Decades of Service: Sydney Fleischer’s Legacy at JFS Richmond
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 […]
From Corporate to Care: Dana Conrad’s Path to JFS Richmond Home Care
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 […]
Sonni Gittelman’s Journey at JFS Richmond
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. […]
JFS Richmond Earns National Leader in Training Award
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 […]
From Survival to Strength: Timur’s Story
Timur was once a successful farmer and businessman in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region. His life changed dramatically after the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, when large areas of southern Ukraine were occupied. The town of Enerhodar, where Nadirov lived, was among those taken by Russian forces. Unwilling to remain under occupation, Timur made the difficult decision […]
Season of Giving: JFS Brings Hope and Joy Across the Community
The holiday season is defined by generosity, and as it drew to a close, JFS Richmond remained at the center of that spirit, working tirelessly to ensure people at every stage of life felt supported and cared for through meaningful gifts shared across the community. In the weeks leading up to the holidays, JFS staff […]

