio, he manages HR Solutions Group, a JVS subsidiary that provides a wide range of human resources services for local businesses and nonprofits, and ecycle Opportunities, another JVS subsidiary that provides electronics recycling. Schuster will lead JVS fundraising and development efforts as the chief development officer. David Charlip With extensive experience leading development efforts in the nonprofit sector, Schuster will oversee JVS s signature fundraising events, Strictly Business and Trade Secrets. She will also be responsible for the agency s Annual Fund, endowment and major gifts initiatives. n Sandra Schuster WE VE MOVED! JVS Macomb Office Moves to New Location After a fire at our Roseville location, JVS s Macomb County office recently moved to East 12 Mile Road, Ste. 103, in Warren. The phone number remains the same: (596) At the new office, JVS provides customized employment services and job search assistance. In addition, the office provides assessments and training for computer, clerical, customer service and cashier jobs. n

5 Dept. of Veterans Affairs Honors Longtime JVS Staff Member The Department of Veterans Affairs recently honored JVS staff member Donna Rhodes with a certificate of appreciation for her 10 years of service to veterans with disabilities. Rhodes facilitated the JVS VETS program and supported the psychosocial rehabilitation of more than 400 struggling veterans, helping them to build relationships and reduce the isolation that many veterans experience. n Donna Rhodes JVS Board Elections George Stern, recently elected chair of the Board of Trustees, succeeds Aaron Chernow, who served as chair from July 2015 to June The following community leaders were elected/ re-elected to the board: CHAIR George L. Stern OUTCOME MEASURES JVS Rehabilitation Services Support Job Success Through JVS Rehabilitation Services, people with disabilities are assisted in successfully obtaining employment. JVS staff provide assessment activities, job tryouts, job development, job placement, on-site training and employment retention services to help people with emotional, physical or developmental/intellectual disabilities reach their employment goals and be successful in the workplace. Following are the most recent survey results from this program: With help from the JVS Rehabilitation Services team, Jordan secured full-time work as an order picker with DZ Speedy, a mail-order auto parts dealer in Fraser. OAKLAND AND MACOMB 95% of program participants surveyed were satisfied with the services they received. $8.95 was the average hourly wage for rehabilitation program participants securing employment as part of JVS services. 89% of program participants were still employed after 90 days. WAYNE COUNTY 93% of program participants surveyed were satisfied with the services they received. $10.07 was the average hourly wage for rehabilitation program participants securing employment as part of JVS services. 85% of participants in supported job search secured employment. VICE CHAIRS Joshua Eichenhorn Mindi K. Fynke Kristen R. Gross SECRETARY Roberta P. Granadier TREASURER Jared Rosenbaum RE-ELECTED (Three-Year Term as Trustees) Stuart Brody Joshua Eichenhorn Roberta Granadier Kristen Gross John Jacobs John Kessler Carolyn Koblin J. Adam Rothstein Michael Simmons NEWLY ELECTED (Three-Year Term as Trustees) Carol Craine Beth Davidson Beth Gotthelf Jodie Krasnick Ryan L. Mollen Linda Schlesinger-Wagner Denise Tobin NEXTGEN LIAISON Daniel Dolgin OUTGOING BOARD MEMBERS JVS deeply appreciates the service of those whose terms on the board are complete. For their distinguished service and commitment to JVS, we honor and give our best wishes to: Leor Barak Suzi Dell Glen Fisher Ivan Frank Jodi Neff A complete list of JVS Trustees appears on page

6 future leaders JOIN INTERNS GROW IN JEWISH COMMUNAL SERVICE JVS extends its sincere thanks and best wishes to the three JOIN interns profiled here. Noah, Ilana and Rachel worked at JVS this summer. Since 1973, the Jeanette and Oscar Cook Jewish Occupational Intern (JOIN) Program has shaped the next generation of leaders through paid internships at local Jewish agencies. The eight-week program provides students a chance to try out possible careers and build professional skills such as time management, organization, business writing, workplace communication and more. The students also participate in weekly seminars to learn about various Jewish communal service agencies, issues facing the Jewish community and opportunities to become actively involved. JVS has coordinated the program since 1973, providing invaluable work experiences to over 400 college students. A vast majority have gone on to become professional or lay leaders in a Jewish context within their colleges and communities. Noah Krasman My name is Noah Krasman and I live in Farmington Hills. I m a recent graduate of the University of Michigan. My focus was in the sociology of urban planning, with a minor in music to give it color. When asked about my career goals, I explained that I d like to help others in the realm of social work, whether it be as a therapist or career counselor, inspired by the wonderful staff here at JVS. On the other hand, I ve always wanted to open a proper Jewish deli. I suppose that, too, would be a way to help people. Describe the work you re doing for your internship at JVS. My work at JVS has involved just as much learning as producing. Perhaps the most fulfilling part of my job is interacting with everyone. I was tasked with a few projects, including