Double the Dignity

What does dignity mean to you? At JFS, it is a concept that undergirds all we do. It motivates the spirit with which we deliver a wide array of services to our neighbors in need of a helping hand. We think of dignity as worth and worthiness, esteem, as the right of a person—all persons-- to be valued and respected and treated fairly. We at JFS aim to promote the dignity of our clients, treating them with fairness and understanding; and we aim to conduct our essential work with dignity, carrying ourselves with professionalism, poise and compassion.

This message is deeply personal. Many in our midst face significant health problems, distress and financial struggles. At JFS of Washtenaw County, one of our key goals is to help clients maintain their dignity while addressing these challenges. As the CEO of JFS for nearly 30 years, I have sadly seen the unmet needs in our community grow exponentially. Despite being one of the longest-tenured, most impactful human service agencies in our county, we struggle to meet all the needs. Safety net funding has dwindled, and the responsibility now falls on local non-profits and generous donors like you to sustain our community impact. Each year, our extraordinary staff and incredible volunteers work tirelessly to meet the damaging effects of poverty, isolation, marginalization, trauma, loss, and inequity, and to partner with our clients to create solutions, provide resources and offer hope for the future. Your financial contributions to our work enable the real possibility of a dignified, fulfilling life for many. The significance of your support can’t be overstated; its impact is lasting and truly immeasurable.

Two core JFS services, pillars of the local safety net, need your support. Nourish Nutrition featuring culturally and medically appropriate food pantry groceries and prepared meals, and WISE Aging services, offering comprehensive services for older adults and caregivers, are woefully underfunded. We are delighted to announce that we’ve recently received a one-time $100,000 gift to support the WISE and Nourish programs. However, these funds must be matched by the community before they can be put to use. EVERY DOLLAR YOU DONATE WILL BE DOUBLED! This is a crucial opportunity, and we urgently need your support.

Please consider making a gift today, when your dollar will be doubled, and rest assured that we will steward your contribution in the name of dignity.