Last week, more than 60 professionals, representing 32 organizations, participated in a Front Line Responders Workshop hosted by Jewish Federation Los Angeles. It was the second of a three part series that educates staff at synagogues, schools, organizations and agencies about the variety of programs and resources available in our local Jewish safety net of services for individuals and families in need of assistance.
The event focused on “Seniors and Adult Populations in Need” and featured speakers from numerous communal organizations including Bet Tzedek, Jewish Family Service, the Los Angeles Jewish Home, Jewish Committee for Personal Service, Beit T’Shuvah, and our Federation’s Board of Rabbis of Southern California. Attendees also had time to “speed network” in order to strengthen their relationships, as well as share best practices and exchange ideas.
Our Front Line Responders Workshops were created in response to a need voiced by communal professionals who are often the personnel within their organizations who are confronted with questions by people who don’t know where to turn for help. With the Front Line Responders Workshops, we are closing the knowledge gap for those helpers on the front line. “As with session one, the information provided is the biggest victory. Most people are just unaware of the many services available for those in need,” said a Rabbi in attendance. “Today was informative and educational. Those in attendance will help build a better and stronger community,” commented a social worker.
Please save the date for our next workshop “Children, Families, & Special Needs Services” on Tuesday, October 16th, from 8:00 AM-11:30 AM. For more information about the Front Line Responders Workshops series contact Jenna Fields, Planning Associate for Caring for Jews in Need, at JFields@JewishLA.org or call (323) 761-8231.