compiling stories for our Humans of JVS project, which highlights past and present JVS staff, program participants and any other individuals with a connection to the agency having a story to tell. I ve also been in charge of archiving the agency s stored belongings, some from recent years and others weathered by the decades. They provided a fascinating venture into the agency s history. What is your favorite thing to do in Detroit? I cannot decide on one so I will list a few. One is visiting my dad at his meat plant on Dix and getting burros with him at the food truck (which he supplies). He is the reason I took such great interest in the city in the first place along with its history, music, people and, of course, food. Some other musts are cruising Woodward, watching the Wings at the Joe (a place I will mourn bitterly and indeterminately), exploring Eastern Market during the day and Bert s at night for jazz and, lastly, hanging out at the Cass Corridor Commons and its neighboring Source Booksellers. What is your favorite restaurant? I must declare a tie between Los Tacos Veloz on Toledo and Hygrade Deli on Michigan Avenue. Read a good book lately? One that stands out in particular is The Next American Revolution by Grace Lee Boggs, perhaps Detroit s most prominent civil activist who passed away in She was 100. The book is many things, but most relevantly, a soothing manifesto inspired by her many years of activism, teaching and studying philosophy as well as critical thinking about the well-being of American society and what s needed to turn things around, starting with the individual. Which living person do you most admire and why? I most admire my grandmother. Her name is Ruth, and she is my mom s mom. She is 93 and dances better than most people my age but that s not entirely why I admire her the most. She single-handedly manifested a life rich with gratitude, exercise and healthy habits out of a childhood and marriage rife with sickness and poverty. ( Every man was a poor man during the Depression. ) She also endured frequent uprooting and mental health challenges. She has understood me and supported me at times when it seemed like no one else did, and her life is solid proof that something can come out of nothing, even when against all odds. What is your most treasured possession? My most treasured possession is a 1974 copy of Shel Silverstein s Where the Sidewalk Ends. 5 JVS Matters Fall 2017

7 Ilana Sherizen My name is Ilana Sherizen. I was born and raised in Huntington Woods. I am a rising junior majoring in business and management at Yeshiva University s Sy Syms School of Business in New York City. No matter where my career and life will take me, I hope to always try to give back and make the world a better place. Describe the work you re doing for your internship at JVS. My responsibilities in the Human Resources Department include helping to facilitate the entire hiring process, from recruitment and selection to onboarding and orientation of new hires. I learned how to post a new job, conduct phone interviews, check references, complete background checks and so much more. I also coordinated the 2017 Annual JVS Employee Health Fairs for the Southfield and Detroit JVS facilities, planning and executing the events from start to finish. What is your favorite thing to do in Detroit? I am a proud third generation Detroiter. Now that I go to college out of state, coming home is such a treat. Michigan is a happy place. The people are warm; the landscape is beautiful; and the adventure possibilities are endless. I love biking to the Birmingham Farmers Market on Sundays with my family, going to concerts with friends and relaxing with my extended family. What is your favorite restaurant? My favorite restaurant is a Middle Eastern kosher restaurant called Azura, a family-owned-and-operated restaurant located in Jerusalem s open-air market, Shuk Machene Yehudah. The food is authentic Turkish Iraqi cuisine all freshly cooked early every morning on gas burners, and each dish is served until the food runs out. The tables are simple; the prices are reasonable; the portions are generous; the ambiance is fantastic; and the food is outstanding. One is surrounded by the sights, sounds and smells of the shuk (open-air market). Read a good book lately? I am currently reading To the End of June written by Cris Beam. It is a nonfiction book subtitled The Intimate Life of American Foster Care. The book tells real stories about various foster parents and children and discusses the complexity of deciding what is best for a child. It explores how perspectives have changed over time toward keeping, removing and returning a child from a household. The book has really opened my eyes to the complexity and emotional tolls that exist within foster care in America. What living person do you most admire and why? I most admire my father. My dad is the hardest worker that I know. He has been working since the age of 12. He is wise beyond words, knows a plethora of random facts, has an incredible understanding of the corporate world and understands how people work. My dad is inquisitive and adventurous and is constantly pursuing new ways to learn and improve. He has a big heart and understands the importance of gratitude and giving back. He is my mentor. He has supported me in all of my endeavors and has taught me countless life lessons. Rachel Ungar My name is Rachel Ungar, and I am currently working on my master s in public health at Northern Illinois University, where I will finish next May. I live in