Supporting Independence Through CAPABLE

By Colton Wood | March 19, 2026

For Family Lifeline Care Coordinator Ida Mitchell, helping older adults remain safe and independent isn’t just part of her job; it’s what drives her work. So, when she was introduced to JFS Richmond and Beth Sholom’s CAPABLE (Community Aging in Place, Advancing Better Living for Elders) program, she was instantly moved. “I first learned about […]

READ MORE

Chris Nufer Builds Meaningful Second Career as JFS Richmond Counselor

By Colton Wood | February 17, 2026

Chris Nufer didn’t plan to start over later in life—but he found a deeply rewarding new path as a counselor at JFS Richmond. Before joining JFS Richmond, Nufer spent more than 30 years in advertising, running a small radio creative boutique with national clients. In 2006, he sold the business, thinking retirement was next. “It […]

READ MORE

Decades of Service: Sydney Fleischer’s Legacy at JFS Richmond

By Colton Wood | February 17, 2026

For nearly 35 years, Sydney Fleischer has been part of the fabric of JFS Richmond, growing alongside the agency and helping shape its clinical leadership. “When I came here, I was living in Washington,” she said. “Even though I grew up in Richmond, I didn’t know about Jewish Family Services.“ What began as a new […]

READ MORE

From Corporate to Care: Dana Conrad’s Path to JFS Richmond Home Care

By Colton Wood | February 17, 2026

Home Care Supervisor Dana Conrad’s path to JFS Richmond was anything but traditional. “I chose JFS, initially, because the person who did my interview, who is now my boss, I really liked her,” Conrad said. “Knowing that she came from the business-side, I was wanting to learn more, which I have. Also, the fact that […]

READ MORE

Sonni Gittelman’s Journey at JFS Richmond

By Colton Wood | February 17, 2026

When Sonni Gittelman first walked through the doors of JFS Richmond as a graduate student intern, she immediately felt a connection. “I’m Jewish and one of the tenets of Judaism that I feel most strongly about as a social worker is Tikkun Olam, which means repair the world,” Gittelman, who is now a clinician, said. […]

READ MORE

JFS Richmond Earns National Leader in Training Award

By Colton Wood | February 17, 2026

JFS Richmond has been recognized for its commitment to staff development, earning the Leader in Training Award from Activated Insights. This award honors organizations that prioritize professional growth and training, helping ensure high-quality care for the communities they serve. To achieve this distinction, JFS Richmond met the award’s criteria, including having more than 10 Care […]

READ MORE