As Jewish Family Services ( JFS ) of Charlotte celebrates its 45th anniversary this year, the agency is marking the milestone by looking ahead. At the heart of its future vision is a renewed effort to strengthen its legacy giving program, a form of planned giving that allows individuals to make a lasting impact on the community .
Legacy gifts may not carry the public visibility of annual campaigns or special events, but their importance is far-reaching. These planned contributions, often made through wills, estates, or insurance policies, offer long-term stability for JFS, ensuring the continuation of essential services like mental health counseling, food assistance, and support for families in crisis.
Create Your Jewish Legacy is an initiative of the Foundation for the Charlotte Jewish Community ( FCJC ) to build a strong, vibrant community, now and in the future through planned giving and bequests for permanent endowments. It promotes the message that all of us, regardless of age, wealth, or affiliation, have the ability to make a difference for future Jewish generations. As the central source for promoting and facilitating long-term philanthropy for Jewish Charlotte, it makes sense for FCJC to lead this program on behalf of the entire community.
The call for legacy giving comes at a time when JFS, like many others, is experiencing rising demand. Social service needs have surged in recent years, and sustainable funding is crucial. For JFS, building a stronger base of planned gifts is key to preparing for the challenges ahead — not only for today, but for generations to come. The Create Your Jewish Legacy program offers essential guidance and support, fostering a deeper understanding of how to leave a legacy that reflects personal values and community priorities. Donors can ensure that their support for Jewish Family Services ( JFS ) continues to flourish long after their lifetimes, allowing their commitment to our community to endure for generations.
“Planning a legacy gift is a unique opportunity for individuals to align their philanthropic dreams with the future needs of the agency and the community. These gifts empower donors to create significant change without affecting their financial well-being today,” says Howard Olshansky, executive director of JFS.
Those who participate in the Create Your Jewish Legacy program often describe their decision in deeply personal terms. Andrew Bernstein, current JFS board president, traces his legacy commitment back to a family tradition of community involvement and responsibility. “ My Jewish roots are deeply embedded in Charlotte. Since my grandmother became one of the first members of Temple Beth El, the Bernstein family has actively participated in our Jewish community. My father taught us the importance of improving our community and being actively involved. Serving on the Board of Jewish Family Services allowed me to appreciate the organization’s role in ensuring everyone is seen and heard. For me, the Create Your Jewish Legacy program is a natural way to express my admiration for our community and my wish for it to remain significant for my great-grandchildren, just as it is for my granddaughter, my children, my parents, and my grandmother.”
Though often quiet and behind the scenes, legacy gifts have a real and visible impact. At JFS, they fund therapy sessions for those navigating grief, provide meals to homebound seniors, and help families access vital support systems during their most difficult moments. These contributions allow JFS to maintain its mission — to ensure that everyone in the community is seen, supported, and valued.
Sarah L, a JFS donor, says, “ I chose to make a legacy gift to Jewish Family Services because I believe in the mission and values it upholds. Knowing that my contribution will help provide mental health support, food assistance, and counseling for families in need gives me immense satisfaction. It’s heartwarming to think that my commitment will continue to support our community long after I’m gone. I encourage others to consider leaving a legacy that reflects their values and invests in a brighter future for generations to come.”
As the organization looks to its next 45 years, it’s inviting the community to think about the kind of future they want to help create. For those who choose to make legacy commitments, it’s about more than philanthropy — it’s about connection, purpose, and hope.
“Supporting JFS through a legacy gift is a chance to be part of something bigger than yourself,” Olshansky said. “It’s a chance to ensure this work continues — for the next 45 years, and beyond .” If you are interested in learning more about legacy giving, contact Susan Meyer at [email protected].