Oak Park and have lived here as part of the Jewish community my entire life. My dream job is to work for a hospital system, researching and creating health promotion programs surrounding postpartum depression. Describe the work you re doing for your internship at JVS. I ve been very lucky to be a part of two different programs at JVS. The first is the Senior Service Corps, where I help with the distribution of materials, interacting with participants and working with them to see what job will best fit their needs. I also work at the Brown Adult Day Program, where I help with daily activities, participate in programming and work on general projects, such as updating program activities and creating a scrapbook of testimonials from participants and their families. While I was familiar with the incredible work done at JVS before I began my internship, working at JVS has shown me how important and life-changing this work is. I have learned so much from both the staff and participants of these programs, and I am so happy to have had this experience. What is your favorite thing to do in Detroit? I love visiting Greenfield Village and the Henry Ford Museum. I feel very lucky that we have such an interactive piece of history so close to home. What is your favorite restaurant? I keep kosher so my options are limited, but I love Kravings located in Oak Park. Read a good book lately? I can t think of a specific one offhand, but I love all books by Agatha Christie. What living person do you most admire and why? My father is the person I admire most in my life. My father was born in a displaced persons camp in Belgium after the war and moved to America when he was a few months old. My grandmother had a very difficult life and essentially raised her four children on her own. My father did not have the opportunity to grow up with a father, and he was determined to have a large part in his own children s lives. As a physician, he would be at work by 7 a.m. most mornings to be home for dinner by 5 p.m. He would do rounds at the hospital early on Sundays to be home for afternoon activities, and he was always around for homework or sports questions. Both of my parents have always encouraged me to do what I love, and I am so grateful for them every day. What is your most treasured possession? My wedding ring. What is your most treasured possession? My most treasured possession is my relationship with my mom. She is my hero and best friend. She loves me to no end and never lets me forget it. I talk to her about everything and can always count on her. She is the best advisor, companion and listener. My mom is my role model. 6

8 history A revisited Memories were re-awakened and relived during a day trip through Old Jewish Detroit. On a bus trip in July, participants in the JVS Senior Service Corps explored Detroit s rich Jewish history some of it on a very personal level from the 1890s to the 1960s. Funded by a grant provided by the St. John Providence Mission Fund, the social outing was organized by JVS staff in conjunction with the Jewish Historical Society of Michigan. Docents with the society, Judy Blumeno and Margery Jablin, traveled with the group and shared an overview of Jewish immigration to Michigan: TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE Senior Service Corps Travels Together Down Memory Lane By Rachel Ungar, JVS JOIN Intern In the 1890s, Eastern European Jews began moving to the City of Detroit, though the true influx came in the early 1930s as anti-semitism heightened throughout Europe following the rise of Adolf Hitler. During this time, the Jewish population settled primarily in a part of the city just northwest of downtown commonly known by those who lived there as Dexter and Davison, the names of the two main streets in the area. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the community began moving north toward Seven Mile Road and Schaefer Hwy. The communities were vibrant with Jewish life, shops and synagogues. For many of the participants of the Senior Service Corps, these communities were their own. The tour began near Seven Mile and Schaefer, sparking memories as the bus passed by old houses of worship such as Ahavas Achim, Beth Abraham and Temple Israel. Traveling through Palmer Woods, the group learned about the Dorothy Turkel House, the only Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house in Detroit. During a quick stop in Palmer Park, the group enjoyed a stroll around the grounds with its newly restored 132-year-old log cabin built by Sen. Thomas Palmer as a summer retreat for his wife. Returning to the bus and traveling towards Dexter-Davison, participants excitedly pointed out storefronts they remembered and streets they had lived on as children. At the corner of Dexter and Davidson, the conversation focused on a popular grocer who catered to the Jewish families in the surrounding neighborhoods. Senior Service Corps member Allan Wilson recalled a special event held at the Bloom s kosher catering hall located above the store: I had my bar mitzvah at that hall, he said. Driving past more former synagogues including B nai Moshe and Shaarey Zedek, the tour bus traveled to the Boston-Edison area, where many wealthy Jewish families lived in the early 20th century. The historic neighborhood s significant residents included politicians Sander and Carl Levin, clothier Benjamin Siegel, GM treasurer Meyer Prentis and retailer Wolf Himelhoch. Ossip Gabrilowitsch, conductor of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra with responsibility for the then-new Orchestra Hall, and 7 JVS Matters Fall 2017

9 his wife, Clara Clemens, daughter of Mark Twain, also lived there. memories... Continuing south on Woodward Avenue, the group identified both Temple Beth El structures, the Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Public Library, the former Jewish Community Center and other significant buildings before arriving at the JVS Arnold E. Frank Building on Woodward at Canfield for lunch. There was a lot of excited chatter during lunch as participants shared their own memories of the locations they had observed: This is bringing back so many memories for me, said Shirley Gibbs. Another highlight of the tour was driving past the high schools many participants had attended: Central High on Tuxedo, Mumford High on Wyoming and Northern High on Woodward. Participants enjoyed yelling out which school they attended. The day trip ended back at JVS in Southfield with feelings of nostalgia and pleasure in spending the day reminiscing together.... of B nai Moshe from Sheldon Ross I remember when I had my bar mitzvah. We lived in a three-generation household my grandmother lived with us. She had hundreds of these little bags and she would tell me, These are for your bar mitzvah. We are going to fill them all with candy and throw them at you when you finish your Haftorah. She thought it was a great idea to do that from the second floor balcony. The ironic part was, by the time I was bar mitzvah, the women could sit on the main floor so I never got the candy bags thrown at me from the balcony.... of Palmer Park from Steve Podczervinski The first time I lived on my own was in the early 1980s in an apartment in Palmer Park. I had started my first job working for the old Michigan Bell, which later became SBC, then Ameritech and now AT&T. I retired from there after 32 years. I really enjoyed living in Palmer Park. It was a festive area and I really liked the architecture. Had I known then about the log cabin, I would have gone there. It s a hidden gem. JVS is a lifeboat for people in the middle of the ocean, said Jerry Kurtis. I haven t been to the Old Jewish Detroit areas in 50 years, and it would have been another 50 years if not for this experience. n About Senior Service Corps Members of the JVS Senior Service Corps feel valued as they volunteer one or two days a week, assembling mailings and completing other projects for nonprofit organizations in the area. The Corps inspires participants to remain active in the community and helps them retain important social connections within fun and friendly surroundings. Photos by Ilana Sherizon and Rachel Ungar, JVS JOIN Interns... of Central High School from Judie Moss I was born in Detroit and lived in the same house at Kendall and Dexter until I got married. That was just a few blocks from Dexter-Davison, which was a hub of the Jewish community at that time: bakeries, delis, stores and, the best thing, Sanders Ice Cream Parlor. I saved up my money from babysitting to buy a hot fudge cream puff. It was 49 cents. It was the ultimate. I had to take two buses to get to high school, the Dexter bus and the Elmhurst bus. My friends and I walked together and waited by the bus stop. One time, there was a bus strike. My dad could take us to school in his truck. But, to get home, a few of us got together and hitchhiked. It was safe to do it at the time, but we always went as a group. Note: the strike Judie remembers was a major transit strike in 1951 as new larger diesel buses took over electric streetcar routes. 8

10 buzz WHAT S THE Becoming Your Best Self No Matter Your Age JVS helped Kirsten Brieger identify her passions and rebuild her confidence to take on a job in an entirely new field. WXYZ-TV Channel 7 recently featured Brieger s success in a news segment about JVS programs for older workers. Brieger had worked for more than a decade as a community health psychotherapist before taking time off to raise her daughter. She eventually returned to work, trying a variety of part-time jobs. She also wrote, illustrated and self-published a children s book. When she was ready to return to work full time, Brieger wanted to do something different. She longed for a job where she could use her creative expression or problemsolving skills, but she was unsure of what direction her life should take. That s when she found the JVS Career Tune-up program, which helped lead her to a new career path. Earlier this year, Brieger began working at BT s Bakery in Oak Park, where she is enjoying her decorating duties. Because of her artistic talents, the bakery also commissioned her to do whimsical paintings of bakery goods to hang on the walls. WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU We like hearing from people, and samples of the buzz we ve heard are included here. We want to hear from you, so please tell us what you think about JVS and the stories in JVS Matters. mjanness@jvsdet.org or search JVS Detroit to talk to us via Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn. From: Stacey, a Job Seeker Subject: Couldn t Have Done It Without You The job interview [referred by JVS] went well, and I started working full time in June. My work days are incredibly busy. I m doing stuff that I never thought I could or would do. I m really happy and grateful for this opportunity. I definitely would not have had this opportunity without the JVS Hermelin ORT Resource Center, the skills you taught me and JVS! Thank you so much for all that you have done for me and so many others. I wouldn t have gotten this job without you, and I m forever grateful! Editor s Note: Stacey updated her computer skills through the JVS Hermelin ORT Resource Center and worked with a JVS career counselor to prepare for a successful job search. Career Tune-up was about discovering your passions, talents and abilities, and determining the sweet spot of finding a job that uses those talents and abilities, said Brieger. It was a very positive and uplifting experience. As an older job seeker, I especially needed someone who was positive to encourage me. Career Tune-up sessions allow job seekers to network, share job leads and learn more about the nuances of the job search in today s economy. Other JVS programs for older workers include the New Experiences Internship Program, Recharge, Success Teams and Better Job Opportunities. For more information, call the Business and Career Services hotline at (248) n From: Donna Subject: We Love the JVS Vocational Staff I must let you know how impressed and happy I am with the services I have been provided from JVS through Barbara Evans for over seven years! She is most professional and knowledgeable. She is always efficient and organized. She explains things well, and always provides services that best meet my son s needs while allowing him to grow as a young adult and future potential employee. I appreciate her expertise and dedication to her work, not only for the individuals but for their families as well. I would like to mention that job coach Rodney is above all as well. He has worked with my son for several years. He is highly competent and is able to bring the best out of Dylan to help him become successful, which isn t always easy. My son has autism as well as a cognitive impairment. Rodney is very keen on how he presents information and guidance to Dylan, who trusts Rodney and feels safe with his direction. In her encore career, Kirsten Brieger (foreground) is having her cake, doing the decorating and, sometimes, eating it too. Brieger was inspired to explore new career options by a JVS program for older workers, and she found a sweet placement and experience. In my opinion JVS is very lucky to have such highly regarded employees. They are the reason I love JVS! 9 JVS Matters Fall 2017

11 JVS success I can t emphasize enough that JVS was very important in helping me get back into the work world. When you re in between positions, you want to know that you re not the only one. George Baldwin, 2001 SB Honoree Noah Krasman, JVS JOIN intern, contributed to this article. JVS Revisits Past Honorees In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Strictly Business, JVS recognized the long-term success of three past recipients of the JVS Employee of the Year Award. Watch their video: George Baldwin George Baldwin had worked as a teacher, but as school enrollments declined he was laid off. After coming to JVS for help in finding a new direction, George was honored at Strictly Business in 2001 for successfully launching a career in sales. JVS serves a very good purpose for the community, said George. I can t emphasize enough that JVS was very important in helping me get back into the work world. When you re in between positions, you want to know that you re not the only one. I also found out on a personal level, you ve got to stay positive. George s great attitude contributed to his long-term accomplishments. George succeeded through perseverance, said Gerard Baltrusaitis, JVS career counselor. Through JVS, he was able to get back on his feet, find direction, get back on track and resume his career. Through JVS, Diane has been able to do many things in her life that one may not expect from somebody with a disability, said Lisa Forbes, Diane s niece and caregiver. Over the years, I ve seen my aunt graduate. I ve seen her work in the workshop and then at various places with a job coach through JVS until she got to where she is today. She s really independent. She doesn t need a coach anymore. And, actually, I think she s helped train a couple of people who ve gone (to WSU) to work with her. Tina Rusas Tina Rusas is a digital solution specialist at Hibu. JVS honored her at Strictly Business in 2007 for her courage and strength in starting over after a devastating divorce. Tina needed to return to work after 13 years of being an at-home mom for her three children. Afraid of losing her home, Tina worried about uprooting her children. I made a promise to my kids that I would do everything within my power to keep them here with what they knew, what they loved, where they grew up, said Tina. Through the JVS Women to Work Program, Tina navigated through the challenges in order to move on and flourish. For the first time, I needed to learn how to ask for help and that was huge, said Tina. Going through Women to Work helped me believe that I could get a job and support my kids. If you put your mind to it, you can do anything. You can do it. n Now retired, he enjoys the freedom of spending time on hobbies and projects at home with his wife of 53 years, Nellie. Diane Bryant In 1998, Diane Bryant was honored at Strictly Business for becoming a role model to others. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Diane worked with JVS job coaches for a number of years, gradually developing independent employment skills. Today, Diane is a valued employee at Wayne State University, where she has worked for the Building Operations Department for more than 20 years. Tina Rusas (left), George Baldwin and Diane Bryant, past Employee of the Year Honorees, mark the 20th anniversary milestone of Strictly Business. 10

12 20th AnnuA l Strictly Business is a fundraising event for Jewish Vocational Service honoring extraordinary accomplishments. Jewish Vocational Service thanks the generous businesses and individuals who made our 20th annual Strictly Business Networking and Awards Luncheon an anniversary and afternoon to remember! JVS is also grateful for the ongoing partnership and support of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. Co-Chairs Randy Rubin Crypton Fabric Jeffrey Tischler Conway MacKenzie Committee Roz Blanck Robert Canvasser Aaron Chernow David Devine Glen Fisher Steven Frank John E. Jacobs Jared Rosenbaum Benji Rosenzweig Michael Tobin Leah Rosenbaum President & CEO Paul Blatt Executive Vice President & COO Michael Silverstein Chief Development Officer Hadas and Dennis Bernard Presenting Sponsor Luncheon Underwriter Gold Level Sponsors Silver Level Sponsors G. Fisher Construction & Lewis/Klein Properties Lisa and Brian Meer Barbara Nurenberg Lori and Alan Zekelman Media Sponsor Crain s Detroit Business Bronze Level Sponsors Pamela and Eugene Applebaum/Arbor Investments Group Bank of America Penny and Harold Blumenstein Julie and Eric Borman Cambridge Consulting Group David Carroll Chemical Bank Detroit Labs Detroit Medical Center Globe Midwest Corporation Nancy and Jim Grosfeld imageone Gilda and John Jacobs Jaffe Counsel PLC Maddin Hauser Roth & Heller PC Olympia Entertainment Stephanie and Jared Rosenbaum Sherwood Food Distributors Fran and George Stern Elissa and Jeff Tischler Tri-County Beverage Co. Wayne Industries Copper Level Sponsors AmeriSource Industrial Supply BELFOR USA Bodman PLC Broder Sachse Real Estate Services Broner Glove & Safety Butzel Long Detroit Jewish News Dickinson Wright PLLC Greenleaf Trust Jennifer and Brian Hermelin Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP KIG Insurance Linda and Tom Klein Midwest Steel MotorCity Casino Hotel L. Brooks Patterson, Oakland County Executive RHP Properties Seyburn Kahn PC Simmons & Clark Jewelers The Surnow Company The Tobin Group Vesco Oil Corporation Contributing Sponsors Benzinga Berger Realty Group Inc. Best Homes Title Agency Faye and Paul Blatt Brooks Kushman PC Camp Tanuga Clark Hill Colasanti Construction Services Inc. Suzi Dell and Jodi Neff Emily and Josh Eichenhorn Gaco Sourcing Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit JP Morgan Chase The Manning and Lurz Families Miller Canfield MSL Mechanical Contractors Bea and Paul Schwarzbaum Shapack Family Fund Linda and Michael Silverstein SMZ Vision AHC LLC Wallside Windows Lori and Steven Weisberg Supporting Sponsors Beaumont Health Best Block Company Blaze Contracting The Bottle Crew Coca-Cola CORE Partners Associates LLC Credential Check Corporation Ellyn and Jon Davidson Detroit Pistons Detroit Training Center Flagstar Bank Friedman Integrated Real Estate Solutions Gateway Travel Service Beth Gotthelf and Steven Miesowicz Judy Greenwald JP Morgan Private Bank Linda and Dennis Kayes Law Offices of Jorin G. Rubin PC Limbach Michigan Pneumatic Tool Inc. Midwest Medical Muchmore Harrington Smalley & Associates Inc. New Center Stamping Paychex Susan Sosnick Denise and Michael Tobin UHY Ulliance Inc. David Victor Worksighted 11 JVS Matters Fall 2017

13 BUSINESS LEADERSHIP AWARD Aaron Chernow (right), JVS board chair, congratulates imageone owners (from left) Joel Pearlman and Rob Dube. JVS recognized imageone with the 2017 Business Leadership Award during the 20th annual Strictly Business Networking and Awards Luncheon for its inventive employment practices. Connection and Culture Thrive at imageone Not only are employees paid to volunteer in the community, the company donates a percentage of profits toward autism-related causes. At imageone, your birthday is a paid day off. So is a day of community service. And if you ve been working extra hard, We Care Friday rewards you with a surprising voic on Thursday. The message: Don t come to work tomorrow. Take the day off on us! This general approach toward employees makes JVS pleased to salute imageone with the 2017 Business Leadership Award, recognizing its entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to community and innovative team building. The Oak Park-based print management company was founded over 26 years ago by partners Joel Pearlman and Rob Dube. This dynamic duo s partnership and people-centered culture, however, can be traced back to ninth grade when they sold Blow Pops out of their school lockers. As young entrepreneurs, the pair learned many valuable lessons, including how to work as a team to deliver outstanding service. Today, extraordinary teamwork and customer service are guiding principles behind imageone s success. At imageone we believe that if we want to deliver an extraordinary experience to our customers and community, we have to deliver an extraordinary experience to our team first, said Pearlman. Genuinely caring about our team members lives inside and outside the business is an incredibly important driver for our success. Another signature program, called Know Your Company, encourages team members to learn about each other s work projects and outside interests. This creates a casual way for them to get to know each other while building personal relationships and trust. The empowering and collaborative environment fosters energy and creativity and is enhanced by a strong commitment to community. Not only are employees paid to volunteer in the community, the company donates a percentage of profits toward autism-related causes. These and other creative approaches have encouraged team members to take greater pride and personal ownership of their work. Pearlman says this has translated into a deeper commitment to each other, their customers and the company. n 12

14 GENEROUS DONORS TO THE JVS ANNUAL FUND HELP MEET THE MOST CRITICAL NEEDS OF THE AGENCY AND THE PEOPLE IT SERVES. Our heartfelt thanks to the generous donors who gave to our Annual Fund from 3/1/17 through 6/30/17: Maggie and Robert Allesee Anonymous Albert Ascher Julie Bagley Linda Baker In memory of Donnell Cravens Krystn Bazo Linda and Arthur Berlin Hadas and Dennis S. Bernard Roz and Stanford Blanck Beverly Blas In memory of Dave Matz Michele and Mitchell Bleznak Bobbie and Leonard Borman Amy and Stuart Brody Mark Cahn Robyn and Robert Canvasser Andrew Cormier Cornerstone Macro LLC Suzi and Larry Dell David DeVine Diane Diem and Bruce Paige In memory of Jack Pludwinski Kathleen and Joe DiMambro In honor of John DiMambro s birthday Susan and Randy Earp Emily and Josh Eichenhorn Joan Ensink In memory of Rose and Charlie Ensink Federated Campaign Stewards Mikki and Ivan Frank Steven Frank Dale and Bruce Frankel Harriet and Allan Gelfond Lydia and Stuart Gray In memory of Janice Cohen Nancy and James Grosfeld Kristen and Carl Gross Neil Gross In memory of Randall Ira Kogon Wolf Gruca Ophelia and Leonard Herman Mary Herrold Ela and Kevin Homer Jill and Lee Hurwitz David Jacob Terry and David Kahan John Kessler Carolyn, Mark and Alex Koblin Susan and David Konop In memory of Harry Dalsey Guy Kowalski Barbara and Sheldon Larky Lawrence Larson Jeremy Lewis Morris Margulies Sarah Mervis In memory of Millie Sherbel Ellen and Jerold Minkin Diane and Howard Morof John Morrison The Myron P. Leven Foundation Shoshana and Leonard Pollack Michael Radner Jeffrey Ralphelson Lisa and Richard Rosenbaum In celebration of Marika and John Holzer s 50th wedding anniversary Bonnie Sherr Dina and Jeffrey Shifman In memory of Ruth Schecter Dennis Soles Fran and George Stern In celebration of Lainey Steuer s birthday Nancy and Daniel Thomas In memory of Dianne Foley Elissa and Jeffrey Tischler David Underdown Helen Weisberg In honor of Barbara Brod s birthday Adele Weisler Dr. Margo and Dr. Douglas Woll Shoshana Wolok In memory of Greta Lipson Susan Yoder The following made donations in memory of Eli Labiner: Cyril Moscow Cathy Radner and Russell Linden Elaine and Barry Stulberg Donald Sugerman The following made donations in memory of Howard Volpert: Todd Fink Jill and Lee Hurwitz Bluma Schechter Job Connection Thank You Hundreds of job seekers attended our third annual JVS Job Connection in May. We thank the following employers and sponsors for their support: PARTICIPATING EMPLOYERS Angels Place Belle Tire Bridgeway Care Management & Home Care Cantor Insurance Group City of Farmington Hills City of Southfield Human Resources City of Southfield Parks & Recreation City of Southfield Police Department Community Housing Network COTS Daehan Solution Michigan DTE Energy Entech Staffing Enterprise Uniform Company Farbman Group FedEx Friedman Integrated Real Estate Solutions GDI Services Inc. GLP & Associates Guardian Alarm Harvard Resource Solutions Hertz Corporation Home Builders Association of SE Michigan International Trucking School JCC Day Camps Jewish Senior Life JVS Lyft MCM Staffing Metro Staffing & Labor Group LLC Michigan Virtual University New Horizons Computer Learning Centers Nexcess Oakland County Human Resources Presbyterian Villages of Michigan Rainbow Rehabilitation Centers Robert Half Sandler & Travis Spectrum Juvenile Justice Services Speedway LLC Staff Source Tapper s Temple Shir Shalom Tropical Smoothie Café Vigilante Security, Inc. EVENT SPONSORS City of Southfield Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit Oakland County Michigan Works! BREAKFAST SPONSOR Jerusalem Bagel 13 JVS Matters Fall 2017

15 WE THANK THE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE SEEDS OF HOPE CAMPAIGN BENEFITING THE DOROTHY AND PETER BROWN JEWISH COMMUNITY ADULT DAY PROGRAM: ORCHID Susan and Bart Lewis ROSE Nancy and James Grosfeld CALLA LILY Elizabeth Alkon Elaine Beresh Karen and Richard Minkin Debra and Richard Partrich Adele Weisler TULIP Dr. and Mrs. Harold Z. Friedman Jackie and Larry Kraft Marjorie Krasnick Joy Orley Nachman Nancy and Richard Norling Fran and George Stern Sue and John Welker SUNFLOWER Bernice and Mickey Behrmann Cathy and Jim Deutchman Elaine and Eugene Driker Estelle and Philip Elkus Ann and Jay Feldman Francee Ford Rose and David Handleman Amina Haque Gilda and John Jacobs Audrey and Herbert Saperstein Bluma Schechter Nancy and Harvey Solway Andi and Larry Wolfe ZINNIA Judy and Joel Adelman Karen and Allen Amber Lynn Beckerman Roz and Stanford Blanck Doris and Fred Blechman Jan and Marc Dunn Rita and Judson Edidin Pearl Elson Beverly and Bruce Gale Myra and Carl Gornbein Roberta and Robert Granadier Claudine Heldt-King and Bob King Sue and Jack Hinds Debbie Horowitz Debrah Joseff and Morton Noveck Helen Kaye Nina and Bernard Kent Zina and Michael Kramer Melissa Orley Lax Robert Littman Jodi and Kevin Neff Susan and Norm Pappas Robert Pliskow Leslie and Alan Ruby Marianne and Alan Schwartz Merle and Ronald Schwartz Paula and Mike Shapiro Mary and Ed Silverblatt Lila Silverman Edwina Simpson Dr. Kingsley Thomas Carolyn and Charles Ward Jodi Weiss Linda Weitz Linda and Jim Wilson Sally Winkelman Debra and Brian Yamstein Julie and Richard Zussman FORGET-ME-NOT Precious Banks Linda Benaderet Beverly Blas Shelley Boschan Carie Branch Helene Brody Brenda Brown Barbara Cantor Natalie Capicchioni Ruth and Morton Cash Bobbi Chess Judith Colton Fran Cook Janice Cutler Pamela and Jacob David Miriam and Lewis Davis Ann Deboer Susan Edelman and Peter Ostrow Marcia and Larry Ferstenfeld Harvey Goldstein Karen and Howard Gutman Martha Haas Nancy and William Handelman Cheryl Harrison Wendy and Howard Hertz Laurence Jacobs Lynn Kalish Devorah and Eliezer Kaplan Meg and Kipton Kaplan Sher and Sandy Kaplan Gwendolyn Kirby David Kramer Lisa Dunlap Krieger and Michael Krieger Elizabeth Layne Linda Lebovic Bonnie and Morry Levin Patricia and Thomas Levine Dana and Richard Loewenstein Phyllis Loewenstein and Sheldon Plotnik Leslie and Jeffrey London Sharon Maskin Carole and Larry Miller Julie and Jeff Morganroth Joan and Bert Mount Dianne Mouradian Sara and Maxwell Nadis Elizabeth and Paul Nagle Mignon and James Nicol Carolyn Nixon Carol Perecman Gladys and Larry Rockind Leslye and Lewis Rosenbaum Janice Salter Arthur Schwartz Joyce and Dr. Donald Sherman Florence Shoenig Gerrie and Buddy Sollish Dr. Edward Stein Florence and Joel Steinberg Sue Walters Jerome Weinstein Ann Wheeler-Carlson James Willis Alma Winkworth Marlene and Ralph Yamron 14

16 Thank You for Thinking of JVS We appreciate the kindness of the many individuals and organizations donating funds and equipment to support agency activities and services. Because of their generosity, JVS is able to help thousands of people each year. Following are the names of those who made contributions to JVS from 3/1/17 to 6/30/17: ADULT DAY PROGRAM FUND This fund provides a variety of services to help people with disabilities participate in their communities. Sharon Alterman In honor of Ray Shapiro s speedy recovery Donna Anderson In memory of Dianne Foley Carol Craine Sher and Sandy Kaplan In honor of Kirk Jude Goddard receiving the 2017 Dove Award In memory of Dianne Foley BARBARA BERENT-RUBIN- STEIN WOMEN TO WORK PROGRAM FUND This fund provides supportive services, resources and scholarships as well as other job support for women served by the JVS Women to Work Program. David Rubinstein In memory of Joe Kline In memory of Lawrence Paul In memory of Linda Serman In memory of Effi Weinberg DOROTHY & PETER BROWN ENDOWMENT FUND This fund supports programs and activities that help keep people with memory disorders alert and engaged. Tina Friedman In memory of Sue Krisenfeld DOROTHY & PETER BROWN JEWISH COMMUNITY ADULT DAY PROGRAM ENHANCEMENT FUND Contributions to this fund support activities and special events for individuals with Alzheimer s disease and other forms of dementia. Edwin Acker In memory of Marilyn Acker Faye and Paul Blatt In memory of Howard Volpert Sandy and James Danto Bobbi Hess In memory of Robert W. Murdoch Karen and James Pawlak In memory of Donnell Cravens In memory of Franz Lorbach In memory of Sharon McGuire Jay Pliskow In honor of Rob Pliskow In memory of Stacey Lareau s father Leslie and Alan Ruby In memory of Beth Mason s mother Bea and Paul Schwarzbaum In honor of Joel Miller Susan and Daniel Stettner In memory of Mickey Lipshaw Adele Weisler In honor of the spring holidays The following have made contributions in memory of Paul Montgomery Jr.: Joann Brooks Kathy and Denny Eurich Pat and Tom Levine Pamela and William Schultz Linda and Ed Shapiro Eileen and Leonard Terman CARING COMPANIONS FUND Contributions to this fund provide stimulating activities for individuals with lifelong disabilities who have also developed Alzheimer s disease or other memory disorders. Sandy and James Danto FLORENCE CASCADE MEMORIAL FUND This fund was established by Susan Cascade, daughter of Florence Cascade, to support the greatest needs of the community. Ellen Lux In honor of Margie Krasnick receiving the William Davidson Lifetime Achievement Award In memory of Patricia Davis FUSE FORCE FUND Contributions to this fund will be used to provide interactive fitness classes for children, teens and young adults living with autism and other developmental challenges. In addition to a healty body, this activity improves socialization skills needed to prepare young people for the workforce. Denise Arseth Helen Bamn Alana and Craig Bauer Carol Craine Glen Fisher Margo Goodman Peter Gross Audrey and Brian Klayman Freda Lerman Nancy Recter Rhonda Satovsky Julia and John Sofia Steve Sucher Brenda Weingarden and Robert Felsenfeld Sylvia Wolf DAVID B. HERMELIN ORT RESOURCE CENTER FUND Contributions to this fund provide computer training to individuals who are unemployed or underemployed and need to update their technological skills. Dianne and Robert Alpiner Anonymous Doris and James August Faye and Paul Blatt Peter Gahan Doreen Hermelin Jennifer and Brian Hermelin Susie and Michael Jacob Tina Lau Mark-Lis Family Philanthropic Fund Joy Orley Nachman Marcie and Robert Orley Shoshana and Leonard Pollack Janice and Michael Rolnick Aviva Sandler Bluma Schechter HELENE & ARTHUR INDIANER VOCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FUND FOR YOUNG ADULTS Contributions to this fund provide assessment, counseling, training and other targeted services to promote the selfsufficiency of at-risk young adults. Helene and Arthur Indianer In memory of Sonja Balbes In memory of Paula Blair RACHEL JACOBS FUND This fund was created in memory of Rachel Jacobs to build a stronger Jewish community for young adults. Joan and Jeff Climie In honor of the birth of Laura and Ed Cohn s granddaughter In honor of Ilana Schmier s 65th birthday 15 JVS Matters Fall 2017